Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships in the USA for International Students (2026 Update)
Studying in the United States is a dream for many students around the world . With its world-class universities, advanced research facilities, and diverse culture, the USA remains a top destination for international students. The best part? You don’t always have to pay the high tuition fees — there are fully funded scholarships available for 2026 that cover everything from tuition to living expenses and travel costs.
Here are the top 10 fully funded scholarships in the USA for international students you should apply for.
1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program
- Sponsored by the U.S. Government, this is one of the most prestigious global scholarships.
- Covers tuition, airfare, living stipend, health insurance, and more.
- Available for Master’s and PhD programs in all academic fields.
- Visit Fulbright Official Site
2. Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program
- Designed for mid-career professionals with leadership potential.
- Covers full tuition, living allowance, travel, and professional development.
- Focuses on public policy, human rights, education, and development.
3. Yale University Scholarships
- Offers fully funded undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD programs.
- Coverage includes tuition fees, housing, and annual stipend (up to $70,000/year).
- One of the most generous Ivy League opportunities.
4. Stanford University Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program
- For exceptional students who show leadership, innovation, and civic engagement.
- Covers tuition, living expenses, and travel for the full duration of study.
- Open to all fields and nationalities.
5. Harvard University Scholarships
- Fully funded undergraduate and graduate scholarships.
- Includes full tuition, housing, and financial aid based on need.
- Available across Harvard’s various schools, including Law, Medicine, and Business.
6. AAUW International Fellowships (for Women)
- Sponsored by the American Association of University Women.
- Supports women pursuing graduate and postdoctoral studies in the USA.
- Covers tuition, living expenses, and research support.
7. Obama Foundation Scholars Program
- Offers a fully funded leadership program at the University of Chicago or Columbia University.
- Covers tuition, monthly stipend, accommodation, and travel.
- For leaders making a positive impact in their communities.
8. Rotary Peace Fellowships
- Fully funded program focused on peace and conflict resolution.
- Covers tuition, accommodation, transportation, and internship expenses.
- Hosted at top U.S. universities including Duke and UNC Chapel Hill.
9. MIT Presidential Fellowship
- For outstanding graduate students in STEM and related disciplines.
- Covers full tuition and monthly stipend for the first year of study.
- Prestigious and highly competitive.
10. Gates Millennium Scholars Program
- Funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
- Covers full cost of attendance including tuition, housing, and books.
- Supports outstanding minority students across all U.S. universities.
Why Study in the USA?
- Top-ranked universities like Harvard, MIT, and Stanford.
- Access to global networking and research opportunities.
- Diverse, multicultural student communities.
- Flexible study options and post-study work opportunities (OPT).
Related Scholarship Guides
Looking for other countries offering full scholarships? Explore these helpful guides to find your best fit:
- Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships in Germany for International Students (2026 Guide)
- Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada for International Students (2026 Edition)
- Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia for International Students (2026 List)
- Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships in the UK for International Students (2026 Update)
- Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships in Europe for International Students (2026 Edition)
Final Thoughts
Studying in the USA doesn’t have to be a financial struggle. With these fully funded scholarships, you can access a world-class education, build global connections, and gain valuable experience that opens doors anywhere.
Remember to prepare early — most U.S. scholarship applications require:
✅ Strong academic records
✅ Letters of recommendation
✅ Statement of purpose or personal essay
✅ Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS)
Check out the other scholarship guides linked above to explore more destinations that fit your study goals.