With its world-class education system, diverse culture, and strong career prospects, the U.S. is a top destination for graduate study. Fully funded scholarships are available through universities, government initiatives, private organizations, and international foundations, attracting talented students from around the globe.
From prestigious fellowships like the Fulbright Program and Knight-Hennessy Scholars at Stanford to initiatives such as the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program, funding exists across disciplines including science, technology, public health, arts, and business. This article will highlight top programs, eligibility requirements, and application tips to help you find the opportunity that best fits your academic and career goals.
Benefits of Pursuing a Fully Funded Master's Program in the USA
The United States is widely recognized for its world-class higher education system, attracting over a million international students each year. With top-ranked universities, advanced research facilities, and diverse academic programs, it remains a leading destination for graduate study.One of the key advantages of studying in the U.S. is its flexible and dynamic educational framework, which allows students to tailor programs to their academic and career goals while gaining valuable skills in leadership, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
International students typically study under the F-1 visa, which permits them to remain in the U.S. for the duration of their program and provides opportunities for work experience through Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT). For many graduates, this pathway can also open doors to long-term opportunities, including employer-sponsored visas and, in some cases, permanent residency.
Top Fully Funded Master's Programs in the USA with International Scholarships
1. Master of Public Health (MPH) Degree Programs
A Master of Public Health (MPH) degree is a professional graduate program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to improve the health and well-being of individuals and communities on a broad scale. The program emphasizes both the science and practice of public health, focusing on disease prevention, health promotion, and the development of effective policies to tackle pressing health issues. Students are exposed to a wide range of subjects, including epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health, health policy and management, behavioral and social sciences, and global health.
Hubert Humphrey Fellowships 2024 in the USA
Scholarship Type: Fully FundedInstitution: Various Universities in the USA
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USA Fulbright Scholarship Program for International Students
Scholarship Type: Fully FundedInstitution: Various Universities in the USA
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NextGen Scholarship
Scholarship Type: Partial FundingInstitution: Various Universities in the USA
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International Merit Scholarship at Western Colorado University
Scholarship Type: Partial FundingInstitution: Western Colorado University
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2. Master of Arts (MA) Degree Programs
The Master of Arts (MA) degree is a postgraduate program that provides advanced study in the liberal arts and humanities, allowing students to deepen their knowledge and critical understanding of human culture, thought, and expression. The program typically covers a wide range of disciplines, including philosophy, literature, foreign languages, history, cultural studies, communication, and English. Depending on the area of specialization, students may focus on exploring theoretical frameworks, developing advanced research skills, and engaging in critical analysis of cultural, historical, and intellectual traditions.
MA programs often emphasize both independent and collaborative research, encouraging students to cultivate analytical, interpretive, and communication skills that are highly valuable across academic and professional fields. Some programs may require the completion of a thesis, capstone project, or comprehensive examination, providing students with the opportunity to demonstrate mastery in their chosen discipline.
California Institute of the Arts Merit Scholarships
Scholarship Type: Partial FundingInstitution: California Institute of the Arts
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USA Fulbright Scholarship Program for International Students
Scholarship Type: Fully FundedInstitution: Various Universities in the USA
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Joint Graduate Scholarship Program of the Japan World Bank
Scholarship Type: Fully FundedInstitution: Various Universities in the USA
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3. Master of Business Administration (MBA) Programs
Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs provide a comprehensive blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills designed to prepare students for leadership roles in business and management. These programs cover a broad range of disciplines, including finance, accounting, marketing, operations management, human resources, business strategy, entrepreneurship, and organizational behavior. Through this multidisciplinary approach, students gain a solid understanding of how different areas of business interact and contribute to organizational success.
MBA programs typically emphasize real-world application, combining case studies, simulations, group projects, and internships with classroom learning. This approach allows students to develop critical problem-solving abilities, analytical thinking, and decision-making skills in dynamic and complex business environments. Many programs also incorporate leadership training, communication development, and opportunities for networking with industry professionals, enabling students to build both their technical expertise and professional connections.
Harvard University MBA Scholarship for International Students
Scholarship Type: Fully FundedInstitution: Harvard University
Country: United States
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William R. Berkley Scholarships at NYU Stern School of Business
Scholarship Type: Fully FundedInstitution: New York University (NYU)
Country: United States
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Distinguished MBA Scholarship from SMU Cox
Scholarship Type: Tuition OnlyInstitution: SMU Cox School of Business
Country: United States
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4. Master of Public Administration (MPA) Degree Programs
The Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree is a professional graduate program that closely resembles the structure and rigor of a Master of Business Administration (MBA) but is tailored specifically to the public and non-profit sectors. While MBA programs emphasize private enterprise and corporate management, the MPA focuses on equipping students with the knowledge and skills required to design, implement, and evaluate policies and programs that address societal needs.
Core areas of study in an MPA program typically include public policy analysis, organizational leadership, public finance and budgeting, human resource management in the public sector, ethics and governance, program evaluation, and strategic management. Many programs also offer specializations such as urban planning, healthcare administration, environmental policy, international development, and nonprofit management, allowing students to tailor their studies to specific career interests.
USA Fulbright Scholarship Program for International Students
Scholarship Type: Fully FundedInstitution: Various Universities in the USA
Country: United States
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Hubert Humphrey Fellowships in the USA
Scholarship Type: Fully FundedInstitution: Various Universities in the USA
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American Education Fund for Kosovo
Scholarship Type: Fully FundedInstitution: Various Universities in the USA
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5. Master of Science (MSc) Degree Programs
The Master of Science (MSc) is a postgraduate academic degree that provides students with advanced knowledge and specialized expertise in scientific, technical, or analytical fields. Unlike more general graduate programs, the MSc emphasizes rigorous training in research methodologies, critical analysis, and problem-solving, enabling students to explore complex concepts within their chosen discipline. Common areas of study include natural sciences, engineering, computer science, mathematics, psychology, economics, and various branches of health and life sciences.
A hallmark of most MSc programs is the strong emphasis on research. Students are typically required to undertake an independent research project or thesis, which allows them to contribute original insights to their field while demonstrating mastery of advanced theoretical and practical concepts. Depending on the program, coursework may also include lectures, seminars, laboratory work, and collaborative projects designed to deepen technical competence and analytical skills.
USA Fulbright Scholarship Program for International Students
Scholarship Type: Fully FundedInstitution: Various Universities in the USA
Country: United States
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Scholarships at Stanford University for 2024
Scholarship Type: Fully FundedInstitution: Stanford University
Country: United States
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Hubert Humphrey Fellowships 2024 in the USA
Scholarship Type: Fully FundedInstitution: Various Universities in the USA
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6. Master of Laws (LLM) Degree Programs
The Master of Laws (LLM) is an advanced postgraduate degree designed for law graduates and legal professionals who wish to deepen their expertise in specific areas of law. Unlike the general law degree (LLB or JD), which provides a broad foundation in legal principles, the LLM allows students to specialize in particular fields such as international law, human rights law, corporate and commercial law, tax law, intellectual property law, environmental law, or dispute resolution.
LLM programs typically combine advanced coursework with opportunities for independent research, often requiring students to complete a dissertation or major research project. This structure not only enhances theoretical knowledge but also develops critical legal reasoning, analytical skills, and the ability to apply complex legal concepts to real-world situations. Some programs are academically oriented, preparing students for further study at the doctoral (PhD) level, while others are practice-focused, equipping professionals with the tools to advance their legal careers in specialized sectors.
American University Washington College of Law Scholarships for LL.M.
Scholarship Type: Full Tuition ScholarshipInstitution: American University Washington College of Law
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Appel Fellowship on Multinational Enterprise Regulation
Scholarship Type: Full TuitionInstitution: Columbia University - Columbia Law School (CLS)
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Cincinnati University LLM Scholarships
Scholarship Type: Merit-BasedInstitution: College of Law, Cincinnati University
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7. Master of Fine Arts (MFA) Degree Programs
The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) is a professional graduate degree dedicated to the study and advancement of creative and artistic disciplines. It is considered the terminal degree in the arts, meaning it represents the highest level of formal education for practitioners in these fields. MFA programs provide students with the opportunity to refine their craft, expand their creative vision, and develop a professional portfolio that demonstrates mastery in their chosen area of specialization.
Areas of focus within MFA programs are diverse and may include theatre, graphic design, photography, filmmaking, creative writing, painting, sculpture, dance, and other performing and visual arts. Coursework often combines studio practice, workshops, seminars, and critiques, encouraging students to explore both traditional and contemporary techniques. A hallmark of the MFA is its emphasis on intensive creative practice, often culminating in a final thesis project, exhibition, performance, or portfolio presentation that showcases the student’s artistic achievements.
USA Fulbright Scholarship Program for International Students
Scholarship Type: Fully FundedInstitution: Various Universities in the USA
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Joint Graduate Scholarship Program of the Japan World Bank
Scholarship Type: Fully FundedInstitution: Various Universities in the USA
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MFA Cinder Scholarship
The MFA Cinder Scholarship, provided by TalNexus, offers financial support to students pursuing a master’s degree in fine arts.
Scholarship Benefit: Up to $4,000Country: United States
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Fellowships in Visual Arts at the Virginia Museum
The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts offers fellowships to support visual arts students.
Scholarship Benefit: Up to $8,000Institution: Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Country: United States
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8. MasterCard Foundation Full Scholarships
The MasterCard Foundation at the University of California provides fully funded scholarship opportunities designed to support academically talented yet economically disadvantaged students pursuing master’s degree programs. The scholarship aims to foster leadership, innovation, and a commitment to community development by empowering students who demonstrate both academic excellence and a strong desire to make a positive impact in their home countries.
This comprehensive scholarship package covers all essential costs associated with graduate study. Benefits typically include full tuition fees, on-campus housing or housing allowances, transportation support, living stipends to cover daily expenses, and coverage of visa application fees. In addition, scholars may receive academic advising, mentorship, leadership development training, and career support services to ensure both academic success and professional growth.
Institution: University of California, Berkeley
Country: United States
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9. Master of Music (MM/MMus) Degree Programs
The Master of Music (MM) is a graduate-level degree program that provides advanced training for students pursuing professional careers in music performance, composition, conducting, music education, and related fields. It is designed for individuals who already possess a strong foundation in music and wish to refine their technical abilities, deepen their theoretical understanding, and develop a professional identity within the musical arts.
MM programs typically offer specialized tracks such as instrumental or vocal performance, choral or orchestral conducting, music theory, music history, composition, and pedagogy. Coursework often blends advanced academic study with intensive studio instruction, ensemble participation, and performance opportunities. A central component of many MM programs is the completion of a recital, thesis, or portfolio, which allows students to demonstrate mastery of their craft and contribute creatively or academically to the field of music.
Bruce K. Lee Scholarship
Scholarship Type: Partial FundingInstitution: US Colleges and Universities
Country: United States
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Scholarships for International Education Fees
These scholarships cover only tuition fees for international students in the USA.
Scholarship Type: Tuition OnlyInstitution: Texas A&M University (TAMU)
Country: United States
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Conclusion
There is a wide array of scholarships available for fully funded master's programs in the USA, accommodating diverse needs, fields of study, and backgrounds. It is important to conduct thorough research to find the scholarship that best aligns with your requirements.