Latest update: The U.S. Department of State’s Fulbright Foreign Student Program has announced approximately 1,800 fully funded scholarships for international graduate students in the 2025–26 cycle.
Pursuing a master’s degree in the USA can cost between $20,000 and $60,000 per year (INR 16–50 lakh), but fully funded masters program scholarships in the USA help international students overcome financial barriers. These scholarships cover full tuition fees, living expenses, health insurance, airfare, and even monthly stipends.
These scholarships are awarded based on merit, academic excellence, leadership, or specific career goals. For Indian students seeking high-quality education and global exposure, these fully funded master’s opportunities offer a life-changing path forward.
Students with strong academics, research work, or leadership experience
Those needing financial assistance
Applicants in STEM courses, business, social sciences, and more
What Does a Fully Funded Master’s Program Scholarship Cover?
Expense Covered
What It Includes
Example Scholarships
Tuition Fees
Full or partial waiver of university tuition
Fulbright-Nehru, AAUW International Fellowship
Living Expenses
Monthly stipend for housing, food, and daily needs
Knight-Hennessy Scholars, Joint Japan/World Bank Scholarship
Health Insurance
Medical coverage during study
University-funded scholarships
Research & Travel Grants
Funding for lab work, research materials, and conference travel
NSF Graduate Research Fellowship, Google Lime Scholarship
Who Offers Fully Funded MS Scholarships?
US Government Scholarships – Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship, Hubert Humphrey Fellowship
University-Specific Scholarships – MIT Presidential Fellowship, Stanford Knight-Hennessy Scholars
Private & Industry-Funded Grants – Google, Microsoft, and IBM fellowships for AI, Data Science, and Tech fields
How Many Students Receive Fully Funded Scholarships?
Over 8,000 international students receive Fulbright Scholarships each year.
Universities like Harvard, MIT, and Stanford award millions in financial aid to master’s students annually.
Many STEM students secure full funding through research assistantships (RA) and teaching assistantships (TA).
Example: A student admitted to Stanford University for an MS in Computer Science can apply for the Knight-Hennessy Scholarship, which covers full tuition and provides a stipend for living expenses.
Top Fully Funded Master’s Program Scholarships in USA 2025
1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program – A Prestigious Scholarship for Global Scholars
The Fulbright Foreign Student Program funds outstanding international students pursuing a master’s degree in USA. It covers full tuition, living expenses, and airfare, making it one of the most sought-after scholarships.
Who Should Apply?
Criteria
Details
Nationality
Open to students from over 155 countries
Level of Study
Master’s
Field of Study
Open to all disciplines
Academic Excellence
Strong academic record required
Leadership & Community Engagement
Preference for students with leadership or volunteer experience
Commitment to Home Country
Applicants must return to their country after completion
What Are the Requirements?
Requirement
Details
University Admission
Must apply to a USA university under the Fulbright Program
Academic Performance
Strong undergraduate GPA required
Statement of Purpose
Must outline academic and career goals
Recommendation Letters
Required from academic and professional mentors
Interview
Shortlisted candidates go through an interview process
Scholarship Coverage:
Coverage
Details
Tuition Fees
Fully Covered
Living Expenses
Stipend included
Airfare
Round-trip ticket provided
Health Insurance
Included
Other Costs
Covers books, research materials
Tip: This program seeks individuals committed to making a difference in their home countries. Emphasize how your education will contribute to your community.
2. Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program (Stanford University) – For Future Global Leaders
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program at Stanford University funds international master’s students for up to three years, covering tuition, living expenses, and travel costs. It also provides leadership development opportunities.
Who Should Apply?
Criteria
Details
Nationality
Open to all nationalities
Level of Study
Master’s
Field of Study
Any master’s program at Stanford University
Leadership & Innovation
Strong leadership record required
Academic Excellence
Must have outstanding academic achievements
Entrepreneurial Mindset
Preference for students with a vision for impact
What Are the Requirements?
Requirement
Details
University Admission
Must apply to a master’s program at Stanford University
Leadership Essay
Must showcase leadership journey and goals
Video Statement
Required for shortlisted candidates
Recommendation Letters
Strong references from academic or professional mentors
Interview
Final selection process for shortlisted candidates
Scholarship Coverage:
Coverage
Details
Tuition Fees
Fully Covered
Living Expenses
Stipend included
Travel Costs
Airfare covered
Leadership Training
Included
Additional Grants
Research and conference funding available
Tip: This scholarship values leadership and social impact. Show how your work has driven change in your community.
3. Gates Millennium Scholars Program – Full Funding for Outstanding Students
Funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, this scholarship covers full tuition, living costs, and other expenses for students with exceptional academic records and leadership potential.
Who Should Apply?
Criteria
Details
Nationality
Open to international students
Level of Study
Master’s
Field of Study
Open to all disciplines
Academic Excellence
High GPA and test scores required
Leadership & Community Service
Preference for students involved in social impact projects
Financial Need
Must demonstrate financial hardship
What Are the Requirements?
Requirement
Details
University Admission
Must apply to a USA university
Academic Performance
Strong GPA and standardized test scores
Financial Documents
Must demonstrate need for funding
Personal Statement
Must highlight leadership, career goals, and social impact
Recommendation Letters
Strong references from mentors or professors
Scholarship Coverage:
Coverage
Details
Tuition Fees
Fully Covered
Living Expenses
Stipend included
Other Costs
Books, research materials, conference fees
Renewable?
Yes, for the full program duration
Tip:Gates Millennium Scholars are expected to give back to their communities. Highlight how your education will drive positive change.
4. AAUW International Scholarships – For Women in STEM & Business
The American Association of University Women (AAUW) International Fellowships support women from around the world pursuing graduate studies in USA. This scholarship helps fund tuition, living costs, and research expenses.
Who Should Apply?
Criteria
Details
Gender
Women applicants only
Nationality
Open to non-USA citizens
Level of Study
Master’s
Field of Study
STEM, Business, Social Sciences, and other fields
Leadership & Women’s Empowerment
Preference for women involved in community service and advocacy
Commitment to Home Country
Applicants must return to their home country after graduation
What Are the Requirements?
Requirement
Details
University Admission
Must apply to a USA university
Academic Performance
Strong undergraduate academic record
Statement of Purpose
Must outline career plans and social impact
Recommendation Letters
Required from academic or professional mentors
Financial Need
Considered for award selection
Scholarship Coverage:
Coverage
Details
Tuition Fees
Fully Covered (Up to $50,000)
Living Expenses
Yes
Research Costs
Included
Additional Grants
Available based on financial need
Tip: AAUW supports women who aim to create change in their communities. Highlight your commitment to gender equality and leadership in your application.
5. Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program – Full Funding for Development-Focused Students
The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) funds students from developing countries who want to pursue a master’s degree in fields related to economic development, public policy, and sustainability.
Who Should Apply?
Criteria
Details
Nationality
Open to students from World Bank member developing countries
Level of Study
Master’s
Field of Study
Development-related fields (e.g., Economics, Public Policy, Infrastructure)
Work Experience
Minimum of three years in a development-related field
Commitment to Home Country
Must return and work in a developing country after graduation
What Are the Requirements?
Requirement
Details
University Admission
Must be admitted to a partner university in USA
Academic Performance
Strong academic background required
Work Experience
Minimum of three years in a development-related role
Recommendation Letters
Strong references from employers or professors
Statement of Purpose
Must outline career goals and development impact
Scholarship Coverage:
Coverage
Details
Tuition Fees
Fully Covered
Living Expenses
Stipend provided
Airfare
Round-trip ticket included
Health Insurance
Covered
Books & Study Materials
Funded
Tip:This program prioritizes candidates with strong work experience in development. Highlight your contributions to economic growth, poverty reduction, or sustainability projects.
6. Harvard University Graduate Scholarships – Full & Partial Funding for Master’s Students
Harvard University provides multiple graduate scholarships for international students, including fully funded fellowships, need-based grants, and research assistantships.
Who Should Apply?
Criteria
Details
Nationality
Open to international students
Level of Study
Master’s
Field of Study
Any master’s program at Harvard
Academic Excellence
High academic achievements required
Leadership & Community Impact
Preference for students with leadership experience
What Are the Requirements?
Requirement
Details
University Admission
Must secure admission to Harvard University
Academic Performance
Excellent undergraduate record
Financial Documents
Required for need-based scholarships
Recommendation Letters
Strong references from mentors or professors
Scholarship Application
Some funding requires a separate application
Scholarship Coverage:
Coverage
Details
Tuition Fees
Fully or Partially Covered
Living Expenses
Partial aid available
Research Grants
Available for specific programs
Assistantships
Teaching & research assistantships provide stipends
Tip: Harvard awards some scholarships automatically based on academic merit, while others require separate applications. Research all options early.
7. MIT Graduate Financial Aid for International Students – Full & Partial Funding for MS Programs
MIT provides financial aid, research assistantships, and fellowships to support international students pursuing a master’s degree in STEM, business, and social sciences.
Who Should Apply?
Criteria
Details
Nationality
Open to international students
Level of Study
Master’s
Field of Study
STEM, Business, Economics, and Social Sciences
Academic Excellence
Strong academic background required
Research Potential
Preference for students with research experience
What Are the Requirements?
Requirement
Details
University Admission
Must be admitted to MIT’s MS program
Academic Performance
Strong undergraduate record
Research Experience
Preferred for research assistantships
Financial Documents
Required for need-based aid
Recommendation Letters
Required from professors or employers
Scholarship Coverage:
Coverage
Details
Tuition Fees
Fully or Partially Covered
Living Expenses
Stipends available
Research Grants
Funded for thesis-based programs
Assistantships
Paid teaching & research assistantships
Tip:Many MS students at MIT fund their studies through research or teaching assistantships. Contact your department early to explore assistantship opportunities.
8. Yale University MS Scholarships – Need-Based Full & Partial Funding
Yale University offers need-based scholarships and fully funded fellowships to support international master’s students across multiple disciplines.
Who Should Apply?
Criteria
Details
Nationality
Open to international students
Level of Study
Master’s
Field of Study
Any master’s program at Yale
Academic Excellence
High academic achievements required
Financial Need
Preference for students requiring funding
What Are the Requirements?
Requirement
Details
University Admission
Must be admitted to a Yale University MS program
Academic Performance
Strong undergraduate academic record
Financial Documents
Required for need-based scholarships
Recommendation Letters
Required from professors or mentors
Scholarship Application
Some awards require additional applications
Scholarship Coverage:
Coverage
Details
Tuition Fees
Fully or Partially Covered
Living Expenses
Partial stipends available
Research Grants
Provided for select students
Assistantships
Available in research-based programs
Tip:Yale automatically considers admitted students for scholarships, but additional applications may be required for some programs. Apply early to maximize funding opportunities.
9. Columbia University Graduate Scholarships – Full & Partial Funding for International Students
Columbia University offers graduate scholarships, fellowships, and need-based grants to help international students fund their MS programs. Some programs provide full tuition coverage, while others offer assistantships with stipends.
Who Should Apply?
Criteria
Details
Nationality
Open to international students
Level of Study
Master’s
Field of Study
All master’s programs at Columbia University
Academic Excellence
High GPA and strong academic background required
Financial Need
Considered for need-based scholarships
Research Potential
Preferred for research fellowships
What Are the Requirements?
Requirement
Details
University Admission
Must secure admission to Columbia University
Academic Performance
Excellent undergraduate academic record
Financial Documents
Required for need-based scholarships
Recommendation Letters
Strong references from professors or mentors
Scholarship Application
Some awards require a separate application
Scholarship Coverage:
Coverage
Details
Tuition Fees
Fully or Partially Covered
Living Expenses
Partial stipends available
Assistantships
Paid research & teaching assistantships
Additional Grants
Available for select students
Tip:Columbia offers program-specific funding—check department-based scholarships early for additional support.
10. University of Chicago Graduate Funding for International Students – Full Tuition & Stipend Support
The University of Chicago provides full and partial scholarships for international graduate students. Many programs include full tuition waivers and living stipends through assistantships and fellowships.
Who Should Apply?
Criteria
Details
Nationality
Open to international students
Level of Study
Master’s
Field of Study
STEM, Business, Social Sciences, Law, and Humanities
Academic Excellence
High GPA and research experience required
Financial Need
Need-based grants available
Research Potential
Strong preference for thesis-based applicants
What Are the Requirements?
Requirement
Details
University Admission
Must be admitted to a master’s program at the University of Chicago
Academic Performance
Strong undergraduate or master’s GPA
Research Proposal
Required for research-based programs
Recommendation Letters
Required from academic mentors
Scholarship Application
Some fellowships require separate applications
Scholarship Coverage:
Coverage
Details
Tuition Fees
Fully Covered
Living Expenses
Stipend included
Research Grants
Available for select students
Assistantships
Teaching & research positions provide additional funding
Tip: Contact your department early to explore assistantship opportunities, which often provide full tuition coverage.
11. Tata Scholarship for Cornell University – Full Tuition for Indian Students
Funded by the Tata Education and Development Trust, this scholarship covers full tuition for outstanding Indian students pursuing undergraduate or master’s degrees at Cornell University.
Who Should Apply?
Criteria
Details
Nationality
Open to Indian students only
Level of Study
Undergraduate & Master’s
Field of Study
All fields at Cornell University
Academic Excellence
High GPA required
Financial Need
Must demonstrate financial need
Commitment to India
Preference for students who will contribute to India's development
What Are the Requirements?
Requirement
Details
University Admission
Must be admitted to Cornell University
Academic Performance
Strong undergraduate academic record
Financial Documents
Must prove financial need
Personal Statement
Must explain career goals and how the degree will impact India
Recommendation Letters
Required from mentors or professors
Scholarship Coverage:
Coverage
Details
Tuition Fees
Fully Covered
Living Expenses
Partial support
Additional Grants
Available based on financial need
Other Costs
Some support for books & research
Tip:This scholarship is highly competitive. Show how your education will contribute to India’s progress in your application.
12. S.N. Bose Scholars Program – For Indian Students in STEM Fields
The S.N. Bose Scholars Program offers Indian students a fully funded research fellowship in USA. This program helps students gain research exposure at top USA universities, increasing their chances of securing a fully funded MS or PhD later.
Who Should Apply?
Criteria
Details
Nationality
Open to Indian students only
Level of Study
Final-year undergraduate or master’s students
Field of Study
STEM (Physics, Engineering, Chemistry, Life Sciences)
Academic Excellence
Strong academic record required
Research Interest
Preference for students with previous research experience
What Are the Requirements?
Requirement
Details
University Enrollment
Must be in final year of UG or PG studies in India
Academic Performance
Strong academic record in STEM disciplines
Research Proposal
Must outline research interests and goals
Recommendation Letters
Strong references from research mentors
Interview
Shortlisted candidates go through an interview round
Scholarship Coverage:
Coverage
Details
Research Funding
Covers short-term research in USA institutions
Living Expenses
Stipend included
Travel Costs
Round-trip airfare to USA
Research Support
Access to leading USA faculty & labs
Tip:This program helps Indian students build research connections with USA universities, increasing chances of securing a full MS or PhD scholarship later.
13. Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships – Full Funding for Exceptional Indian Students
The Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships provide full tuition, travel, and living expenses for outstanding Indian students pursuing master’s programs in top USA universities. The scholarship focuses on arts, humanities, social sciences, and select STEM fields.
Who Should Apply?
Criteria
Details
Nationality
Indian citizens only
Level of Study
Master’s
Field of Study
Arts, Literature, Humanities, Social Sciences, and select STEM fields
Academic Excellence
High GPA and strong academic record required
Research & Creative Potential
Preference for students with a strong portfolio, publications, or research background
What Are the Requirements?
Requirement
Details
University Admission
Must have a confirmed offer from a recognized USA university
Academic Performance
High academic achievements required
Portfolio Submission
Required for students applying in creative fields
Statement of Purpose
Must outline study plans and career goals
Recommendation Letters
Strong references from academic or professional mentors
Personal Interview
Shortlisted candidates go through an interview process
Scholarship Coverage:
Coverage
Details
Tuition Fees
Fully Covered
Living Expenses
Stipend included
Travel Costs
Round-trip airfare provided
Other Grants
Research & project funding available
Tip:This scholarship is highly competitive, and preference is given to students with a strong academic and creative portfolio.
14. Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation Loan Scholarship – Interest-Free Loan for Indian Students
The Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation Loan Scholarship provides interest-free loans of up to ₹20 lakh for Indian students pursuing a master’s degree in top USA universities. Unlike traditional bank loans, students do not pay interest, making this a cost-effective funding option.
Who Should Apply?
Criteria
Details
Nationality
Indian citizens only
Level of Study
Master’s
Field of Study
Any discipline at top global universities
Academic Excellence
High academic record (minimum 60% in UG) required
Financial Need
Must demonstrate the need for financial support
What Are the Requirements?
Requirement
Details
University Admission
Must have secured admission to a top USA university
Academic Performance
Minimum 60% marks in undergraduate degree
Statement of Purpose
Must outline career goals and financial needs
Recommendation Letters
Required from academic or professional mentors
Personal Interview
Shortlisted candidates go through an interview process
Scholarship Coverage:
Coverage
Details
Loan Amount
Interest-free loan of up to ₹20 lakh
Interest Rate
0% (Interest-Free)
Repayment Period
Begins after course completion
Additional Grants
None, but students can apply for other funding sources
Tip:Since this is a loan, plan your repayment strategy early. The zero-interest feature makes it an affordable alternative to education loans from banks.
15. Joint US-India Science & Technology Endowment Fund – Research Grants for STEM Students
The Joint US-India Science & Technology Endowment Fund supports Indian and USA students working on collaborative research projects in STEM fields. It provides funding for innovative, market-driven research that contributes to scientific and technological advancements.
Preference for students with groundbreaking research ideas
Collaboration Requirement
Must be part of a USA-India joint research project
What Are the Requirements?
Requirement
Details
University Admission
Must be enrolled in a master’s or PhD program at a USA or Indian university
Research Proposal
Must outline a collaborative STEM research project
Innovation Impact
Must demonstrate technological or societal impact
Recommendation Letters
Required from research mentors
Project Feasibility
Must show market potential and scalability
Scholarship Coverage:
Coverage
Details
Research Funding
Covers project development costs
Living Expenses
Partial stipend included
Technology Development
Funding for research and innovation
Collaboration Support
Helps facilitate partnerships between Indian & USA researchers
Tip:Since this funding focuses on innovation, ensure your research proposal highlights practical applications and potential real-world impact.
How to Improve Your Chances of Getting a Fully Funded Masters Program Scholarship in the USA
Fully funded masters program scholarships in the USA are highly competitive, with thousands of applicants vying for limited seats. To stand out, you must present a strong academic, personal, and professional profile.
Here are key strategies to help boost your chances:
1. Maintain a Strong Academic Record A GPA of 3.5 or higher is preferred by most fully funded programs. A consistent academic track shows commitment and competence. Highlight any research or coursework that aligns with your intended field of study.
2. Write a Strong Statement of Purpose (SOP) Your SOP should clearly express why you’re pursuing the program and how it aligns with your goals. Focus on your unique journey and achievements. Personal, specific narratives stand out more than generic ones.
3. Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation (LORs) Choose recommenders who can speak to your skills and work ethic with real examples. A well-written LOR on official letterhead strengthens your profile. Make sure it highlights your suitability for the scholarship.
4. Show Leadership and Impact Highlight experiences where you made a difference—academically or socially. This can be through research, community service, or student initiatives. Admissions committees value leadership and initiative.
5. Perform Well in Interviews (If Required) If shortlisted, be ready to explain your academic goals, achievements, and future plans. Interviews test clarity, confidence, and motivation. Practice answers without sounding memorized.
6. Apply to Multiple Scholarships Increase your chances by applying to several fully funded programs. Each scholarship has different requirements, so explore widely. Keep documents and deadlines organized for timely submissions.
7. Submit a Complete and Error-Free Application Ensure all documents are correct and submitted on time. Errors or omissions can lead to automatic rejection. Double-check eligibility, formatting, and requirements before applying.
How To Get a Fully Funded Master’s Program Scholarship in USA
Looking to get a fully funded master’s program scholarship? Our 1:1 counseling helps you find the right scholarships, prepare a strong application, and write a compelling SOP. We guide you through GRE, TOEFL, recommendation letters, and interviews so you apply with confidence. With the right support, you can make your dream of studying in USA a reality—without worrying about the cost.
FAQs on Fully Funded MS Scholarships in USA (2025-26)
Is it possible to get a 100% scholarship for a Master's in the USA?
Yes, many U.S. universities offer 100% scholarships for international students pursuing a master’s degree. These fully funded scholarships often cover tuition, living expenses, and health insurance. Popular options include the Fulbright Program, Stanford Knight-Hennessy, and Yale’s scholarships for international students.
How can I get a fully funded scholarship in the USA for a Master's degree?
To get a fully funded scholarship in the USA, maintain a strong academic record, submit competitive GRE/GMAT and English test scores, and prepare a compelling Statement of Purpose (SOP). Apply early to programs offering scholarships like Fulbright, Clark University Global Scholars, or university-specific graduate assistantships.
Can I do a Master’s in the USA for free?
While rare, it is possible to pursue a Master’s in the USA for free through fully funded scholarships or graduate assistantships. Programs like the Fulbright Foreign Student Program or those at universities such as MIT, Stanford, and Harvard offer full financial aid to select international students.
Which are the top fully funded Master’s programs in the USA for international students?
Top fully funded Master's programs in the USA include the Knight-Hennessy Scholars at Stanford, Fulbright Foreign Student Program, Yale University Scholarships, and AAUW International Fellowships. These cover tuition, living costs, and sometimes travel expenses.
Which universities in the USA offer fully funded scholarships for international students?
Universities like Harvard, Stanford, MIT, University of Chicago, and Yale offer fully funded scholarships or assistantships for international Master's students. These may include research positions, teaching assistantships, or merit-based scholarships.
What are the best scholarships for a Master’s degree in the USA for international students?
Some of the best scholarships include:
Fulbright Foreign Student Program
Stanford Knight-Hennessy Scholars
AAUW International Fellowships
Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship
Rotary Peace Fellowships
These scholarships offer full tuition and living expense coverage.
How to get a 100% scholarship for an MS in the USA as an international student?
To secure a 100% scholarship for an MS in the USA, start by researching universities that offer merit-based aid or assistantships. Maintain a high GPA, score well in GRE/TOEFL/IELTS, and apply early with strong recommendation letters and a compelling SOP. Look for programs like Fulbright, Knight-Hennessy, and institutional fellowships.
Are there public universities in the USA offering fully funded Master’s programs?
Yes, several public universities like the University of Michigan, University of Wisconsin-Madison, and University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offer fully funded Master's programs through research assistantships, fellowships, and departmental funding for international students.
What is the eligibility for fully funded scholarships in the USA for Master's?
Eligibility criteria include a strong academic background, English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL), GRE/GMAT scores (if required), leadership potential, and research experience. Some scholarships may also require work experience or community involvement.
Which are the top universities in the USA without tuition fees for international Master's students?
While no university is entirely free, institutions like Harvard, Princeton, MIT, and Stanford offer full scholarships to cover tuition and living costs. These are based on merit or need and are highly competitive.
Can I get a scholarship for a Master’s in the USA without GRE?
Yes, many U.S. universities have waived the GRE requirement and still offer scholarships. Schools like Northeastern University, University of Dayton, and DePaul University may offer scholarships based on GPA, English proficiency, and overall application strength.
What are some fully funded MS programs in the USA for Indian students?
Indian students can apply for fully funded MS programs through:
Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships
Stanford University Knight-Hennessy Program
AAUW International Fellowships (for women)
Graduate assistantships at top U.S. universities
These programs typically cover tuition, living costs, and travel.
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