If you’ve ever dreamed of studying in the United States but thought you couldn’t afford it, good news — there’s hope! Every year, thousands of international students get the chance to study in the USA without paying a dime, thanks to fully funded scholarships. Yep, you read that right. Tuition, accommodation, living expenses, sometimes even plane tickets — all covered!
In this article, we’re diving into the Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships in USA for International Students in 2025. Whether you’re looking for undergraduate, graduate, or PhD opportunities, there’s probably a scholarship out there with your name on it.
📌 Quick Overview: Top Scholarships in USA 2025
Here’s a handy little table summarizing the key details before we dive into each one. Because let’s be honest — sometimes you just wanna skim through, right?
| Scholarship Name | Degree Level | Coverage | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fulbright Scholarship Program | Masters, PhD | Tuition, living, airfare, insurance | Varies by country |
| Knight-Hennessy Scholars (Stanford) | Graduate (any field) | Full tuition, stipend, travel | October 2024 |
| Yale University Scholarships | Undergrad, Graduate | Need-based, up to full tuition | January 2025 |
| AAUW International Fellowships (Women only) | Masters, PhD | Up to $50,000/year | November 2024 |
| Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship | Professional | Full expenses | Varies by country |
| Clark University Global Scholars | Undergraduate | Up to $25,000/year, internship | November 2024 |
| University of Minnesota Fellowship | Masters | Full tuition, living, travel | December 2024 |
| American University Emerging Global Leader | Undergraduate | Full tuition, room, board | December 2024 |
| Rotary Peace Fellowships | Masters | Full expenses | May 2025 |
| Obama Foundation Scholars (UChicago) | Masters | Tuition, stipend, travel, housing | December 2024 |
1️⃣ Fulbright Scholarship Program for International Students
We gotta start with the big dog — the Fulbright Scholarship for International Students. Funded by the U.S. government, it’s one of the most prestigious scholarships for international students in the US.
It covers tuition, airfare, a living stipend, and health insurance. Open to over 155 countries, and it’s not just for master’s or PhD students — some programs include non-degree postgraduate studies too.
Feedback: If you’re gonna apply for one scholarship this year, make it this one. It’s highly competitive but totally life-changing. I personally know two friends who made it to the U.S. on Fulbright, and they still can’t believe it!
2️⃣ Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program (Stanford)
Stanford is one of those universities everyone dreams of. With the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program, international students can pursue any graduate degree and get fully funded.
The scholarship covers full tuition, living expenses, travel costs, and even enrichment funds.
Quick Note: Application essays here are no joke — they really care about your leadership potential, not just grades. So, work on a strong personal story!
3️⃣ Yale University Scholarships for International Students
Yale’s scholarships are need-based, and the average award is over $50,000 per year — but it can go up to a full ride.
They’ve got options for both undergrads and graduates, and if you’re one of those super ambitious folks aiming for an Ivy League degree, this is a killer opportunity.
Feedback: Honestly, don’t get discouraged by the “Ivy League” tag. If you have a solid application and financial need, you’ve got a shot.
4️⃣ AAUW International Fellowships (For Women)
Ladies, this one’s for you! The American Association of University Women (AAUW) gives generous fellowships to international women pursuing full-time graduate or postdoctoral studies in the U.S.
Awards can go up to $50,000 a year.
Heads up: A lot of applicants miss the deadline because it comes earlier than most scholarships — mark your calendars!
5️⃣ Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program
Unlike other programs, the Humphrey Fellowship is designed for professionals already working in their careers. It offers a year of non-degree academic study and professional development in the US.
Tip: It’s great if you’ve got a few years of work experience and you’re looking to move up in your field. Also, no GRE needed!
6️⃣ Clark University Global Scholars Program
For those looking for undergraduate scholarships for international students in USA, Clark University offers up to $25,000 per year plus a $2,500 internship stipend.
Personal thought: This is one of those hidden gems that most international students don’t know about. Definitely worth applying.
7️⃣ University of Minnesota Fellowship
This one’s for master’s students in a range of fields. It covers tuition, living expenses, travel, and insurance.
Suggestion: Great option for those interested in social sciences, public health, or education. The university is also super international-student friendly.
8️⃣ American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship
Offered to undergraduates who show leadership and a commitment to improving their home communities.
Heads up: This scholarship won’t cover your non-billable expenses (books, health insurance, plane tickets), so plan accordingly.
9️⃣ Rotary Peace Fellowships
For master’s degree students focused on peace studies and conflict resolution. Covers tuition, accommodation, travel, and field studies.
Comment: Even if you’ve never done formal peace-related work, volunteer experience or community service counts too.
🔟 Obama Foundation Scholars Program
At the University of Chicago, this program covers tuition, stipend, housing, travel — you name it. It’s for students passionate about public service.
Final word: Since it’s fairly new, competition is fierce, but don’t let that scare you.
✏️ Final Thoughts
So there you have it — the Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships in USA for International Students in 2025. Whether you’re looking for a Fulbright scholarship for international students, a full ride scholarship for international students in US, or graduate scholarships for international students in USA, there are plenty of options out there.
And remember — universities like Harvard, NYU, ASU, and Purdue offer fantastic programs too. Don’t forget to check out scholarships in Canada for international students and UK scholarships for international students if you’re open to more options.
Final feedback: The scholarship hunt can feel overwhelming. Start early, make a list, track deadlines, and don’t be afraid to ask past recipients for advice. You got this.
