Fully funded master’s scholarships in the USA remain some of the most competitive yet rewarding opportunities for international students. These scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, health insurance, and monthly stipends, making it possible for students from any country—even without high income—to study in top American universities.
In this article, you’ll discover the best fully funded Master’s scholarships in the USA, eligibility requirements, benefits, and how to apply successfully.
Top Fully Funded Master’s Scholarships in the USA
1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program (USA)
The Fulbright Program is the most popular fully funded scholarship for international students pursuing master's degrees in the USA.
Benefits
- Full tuition coverage
- Monthly living stipend
- Round-trip airfare
- Health insurance
- Research and conference support
Eligibility
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
- Strong academic performance
- English proficiency
- Leadership qualities
2. Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program – Stanford University
One of the most generous scholarships for graduate studies in the USA, open to students worldwide.
Benefits
- Full tuition for your Master’s degree
- Monthly stipend
- Travel allowance
- Leadership training and global networking
Eligibility
- Bachelor’s degree obtained within the last 6 years
- Strong academic excellence
- Leadership and innovation potential
3. Yale University Scholarships (USA)
Yale offers fully funded scholarships for master's studies through Yale’s financial aid program and special international awards.
Benefits
- 100% tuition fee waiver
- Annual stipend for living expenses
- Health insurance
Eligibility
- Strong academic records
- Must be admitted into a Yale Master’s program
- Demonstrated financial need
4. AAUW International Fellowships (For Women)
Awarded to women from any country except the USA.
Benefits
- Covers full tuition
- Provides $20,000 – $50,000 stipend
- Funds research and educational expenses
Eligibility
- Female applicants only
- Must have completed a bachelor’s degree
- English proficiency required
5. Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program
For mid-career professionals wishing to enhance leadership skills and gain academic experience in the USA.
Benefits
- Full tuition
- Monthly maintenance allowance
- Travel costs
- Health insurance
- Professional development activities
Eligibility
- Bachelor’s degree
- Minimum 5 years work experience
- Leadership qualities
6. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Available at partner universities like Arizona State University and UC Berkeley.
Benefits
- Full tuition
- Accommodation
- Books and study materials
- Living stipend
- Career development support
Eligibility
- Must be from a Sub-Saharan African country
- Proven financial need
- Strong academic performance
7. Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship (JJ/WBGSP)
Ideal for students who want to study development-related master’s programs in American universities.
Benefits
- Full tuition
- Monthly allowance
- Airfare
- Health insurance
Eligibility
- Citizen of a World Bank member country
- Relevant professional experience
- Bachelor’s degree
How to Apply Successfully for Fully Funded Scholarships
1. Prepare Strong Academic Documents
- Updated CV
- University transcripts
- Statement of Purpose
- Recommendation letters
2. Get English Proficiency Test Scores
Most universities require IELTS or TOEFL.
3. Start Applications Early
Some scholarships close 6–12 months before programs begin.
4. Write Powerful Essays
Tell your story clearly:
- Who you are
- Your goals
- Why you deserve funding
- How you will make an impact
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can international students get fully funded scholarships in the USA?
Yes. Thousands of international students receive full scholarships every year through programs like Fulbright, Knight-Hennessy, and university-specific awards.
2. Do I need IELTS or TOEFL?
Most programs require English test scores, except if you are from an English-speaking country or your previous education was in English.
3. Can Nigerians, Indians, or Africans apply?
Yes. These scholarships are open to all nationalities unless stated otherwise.
4. What GPA is required for fully funded scholarships?
A GPA of 3.0 – 3.7 (depending on the scholarship) increases your chances.
5. Are there age limits?
Most scholarships do not have age limits, except some professional fellowships.
6. When do applications open?
Most programs open around August – October every year.
Conclusion
Fully funded Master’s scholarships in the USA offer incredible opportunities for international students to study at world-class universities at zero cost. Start preparing early, stay organized, and apply to multiple programs to increase your chances of success.
