The United States remains one of the most popular destinations for international students, renowned for its world-class universities, research opportunities, and global networking potential. However, studying in the U.S. often comes with a significant financial burden—tuition fees, living costs, and visa expenses can be overwhelming. Fortunately, fully funded scholarships in the USA make it possible for talented students from around the world to pursue their academic dreams without paying out of pocket for tuition, travel, or visa-related costs.
This comprehensive guide for 2025 outlines everything you need to know about fully funded scholarships in the USA, including eligibility, top programs, visa procedures, and how to successfully apply.
What Does a Fully Funded Scholarship in the USA Cover?
A fully funded scholarship means that all major academic and living expenses are taken care of. This typically includes:
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Full tuition fees
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Living expenses (housing, food, health insurance)
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Books and learning materials
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Visa application fees
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Airfare/travel expenses
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In some cases, monthly stipends for personal expenses
These scholarships are usually awarded by U.S. universities, the federal government, private foundations, or international collaborations, and they are highly competitive.
🏆 Top Fully Funded Scholarships in the USA (2025)
1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program
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Offered by: U.S. Department of State
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Degree Levels: Master’s and PhD
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Eligibility: Citizens of over 160 countries (check your country’s eligibility)
What It Covers:
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Full tuition
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Health insurance
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Living expenses
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Travel and visa costs
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English language training (if needed)
Highlights:
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Offers placement assistance in U.S. universities
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Cultural exchange and leadership development components
2. Knight-Hennessy Scholars – Stanford University
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Degree Levels: All graduate programs at Stanford (MS, MA, MBA, PhD)
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Eligibility: Open to all nationalities
What It Covers:
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Full tuition
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Living stipend
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Academic resources
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Travel to and from the U.S.
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Additional funds for conferences and internships
Why Apply:
One of the most prestigious and generous scholarships in the U.S., focusing on developing global leaders and changemakers.
3. Yale University – Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS) & Graduate Funding
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Eligibility: International students for undergraduate and graduate programs
Fully Funded Support Includes:
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Full tuition for graduate programs (mostly PhD)
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Housing and health coverage
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Visa support and travel grants
Note: While undergraduate financial aid is need-based, graduate programs often offer full fellowships.
4. AAUW International Fellowships (Women Only)
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Eligibility: Non-U.S. citizen women pursuing full-time graduate or postgraduate study in the U.S.
What It Covers:
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Tuition and fees
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Living and travel expenses
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Research funds (for PhD/postdoc)
Special Focus:
Encourages women leaders in STEM, social work, and public policy from underrepresented backgrounds.
5. Harvard University – Fully Funded Graduate Fellowships
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Eligibility: International students applying to master’s or PhD programs
Included in Funding:
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Full tuition
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Health insurance
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Travel expenses
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Monthly stipend
Examples:
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Harvard GSAS PhD Fellowship
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Harvard Kennedy School’s Public Service Fellowships
6. Obama Foundation Scholars at Columbia University
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Eligibility: Emerging leaders from around the world
What’s Included:
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Full tuition
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Monthly living stipend
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Airfare and accommodation
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Leadership training and mentorship
Ideal For:
Mid-career professionals in public service or social entrepreneurship.
7. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
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Partner Universities: University of California, Michigan State University, Arizona State University, and more
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Eligibility: Students from Africa, especially women and economically disadvantaged backgrounds
What It Covers:
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Tuition and fees
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Accommodation and meals
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Medical insurance
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Books and supplies
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Airfare
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Visa costs
8. Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP)
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Eligibility: Citizens of World Bank member developing countries
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Host Universities: Includes select U.S. universities (Harvard, Johns Hopkins, etc.)
Coverage:
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Full tuition
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Monthly stipend
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Round-trip airfare
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Health insurance
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Travel allowance
🎓 Fields of Study Covered
Fully funded scholarships in the U.S. span across various disciplines, including:
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Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
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Business and Economics
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Social Sciences and Humanities
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Law and Public Policy
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Environmental Studies
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Public Health and Medicine
Some programs prioritize high-impact fields such as climate change, gender equality, education, and global development.
🛂 U.S. Student Visa Explained – F1 Visa Process
Once you've received a fully funded scholarship and an I-20 form from your U.S. university, the next step is to apply for an F1 student visa. Here's how:
Step 1: Pay the SEVIS Fee
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SEVIS I-901 fee: $350 (often reimbursed or covered by scholarships)
Step 2: Complete DS-160 Form
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This is the official U.S. visa application form.
Step 3: Schedule Visa Interview
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Book a slot at the nearest U.S. consulate or embassy.
Step 4: Attend Interview
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Bring I-20 form, financial proof (scholarship letter), passport, transcripts, and intent-to-return documentation.
Step 5: Visa Approval & Travel
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Most students with fully funded scholarships have high approval rates since their financial backing is proven.
📝 How to Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships
1. Start Early
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Deadlines range from September to January for the following academic year.
2. Prepare Required Documents
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Academic transcripts
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Letters of recommendation
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Statement of purpose (SOP)
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Language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS)
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Standardized tests (GRE/GMAT/SAT – if required)
3. Use Platforms to Search Scholarships
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EducationUSA
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Scholarships.com
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ProFellow
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Official university financial aid pages
4. Tailor Each Application
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Write a unique, compelling SOP for each scholarship or program.
📌 Tips for Success
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Apply to multiple programs to increase your chances.
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Engage with alumni or mentors who’ve received the scholarship.
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Maintain strong academics and extracurriculars.
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Highlight leadership, social impact, and resilience in your application.
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Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.