The United States is home to the world’s best universities, attracting thousands of Indian students each year.
But, studying in the USA is expensive, with tuition fees alone costing anywhere from $20,000 to $80,000 per year. Morver, this doesn’t include living expenses!
For many, the solution lies in fully funded scholarships for Indian students in the USA, which cover tuition, accommodation, and even monthly stipends. So, whether you are planning to pursue an undergraduate degree, MBA, MS, or PhD, there are fully funded scholarships in the USA that can make your dream a reality.
This guide breaks down the best scholarships, how to apply, eligibility criteria, and expert tips on securing funding for your studies in the USA.
Fully funded undergraduate scholarships in USA
Many universities in the USA offer full scholarships for international students, covering tuition, housing, and even food expenses. However, these scholarships are highly competitive, requiring excellent academics, leadership qualities, and a strong application.
1. Yale University Scholarship
Yale University offers need-based scholarships to international students, including Indian applicants. The amount varies based on financial need, with awards exceeding $50,000 per year for top candidates.
Eligibility:
- Strong academic performance
- Excellent SAT/ACT scores
- Demonstrated financial need
2. Berea College Full-Tuition Scholarship
Berea College is one of the few institutions in the USA that does not charge tuition. All students, including international applicants, receive a 100% tuition scholarship, making it an attractive option for Indian students looking for a fully funded undergraduate scholarship in the USA.
Eligibility:
- Must demonstrate financial need
- Strong academic performance with a completed high school education
- English proficiency required (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo)
3. Dartmouth College Need-Based Aid
Dartmouth College meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted international students. This means if you can prove financial hardship, the university will provide grants and scholarships to cover the full cost of attendance.
Also, no separate scholarship application is required as students are automatically considered when applying for admission.
Eligibility:
- Must demonstrate significant financial need
- Strong academic record and extracurricular involvement
4. Clark Global Scholars Program
Clark University offers full scholarships to undergraduate international students who demonstrate strong academic ability and leadership skills. This is one of the best opportunities for students looking for a full scholarship in the USA for international students.
Eligibility:
- Must be a first-year international student applying for an undergraduate program at Clark University
- Demonstrated academic excellence and leadership potential
- Commitment to community service and extracurricular activities
Fully funded MBA scholarships for international students in USA
Pursuing an MBA in the USA is a huge financial commitment, with tuition fees at top business schools exceeding $100,000. Thankfully, several prestigious scholarships fully cover the cost:
1. Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program (Stanford University)
One of the most sought-after scholarships, this program covers full tuition, accommodation, travel expenses, and a living stipend for students enrolling in Stanford’s MBA and other graduate programs.
2. Harvard Business School (HBS) Fellowships
Harvard offers need-based fellowships to international students, covering a significant portion of tuition fees. High-achieving students may also receive additional funding to cover living expenses.
3. Wharton Emerging Economy MBA Fellowships
This fellowship is designed for students from developing countries, including India. It provides full tuition coverage plus a living stipend at the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania.
Pro tip: If you are wondering how to get a full scholarship for an MBA in the USA, focus on academic excellence, GMAT exam scores, and leadership experience.
Fully funded Ph.D. scholarships in USA
For Ph.D. students, fully funded scholarships are more common, with most programs offering tuition waivers, stipends, and research funding.
1. Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowships
One of the best fully funded PhD scholarships in the USA, this program covers:
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly stipend
- Round-trip airfare
- Health insurance
2. University Research Assistantships
Many U.S. universities provide research or teaching assistantships to PhD students, covering tuition and living expenses. Institutions like MIT, Stanford, and UC Berkeley offer generous funding through these programs.
Universities in USA that give full scholarships
Below is the list of leading American universities that give full scholarships to students:
University |
Scholarship/Funding details |
Harvard University |
Need-based aid covers full tuition & living expenses |
MIT |
Offers full scholarships based on financial need |
Princeton University |
Provides full-ride scholarships to international students |
Amherst College |
Covers 100% of demonstrated financial need |
Columbia University |
Provides full financial aid for eligible students |
How to get a fully funded scholarship in USA
Winning a fully funded scholarship in the USA requires more than just good grades. You need to stand out. Here’s how:
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Maintain excellent academics
A GPA above 3.5 on a 4.0 scale is ideal. So, try for enhanced academic performance for improved chances of attaining the scholarship.
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Score well on standardized tests
A GRE score of 320+ or a GMAT score of 700+ strengthens your profile. So, prepare harder and smarter for these tests.
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Write an outstanding SOP and essays
Your Statement of Purpose (SOP) must be personalized, and should highlight your goals and achievements distinctively.
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Apply early
Most scholarships have deadlines between September and December, so apply early to beat the competition and better your chances of attainment.
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Consult experts
MSM Unify overseas education consultants can help refine your application and improve your chances. So, contact them at the earliest!
Conclusion
With the right approach, strong academics, and a compelling application, you can study in the USA with a full scholarship. Whether you are an undergraduate, MBA, MS, or Ph.D. aspirant, the opportunities are there; you just need to grab them!
Connect with MSM Unify overseas education consultants for expert guidance on securing your full scholarship in the USA.
Apply early, stay focused, connect with MSM Unify experts, and make your study abroad dream a reality!
FAQs
1. What is the minimum GRE score for a full scholarship in the USA?
Most top scholarships in the USA require a GRE exam score of 320+, but highly competitive programs may prefer 325+. So, prepare meticulously, and aim to score as high as possible.
2. Can I get a full scholarship for MS in the USA?
Yes! MIT, Stanford, and Harvard offer full scholarships for MS students through assistantships and fellowships.
3. Is there a full free scholarship for Bangladeshi students in the USA?
Yes, Fulbright Scholarships, World Bank Scholarships, and AAUW Fellowships offer full free scholarships for Bangladeshi students in the USA.
4. What is the best way to get a full scholarship in the USA?
Maintain top grades, score high on exams (GRE/GMAT/SAT), write a strong SOP, and apply early to get a full scholarship in the USA.