Unisa Online Application | Undergraduate, Postgraduate Diplomas, Master’s

• Qualifications for undergraduates (higher certificates, advanced certificates, diplomas, advanced diplomas and degrees): 1 September – 14 October 2025
• Postgraduate diplomas & honours degrees: 1 September – 14 October 2025
• Qualifications for master’s & doctoral degrees: 11 September – 14 November 2025

Top 10 Scholarships for International Students in the USA

1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program

Description: The Fulbright Program is the U.S. government’s flagship international educational exchange program, designed to increase mutual understanding between Americans and people from other countries.

Coverage: Typically includes:

• Tuition and fees
• Living stipend
• Health insurance
• Travel expenses

See Scholarship Details

2. Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program

Description: A Fulbright exchange program that brings accomplished mid-career professionals from designated countries to the United States for one year of non-degree graduate study and professional development.

Coverage: Typically includes:

• Tuition and fees
• Living allowance
• Professional development activities
• Health insurance

See Scholarship Details

3. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

Description: A comprehensive scholarship program aimed at educating and empowering academically talented young people from economically disadvantaged communities, particularly in Africa.

Coverage: Typically includes:

• Full tuition
• Housing and meals
• Travel expenses
• Stipend
• Mentoring and internship opportunities

See Scholarship Details

4. AAUW International Fellowships

Description: The American Association of University Women (AAUW) offers fellowships for women who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents pursuing graduate or postgraduate studies in the United States.

Award Amount:

$18,000 for Master’s, $20,000 for Doctoral, $30,000 for Postdoctoral

See Scholarship Details

5. Rotary Foundation Global Grants Scholarships

Description: Rotary Clubs worldwide sponsor scholarships for international students whose field of study aligns with Rotary’s areas of focus.

Award Amount:

Minimum $30,000

See Scholarship Details

6. Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program

Description: Funded by the Japanese government, this program provides opportunities for graduate studies in development-related fields for citizens from World Bank member countries.

Coverage: Typically includes:

• Tuition
• Monthly living stipend
• Travel expenses
• Health insurance

See Scholarship Details

7. PEO International Peace Scholarship

Description: The PEO International Peace Scholarship Fund provides scholarships for international women students to pursue graduate study in the United States and Canada.

Award Amount:

Maximum $12,500 per year

See Scholarship Details

8. Onsi Sawiris Scholarship Program

Description: This program supports Egyptian students pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees in specific fields at prestigious U.S. universities.

Coverage: Typically includes:

• Full tuition
• Living expenses
• Health insurance
• Travel costs

See Scholarship Details

9. Amelia Earhart Fellowship

Description: Established by Zonta International, this fellowship is awarded annually to women pursuing Ph.D./doctoral degrees in aerospace-related sciences or aerospace-related engineering.

Award Amount:

$10,000

See Scholarship Details

10. Foreign Fulbright Student Program

Description: This program enables graduate students, young professionals, and artists from abroad to conduct research and study in the United States.

Coverage: Typically includes:

• Tuition
• Textbooks
• Airfare
• Living stipend
• Health insurance

See Scholarship Details

Understanding Scholarship Types

1. Merit-Based Awards
   Recognize academic excellence, leadership, or talent. Criteria include GPA, test scores (SAT/GRE), and extracurricular achievements.

2. Need-Based Aid
   Requires proof of financial hardship, supported by documents like tax returns or bank statements.

3. Country-Specific Programs
   Funded by governments or organizations targeting specific regions (e.g., Africa, Asia).

4. Field-Specific Funding
   Focus on disciplines like STEM, public health, or business, often including internships.

5. Athletic Scholarships
   Awarded to student-athletes by universities with competitive sports programs.

6. Diversity Initiatives
   Promote inclusion for underrepresented groups in higher education.

Funding Sources

• University Scholarships: Tuition waivers, assistantships, or fellowships directly from institutions.

• Government Programs: Fulbright, Humphrey, or USAID-funded opportunities.

• Private Foundations: Grants from organizations like the Ford Foundation or Soros Fellowships.

• Home Country Support: Government-sponsored loans or scholarships for study abroad.

Finding Scholarships

• Online Databases: Use platforms like IEFA, EducationUSA, or ProFellow.

• University Resources: Check financial aid pages and contact international offices.

• Professional Associations: Explore IEEE, AMA, or AICPA for field-specific awards.

Application Strategies

• Timeline: Begin 12–18 months in advance; prepare tests, essays, and recommendations early.

• Essays: Highlight goals, unique experiences, and alignment with the scholarship’s mission.

• Recommendations: Choose mentors who can attest to your achievements and potential.

• Interviews: Practice articulating your aspirations and knowledge of the sponsor’s values.

Managing Requirements

• Visas: Ensure compliance with visa regulations tied to funding sources.

• Eligibility: Maintain required GPAs and enrollment status.

• Renewals: Submit progress reports and reapply annually if needed.

Additional Financial Strategies

• On-Campus Jobs: Work up to 20 hours/week on an F-1 visa.

• CPT/OPT: Gain paid experience in your field during/after studies.

• Assistantships: Apply for TA/RA roles offering stipends and tuition waivers.

Avoiding Pitfalls

• Common Errors: Missing deadlines, generic essays, or incomplete forms.

• Cultural Tips: Emphasize leadership, specificity, and authenticity in applications.

Preparation Tips

• Budgeting: Plan for uncovered expenses and understand tax obligations.

• Networking: Connect with alumni and scholarship organizations for support.

Securing a U.S. scholarship demands persistence and strategic planning, but the rewards—world-class education, cultural immersion, and career growth—are invaluable. Start your search today to unlock these transformative opportunities.