USA Scholarships for International Students to Study a Master’s in the USA (2025-2026)

Scholarships for International Students to Study a Master’s in the USA (2025-2026)

Pursuing a master’s degree in the United States is a dream for many international students, but the cost can be a major obstacle. Thankfully, there are numerous scholarship programs that can help fund your graduate studies in the USA. This comprehensive guide provides a one-stop list of scholarships (both fully-funded and partial) available to international students applying for master’s programs in the U.S. We cover each scholarship’s prerequisites, eligibility criteria, provider information, and availability (application timeline), along with direct links to official websites. Whether you’re looking for a fully funded scholarship that covers all expenses or a partial scholarship to supplement other funding, this list has you covered.

How to Use this Guide: First, refer to the quick-reference table below for an overview of scholarship programs and their official websites (fully funded opportunities are listed first, followed by partial funding options). After the table, you’ll find detailed information on each scholarship, including how to apply. We’ve also included “Apply Now” call-to-action links for your convenience. Get ready to take the next step toward your American graduate education!

Quick Reference: Scholarships and Official Links (2025-2026)

Fully Funded Scholarships (cover full tuition, living expenses, etc.):

Scholarship Program	Official Website
Fulbright Foreign Student Program (Fully Funded)	Official Website
Knight-Hennessy Scholars (Stanford University – Fully Funded)	Official Website
Rotary Peace Fellowship (Master’s, Fully Funded)	Official Website
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (Fully Funded)	Official Website
Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (Fully Funded)	Official Website
Asian Development Bank–Japan Scholarship Program (Fully Funded)	Official Website
East-West Center Graduate Degree Fellowship (Fully Funded)	Official Website
Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship (Fully Funded)	Official Website

Partial Scholarships (cover partial tuition or provide stipends):

Scholarship Program	Official Website
AAUW International Fellowships (for Women – Partial)	Official Website
P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship (for Women – Partial)	Official Website
OAS Academic Scholarship Program (Partial Funding)	Official Website
MPOWER Financing International Scholarships (Partial)	Official Website
Inlaks Shivdasani Scholarships (for Indian Students – Partial)	Official Website

Note: “Fully Funded” means the scholarship typically covers full tuition, fees, and a living stipend. “Partial” indicates that the scholarship provides significant funding but may not cover all costs. Always check each program’s official site for the latest details and deadlines.

Fully Funded Scholarship Programs for International Students

These scholarship programs provide full financial support for international students, covering tuition, fees, and often living expenses for master’s study in the United States. They are highly competitive but offer the tremendous benefit of relieving the financial burden entirely.

Fulbright Foreign Student Program (Fulbright Program)

The Fulbright Foreign Student Program is one of the most prestigious scholarships for international graduate students. It is funded by the U.S. Department of State and operates in more than 160 countries worldwide. Fulbright grants enable selected students to pursue master’s (and doctoral) studies or conduct research in the United States at any accredited university.

• Provider: U.S. Department of State (administered by Fulbright Commissions/US Embassies in each country).
• Eligibility: Open to citizens of participating countries across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Americas, and the Middle East. Applicants must apply through the Fulbright commission or U.S. Embassy in their home country. A bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) is required. Selection is based on academic merit, leadership potential, and the candidate’s ability to foster mutual cultural understanding. Note: Eligibility criteria (such as field of study and post-graduation return requirements) can vary by country.
• Prerequisites: A strong academic record and completion of undergraduate education are essential. Many countries require language proficiency (e.g., TOEFL/IELTS for non-English speakers) and sometimes standardized test scores (GRE/GMAT) depending on the program. Professional experience and community engagement can be an advantage.
• Coverage: Fully funded. The scholarship covers full tuition, a living stipend, health insurance, and airfare to the U.S. and back. It essentially covers all major expenses for the duration of the study/research.
• Availability (Application Timeline): Annual calls for applications are typical. Exact timelines differ by country (often opening in February through May for the following academic year’s intake). Applicants should check the U.S. Embassy or Fulbright Commission website in their country for specific deadlines and application procedures. Selections are usually announced a few months after applications and final approvals by the Fulbright Board happen in the spring preceding the start of studies.
• Post-award Requirements: Fulbright scholars are usually subject to a “two-year home residency” requirement upon completion of their program (meaning they are expected to return to their home country for at least two years).
• Official Website & Application: Apply Now (Select your country to see specific instructions and online application portals.)

Knight-Hennessy Scholars (Stanford University)

The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program at Stanford University is a prestigious graduate-level scholarship that awards full funding to selected students to pursue any graduate degree at Stanford, including master’s programs. Each year, about 100 high-achieving students from around the world are selected for their leadership potential and scholarly excellence.

• Provider: Stanford University (through the Knight-Hennessy Scholars endowment founded by Phil Knight and John Hennessy).
• Eligibility: Open to applicants of all nationalities. You must apply to (and be admitted by) a full-time graduate program at Stanford (master’s or Ph.D.) to be eligible for Knight-Hennessy consideration. Applicants must have earned a bachelor’s degree by the time they enroll at Stanford. There is no specific age or field restriction; however, you should be an early-career candidate (typically you have finished your undergraduate degree within the last 5-6 years, though military service can extend this timeframe).
• Prerequisites: A bachelor’s degree with an excellent academic record is required. You must meet the admission requirements of your chosen Stanford graduate program (which may include GRE/GMAT or other tests, depending on the program, as well as English proficiency tests for non-native English speakers). Beyond academics, the program looks for leadership capacity, independence of thought, and a civic mindset.
• Coverage: Fully funded. Knight-Hennessy Scholars receive funding for up to three years of graduate study. This includes full tuition and fees, a stipend for living and academic expenses, and an economy-class ticket for one annual trip to and from Stanford. Additional funding for enrichment activities (like conferences) is often provided.
• Availability (Application Timeline): Annual selection. The Knight-Hennessy application typically opens in the spring and has a deadline in early October for enrollment in the following academic year (e.g., apply by Oct 2025 for Fall 2026 intake). Note that this deadline is usually earlier than Stanford’s own graduate program application deadlines, and you must apply separately to your Stanford program (by its deadline, usually later in the fall or winter). Finalists are interviewed in person at Stanford (usually in February), and scholars are announced shortly thereafter.
• Official Website & Application: Apply Now (Knight-Hennessy Scholars official page).

Rotary Peace Fellowship (Master’s Degree)

The Rotary Peace Fellowship is a fully-funded scholarship for professionals aspiring to become peace and development leaders. Rotary International selects up to 50 fellows each year globally for master’s degree programs in fields related to peace studies and conflict resolution. In the USA, Rotary Peace Fellows can study at partner universities such as Duke University (Master of International Development Policy) or the joint program at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

• Provider: The Rotary Foundation (Rotary International).
• Eligibility: Open to candidates from all countries except those that are prohibited by U.S. law. Applicants should have relevant work experience (at least 3 years of full-time experience in peace, conflict resolution, development, or related fields) and a demonstrated commitment to peace and community service. A bachelor’s degree is required. Proficiency in English is mandatory (and proficiency in a second language is a plus).
• Prerequisites: In addition to a strong academic background (bachelor’s degree with good grades), applicants should highlight leadership skills, volunteer or service experience, and a clear plan for how their studies will help promote peace. They must be able to live and study abroad (the fellowship might not allow bringing along family easily due to funding limits). Importantly, applicants should not be active members or employees of Rotary (and certain relatives of Rotarians are ineligible).
• Coverage: Fully funded. The fellowship covers tuition and fees, round-trip transportation, a monthly stipend for room and board, and internship/field-study expenses. Essentially, fellows receive full financial support for the 15-24 month duration of the master’s program.
• Availability (Application Timeline): Annual cycle. Applications generally open in February with a deadline around May 15 each year, for programs starting the following year (e.g., apply by May 2025 for Fall 2026 enrollment). The selection process includes endorsement by local Rotary districts and an intensive review by Rotary. Final results are typically announced in November.
• Official Website & Application: Apply Now (Rotary Peace Fellowships official information and application).

Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a large initiative to provide fully-funded education to talented yet economically disadvantaged young people, primarily from Africa, to pursue studies around the world. In the United States, several partner universities participate in this program, offering full scholarships for master’s degrees (and undergraduate programs at some institutions) to selected students from Africa. Institutions like University of California, Berkeley, Michigan State University, Duke University, Carnegie Mellon University Africa (in Rwanda, affiliated with CMU USA), and Arizona State University are among the partners for graduate-level scholarships.

• Provider: Mastercard Foundation (in partnership with host universities).
• Eligibility: Citizens of Sub-Saharan African countries (and some programs include other developing country nationals) who are academically talented and have demonstrated leadership or service commitment in their communities. Typically, applicants should be economically disadvantaged or from underrepresented communities, since the program’s goal is to train those who will give back and lift others in their home regions. A bachelor’s degree is required for master’s programs. Each partner university may have specific eligibility criteria (such as focusing on certain countries or academic fields).
• Prerequisites: Strong academic background meeting the admission requirements of the specific partner university program (including any required tests like GRE/GMAT, and English proficiency). Aside from academics, the program looks for leadership potential, ethical character, and a commitment to improving communities. Often, an applicant will need to apply both to the university’s master’s program and separately to the Mastercard Scholars Program (or indicate interest in the scholarship within the university application).
• Coverage: Fully funded. The scholarship covers full tuition, fees, living expenses, books, and other scholastic materials. It often also includes travel costs, insurance, and a stipend. Additionally, Scholars benefit from ancillary programs like mentorship, internship opportunities, career counseling, and alumni networks to support their development as leaders.
• Availability (Application Timeline): Varies by university. Generally, the scholarship is aligned with the university’s admission cycle. For fall admissions, deadlines often fall between December and February of the preceding academic year (for example, December 2025/January 2026 deadlines for Fall 2026 intake), but each institution sets its own dates. Some universities might require an earlier application if you want to be considered for the scholarship. It’s important to check each partner university’s website for specific application instructions and deadlines for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. This program is ongoing through at least 2030 as Mastercard Foundation continues to fund new cohorts.
• Official Website & Application: Apply Now (Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program general info – see the list of partner universities and follow their specific application instructions).

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

The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program is a fully-funded scholarship opportunity for students from developing countries to pursue graduate studies in development-related fields. It is a program jointly funded by the Government of Japan and the World Bank. The scholarship supports master’s degree studies for professionals who will contribute to the development of their home countries. Many of the eligible programs are at universities in the United States (as well as in Africa, Europe, Oceania, and Japan).

• Provider: World Bank (with funding from the Government of Japan).
• Eligibility: Applicants must be nationals of World Bank member developing countries. A detailed list of eligible countries is provided on the official website (it includes most low- and middle-income countries in Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East; notably, citizens of high-income countries are not eligible). Additionally, applicants should have at least 3 years of paid development-related work experience after earning their bachelor’s degree. A bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) with a strong academic record is required. Importantly, you must be admitted to one of the program’s participating master’s programs to be eligible (the World Bank provides a list of about 40+ approved master’s programs at various universities around the world, in fields like public policy, public administration, economics, health, environment, engineering, etc.). Applicants should not already be pursuing a graduate degree (and there are restrictions for World Bank staff and their close relatives).
• Prerequisites: Beyond nationality and work experience, you must be in good health and under the age of 45 (as historically specified, though current age limits should be confirmed in guidelines). Admission to a participating university program is a pre-condition—this often means applying separately to the university by their deadline and receiving an unconditional offer of admission. The fields of study are typically related to economic development (e.g., Economics, Public Policy, Infrastructure Management, Taxation, Climate Change, etc.). English proficiency and any required entrance exams (GRE, etc.) depend on the university program’s requirements.
• Coverage: Fully funded. The JJ/WBGSP scholarship covers full tuition, a monthly living stipend, round-trip airfare, health insurance, and a travel allowance. This generous package ensures that scholars can focus on their studies. (Note: The scholarship does not usually cover expenses for dependents or extra-curricular expenses not required by the program).
• Availability (Application Timeline):Annual application in one or two rounds. Typically, the program has two application windows each year to accommodate different academic calendars:
  • Window 1: usually opens in January and closes in February.
  • Window 2: usually opens in March and closes by May.
    These windows correspond to different sets of partner programs. Applicants apply after securing admission to a participating master’s course. The exact dates are announced on the official site (for example, for 2025, Window 1 might be mid-January to late Feb 2025; Window 2 from mid-March to mid-May 2025). Results are typically announced by early summer. Successful scholars are expected to begin their studies in the fall semester of that year. After completing the degree, scholars are expected to return to their home country to work in development for at least two years.
• Official Website & Application: Apply Now (World Bank Scholarships Program page for JJ/WBGSP – includes application guidelines and list of participating programs).

Asian Development Bank – Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP)

The ADB-Japan Scholarship Program provides full scholarships for graduate studies to students from ADB’s developing member countries. In the context of the USA, a notable ADB-JSP opportunity is at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa in partnership with the East-West Center. This scholarship aims to train future leaders in economics, management, science and technology, and other development-related fields so they can contribute to the progress of their home countries.

• Provider: Asian Development Bank (ADB) in cooperation with the Government of Japan, administered for U.S. studies through the East-West Center at University of Hawai‘i.
• Eligibility: Applicants must be a citizen of one of ADB’s developing member countries in Asia or the Pacific. (This includes most countries in Asia, Pacific Islands, and Central Asia; for example, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Mongolia, Nepal, many Pacific Island nations, etc. It does not include citizens of developed member countries like Japan, USA, Australia, etc.) Candidates should have a bachelor’s degree with a superior academic record. At least two years of full-time professional work experience (acquired after a university degree) is typically required. Applicants should be 35 years old or younger at the time of application (there are some exceptions for senior programs up to 45 years old). You must also obtain admission to an approved master’s program at a participating academic institution. For the U.S., the primary participating program is the University of Hawai‘i (in fields such as economics, business, or Pacific and Asian studies that are aligned with ADB’s goals). Additionally, candidates must be in good health and agree to return to their home country upon completing the degree.
• Prerequisites: Aside from the educational and work experience requirements listed above, proficiency in English is required (since courses will be in English; a TOEFL/IELTS may be needed if your previous education wasn’t in English). You should demonstrate motivation to contribute to the development of your home country. Applicants living or working in a country other than their home country are generally not eligible (exceptions made for a few categories like working in ADB’s operations). Also, those who have already studied abroad on a scholarship or have a master’s degree may be less favored, as the program prioritizes those who haven’t had those opportunities.
• Coverage: Fully funded. The ADB-JSP scholarship covers full tuition fees, a monthly subsistence allowance, housing (in the case of University of Hawai‘i, this might cover on-campus housing), an allowance for books and instructional materials, medical insurance, and travel expenses. Some programs may also provide support for research or internships. The scholarship is initially awarded for one year with the possibility of extension for the second year of a two-year master’s program.
• Availability (Application Timeline): Annual application cycle. For the University of Hawai‘i ADB-JSP (East-West Center) program, applications typically need to be submitted by around December or early January for the intake of the following Fall semester (e.g., Dec 2024/Jan 2025 deadline for Fall 2025 start). Each participating university may have its own application deadline for forwarding nominees to ADB. It’s crucial to check the specific timeline on the East-West Center or relevant university page. Generally, you apply for admission to the university program and indicate your application for the ADB-JSP scholarship simultaneously. The selection results are usually announced a few months before the program start. As with similar programs, scholars are required to return to their home country after completion to contribute to development.
• Official Website & Application: Apply Now (East-West Center’s ADB-JSP information and application details for University of Hawai‘i).

East-West Center Graduate Degree Fellowship (University of Hawai‘i)

The East-West Center Graduate Degree Fellowship is a program that provides full funding for graduate students from Asia, the Pacific, and the United States to study at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa. The fellowship emphasizes not only academic study but also cross-cultural living and leadership development as part of a community at the East-West Center (an education and research organization established by the U.S. Congress to strengthen relations and understanding among the peoples of Asia, the Pacific, and the U.S.).

• Provider: East-West Center (funded by the U.S. Government and other partners).
• Eligibility: Open to graduate students from countries in the Asia-Pacific region or the United States. This includes South Asia, Southeast Asia, East Asia, the Pacific Islands, and also the U.S. (so both international and American students participate, fostering cultural exchange). Applicants must have a 4-year bachelor’s degree or equivalent with a strong academic record to gain admission to a master’s (or doctoral) program at University of Hawai‘i. They should demonstrate interest in the Asia-Pacific region and a willingness to engage in center activities. There is no strict age limit, but applicants are usually early-career.
• Prerequisites: You must apply for and be admitted to a graduate program at University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa in addition to applying for the fellowship. Fields of study can vary widely (from business to sciences to arts) but preference is given to those relevant to the Asia-Pacific region or themes of Pacific community building. You should express a clear sense of how you intend to contribute to Asia-Pacific communities and foster international collaboration. English proficiency is required (if coming from a non-English speaking country, a TOEFL/IELTS score per UH’s requirements).
• Coverage: Fully funded. The fellowship provides full tuition and fees for the graduate program at UH Mānoa, and also covers housing in an East-West Center dormitory, health insurance, books, and a partial living stipend or meal allowance. While living expenses are largely covered (through a combination of housing and stipend), fellows might need to budget for some personal expenses. Additional funding is available on a competitive basis for field research or conference travel during the program.
• Availability (Application Timeline): Annual intake. The application deadline is typically around December or early January for the upcoming academic year’s fall semester start (e.g., early December 2025 deadline for Fall 2026 entry). Applicants submit both a UH Mānoa admissions application and a separate fellowship application to the East-West Center. Selection results are often announced by March or April. Fellows participate not only in their degree studies but also in a variety of EWC programs, so they are expected to reside at the Center and engage in extracurricular activities throughout the fellowship.
• Official Website & Application: Apply Now (East-West Center Graduate Degree Fellowship information and application).

Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme

The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme is an initiative of the Aga Khan Development Network aimed at developing home-grown leaders and scholars in developing countries. The program provides a limited number of scholarships each year for postgraduate studies (master’s degrees and some doctoral programs) to outstanding students who have no other means of financing their studies. Importantly, the funding is provided on a 50% grant / 50% loan basis, meaning half the award is a loan that must be repaid.

• Provider: Aga Khan Foundation (and affiliated Aga Khan Education Services/Boards in various countries).
• Eligibility: Open to nationals of select developing countries where the Aga Khan Development Network is active. These countries currently include (but may not be limited to): India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Syria, Egypt, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Mozambique, Madagascar and a few others. Applicants from these countries can apply if they are residing in their home country (or in some cases, if they have been working abroad but are originally from one of these countries, they may be considered). Age limit: Preference is given to students under 30 years of age.
• Prerequisites: A bachelor’s degree (excellent academic records are expected). You must have genuine financial need — the program is targeted at those who would not otherwise be able to afford a high-quality graduate education. Applicants are expected to have secured admission (or at least be in the process of applying) to universities in the U.S. or other countries on their own; the scholarship application often requires an admission offer. The chosen field of study should be relevant to the development of the applicant’s home country (there’s no rigid restriction on field, but the program tends to favor fields like development studies, education, health, environment, etc., and generally does not support very short-term courses, part-time studies, or distance learning). Applicants should also ideally have some prior work or volunteer experience in community service or development activities.
• Coverage: Fully funded (with loan component). The scholarship covers tuition and reasonable living expenses for the study program. It does not typically cover travel costs. The award is split between a scholarship (grant) which covers 50% of the expenses and a loan for the other 50%. The loan portion must be repaid with an annual service charge of 5%, and a guarantor is required to co-sign the loan agreement. The loan repayment period is usually five years, starting six months after the study period funded by the Aga Khan Foundation.
• Availability (Application Timeline): Annual cycle. Application forms are generally available from Aga Khan Foundation offices or local Aga Khan Education Services/Boards in your country around January each year. The deadline for submission is usually around March 31 (deadlines may vary slightly by country, but typically end of March). Local interview panels conduct interviews and evaluate applications in April or early May. The final selection is made centrally and candidates are notified of the outcome by July. Because of the highly competitive nature, only a small number of applicants are selected each year.
• Official Website & Application: Apply Now (Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme details and country-specific contact information).

Partial Scholarships and Funding Opportunities

The following scholarships provide partial funding for master’s studies in the U.S. They may cover tuition in part or provide stipends that can significantly offset costs. While they may not pay for everything, they are still highly valuable and can often be combined with other funding sources or assistantships. Many of these are targeted at specific groups (e.g. women, specific regions) and are more in number than fully-funded awards.

AAUW International Fellowships (for Women)

The American Association of University Women (AAUW) International Fellowships offer funding to female students who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents for full-time graduate or postgraduate study in the United States. This long-running program is aimed at advancing educational opportunities for women and promoting equality.

• Provider: AAUW (American Association of University Women).
• Eligibility: Open to women from all countries (other than the U.S.). Applicants must hold at least the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree (earned by the application deadline) and intend to devote themselves full-time to the proposed academic plan during the fellowship year. Both master’s and Ph.D. students, as well as postdoctoral researchers, can apply (for master’s, it’s typically the first year of a graduate program, or a one-year master’s). Applicants should not be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. They must intend to return to their home country after their studies to pursue a professional career (this is strongly desired by AAUW, as they look for candidates likely to become leaders back home). There is no specific field restriction; applications from all academic disciplines are welcome, though AAUW has a separate program for international projects and some for specific fields.
• Prerequisites: A record of academic excellence at the undergraduate level (the AAUW requires a minimum GPA of 3.5/4.0 or equivalent for your bachelor’s degree). You need to demonstrate English proficiency by submitting TOEFL or IELTS scores unless you received your degree from an English-speaking institution. The application includes essays, recommendations, and proof of admission or applied status at a U.S. institution for the period of the fellowship. Work or community experience and the potential for improving the lives of women and girls in your home country are plus factors.
• Coverage: Partial funding. The AAUW International Fellowship provides a stipend of USD $20,000 for master’s students (slightly higher amounts for doctoral and postdoctoral fellows). This fund can be used for tuition, living expenses, insurance, travel, or any other education-related expense. It’s not intended to cover the full cost of studies at expensive universities, but it significantly helps reduce the financial burden. Some fellows who are in two-year master’s programs may apply for a one-time renewal for a second year of funding (only a limited number of renewals are granted).
• Availability (Application Timeline): Annual competition. Applications typically open around August 1 each year and close around mid-November for fellowships that will fund the next academic year (for instance, apply by November 2025 for the 2026-2027 academic year fellowship). Applicants are required to submit all materials by the deadline, and results are usually announced by April. The fellowship year runs from July 1 to the following June 30 (to cover the academic year).
• Official Website & Application: Apply Now (AAUW International Fellowships page with application portal).

P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship (for Women)

The P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship (IPS) Fund is a scholarship program for women from countries outside of the United States and Canada who wish to pursue graduate studies in the U.S. or Canada. The philosophy of the scholarship is that education is fundamental to world peace and understanding, hence it aims to support international women students.

• Provider: P.E.O. Sisterhood (a philanthropic organization of women with chapters throughout North America).
• Eligibility: Open to women students worldwide (except U.S. and Canadian citizens). Applicants must be qualified for admission to a full-time graduate program (masters or Ph.D.) in the United States or Canada. The program is not intended for U.S. or Canadian citizens; however, it is available to international students studying in those two countries. First-year graduate students are eligible, but they will receive a conditional award that is contingent on securing enrollment and a student visa. Doctoral students who have completed coursework and are working on dissertations are not eligible as first-time applicants. Applicants must plan to return to their home country upon completion of their degree and be committed to international peace and understanding.
• Prerequisites: A bachelor’s degree (with a strong academic record). You will need to demonstrate adequate financial resources to cover the remainder of expenses, since the scholarship may not cover all costs. In fact, part of the application process is showing a financial plan for your studies (the IPS is a supplementary scholarship). You do not need to have confirmed admission at the time of application, but you must ultimately submit your admission and visa for final award disbursement. English proficiency is required per the admitting university’s standards.
• Coverage: Partial funding. The maximum award is $12,500 per year (as of recent years). The exact amount awarded to each scholar is based on individual needs and may vary. The scholarship can be renewed for a second year of study (for a two-year master’s program, for instance) upon reapplication, but the maximum total support is for two years. While $12,500 will not cover full tuition at many universities, IPS often works in tandem with other scholarships, assistantships, or personal funds to make the education possible. The funds can cover tuition, books, living expenses, etc.
• Availability (Application Timeline): Annual application process. The IPS process typically starts with an eligibility form which becomes available around September 15. Prospective applicants fill out this form to establish basic eligibility by around mid-December. Qualified applicants are then invited to complete the full application by a deadline usually in January. Awards are announced by May for the academic year starting in the fall. For example, for the 2025-2026 academic year, the eligibility form opens September 2024, application due January 2025, and awards given by May 2025. Early planning is advisable, as the application requires some financial documentation and recommendations.
• Official Website & Application: Apply Now (P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship information and application details).

Organization of American States (OAS) Academic Scholarship Program

The OAS Academic Scholarship Program is an initiative by the Organization of American States to support students from the Americas (North, Central, South America and the Caribbean) in pursuing higher education. OAS scholarships can be used for graduate studies (master’s or PhD) in any OAS member state, which for many applicants means funding to study in the USA or other countries outside their own. These scholarships are generally not full rides, but they can contribute significantly to tuition or living costs.

• Provider: Organization of American States (OAS).
• Eligibility: Applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of an OAS member state. All independent countries in the Americas are OAS members (for example: almost all Latin American and Caribbean nations, the United States, Canada) – typically you apply through your home country’s OAS office. Importantly, you must not apply to study in your home country with this scholarship; the idea is to promote academic mobility within the Americas. Applicants should have a strong academic record and hold a bachelor’s (for master’s funding) or a master’s (for PhD funding). Many OAS scholarships require that the field of study be something that can positively impact the development of the applicant’s home country or region.
• Prerequisites: A first university degree with above-average grades. Typically, you need to gain admission to the program/university you plan to attend, or at least be in the application process, during the OAS scholarship application. Each member state often has its own OAS National Liaison Office (ONE) that pre-screens or endorses candidates, so you may need to apply through a government office in your home country (Ministry of Education or similar) by their internal deadline. Some countries require you to return after studies for a certain time. Proficiency in the language of study (English, in case of studying in the U.S.) is required; sometimes proof like a TOEFL is needed.
• Coverage: Partial funding. OAS Academic Scholarships have a monetary cap (often up to US $10,000 per academic year). The scholarship funds can be applied to tuition, fees, or subsistence expenses. Often, OAS works with certain universities that may offer additional tuition waivers or discounts to OAS scholars, so in combination, it can cover a substantial portion of costs. Some awards include a one-time travel allowance, but many do not, depending on budget. Typically, the scholarship is renewable for a second year if the student remains in good standing.
• Availability (Application Timeline): Annual call for applications. The OAS scholarship cycle usually opens around January each year with a deadline in late March or April. However, each country’s OAS Liaison Office might set an earlier deadline for applicants from that country (often a few weeks before the OAS deadline) because they handle the initial vetting. Results are often announced by August, and scholarships typically begin with the fall academic term. There are opportunities to apply for one-year scholarships (which can sometimes be extended) or two-year scholarships depending on the structure of the program.
• Official Website & Application: Apply Now (See the OAS Scholarships section for the Academic Scholarship Program, and consult your country’s OAS office for specific guidance).

MPOWER Financing International Student Scholarships

MPOWER Financing – a student loan provider focusing on international students – also offers a range of scholarships to support international and DACA students studying in the U.S. or Canada. Unlike the other programs listed, these scholarships are generally smaller awards (often a few thousand dollars) and are not tied to one specific institution or field. They are merit-based and/or based on certain themes to celebrate student achievements and diversity.

• Provider: MPOWER Financing (private company).
• Eligibility:International students or DACA students who are currently enrolled or have been accepted to study full-time at an eligible U.S. or Canadian college/university. “International” typically means non-U.S. citizens or permanent residents (those on study visas, for example). Each scholarship that MPOWER offers might have additional specific eligibility criteria. For example:
  • MPOWER Global Citizen Scholarship: open to international students from any country who are studying or planning to study in the U.S. or Canada.
  • Women in STEM Scholarship: for female international/DACA students in STEM fields.
  • MBA Scholarship: for international students pursuing MBA degrees.
  • There are sometimes region-specific scholarships (like for students from certain regions of the world).
    The key common point is you must be attending (or about to attend) a school that MPOWER supports (MPOWER has a list of about 400 schools, which includes many major U.S. universities).
• Prerequisites: Varies by scholarship contest. Generally, you need to submit an application form and often a short essay or personal statement related to the scholarship theme. For example, for the Global Citizen Scholarship, you might write about your achievements and how you’ll make an impact as a global citizen. They do not typically require transcripts or recommendations (making the process simpler), but you may need to provide proof of enrollment/acceptance and student visa status if you win. Strong writing and a compelling personal story/goal are usually key to standing out.
• Coverage: Partial funding. The awards range in size:
  • Many MPOWER scholarships offer a grand prize of $5,000 or $10,000, and some runner-up awards (like $2,000 and $1,000 for second and third place).
  • Others might be smaller monthly awards (for instance, MPOWER has run monthly scholarship series with $1,000 awards on various topics).
    While these scholarships won’t cover full tuition, winning one can help cover living expenses or part of tuition, and multiple such awards can add up. They also are a recognition of merit which can be useful in resumes.
• Availability (Application Timeline): Multiple opportunities year-round. MPOWER runs several scholarship contests each year. For example, the Global Citizen Scholarship typically has a deadline around July (e.g., July 2025 for that year’s awards), a Women in STEM scholarship has had deadlines in March, and other themed scholarships pop up throughout the year. Some scholarships are annual, others are more frequent. MPOWER often posts current open scholarship opportunities on their website with their respective deadlines. Generally, the process is: submit application by the deadline, then a judging period, and winners are announced a month or two later. Students should check MPOWER’s scholarship page regularly for new opportunities and deadlines.
• Official Website & Application: Apply Now (MPOWER Financing Scholarships page listing current scholarships and application instructions).

Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships (for Indian Students)

The Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships are prestigious awards for exceptional Indian students to pursue postgraduate study (master’s, M.Phil., or sometimes Ph.D. and MFAs) at top institutions abroad, including in the USA. The foundation seeks to support young talents in a variety of fields by providing funding that can supplement other sources and enable study at elite universities.

• Provider: Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation (an Indian charitable organization).
• Eligibility: Open to Indian citizens who are resident in India at the time of application (generally, you should have been continuously living in India for the past two years). Age limit is crucial: applicants must be no more than 30 years old in the application year (for example, for 2025 awards, you must be born on or after January 1, 1995). The scholarship is for securing admission to top-rated foreign institutes; the Foundation has a track record of funding study at institutions like Harvard, Stanford, UC Berkeley, Columbia, Oxford, Cambridge, etc.
  • Important: The scholarship does not support certain subjects. Applications in Business/Finance, Engineering, Computer Science, Public Health, Medicine, Fashion Design, and Film Animation are not considered. (However, exceptions are made for Engineering/Computer Science if the program is at Imperial College London, and for Film if it’s documentary filmmaking. They also allow Western Classical Music in some cases.) The Foundation tends to prioritize fields in arts, humanities, social sciences, law, architecture, and natural sciences over purely professional or technical fields.
• Prerequisites: A first-class undergraduate degree from a recognized Indian university is usually expected (or equivalent academic excellence if degree earned abroad). You must already have admission (or at least a conditional offer) from the institution abroad by the time of the final interviews (typically around May). Proof of admission is mandatory to actually receive the award. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a strong overall profile – academic excellence, extracurricular achievements or projects in their field, and clarity of plan for how the studies will contribute to their career and societal impact. The application usually includes essays, references, and sometimes examples of work (especially for arts/design applicants, a portfolio or work samples are needed).
• Coverage: Partial (high-value) funding. The Inlaks scholarship can be considered “full” in many cases but with a limit: it provides funds up to US$100,000. This can cover tuition, living expenses, health insurance, and one-way travel. If the total cost of the program exceeds $100,000, the candidate must show evidence that they have secured the additional funding needed (either through other scholarships, assistantships, loans, or personal funds). The scholarship is typically for up to 2 years of study. If a candidate’s program is longer than 2 years (like a Ph.D.), the Foundation may consider funding the initial years or require a clear funding plan for the remainder.
• Availability (Application Timeline): Annual cycle in India. Applications open in around February and usually close by late March or early April each year. Shortlisted candidates are called for interviews, which take place in May or June in India. Final award decisions are made shortly after the interviews. Because admission offers from universities are needed, most candidates apply for Inlaks concurrently while applying to foreign universities or after receiving an offer. It’s a highly competitive process, often selecting only a handful of scholars each year.
• Official Website & Application: Apply Now (Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships page with details and the online application when open).

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Final Tips: When preparing your scholarship applications, start early and pay attention to each program’s specific requirements and deadlines. Tailor your application to highlight not only your academic achievements but also your motivation, leadership, and how you meet the unique mission of each scholarship. Many of these awards (especially the fully funded ones) are extremely competitive, so it’s wise to apply to multiple opportunities and also explore financial aid directly from universities (such as graduate assistantships or need-based aid). With diligent preparation and perseverance, you could soon be on your way to a fully or partially funded master’s education in the United States. Good luck with your applications!