Top Graduate Scholarships in the US (Masters & PhD) — Eligibility & Deadlines

Pursuing a graduate degree in the United States can be a life-changing experience, but it often comes with a high financial cost. Thankfully, numerous fully funded and partial scholarships are available to help international and domestic students achieve their academic goals. Whether you are applying for a Master’s or PhD program, understanding the eligibility criteria and deadlines of major US scholarships is crucial.

This guide explores the top graduate scholarships in the US, including their key benefits, application deadlines, and who can apply.

 

Fulbright Foreign Student Program

The Fulbright Program is one of the most prestigious US government-funded scholarships for international students pursuing a Master’s or PhD. It covers tuition, living expenses, airfare, and health insurance.

Eligibility:

• Open to students from over 155 countries.
• Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree equivalent.
• Strong academic and leadership records are required.

Deadline:
Varies by country (usually between February and October each year).

 

Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program (Stanford University)

The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program at Stanford supports exceptional students enrolling in graduate programs across disciplines. It emphasizes leadership, innovation, and global impact.

Eligibility:

• Open to all nationalities.
• Applicants must apply separately to a Stanford graduate program.
• Bachelor’s degree earned in the last six years.

Deadline:
Typically October for the Knight-Hennessy application and November–December for Stanford graduate programs.

 

AAUW International Fellowships

The American Association of University Women (AAUW) offers scholarships to women pursuing full-time graduate or postdoctoral study in the US.

Eligibility:

• Open to women who are not US citizens or permanent residents.
• Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree and plan full-time study or research.

Deadline:
Usually around November 15 each year.

 

Yale University Graduate Scholarships

Yale University provides a range of need-based and merit-based scholarships for international and domestic graduate students. Some programs offer full funding, including stipends for living expenses.

Eligibility:

• Admission to a Yale graduate or professional program.
• Strong academic background and demonstrated financial need.

Deadline:
Varies by program, typically between December and January.

 

Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program

This program brings mid-career professionals from developing countries to the US for non-degree academic study and professional development. It focuses on leadership and public service.

Eligibility:

• Minimum of five years of professional experience.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
• Proven leadership and commitment to public service.

Deadline:
Between May and October, depending on the applicant’s country.

Gates Scholarship (for Minority US Students)

The Gates Scholarship supports outstanding minority students in the US with full funding for graduate studies, particularly for those demonstrating financial need.

Eligibility:

• US citizens or permanent residents.
• Members of underrepresented minority groups.
• Strong academic and leadership performance.

Deadline:
Applications usually close in September.

 

National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship

The NSF GRFP supports outstanding graduate students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. The fellowship includes a three-year annual stipend and tuition coverage.

Eligibility:

• US citizens, nationals, or permanent residents.
• Enrolled in or applying to an accredited US graduate program in STEM fields.

Deadline:
Varies by field but typically falls in October each year.

Gates Cambridge Scholarship (for US and Global Students)

Though administered in the UK, the Gates Cambridge Scholarship is funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and includes some opportunities for joint US research programs and exchange collaborations. Many US students use it to fund advanced study abroad and return for PhD collaborations.

Eligibility:
Open to students worldwide, including the US.
Excellent academic record and leadership potential.
Deadline:
Usually between October and December.

 

Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program

This scholarship supports students from developing countries pursuing Master’s degrees in development-related fields at top US universities.

Eligibility:

• Nationals of World Bank member developing countries.
• Relevant professional experience (at least 3 years).
• Commitment to returning home after graduation.

Deadline:
Typically February to April each year.

University of Michigan Rackham Graduate School Fellowships

The Rackham Graduate School provides numerous fellowships and grants for both domestic and international Master’s and PhD students.

Eligibility:

• Admission to a Rackham-affiliated graduate program.
• Academic excellence and leadership potential.

Deadline:
Varies by program, often between December and February.

 

How to Apply Successfully

To increase your chances of securing a scholarship:

1. Start early – most deadlines fall between September and February.
2. Prepare your documents – transcripts, recommendation letters, and a strong statement of purpose.
3. Tailor your application to each scholarship’s values and goals.
4. Show leadership and community impact – most scholarships value service and innovation.
5. Seek feedback from mentors or scholarship advisors before submission.

Final Thoughts

Graduate scholarships in the US open doors to world-class education and groundbreaking research opportunities. Whether you aim to study engineering, policy, medicine, or the arts, there’s a funding program designed for your path. Begin your search early, stay organized with deadlines, and focus on highlighting your achievements and potential.

Your graduate journey in the United States could be fully funded — all it takes is the right scholarship and a strong, timely application.

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