Every year, over 1.4 lakh Indian students enroll in USA universities, and many secure scholarships that cover tuition, living expenses, and research costs. With MS fees ranging from $30,000 to $70,000 (₹25–58 lakh) per year, the right scholarship can ease the financial pressure.
So, is there any financial aid? There are plenty of scholarships for MS in USA to reduce costs.
Top universities like MIT, Stanford, and Carnegie Mellon offer merit-based and need-based scholarships.
Government programs like Fulbright-Nehru cover full tuition, living expenses, and travel.
Private scholarships and India-specific funds help students from different backgrounds.
Teaching and research assistantships (TA/RA) let students earn while covering tuition.
Thousands of students have successfully got scholarships for MS in USA —you can too! This blog will show you the best options, how to apply, and what it takes to secure funding for your education.
Types of Scholarships for MS in USA for International Students
Many international students hesitate to apply for MS programs in USA because of high tuition costs. The good news? According to the Institute of International Education (IIE), more than 60% of international graduate students receive some form of financial aid.
Major Types of Scholarships for MS in USA
Type of Scholarship
Who Can Apply?
Examples
Merit-Based
High-achieving students with strong GPAs, GRE scores, and leadership experience
AAUW International Fellowships, Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship
University-Specific
Scholarships awarded by universities based on admission profile
MIT Presidential Fellowships, Harvard Graduate Fellowships
Research & STEM-Based
Students in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields
NSF Graduate Research Fellowship, Google Lime Scholarship
Diversity & Region-Based
Students from underrepresented backgrounds or specific countries
Tata Scholarship (for Indian students at Cornell), Inlaks Shivdasani Scholarships
Example: The Stanford Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program funds only 1% of applicants worldwide. It provides full tuition, living expenses, and leadership training for students who show exceptional academic and leadership potential.
STEM students have a higher chance of securing funding—78% of research-based MS programs in USA offer assistantships or grants to international students (Council of Graduate Schools, 2024).
Top Scholarships for MS in USA for International Students in 2025
The right scholarships for MS in USA depend on your academic background, financial need, and career goals.
Here are some of the most sought-after MS scholarships in USA for international students.
1. Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Scholarships – A Fully Funded Opportunity for Indian Scholars
This scholarship funds Indian students pursuing an MS in fields like public policy, environmental science, and international affairs. It covers tuition, airfare, living expenses, and health insurance.
Who Should Apply?
Criteria
Details
Nationality
Indian citizens only
Work Experience
Minimum 3 years of relevant experience
Field of Study
Public policy, environmental science, arts, international affairs, and more
Commitment
Must return to India after completion
Leadership & Service
Involvement in leadership roles, social work, or community projects
What Are the Requirements?
Requirement
Details
Academic Qualification
Bachelor’s degree with at least 55% marks
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Must showcase career goals and impact on India
Letters of Recommendation
Strong references from professors or employers
Selection Process
Personal interview after shortlisting
Scholarship Coverage:
Coverage
Details
Tuition Fees
Fully Covered
Living Expenses
Yes
Airfare
Round-trip to USA
Health Insurance
Included
Tip: Highlight your leadership and social impact in your application. This scholarship prioritizes students who aim to contribute to India.
2. Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program (Stanford University) – For Future Global Leaders
This program funds students for up to three years at Stanford University. It includes leadership training, networking opportunities, and a community of scholars working to create change.
Who Should Apply?
Criteria
Details
Nationality
Open to all nationalities, including Indians
Field of Study
Any MS program at Stanford
Leadership Skills
Strong leadership experience in academics, startups, or community projects
Vision & Innovation
Preference for students who have made a real-world impact
What Are the Requirements?
Requirement
Details
Admission
Must be admitted to an MS program at Stanford
Leadership Essay
Must highlight leadership journey and future vision
Video Statement
Required for shortlisted applicants
Recommendation Letters
Strong references from mentors or employers
Interview
Final selection round for top candidates
Scholarship Coverage:
Coverage
Details
Tuition Fees
Fully Covered (for up to 3 years)
Living Expenses
Yes
Travel Costs
Covered
Leadership Training
Included
Tip: Focus on leadership, not just academics. This program seeks visionaries who want to create global change.
3. AAUW International Fellowships – Supporting Women in Higher Education
AAUW supports women pursuing an MS in USA. It covers tuition, research, and living costs to help women advance in their careers.
Who Should Apply?
Criteria
Details
Gender
Women applicants only
Nationality
Open to Indian and other international students
Field of Study
STEM, business, social sciences, and related fields
Career Commitment
Preference for women working toward gender equity
Academic Record
Strong academic achievements
What Are the Requirements?
Requirement
Details
Academic Qualification
Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university
University Admission
Must be admitted to a USA university
Statement of Purpose
Must outline career plans and long-term vision
Recommendation Letters
Strong references from professors or employers
Community Work
Preference for applicants with a record of women’s empowerment activities
Scholarship Coverage:
Coverage
Details
Tuition Fees
Covered (Up to $50,000)
Living Expenses
Yes
Research Costs
Included
Additional Grants
Available based on financial need
Tip: Emphasize how your education will help uplift women in India. This scholarship prioritizes candidates committed to social impact.
4. Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation Loan Scholarship – Interest-Free Loan for Indian Students
Tip: Plan your repayment strategy early. This is a loan, so consider future financial commitments before applying.
5. J.N. Tata Endowment for Higher Education – Interest-Free Loan for Indian Students
This endowment provides an interest-free loan to Indian students pursuing postgraduate studies abroad, including an MS in USA. The amount varies based on academic merit and financial need.
Who Should Apply?
Criteria
Details
Nationality
Indian citizens only
Academic Merit
High academic performance (minimum 60% marks)
University Admission
Must have secured admission to a recognized university
Career Commitment
Preference for students with strong career aspirations
Financial Need
Must demonstrate need for financial support
What Are the Requirements?
Requirement
Details
Academic Qualification
Bachelor’s degree with at least 60% marks
University Admission
Proof of admission to a recognized MS program
Statement of Purpose
Must outline career goals and financial need
Recommendation Letters
Required from academic or professional mentors
Selection Process
Personal interview for shortlisted candidates
Scholarship Coverage:
Coverage
Details
Tuition Fees
Loan-based (Amount varies)
Interest Rate
0% (Interest-Free)
Repayment Period
Begins after course completion
Other Expenses
Partial coverage
Tip: This loan has no interest, but timely repayment is expected. Plan your finances before applying.
6. Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships – Full Funding for Exceptional Students
This scholarship provides full funding for tuition and living expenses for outstanding Indian students studying abroad. It supports those pursuing degrees in arts, humanities, and social sciences at top institutions, including Ivy League universities.
Who Should Apply?
Criteria
Details
Nationality
Indian citizens only
Academic Excellence
Strong academic record with top grades
University Admission
Must be admitted to a top USA university
Field of Study
Arts, literature, humanities, social sciences
Research & Talent
Preference for students with a strong portfolio or research background
What Are the Requirements?
Requirement
Details
University Admission
Must have a confirmed offer from a recognized USA university
Academic Qualification
Bachelor’s degree with outstanding academic performance
Proposal Submission
Detailed proposal outlining study plans and career goals
Extracurricular Achievements
Evidence of research, projects, or leadership roles
Selection Process
Personal interview for shortlisted candidates
Scholarship Coverage:
Coverage
Details
Tuition Fees
Fully Covered
Living Expenses
Yes
Research Costs
Included
Other Grants
Available for exceptional candidates
Tip: This scholarship prefers students with unique talent and achievements. Highlight what makes you stand out.
7. Tata Scholarship for Cornell University – Full Funding for Indian Students at Cornell
Funded by the Tata Education and Development Trust, this scholarship covers tuition and living expenses for Indian students admitted to Cornell University for undergraduate or postgraduate studies, including an MS program.
Who Should Apply?
Criteria
Details
Nationality
Indian citizens only
Academic Performance
Strong academic record with high grades
University Admission
Must be admitted to Cornell University
Financial Need
Must demonstrate financial need
Commitment to India
Preference for students who aim to contribute to India’s development
What Are the Requirements?
Requirement
Details
University Admission
Proof of admission to Cornell University
Academic Records
Strong performance in undergraduate studies
Financial Documents
Must show need for assistance
Essay Submission
Well-written essay explaining career aspirations
Additional Documents
Letters of recommendation from mentors or professors
Scholarship Coverage:
Coverage
Details
Tuition Fees
Fully Covered
Living Expenses
Yes
Other Costs
Partial coverage of additional academic expenses
Tip: This scholarship is highly competitive. If you’re applying to Cornell, ensure your application is strong in both academics and extracurriculars.
8. Akhtarali H. Tobaccowala Fellowship (University of Chicago) – Partial Funding for MBA & MS Students
This fellowship supports Indian students pursuing a master’s degree at the University of Chicago. It provides partial funding to help with tuition and living costs.
Who Should Apply?
Criteria
Details
Nationality
Indian citizens only
Academic Record
Excellent academic performance
University Admission
Must be admitted to the University of Chicago
Field of Study
MS or MBA programs
Leadership Potential
Preference for students with leadership qualities
What Are the Requirements?
Requirement
Details
University Admission
Must have secured admission to an MS or MBA program at the University of Chicago
Academic Performance
Strong undergraduate academic record
Statement of Purpose
Must highlight leadership experience and career goals
Recommendation Letters
Required from professors or employers
Scholarship Coverage:
Coverage
Details
Tuition Fees
Partially Covered
Living Expenses
Yes (Limited)
Other Expenses
Partial support for academic costs
Tip: If you have a strong academic record but need financial support, this fellowship can reduce your study expenses.
9. Harvard University Graduate Scholarships – Merit-Based and Need-Based Aid
Harvard University provides various funding options for international students pursuing an MS. These include merit-based fellowships, need-based grants, and external scholarships. Some programs cover full tuition, while others offer partial aid.
Who Should Apply?
Criteria
Details
Nationality
Open to Indian and international students
University Admission
Must be admitted to a Harvard MS program
Academic Excellence
High academic achievements
Leadership & Impact
Preference for students with strong leadership skills
Financial Need
Need-based scholarships available
What Are the Requirements?
Requirement
Details
University Admission
Proof of admission to a Harvard MS program
Academic Performance
Strong academic record with high grades
Financial Documents
Required for need-based aid
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Must outline career goals and achievements
Recommendation Letters
Strong references from mentors or employers
Scholarship Coverage:
Coverage
Details
Tuition Fees
Fully or Partially Covered
Living Expenses
Partial aid available
Other Grants
Depends on merit or financial need
Tip: Harvard encourages students to apply for external scholarships as well. Research all possible funding sources to maximize financial support.
MIT Graduate Financial Aid for International Students – Scholarships, Fellowships & Assistantships
MIT offers financial aid to graduate students through scholarships, research assistantships, and fellowships. While not all programs provide full funding, students can receive tuition support and a stipend to cover living expenses.
Who Should Apply?
Criteria
Details
Nationality
Open to Indian and international students
University Admission
Must be admitted to an MIT MS program
Field of Study
STEM and related fields preferred
Academic Performance
High academic achievements and research experience
Financial Need
Available for specific scholarships
What Are the Requirements?
Requirement
Details
University Admission
Must secure admission to MIT’s MS program
Academic Background
Strong academic performance in STEM or related fields
Research Experience
Preferred for assistantships
Financial Documents
Required for need-based aid
Recommendation Letters
Required from professors or employers
Scholarship Coverage:
Coverage
Details
Tuition Fees
Partially or Fully Covered
Living Expenses
Stipends available for assistantships
Research Support
Covered for eligible students
Assistantships
Opportunities for research and teaching assistant roles
Tip: Graduate assistantships allow students to work on research projects while receiving a stipend, significantly reducing study costs.
11. Gates Millennium Scholars Program – Full Funding for Outstanding Students
Funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, this scholarship covers full tuition, living expenses, and other costs for outstanding students from underrepresented backgrounds. While originally designed for USA students, international applicants, including Indians, may qualify under specific conditions.
Who Should Apply?
Criteria
Details
Nationality
Open to exceptional Indian students
University Admission
Must apply to a top USA university
Academic Excellence
Outstanding academic record
Leadership & Community Service
Preference for students involved in social impact projects
Financial Need
Must demonstrate financial need
What Are the Requirements?
Requirement
Details
University Admission
Must apply to a top USA university
Academic Performance
High GPA and academic achievements
Financial Documents
Required to prove financial need
Statement of Purpose
Must highlight leadership, career goals, and social impact
Recommendation Letters
Strong references from academic or professional mentors
Scholarship Coverage:
Tip: Focus on leadership and community involvement. This scholarship seeks students who plan to use their education for social good.
12. Columbia University Graduate Scholarships – Merit-Based and Need-Based Funding
Columbia University provides multiple funding options for international students, including university fellowships, need-based grants, and external scholarships.
Who Should Apply?
Criteria
Details
Nationality
Open to Indian and international students
University Admission
Must be admitted to a Columbia MS program
Academic Excellence
High academic record required
Leadership & Research
Preference for students with leadership experience or research work
Financial Need
Available for need-based scholarships
What Are the Requirements?
Requirement
Details
University Admission
Proof of admission to Columbia’s MS program
Academic Performance
Strong academic record and high GRE/GMAT scores (if required)
Financial Documents
Required for need-based scholarships
Statement of Purpose
Must explain career goals and leadership experiences
Recommendation Letters
Strong references from mentors or professors
Scholarship Coverage:
Coverage
Details
Tuition Fees
Fully or Partially Covered
Living Expenses
Partial aid available
Additional Grants
Based on merit and financial need
Tip: Many scholarships at Columbia require separate applications. Research program-specific funding options early to increase your chances.
13. S.N. Bose Scholars Program – Research Fellowship for STEM Students
This program is a collaboration between India’s Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), the Department of Science and Technology (DST), and top USA institutions. It provides Indian students with short-term research opportunities in USA, strengthening their profile for future MS or PhD admissions.
Who Should Apply?
Criteria
Details
Nationality
Indian citizens only
University Enrollment
Must be enrolled in an Indian university (UG/PG level)
Field of Study
STEM fields (Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Life Sciences)
Career Aspirations
Students planning to pursue an MS or PhD in USA
Research Interest
Preference for candidates with prior research experience
What Are the Requirements?
Requirement
Details
Academic Performance
Strong academic record in STEM disciplines
University Enrollment
Must be in the final year of UG or PG studies in India
Research Proposal
Statement of interest outlining research goals in USA
Recommendation Letters
Strong references from professors or research advisors
Selection Process
Shortlisting based on academic records, SOP, and interviews
Scholarship Coverage:
Coverage
Details
Research Funding
Covers short-term research in USA institutions
Stipend
Yes, for the research duration
Travel Costs
Round-trip airfare to USA
Living Expenses
Partially covered
Tip: This program helps students build connections with USA universities, making it easier to secure full scholarships for an MS later. Focus on crafting a strong research proposal to stand out.
Fully Funded vs. Partial Scholarships for MS in USA: What’s the Difference?
All scholarships for MS in USA don’t cover the full cost of an MS in USA. Some provide complete funding, while others only reduce certain expenses like tuition or living costs.
Fully Funded vs. Partial Scholarships: A Quick Comparison
Feature
Fully Funded Scholarship
Partial Scholarship
Tuition Coverage
Covers full tuition fees
Covers only part of the tuition
Living Expenses
Monthly stipend for rent, food, and other costs
No or limited stipend
Health Insurance
Included in most cases
Rarely covered
Travel & Research Grants
Some scholarships offer travel and research funding
Not usually included
Eligibility
Highly competitive, requires strong academic and leadership profile
Broader eligibility, but funding is lower
Examples
Fulbright, Knight-Hennessy, Vanier CGS
Tata Scholarship, AAUW International Fellowships
Example: The Fulbright Foreign Student Program is fully funded, covering tuition, living expenses, and travel. In contrast, the AAUW International Fellowship provides up to $50,000, which may not cover all costs but significantly reduces financial burden.
Tip: Apply for multiple scholarships to increase your chances of covering most of your expenses. Some students combine partial scholarships with assistantships or financial aid to reduce costs further.
Financial Aid & Work Opportunities for MS Students in USA
Even if you don’t get a full scholarship for MS in USA, there are many ways to finance your MS in USA. Over 75% of international graduate students work as TAs, RAs, or on-campus employees to help manage costs (USCIS 2024).
Financial Aid Options for MS Students
Type of Financial Aid
What It Covers
Who Offers It?
University Grants
Partial funding for tuition
Offered based on merit or need by universities
Teaching Assistantships (TA)
Monthly stipend + tuition waiver
Requires assisting professors with teaching
Research Assistantships (RA)
Covers tuition + stipend for research work
Available in STEM and research-heavy fields
On-Campus Jobs
Helps cover living expenses
Allowed up to 20 hours per week under F-1 visa
External Fellowships
Additional funding for research, travel, or expenses
Google, Microsoft, and NSF offer fellowships
Education Loans
Covers full tuition and living costs
Available through Prodigy Finance, MPOWER, banks
Example: At MIT, students with a Research Assistantship get full tuition coverage and a monthly stipend of $3,500+, making it a great option for students in engineering and sciences.
Can International Students Work in USA?
Yes, students on an F-1 visa can work under these rules:
On-campus jobs: Up to 20 hours/week during semesters, full-time during breaks.
Off-campus work (CPT & OPT): Allowed for internships and post-study employment in your field.
Internships (Curricular Practical Training - CPT): Work experience allowed while studying.
Tip: Apply for on-campus jobs early as positions fill quickly. Many students fund their daily expenses this way while studying.
Important Dates for Scholarships for MS in USA 2025-26
Scholarship deadlines come up fast, and missing them can mean waiting another year. Many fully funded and partially funded MS scholarships open 6-12 months before the academic year starts, so tracking dates early is important.
Scholarships for MS in USA Deadlines for 2025-26
Scholarship Name
Application Opens
Deadline (2025 Intake)
Who Can Apply?
Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Scholarships
February 2024
May-October 2024 (Varies by country)
Indian students applying for master’s in USA
Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program (Stanford)
June 2024
October 9, 2024
Students in any MS field with leadership experience
AAUW International Scholarships
August 2024
November 15, 2024
Women from outside USA pursuing a master’s degree
Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation Loan Scholarship
January 2025
March 2025
Indian students seeking financial assistance for higher education
J.N. Tata Endowment for Higher Education
December 2024
March 2025
Indian students pursuing a master’s abroad
Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships
February 2025
March 2025
Indian students in select fields (social sciences, arts, and humanities)
Tata Scholarship for Cornell University
October 2024
January 2025
Indian students applying to Cornell University
Akhtarali H. Tobaccowala Fellowship (University of Chicago)
September 2024
January 2025
Indian students pursuing an MS at the University of Chicago
Harvard University Graduate Scholarships
August 2024
December 2024 (Varies by department)
MS students at Harvard University
MIT Graduate Financial Aid for International Students
September 2024
January 2025
Need-based aid for MS students at MIT
Gates Millennium Scholars Program
July 2024
January 2025
Minority students in USA with academic merit
Columbia University Graduate Scholarships
August 2024
Varies by program (mostly December 2024 - January 2025)
MS students at Columbia University
S.N. Bose Scholars Program
August 2024
November 2024
Indian students in STEM fields pursuing research in USA
The Knight-Hennessy Scholarship at Stanford receives over 8,000 applications annually, but only around 100 students are selected, making it one of the most competitive MS funding options in USA.
Tip: Some scholarships have multiple selection rounds, so applying early can increase your chances. Set reminders for deadlines and start preparing your documents at least 6 months in advance.
Required Documents for Scholarships for MS in USA Applications
Submitting the right documents is important to get a Scholarships for MS in USA. A missing document can lead to rejection. Each scholarship has its own requirements, but most ask for these:
Documents You Need
Document
Purpose
What to Do
Academic Transcripts
Shows your grades and courses
Request from your university early
Degree Certificate
Confirms your qualification
Submit a provisional certificate if the final one isn’t ready
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Explains why you deserve the scholarship
Be clear, focus on career goals and achievements
Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
Supports your academic and leadership skills
Choose professors or employers who know your work well
Resume/CV
Highlights experience, research, and projects
Keep it short and relevant
Research Proposal (if required)
Needed for research-based scholarships
Clearly outline your study plan and impact
Language Test Scores
Proves English proficiency
TOEFL/IELTS (Check required scores)
GRE/GMAT Scores (if required)
Some scholarships prefer strong test scores
A high score strengthens your application
Proof of Financial Need (if applicable)
Required for need-based scholarships
Submit bank statements or income proof
Passport Copy
Confirms your identity
Ensure it’s valid for the study period
Many universities take weeks to issue transcripts. Request them at least a month before deadlines to avoid delays.
Tip: Some scholarships don’t require separate applications—universities consider students automatically. Always check.
Selection Process & Criteria for Scholarships for MS in USA
Scholarships are competitive. Committees don’t just look at grades; they check leadership, research work, and career goals.
How Selection Works
Stage
What Happens?
Application Review
Eligibility check (GPA, documents, nationality)
Document Evaluation
SOP, LORs, resume, and scores are assessed
Shortlisting
Strong applications move forward
Interview (If Required)
Judges motivation, leadership, and impact
Final Selection
Scholarships awarded based on overall profile
The Knight-Hennessy Scholarship at Stanford gets 8,000+ applications yearly but selects only 100 students.
What Matters in Selection?
Criteria
Why It’s Important?
Strong GPA (3.5+ preferred)
Shows academic consistency
Leadership & Extracurriculars
Proves initiative and real-world impact
Research & Projects
Important for STEM programs—publications, innovations
SOP Quality
Must clearly explain career goals and scholarship fit
LOR Strength
Detailed recommendations add credibility
Interview Performance
Assesses clarity and confidence
Tip: Start preparing 6 months before deadlines. A rushed application doesn’t stand out.
How upGrad Abroad Can Help You with MS Scholarship in USA
upGrad Abroad helps you find scholarships, write a strong SOP, and secure LORs. We guide you on deadlines, test prep (GRE, TOEFL), and interviews to improve your chances. Scholarships can cover tuition, living costs, and research expenses, eventually reducing your financial burden.
Apply and get expert help at every step. Book a free counseling session today and start your journey to studying in USA!
FAQs on Scholarships for MS in USA (2025-26)
Which USA universities provide the highest number of MS scholarships for international students?
Top universities offering MS scholarships include Harvard, Stanford, MIT, Carnegie Mellon, and UIUC. Many public universities provide assistantships and tuition waivers for international students.
Are there MS scholarships specifically for Indian students in USA?
Yes, options include Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship, JN Tata Endowment, and Inlaks Shivdasani Scholarships. Some universities also have India-specific funding programs for MS students.
How can I apply for an MS scholarship after starting my degree in USA?
Many universities allow students to apply for scholarships after their first semester based on academic performance, research work, or financial need. Assistantships (TA/RA) are another option.
Do MS scholarships cover additional expenses like textbooks, health insurance, or travel?
Some full scholarships cover living expenses, health insurance, and travel, while partial scholarships usually focus on tuition fees. Check the specific scholarship details.
Can I combine multiple partial scholarships to cover my full tuition?
Yes, some universities allow students to combine multiple funding sources. However, total aid cannot exceed tuition costs, and some scholarships may have restrictions.
Are MS scholarships renewable every year, or do I need to reapply?
Some scholarships are renewable based on GPA and progress, while others require reapplication each year. University policies vary, so check the renewal criteria.
Do need-based MS scholarships consider only tuition fees, or do they cover living expenses too?
Many need-based scholarships cover both tuition and living costs, but some are tuition-only. Assistantships often provide a stipend for living expenses.
Which MS scholarships in USA do not require standardized test scores (GRE, GMAT, TOEFL, IELTS)?
Some universities offer test-optional scholarships, such as the Fulbright Program, AAUW International Fellowships, and institutional merit scholarships.
Can I negotiate for a higher scholarship amount after receiving an offer?
Yes, some universities allow students to request additional funding if they have a better offer from another university or prove financial need.
Do MS scholarships affect my eligibility for part-time work on an F-1 visa?
No, scholarships do not impact on-campus work eligibility. Students on an F-1 visa can still work 20 hours per week during the semester.
How do I improve my scholarship application if I have a lower GPA?
Highlight strong SOPs, research projects, leadership experience, or work achievements. Some scholarships prioritize holistic profiles over grades.
Are there scholarships that prioritize leadership, research, or extracurricular activities over academics?
Yes, programs like Knight-Hennessy Scholars (Stanford) and AAUW Fellowships focus on leadership, community impact, and research potential.
Can I transfer my MS scholarship if I switch universities in USA?
Most scholarships cannot be transferred, but assistantships and external funding may be reapplied for at the new university.
How does a university assistantship (TA/RA) compare to a full scholarship for MS students?
TA/RA roles cover tuition and provide stipends, while scholarships may or may not include living costs. Assistantships also offer work experience.
What are some lesser-known funding opportunities for MS students in USA?
Look into Rotary Foundation Scholarships, PEO International Peace Scholarship, and AAUW International Fellowships. Many universities have internal grants and fellowships.
Akansha Semwal is a content marketer at upGrad and has also worked as a social media marketer & sub-editor. Experienced in creating impressive Statement of Purpose, Essays, and LOR, she knows how to captivate the attention of Admissions Committee. Her research-driven;study-abroad articles helps aspirants to make the prudent decision. She holds a bachelor's & master's degree in Literature from the University of Delhi.