Top Scholarships of Over $10,000 for International Students in the USA (2024)

Pursuing higher education in the United States is a dream for many international students due to the country’s renowned universities, diverse culture, and robust academic programs. However, the cost of studying in the USA can be a significant barrier. Scholarships are crucial in making this dream achievable by providing substantial financial support. In 2024, several prestigious scholarships are available for international students, offering awards of over $10,000. This article outlines some of the top scholarships and their application details.

1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program

• Description: The Fulbright Program is one of the most prestigious scholarships globally, aimed at fostering mutual understanding between the people of the USA and other countries. It provides funding for graduate students, young professionals, and artists from abroad to study and conduct research in the USA.
• Award Amount: Varies (typically covers tuition, airfare, a living stipend, and health insurance)
• Website: Fulbright Foreign Student Program

2. Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP)

• Description: The JJ/WBGSP offers scholarships for students from developing countries to pursue development-related studies at various universities worldwide, including prominent US universities.
• Award Amount: Full tuition, a monthly living stipend, round-trip airfare, health insurance, and travel allowance
• Website: JJ/WBGSP

3. Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program

• Description: This non-degree program provides ten months of non-degree academic study and related professional experiences in the USA. Fellowships are awarded in various fields, including public policy, technology policy and management, human resource management, and environmental policy.
• Award Amount: Full grant (tuition, living allowance, accident and sickness coverage, travel costs)
• Website: Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program

4. AAUW International Fellowships

• Description: The American Association of University Women (AAUW) offers fellowships for women who are not US citizens or permanent residents, supporting full-time study or research in the USA.
• Award Amount: $18,000 for Master’s/Professional degree, $20,000 for Doctorate, $30,000 for Postdoctoral
• Website: AAUW International Fellowships

5. Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholarships

• Description: Rotary Foundation offers scholarships for graduate-level coursework or research for one to four academic years. The scholarships fund international study, focused on Rotary’s areas of focus like peace and conflict prevention/resolution, disease prevention and treatment, water and sanitation, maternal and child health, basic education and literacy, and economic and community development.
• Award Amount: Minimum of $30,000
• Website: Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholarships

6. Stanford University Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program

• Description: This program develops a community of future global leaders to address complex challenges through collaboration and innovation. It funds graduate education at Stanford University.
• Award Amount: Covers tuition, stipend, graduate program, and related academic expenses
• Website: Knight-Hennessy Scholars

7. Yale University Young Global Scholars Program (YYGS)

• Description: This scholarship targets high school students globally, providing them with an intensive academic experience at Yale.
• Award Amount: Full scholarships include tuition, travel, and related expenses
• Website: YYGS

8. Harvard University Scholarships

• Description: Harvard offers a range of scholarships for international students, including need-based financial aid. The university ensures that financial aid meets 100% of the demonstrated financial need of students.
• Award Amount: Varies (often exceeds $10,000)
• Website: Harvard Financial Aid

9. American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship

• Description: This scholarship is aimed at high-achieving international students who wish to pursue a Bachelor’s degree at American University and are dedicated to positive civic and social change.
• Award Amount: Covers full tuition, fees, room, and board
• Website: AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship

10. University of Pennsylvania – Penn GSE Scholarships

• Description: The Graduate School of Education offers several scholarships for international students based on merit and need. These are intended to assist students in the Master’s or Doctoral programs.
• Award Amount: Varies (many exceed $10,000)
• Website: Penn GSE Scholarships

Application Tips for International Students

1. Research Thoroughly: Understand the eligibility criteria, deadlines, and specific application requirements for each scholarship.
2. Prepare Documentation: Commonly required documents include academic transcripts, standardized test scores (e.g., TOEFL, GRE), letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and proof of financial need.
3. Tailor Your Application: Customize your personal statement and other application materials to reflect your unique background, achievements, and how the scholarship will help you achieve your goals.
4. Seek Guidance: Utilize resources such as university financial aid offices, international student services, and educational consultants to help navigate the application process.
5. Apply Early: Scholarships often have early deadlines. Begin your preparation well in advance to ensure timely submission.
6. Follow Instructions: Adhere to all application instructions meticulously to avoid disqualification.

Conclusion

Securing a scholarship is a significant achievement that can alleviate the financial burden of studying in the USA. For international students, these top scholarships, each providing over $10,000, represent substantial opportunities to pursue academic excellence and gain valuable international experience. With diligent research, preparation, and persistence, you can maximize your chances of receiving financial support and making your educational dreams in the USA a reality.