The good news is that universities and scholarship organizations across the United States offer different types of funding for international students. Depending on the program, financial support may cover tuition fees, living expenses, health insurance, travel costs or research expenses.

Students planning to study in the USA in 2027–2028 should start researching their options early. Scholarship availability depends on nationality, degree level, academic performance and the specific requirements of each institution.

In this guide, we explain some important scholarship opportunities, how to check eligibility and where to find official application information.

1. Knight-Hennessy Scholars at Stanford University

The Knight-Hennessy Scholars program supports outstanding graduate students at Stanford University. It combines graduate education with leadership development and brings together scholars from different countries and academic backgrounds.

What does it cover?

Selected scholars can receive funding for tuition and associated fees, a living and academic stipend, and travel support under the program's award conditions. Funding duration depends on the eligible graduate program and scholarship rules.

Who can apply?

  • Applicants from any country may be eligible.

  • Candidates must apply separately to an eligible full-time Stanford graduate degree program.

  • Applicants must satisfy the relevant undergraduate-degree date requirements.

  • Candidates are evaluated on their academic preparation, leadership potential and personal qualities.

Important deadline update: The application for the 2027 cohort closed on October 6, 2026. Stanford states that applications for the 2028 cohort are expected to open in summer 2027. Students should check the official website for the next cycle's requirements.

Official application website: Knight-Hennessy Scholars

2. University scholarships and financial aid

Many American universities provide financial assistance to international students through merit scholarships, need-based aid, departmental awards and graduate funding programs.

These opportunities are not identical. Some cover a portion of tuition, while others may provide more extensive financial support.

Undergraduate scholarships

International undergraduate applicants should review each university's financial aid policy. Some institutions offer substantial aid to eligible international students, but admission and financial aid decisions may involve separate requirements.

Before applying, confirm:

  • Whether international applicants qualify.

  • Whether financial aid is available for your intended degree.

  • Which forms and financial documents are required.

  • Whether the award can be renewed in later academic years.

Master's and PhD funding

Graduate students should look for research assistantships, teaching assistantships, departmental scholarships and funded doctoral programs.

Research-based PhD programs may provide tuition support and a stipend, depending on the institution, department and funding offer. Funding for taught master's degrees can be more limited.

EducationUSA recommends planning finances early and researching the financial assistance offered by individual institutions.

 

Official resource: EducationUSA — Finance Your Studies

3. Fulbright opportunities: check the correct program

The Fulbright name is associated with several international exchange programs, but applicants need to choose the correct one.

For international students seeking graduate study in the United States, the relevant route is generally the Fulbright Foreign Student Program, which is administered through participating countries and their designated organizations.

Funding and eligibility vary by country. Depending on the program, support may include tuition, living expenses, travel and other approved costs.

Applicants should check their country's Fulbright office or official program page to determine:

  • Whether their nationality is eligible.

  • Which degree levels and fields are supported.

  • What academic and language requirements apply.

  • Whether the next application cycle is open.

  • What expenses the award covers.

Official link: Fulbright Foreign Student Program

Note: Do not confuse the Fulbright Foreign Student Program with the US Fulbright Student Program, which serves US citizens applying for overseas opportunities.

 

4. How to apply for scholarships in the USA

Follow these steps to organize your scholarship search.

Step 1: Choose your degree level. Decide whether you are applying for an undergraduate degree, master's program or PhD.

Step 2: Research eligible scholarships. Check university websites and official scholarship portals. Confirm that international applicants from your country are eligible.

Step 3: Prepare your documents. Common requirements include academic transcripts, degree certificates, a CV, recommendation letters and a personal statement. Research programs may also require a proposal.

Step 4: Check English-language requirements. Some institutions require IELTS, TOEFL or other evidence of English proficiency. Requirements and possible waivers differ.

Step 5: Submit your university application. Some scholarships require a separate funding application, while others automatically consider eligible applicants.

Step 6: Track deadlines carefully. Record the university admission deadline and scholarship deadline separately, as they may differ.

Step 7: Review the funding offer. Confirm whether the award covers tuition, accommodation, living expenses, travel and insurance.

5. Documents commonly required

Prepare the following documents where applicable:

  • Valid passport.

  • Academic transcripts and certificates.

  • CV or résumé.

  • Personal statement or statement of purpose.

  • Recommendation letters.

  • English-language test results, if required.

  • Research proposal for relevant graduate programs.

  • Financial aid forms and supporting evidence, where requested.

Requirements vary by institution, so always follow the official application checklist.

Frequently asked questions

Can international students get fully funded scholarships in the USA?

Yes. Some university awards and graduate funding packages cover tuition and provide living support. However, full funding is competitive, and the benefits depend on the scholarship's terms.

Are USA scholarships available for 2027–2028?

Some opportunities have already closed for the 2027 intake, while others have different application schedules. Check the official program page for the latest cycle and deadlines.

Can I apply without IELTS?

Some universities accept alternative English-language qualifications or offer waivers. You must check the policy of the specific university and program.

Do US scholarships cover living expenses?

Some do, but others cover tuition only or provide partial assistance. Read the award conditions before making financial plans.

Final thoughts

Finding a scholarship in the United States requires careful planning, research and attention to eligibility requirements. Start by exploring university financial aid, graduate research funding and international programs such as Fulbright. Competitive opportunities like Knight-Hennessy Scholars may be worth investigating if you plan to pursue graduate study at Stanford.

Use official websites to verify application dates and funding terms, and avoid services that guarantee scholarship selection in exchange for payment.

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