Pursuing higher education in the United States can be expensive, but fully funded scholarships can make it a reality for international students. If you’re looking for tuition-free universities in the USA or generous funding opportunities, you’re in the right place!
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover over 100 fully funded scholarships available in 2025, how to apply, eligibility requirements, and tips to boost your chances of winning a scholarship.
📌 Why Study in the USA?
The USA is home to some of the world’s top-ranking universities, including Harvard, MIT, Stanford, and Yale. Here’s why international students choose the USA:
✅ World-class education – Top-ranked universities offering cutting-edge research opportunities ✅ Diverse & inclusive environment – Students from over 190+ countries ✅ High employability rates – Graduates from U.S. universities are highly sought after ✅ Access to global opportunities – Study in the world’s largest economy
🎯 What Are Fully Funded Scholarships?
A fully funded scholarship covers:
- 📚 Full tuition fees
- ✈️ Travel expenses
- 🏠 Accommodation costs
- 🍽️ Living stipends
- 📖 Books & study materials
- 🏥 Health insurance
🏆 100+ Fully Funded Scholarships in the USA for International Students
1️⃣ Government-Funded Scholarships
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Fulbright Foreign Student Program | Master’s & PhD students from 155+ countries | Tuition, living expenses, airfare, health insurance |
| Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program | Mid-career professionals | Tuition, stipend, travel costs |
| USAID Scholarship Program | Students from developing countries | Tuition, living allowance |
| United States South Pacific Scholarship Program | Pacific Island citizens | Full tuition, travel, living stipend |
| Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship | Undergraduates with financial need | Up to $5,000 grant |
2️⃣ University-Specific Scholarships
| University | Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harvard University | Harvard International Scholarships | All degree levels | Full tuition, stipend |
| Stanford University | Knight-Hennessy Scholars | Graduate students | Tuition, stipend, travel |
| MIT | MIT Scholarships | Need-based | Tuition, housing |
| Yale University | Yale International Scholarships | Undergraduates | Full tuition |
| Columbia University | Columbia Global Scholars | International students | Full tuition + expenses |
3️⃣ Private & Non-Profit Scholarships
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship | Developing country students | Tuition, travel, stipend |
| AAUW International Fellowship | Women pursuing Master’s & PhD | $20,000+ funding |
| Rotary Foundation Global Grants | Graduate students | $30,000+ for tuition and expenses |
| PEO International Peace Scholarship | Women from non-U.S. countries | Up to $12,500 |
| MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program | African students | Full funding |
📄 How to Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships
✅ General Application Requirements:
- Academic Transcripts – High GPA (usually 3.0+ or equivalent)
- Standardized Tests – SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT (varies by university)
- English Proficiency – IELTS (6.5+), TOEFL (90+ IBT)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) – Your motivation for applying
- Letters of Recommendation – 2-3 from professors or employers
- Resume/CV – Highlight achievements & extracurriculars
🔥 Bonus Tips to Increase Your Chances
- Apply early – Most scholarships have deadlines between October – February
- Write a compelling personal statement – Show why you’re the best candidate
- Have strong recommendation letters – Ask mentors or professors who know you well
- Apply for multiple scholarships – Don’t rely on just one!
🎓 Tuition-Free Universities in the USA for International Students
Some universities offer tuition-free programs for international students:
- Berea College – 100% tuition-free for all students
- Webb Institute – Free tuition for Naval Architecture & Marine Engineering
- College of the Ozarks – Work-study program covering full tuition
- Curtis Institute of Music – Free tuition for accepted students
- City University of New York (CUNY) – Some free programs for low-income students