While international students often face financial barriers, thousands of scholarships are available from universities, foundations, and government programs. Finding the right ones is key. See our other guides for more on Scholarships for Minorities and finding the Best Colleges for Financial Aid.

How to Find Scholarships for International Students

The best opportunities often come from private U.S. universities with strong international aid programs, global nonprofits, and government programs. Eligibility can vary based on your visa, country of origin, and major, but many scholarships exist for students on F-1 or J-1 visas, as well as for DACA and undocumented students.

Sample Scholarships for International Students (2025)

Scholarship Name	Focus	Typical Award
Fulbright Foreign Student Program	Graduate students	Full tuition + stipend
AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship	Undergraduates, leadership	Full tuition
#YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarship	International undergrads	50%–100% tuition
MPOWER Global Citizen Scholarship	International students	$2,000–$10,000
AAUW International Fellowships	Women graduate students	$18,000–$30,000

How to Apply Successfully

Start early, as many international scholarship deadlines are in the late summer or early fall. Research each college’s financial aid policies and be prepared to submit the CSS Profile, ISFAA, or other specific forms. When writing essays, focus on leadership and global impact. Learn more in our guide on How to Apply for Financial Aid.

International Student Scholarship FAQ

Can international students get scholarships to study in the U.S.?

Yes, thousands of scholarships are available for international students from universities, private organizations, and foundations at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Do international students fill out the FAFSA?

Generally, no. The FAFSA is for U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens. However, international students may need to submit the CSS Profile or an institutional form to be considered for need-based aid.

Are there scholarships for undocumented or DACA students?

Yes. Many private and college-based scholarships do not require U.S. citizenship and explicitly welcome applications from DACA recipients and undocumented students.

What majors have the most scholarships for international students?

STEM, business, public health, and international affairs typically have strong scholarship funding, as organizations aim to attract global talent in these high-demand fields.

How does Orbit AI help me find scholarships?

The Orbit AI Scholarship Search Engine matches international students with scholarships based on their full profile, including citizenship status, major, and academic goals.

By Devansh Dubey (Last updated: June 22, 2025)