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Master’s scholarships for international students

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Earning a master’s degree in the U.S. or Canada can open doors to new opportunities, but the cost of tuition and living expenses can be a challenge. The good news? There are many master’s scholarships for international students that can make this dream more affordable. Whether you’re looking for merit-based, need-based or specialized funding, a scholarship can ease your financial burden and help you focus on your studies.

Types of scholarships available to international students

Master’s scholarships for international students come in many forms. Some are funded by universities, while others come from government programs, private organizations or nonprofits. Here are the main types of scholarships available:

  • Merit-based scholarships: These scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, leadership abilities or significant accomplishments. Universities, governments and private organizations often offer these awards to students who’ve demonstrated exceptional academic achievements or outstanding contributions to their communities.
  • Need-based scholarships: These scholarships for master’s degrees are designed for students who require financial assistance to pursue their studies. Funders consider an applicant’s financial background and may require supporting documentation such as income statements or proof of financial hardship.
  • Field-specific scholarships: These scholarships support students who are pursuing degrees in specific fields such as engineering, business, healthcare or technology. Many professional associations and industry groups fund these master’s scholarships for international students to encourage the development of talent in key industries.
  • Government-funded scholarships: Some governments offer scholarships to attract global talent and foster international collaboration. Programs like the Fulbright Scholarship in the U.S. and the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships in Canada provide financial support to outstanding students who show exceptional promise in their respective fields.
  • University-specific scholarships: Many institutions provide master’s scholarships for international students based on merit, financial need or diversity initiatives. These awards help universities attract talented students from around the world and build diverse academic communities.
  • Scholarships from private organizations: Private companies, nonprofits and foundations often fund scholarships for international students. These scholarships may be targeted toward students from specific regions, backgrounds or disciplines.
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The many benefits of scholarships

Receiving a scholarship provides more than just financial assistance. It can also enrich your educational experience in multiple ways:

  • Reduced financial stress: Scholarships for a master’s abroad can help cover tuition, living expenses or both, allowing you to focus on studies rather than worrying about financial constraints. This financial support allows you to take advantage of academic resources and extracurricular activities without the pressure of debt.
  • Increased opportunities: Many international postgraduate scholarships provide access to mentorship programs, networking events and exclusive workshops that help students connect with industry leaders and professionals in their fields. These opportunities can lead to internships, research collaborations and even job placements.
  • Stronger career prospects: An overseas master’s scholarship can enhance your resume and help you stand out to potential employers. Many organizations view scholarship recipients as high-achieving students who are likely to be exceptional employees.
  • A diverse and inclusive learning experience: Master’s scholarships for international students often aim to increase diversity by supporting students from different nationalities, backgrounds and cultures. This creates an inclusive academic environment that benefits all students.

How to apply and create a winning application

Since scholarships are highly competitive, learning how to apply for scholarships to study abroad involves understanding the process and developing a strategy for standing out from the crowd.

The application process

  • Research available scholarships. Start early by identifying master’s scholarships for international students that match your academic background, career aspirations and financial needs. Explore university websites, government programs and private funding sources.
  • Check eligibility requirements. Each scholarship has specific criteria, such as nationality, academic performance, field of study or financial need. Make sure you meet all requirements before applying.
  • Prepare your documents. Most scholarship applications require transcripts, proof of financial need, recommendation letters, a statement of purpose and sometimes a resume or portfolio.
  • Tell your story in a personal statement. Your essay should highlight your academic goals, professional ambitions and how the scholarship will help you achieve them. Make sure to personalize each application to reflect the values of the awarding organization.
  • Apply before the deadline. Missing deadlines can disqualify you from consideration, so keep track of application timelines and submit all materials on time.
  • Follow up. Some scholarships may require interviews or additional documentation. Be prepared to respond promptly to any follow-up requests from the scholarship committee.

Tips for scholarship success

  • Stay open to partial scholarships. Although a full scholarship can significantly reduce education costs, applying for multiple partial scholarships can also help cover expenses such as textbooks and lab fees.
  • Consider your skills and interests. Your unique skills, talents and passions might align with scholarship opportunities offered by local organizations, clubs and professional associations.
  • Apply to less-popular scholarships. While major scholarships attract a high volume of applicants, smaller or lesser-known scholarships often have fewer applicants, increasing your chances of winning.
  • Make each written essay unique. A strong personal essay can be repurposed for multiple applications, but it’s essential to customize each one to directly address the values and interests of the scholarship funder.
  • Seek out renewable scholarships. Scholarships that renew annually can provide continuous support throughout your studies.
  • Apply for scholarships year-round. Many students apply for scholarships before a new academic session, but some opportunities such as MPOWER’s monthly scholarship are available throughout the year.
An excited international student

MPOWER Financing: Supporting the dreams of international students

MPOWER is a public benefit company committed to helping international students achieve their academic and professional dreams. As a mission-driven lender, MPOWER provides financial resources and support services to international students studying in the U.S. and Canada.

At MPOWER, you’ll find a wide range of master’s scholarships for international students, including scholarships for MBA students, women in STEM fields and global citizens tackling the world’s most pressing problems. MPOWER also offers scholarships for refugees, students from China, students from India in STEM master’s programs and monthly scholarships based on criteria that change each month.

Along with scholarship programs, MPOWER offers no-cosigner student loans up to US$100,000 with competitive interest rates, quick approvals and no prepayment penalties. Visa support services help international students navigate the complex processes of applying for student visas. Additionally, MPOWER offers career services such as career counseling, resume building workshops, job search tools and interview prep resources to help students successfully secure internships and jobs after graduation.

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FAQs

Are there fully funded master’s scholarships for international students?

Yes, some scholarships cover full tuition and living expenses, but they are highly competitive. These scholarships are often awarded based on exceptional academic performance, leadership qualities or significant contributions to a field of study and may require extensive documentation and multiple rounds of selection.

Can I apply for multiple scholarships at once?

Yes, applying for multiple scholarships increases your chances of receiving financial aid. Since different scholarships have varying eligibility criteria and award amounts, applying to several programs can help maximize your financial support and reduce your overall education costs.

Do I need to be admitted to a university before applying for a scholarship?

Most scholarships require proof of admission, while others allow applications before acceptance. If a scholarship doesn’t require university admission, you may need to provide evidence of your application status or an intent to enroll in an eligible program.

Are there U.S. scholarships for Indian students?

Yes, many scholarships are specifically designed for Indian students studying in the U.S. These scholarships may be offered by universities, private organizations or government programs and consider academic merit, financial need or leadership potential.

How competitive are master’s scholarships for international students?

Competition varies. Merit-based scholarships can be highly selective. Many prestigious scholarships receive thousands of applications, so standing out requires strong academic achievements, compelling personal statements and impressive extracurricular or professional experiences.

Are there master’s scholarships for international students in specific fields of study?

Yes, many scholarships focus on particular fields like STEM, business and health care. These field-specific scholarships are often funded by professional associations, corporations and government programs aiming to support workforce development in high-demand industries.


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