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U.S. postgraduate scholarships for international students

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Postgraduate scholarships can make a significant difference for international students pursuing their dreams of studying at a university in the U.S. Unlike loans, scholarships don’t need to be repaid, so they can reduce the burden of educational expenses and allow students to graduate with less debt. However, U.S. postgraduate scholarships are highly competitive, so it’s essential to do your research and prepare a superior application for each opportunity.

Types of scholarships available to international students

There are several kinds of U.S. postgraduate scholarships for international students, each with different eligibility criteria and benefits.

  • Merit-based scholarships reward students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievements, leadership skills and extracurricular involvement. Many U.S. universities and private organizations offer merit-based awards to attract top international talent.
  • Need-based scholarships: Designed for students with financial constraints, these scholarships assess an applicant’s financial situation to determine eligibility. Many universities and private foundations provide need-based funding to ensure that financial hardship doesn’t prevent talented international students from pursuing a degree in the U.S.
  • Country-specific scholarships: Some scholarships are designated for students from specific countries or regions. For example, U.S. scholarships for Indian students are available through various government and private programs aimed at strengthening educational ties between nations.
  • Field-specific scholarships: Many organizations offer scholarships for students pursuing postgraduate degrees in fields such as STEM or business. These scholarships help advance research and expertise in disciplines where graduates are in high demand.
  • University-specific scholarships: Many U.S. universities have dedicated funding for overseas master’s scholarships and doctoral scholarships for international students. These awards may be based on merit, financial need or specific criteria set by the institution.
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Why international scholarships are important

Securing a scholarship can transform your postgraduate education experience. Financial support through U.S. postgraduate scholarships for international students allows you to focus on your academic and professional development rather than worrying about tuition and living costs. Scholarships also provide recognition for academic excellence, leadership and community involvement. Many organizations offer education scholarships that include opportunities for mentorship and networking, helping you to build connections with fellow peers and contacts in your field. Additionally, receiving a scholarship can enhance your resume and distinguish you in a competitive job market.

How to find U.S. postgraduate scholarships for international students

Finding the right international scholarship requires thorough research and planning. Here are some key resources to explore:

  • University financial aid offices: Many U.S. universities have dedicated offices that provide information on available scholarships and funding opportunities for international students.
  • Government programs: Some governments offer international postgraduate scholarships to encourage global talent to study in the U.S. Programs such as Fulbright and the Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program are excellent options.
  • Private organizations and foundations: Nonprofit organizations, companies and educational foundations offer a wide range of doctoral and master’s scholarships for international students. Websites like Scholarships.com and Fastweb.com provide searchable databases to find suitable opportunities.
  • Professional associations: Some professional organizations offer scholarships related to specific industries, such as engineering, healthcare or business.
  • Top scholarship websites include:

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MPOWER Financing: Scholarships for international students

MPOWER is a mission-driven organization dedicated to removing financial barriers for talented students and making higher education accessible to individuals from all over the world through student loans and scholarships. MPOWER also offers resources beyond funding, including financial support, visa guidance and career resources.

MPOWER offers the following scholarships:

MPOWER also offers additional services, including:

  • Education loans for international students: MPOWER provides no-cosigner, collateral-free loans to students from around the world, ensuring they have access to financing regardless of their home country’s banking system.
  • Visa support: MPOWER offers visa support, including a free visa support letter and visa prep class, as well as access to customized visa interview training.
  • Career services: MPOWER assists students with building a resume, searching for internships and jobs, and preparing applications.

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FAQs

How do I find U.S. postgraduate scholarships for international students? 

Start by researching university websites and scholarship databases like Scholarships.com. You can also check with your home country’s education ministry for available opportunities.

What are the eligibility criteria for international postgraduate scholarships? 

Eligibility varies by scholarship but may include academic merit, financial need, leadership skills or specific field of study.

Can I apply for multiple scholarships? 

Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships to maximize your chances of receiving financial aid.

When should I start applying for scholarships? 

Start your search at least one year before your intended start date to meet application deadlines and prepare required documents.

Do scholarships cover full tuition? 

Some scholarships offer full tuition, while others provide partial funding for tuition, living expenses or other costs.

Are scholarships available for master’s students in all fields? 

Yes, scholarships for master’s abroad are available across various disciplines, including STEM and business.

Can I apply for scholarships after starting my postgraduate program? 

Some scholarships accept applications from current students, but most require applicants to apply before enrollment.


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