25 U.S. Scholarships for International Students in 2025

The United States remains a popular destination for international students, with over one million studying in the country, according to the latest Open Doors report by the Institute of International Education (IIE). However, for many international students, the cost of studying in the U.S. can be a significant challenge. Since federal student loans and U.S. government financial aid programs are unavailable to non-citizens, international students often need to explore other funding sources. Thankfully, many universities and organizations are committed to providing scholarships and grants for international students to help bridge the financial gap.

Scholarships Overview for International Students

Most scholarships available for international students in the U.S. do not provide full coverage of tuition and other expenses, but they still offer substantial financial assistance. Many scholarships are renewable throughout the duration of the degree program, depending on the student’s academic performance. Some universities allow students to apply for multiple scholarships simultaneously if they meet specific eligibility criteria, while others automatically consider applicants for scholarships upon admission.

It is essential to check all application guidelines, as some scholarships may require additional materials such as letters of recommendation, resumes, or essays. Applying early is also highly recommended to ensure sufficient time for review and preparation.

Below is a carefully curated list of scholarships aimed at international students. These programs include both university-specific scholarships and general options open to a wider pool of students.

University-Specific Scholarships in the U.S.

1. Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT)

- Award: $8,000/year

- Eligibility: High school academic excellence and participation in a FIRST robotics competition.

- Renewability: Requires maintaining a cumulative GPA of 2.8 or higher.

2. University of Tulsa

- Awards: Multiple options, including:

· Presidential Scholarship: Full tuition for five years for students with a 4.0 GPA or who rank in the top 5% of their class.

· Global Ambassador Scholarship: $10,000–$20,000/year.

· International University Partnership Scholarship: $13,500/year.

· #YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarship: 50% of tuition.

3. Boston University (BU)

- Awards:

· Trustee Scholarship: Full tuition and fees for 20 students annually.

· Presidential Scholarship: Half-tuition for outstanding academic records.

- Application Note: Submit the BU application by December 1 and include the Trustee Scholarship essay.

4. Brandeis University

- Awards:

· Wien International Scholars Program: Full demonstrated financial need for 20 students/year.

· Malkin Israeli Endowed Scholarship: Full tuition and fees.

· Davis United World College Scholars Program: $10,000 for eligible students.

5. Andrews University

- Award: Up to $14,000/year (Andrews Partner Scholarship).

- Eligibility: International students with competitive SAT/ACT scores and GPA.

6. Columbia University

- Support: Meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for international students without loans. Average aid package = $79,375.

7. Emory University

- Awards: Full tuition scholarships through programs like Woodruff Scholars.

- Eligibility: Merit-based. No separate application needed.

8. University of Chicago

- Support: Covers 100% of demonstrated financial need, including tuition, housing, health insurance, and other expenses.

9. Illinois Institute of Technology

- Awards:

· Self Leadership Academy Scholarship: Full tuition and a leadership certificate.

· World Robot Olympiad Scholarship: For students with WRO competition experience.

10. Georgetown University

- Awards:

· Full and partial tuition scholarships for students from sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, and the Philippines via the Global Human Development (GHD) Program.

11. Case Western Reserve University

- Awards: Full tuition scholarships like the Andrew Squire Scholarship and A.W. Smith Innovation Scholarship.

12. Syracuse University

- Awards: Full Tuition 1870 Scholarship and smaller merit-based scholarships open to international students.

13. Iowa State University

- Awards:

· Achievement Award: $5,000–$10,000/year.

· Distinction Award: $2,000–$4,000/year.

- Additional Requirements: Separate OneApp application.

14. Michigan State University

- Award: $25,000/year for students bridging intercultural divides.

- Eligibility: Includes supplemental essays and additional application forms.

15. University of Oregon

- Award: International Cultural Service Program (ICSP) offers partial tuition aid.

- Unique Requirement: Students must present cultural talks about their home country.

16. UMass Dartmouth

- Award: $10,000–$15,500/year.

- Note: English proficiency testing required.

17. University of Memphis

- Award: Amount varies.

- Eligibility: Must have at least 25 ACT or 1200 SAT with a 3.25 GPA equivalent.

18. University of Missouri-Columbia

- Awards:

· Merit Scholarship: $5,000/year.

· Honors Scholarship: $10,000/year.

19. Oklahoma State University

- Award: Up to $40,000 (over four years).

- Eligibility: TOEFL 115–120, ACT 30, or SAT 1360, with a 3.25 GPA minimum.

General Scholarships for International Students

20. MPOWER Women in STEM Scholarship

- Award: $3,000 (grand prize) and 2 runners up will receive payment.

- Eligibility: Female international students enrolled in a STEM-related field.

21. OAS Academic Scholarships

- Eligibility: Caribbean/Suriname citizens currently enrolled in undergraduate programs.

- Award: Varies.

22. P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship

- Award: Up to $12,500.

- Eligibility: Women pursuing advanced degrees in the U.S.

23. Fulbright Foreign Student Program

- Support: Offers funding for research and graduate study in the U.S.

- Eligibility: Varies by country.

24. AAUW International Fellowships

- Awards: $20,000–$50,000.

- Eligibility: Women pursuing full-time graduate studies.

25. MPOWER Global Citizen Scholarship

- Award: $8,000(grand prize), $2,000 (runner-up), and $1,000 (second runner-up).

- Requirement: Write an essay on how international education helps create a global impact.

Final Thoughts

Studying in the United States opens doors to world-class education and career opportunities, but the costs can be daunting. Fortunately, the scholarships listed above offer incredible financial support for international students. Before applying, carefully review eligibility requirements and deadlines to maximize your chances of success. With perseverance and preparation, your dream of studying in the U.S. can become a reality in 2025.