Studying abroad in the United States is an exciting opportunity, but it can be expensive. Luckily, there are a variety of undergraduate scholarships available for international students who dream of studying in the U.S. These scholarships can help cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs, making your dream of studying in the U.S. a reality.
If you’re an international student planning to study in the U.S. in 2025, here’s a guide to some of the best undergraduate scholarships that you can apply for.
1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program
The Fulbright Program is one of the most well-known scholarship programs in the world. It offers funding to students from over 160 countries to study in the U.S. at the undergraduate level. This scholarship program is offered by the U.S. Department of State and is aimed at building mutual understanding between the people of the United States and other nations.
Eligibility:
- International students from participating countries.
- Must have a strong academic record and leadership potential.
- English proficiency required (TOEFL or IELTS scores may be needed).
Benefits:
- Full tuition coverage.
- Living expenses.
- Health insurance.
- Travel costs.
2. Yale University Scholarships for International Students
Yale University, one of the most prestigious Ivy League universities, offers a robust financial aid program for international students. Yale’s need-based financial aid means that eligible students will be considered for a scholarship based on their financial need.
Eligibility:
- International students applying for undergraduate programs.
- Financial need is the primary factor in determining eligibility.
Benefits:
- Full coverage of tuition, fees, room, and board for students with demonstrated financial need.
- The scholarship is entirely need-based, so no separate application is needed for financial aid.
3. University of Miami International Student Scholarships
The University of Miami offers several merit-based scholarships for international students who wish to study at their undergraduate level. These scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence and achievement in extracurricular activities.
Eligibility:
- International students applying for undergraduate degrees at the University of Miami.
- A strong academic background and impressive extracurricular involvement are essential.
Benefits:
- Scholarships range from partial to full tuition coverage.
- Additional funding for books, fees, and living expenses may also be available.
4. Stanford University Scholarships for International Students
Stanford University is well known for providing significant financial aid to international students through its need-blind admission policy. This means that financial need does not affect your chances of admission, and Stanford offers substantial scholarships based on your family’s financial situation.
Eligibility:
- International students applying to undergraduate programs.
- Must demonstrate financial need.
Benefits:
- Full coverage of tuition, room, and board for students with demonstrated need.
- The financial aid package may also include travel and personal expenses.
5. The American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship
The Emerging Global Leader Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship offered by American University in Washington D.C. It is available for undergraduate international students who show leadership potential and academic excellence.
Eligibility:
- International students applying for an undergraduate degree.
- Must be in the top 10% of your high school class.
- Must demonstrate leadership potential and commitment to community service.
Benefits:
- Full tuition, room, and board for the duration of the program.
- The scholarship also covers mandatory fees and a stipend for living expenses.
6. Dartmouth College Scholarships for International Students
Dartmouth College offers need-based financial aid to international students. The school is committed to meeting the full financial need of all admitted students, including international students.
Eligibility:
- International students applying for undergraduate programs.
- Financial need is considered in determining the amount of scholarship offered.
Benefits:
- Full tuition coverage.
- Room and board.
- Books and personal expenses.
7. The United World Colleges (UWC) Scholarships
The United World Colleges (UWC) is a network of schools and colleges offering international scholarships to students worldwide. These scholarships allow you to study at a UWC institution before applying to a U.S. university, making it a great option for students planning to pursue undergraduate studies in the U.S.
Eligibility:
- International students from participating UWC countries.
- Must demonstrate exceptional academic performance and leadership potential.
Benefits:
- Full tuition coverage.
- Living expenses.
- Opportunity to apply to top U.S. universities upon completion of UWC studies.
8. The Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholarships
The Rotary Foundation offers Global Grant Scholarships for international students pursuing undergraduate degrees. The program focuses on students who are pursuing a field of study that will have a positive impact on global development.
Eligibility:
- International students who are sponsored by a local Rotary club.
- Must be pursuing a degree in a field related to the Rotary Foundation’s areas of focus, such as peace studies, education, and health.
Benefits:
- Full funding for tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.
- Scholarships vary by the country and Rotary club sponsoring the student.
9. The Howard University International Students Scholarships
Howard University, a historically black university in Washington, D.C., offers several scholarships for international students who wish to study at the undergraduate level. The scholarships are based on both academic merit and financial need.
Eligibility:
- International students applying for an undergraduate program.
- Must demonstrate academic excellence and financial need.
Benefits:
- Full tuition coverage for students with significant financial need.
- Room and board coverage may also be included depending on the scholarship.
10. University of Illinois International Student Scholarships
The University of Illinois offers various merit-based scholarships to international students. These scholarships are for undergraduate students who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance.
Eligibility:
- International students applying to the University of Illinois.
- Must have an excellent academic record, particularly in mathematics and science.
Benefits:
- Partial to full tuition coverage depending on the scholarship.
- Additional funding may be available for living expenses.
11. The Gates Cambridge Scholarship
While not specific to U.S. universities, the Gates Cambridge Scholarship is one of the most prestigious scholarships for international students who wish to study in the U.S. at both undergraduate and graduate levels. If you are interested in pursuing a master’s degree or research at a U.S. institution like Harvard University or Stanford University, this scholarship might be for you.
Eligibility:
- International students applying for graduate or research programs in the U.S.
- Must demonstrate exceptional academic and leadership potential.
Benefits:
- Full coverage of tuition, living expenses, travel, and research funding.
12. The AACE International Scholarship
The AACE International Scholarship is for undergraduate students who wish to pursue degrees in engineering, construction, and project management-related fields. International students are encouraged to apply.
Eligibility:
- International students pursuing degrees in engineering or related fields.
- Must demonstrate academic excellence.
Benefits:
- Scholarships can range from $500 to $5,000 based on financial need and academic performance.
Conclusion
There are many opportunities for international students to receive financial assistance to study in the U.S. in 2025. From merit-based scholarships to need-based ones, the U.S. offers a wide range of funding opportunities for undergraduate students. Be sure to research scholarship options early, meet all eligibility requirements, and submit your applications on time to increase your chances of receiving a scholarship. With determination, hard work, and the right scholarship, your dream of studying in the U.S. can become a reality!