Scholarships for International Students in the USA
Scholarships for International Students in the USA
Did you know the U.S. welcomes over 1 million international students every year? Scholarships for international students can help turn this dream into reality. High tuition and living costs make many Indian students think twice about higher education overseas. Some even give up before they try. Scholarships are not only funding – they are also a prestigious milestone for an academician.
If you’re ready to study abroad after the 12th with a scholarship, the U.S. has tons of options. These scholarships can cover some or all your study costs. Your dream college may be more affordable than you think. Keep reading to find the best international scholarships for Indian students.
Why Study in the USA?
The USA remains one of the top choices for Indian students after the 12th grade. In 2025, several factors will make it an even more attractive destination. Here are some reasons why:
World-Class Education:
The USA has 195 universities ranking globally in 2025. Many prestigious universities here offer high-quality education in various fields. You can gain access to cutting-edge research, modern facilities, and experienced professors.
Flexible Course Structure:
In India, students must choose a specific stream early. In the U.S., universities offer more flexibility. You can explore different subjects before deciding on a major. This system allows you to discover your interests and strengths.
Career Opportunities and Internships:
The USA provides excellent job prospects for graduates. Many universities have strong ties with industries, offering internships and hands-on experience. Fields like STEM have a high demand for skilled professionals. The demand increases the chances of securing a well-paying job.
Scholarships and Financial Aid:
Many universities offer scholarships to international students, reducing the financial burden. For example, government-fund or university-specific aid makes studying in the USA more affordable.
Cultural Exposure and Global Networking:
The USA is a diverse country with students from all over the world. Studying here allows Indian students to experience new cultures. It helps improve communication skills and build international connections. These can benefit your future careers.
Pathway to U.S. Work and Residency:
After completing your studies, Optional Practical Training (OPT) or H-1B visas offer a route into full-time work and longer-term immigration opportunities. Gaining U.S. work experience can lead to long-term career growth. Your chance of getting permanent residency will be higher with relevant work experience under your belt.
Types of USA Scholarships for Indian Students
Merit-Based Scholarships
These scholarships are for academic excellence, leadership, or special talents, including:
Fulbright-Nehru Fellowships:
These fellowships support highly motivated international students demonstrating leadership qualities. This is a great support if you pursue a master's degree in the U.S. for up to two years. The fellowship provides-
⦁ J-1 visa support
⦁ Round-trip economy class airfare
⦁ Funding for tuition and fees
⦁ Provides living and related costs
⦁ Accident and sickness coverage as per U.S. Government guidelines. This financial support does not apply to dependents.
Eligibility:
⦁ Completing a U.S. bachelor's degree or equivalent, with at least 55% in marks.
⦁ At least three years of full-time work experience. Has to be relevant to the proposed field of study.
⦁ Demonstrated leadership qualities and community service experience.
⦁ Proficiency in English. A minimum acceptable IELTS score is 6.0 or an equivalent TOEFL/PTE score.
JN Tata Endowment Scholarship:
This is a merit-based, one-time student loan for Indian students. It is an international scholarship for postgraduate and Ph.D. students in all fields. You can get a loan of INR 1 lakh to INR 10 lakh. It is repayable in five equal installments, starting two years after course completion. Recipients are also eligible for a travel grant and a gift award from allied Tata Trusts.
Eligibility:
⦁ Age not older than 45 years as of June 30, 2025.
⦁ Graduates of a recognized Indian university.
⦁ At least 60% marks on average in undergraduate or postgraduate studies.
⦁ Proof of admission or at least an offer of admission to a full-time postgraduate or Ph.D. program.
Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships:
These scholarships provide financial assistance to outstanding Indian students. Full-time master's, M.Phil., or doctoral students are eligible to apply. This scholarship covers tuition, living expenses, one-way travel, and a health allowance.
Eligibility:
⦁ A first-class degree from a recognized Indian university.
⦁ You must be under 30 and secure admission to a top-ranking American institution.
Need-Based Scholarships
If you cannot fund your study in the USA, you can show financial need to support your education.
Tata Scholarship at Cornell University:
The Tata Education and Development Trust established this scholarship to provide financial aid to about 20 Indian undergraduate students at Cornell University. The scholarship covers the full tuition cost. It is renewable for up to eight semesters as long as you maintain good academic performance.
Eligibility:
⦁ Citizenship: You must be an Indian citizen who attended secondary school in India.
⦁ Admission: You must secure admission to an undergraduate program at Cornell University.
⦁ Financial Need: You must demonstrate financial need.
⦁ Preferred Fields of Study: You can get preference if you get admission to the College of Architecture, Art, and Planning. This also applies to
⦁ The College of Engineering,
⦁ Applied Economics, and
⦁ Management,
As well as to majors in the biological, physical, and social sciences.
Akhtar Ali H. Tobaccowala Fellowship:
This fellowship provides financial help to Indian students. To avail of this, you need admission to the full-time MBA program at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. The fellowship amount varies on merit and financial need.
Eligibility:
⦁ Citizenship: You must be an Indian citizen.
⦁ Admission: You must secure admission to the full-time MBA program at Chicago Booth.
⦁ Financial Need: You must demonstrate financial need for consideration during the selection process.
University-Specific Scholarships
Several U.S. universities offer scholarships exclusively for Indian students. These include:
University of San Francisco Merit Scholarships:
The University of San Francisco offers merit-based scholarships to international students. This scholarship is for pursuing undergraduate studies. They rely mostly on academic performance. You can renew this for up to four years if you maintain satisfactory academic progress.
For first year Fall 2025, the scholarship amount depends on your USF GPA. Students with a GPA of 4.01 or higher can receive up to $38,000 per year. Those with a GPA between 3.95 and 4.00 may receive $33,000. Scholarships decrease with a GPA between 3.0 and 3.44 eligible for $25,000 per year.
Transfer students are also eligible for this scholarship. Those with a GPA between 2.90 and 3.19 can receive up to $14,000 per year. This scholarship provides up to $20,000. However, USF does not offer full-tuition scholarships for international students.
University of Missouri Scholarships for International Students:
The University of Missouri (Mizzou) offers scholarships for Indian students. These scholarships help cover tuition costs and do not require repayment. You enter automatic consideration when you apply. Only degree-seeking international students with admissions for on-campus study are eligible.
⦁ International Honors Scholarship: This scholarship awards $20,000 per year to outstanding international students. You must submit strong application materials and meet English proficiency requirements. While SAT or ACT scores are not mandatory, they can strengthen the application.
⦁ International Merit Scholarship: Mizzou offers $10,000 per year to international students who demonstrate academic excellence. To qualify, you must submit complete application materials. You have to meet the university’s English standards as well. Submitting SAT or ACT scores is not mandatory but can be beneficial.
Government-Funded Scholarships
Many government-funded scholarships for international students can support your study abroad dreams. These scholarships help graduate and postgraduate students in the United States. Below are some notable programs:
Fulbright Foreign Student Program:
This program is for graduate students, young professionals, and artists. The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs runs it. It operates in over 160 countries worldwide. Each year, around 4,000 international students get Fulbright scholarships.
Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program
The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program is for experienced professionals. These professionals have to be from certain countries. The program offers a great chance to improve your leadership skills. You can take part in a year of non-degree graduate-level study. You can also receive professional development in the United States. The program shares knowledge about common issues. It focuses on the U.S. and the Fellows' home countries.
Subject-Specific Scholarships
International students aiming to study in the United States can access subject-specific scholarships. Universities, private organizations, and professional associations offer support through scholarships for international students. They help those in STEM, arts, humanities, social sciences, and more.
STEM Scholarships
Many U.S. institutions provide scholarships for students pursuing degrees in STEM disciplines. The University at Albany offers the Semiconductor and Microelectronics Leadership Program. It offers $5,000 scholarships for outstanding students enrolling in nanotechnology science and engineering programs. This initiative aims to prepare you for a career in the semiconductor industry.
Arts and Humanities Scholarships
If you are interested in the arts and humanities, scholarships are available. They can help support your creative and academic goals. Universities, cultural organizations, and foundations offer these scholarships. They focus on promoting artistic excellence and cultural understanding. You can research opportunities relevant to your specific area of interest while applying.
Business and Economics Scholarships
Aspiring business leaders and economists can find scholarships available in business administration, finance, and related fields. Academic institutions, professional associations, and corporations offer them. They aim to support talent in the business sector.
Health Sciences Scholarships
If you want a career in health sciences, there are scholarships available in public health, nursing, and medical research. These scholarships help develop healthcare professionals who can contribute to global health.
Engineering Scholarships
Many universities and organizations offer scholarships for students in different engineering fields. These awards help support the education of future engineers. They aim to foster innovation and technological progress.
Scholarships for Indian Women
Several scholarships are available for Indian women. These scholarships aim to encourage them in higher studies in the USA. Here are some opportunities:
AAUW International Fellowships:
The American Association of University Women (AAUW) offers fellowships for women from other countries. These fellowships fund full-time study or research in the U.S. at accredited schools. They mainly support graduate and postgraduate studies. Exceptional undergraduate students with strong academics can qualify. Those passionate about women's advancement could also be eligible. The fellowship amounts range from $18,000 to $30,000, depending on the level of study.
MIT-Zaragoza Women in Logistics and SCM Scholarship:
The MIT-Zaragoza Women offers financial aid to female students. It is open to women of all ages, ethnicities, and nationalities. Its focus is Logistics and Supply Chain Management. The scholarship supports master's degree pursuers at the Zaragoza Logistics Center at MIT. It aims to encourage women in specialist fields.
Things to Consider While Applying for a Scholarship in the USA
Eligibility Requirements:
Before you apply, check the scholarship's eligibility rules. These include academic qualifications, age limits, or required study fields. Each scholarship may have different requirements, so check carefully.
Application Deadlines:
Keep track of application deadlines. Missing the deadline means losing your chance to apply. Set reminders and plan ahead.
Necessary Documents:
Gather all necessary documents. These include transcripts, recommendation letters, language proficiency proof, and personal statements. Organize them in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
Scholarship Amount and Coverage:
Check how much financial support the scholarship offers. Some scholarships pay only for tuition. Others also cover living costs, books, and travel.
Application Process:
Understand the application process, whether it’s online or through a paper submission. Ensure you carefully follow the guidelines and submit all necessary details.
Essay or Personal Statement:
Many scholarships require an essay or personal statement. Be honest and clear about your goals. Show passion and explain why you deserve the scholarship.
Competition:
Scholarships are competitive. Make your application stand out. Highlight your achievements, skills, and experiences that match the scholarship's values.
Renewability:
Some scholarships are renewable for multiple years, while others are one-time awards. Learn how to renew it. Check if you need a certain GPA or must meet other rules.
Alternative Funding:
Consider applying for multiple scholarships to increase your chances of securing funding. Look for scholarships from universities, private organizations, and government programs.
Rounding Up
Scholarships for international students can be the key to making study abroad dreams come true. There are numerous opportunities available. As an Indian student, you can secure funding that covers tuition, living expenses, and more. Don’t let financial concerns hold you back. Start researching your options and apply early. The U.S. offers countless chances for a bright future. So, take the leap and unlock your educational journey.
