USA has some of the best universities in the world, especially for engineering, business, and computer science. Over 200 institutions are globally ranked, which makes it a top choice for students. Many MS graduates also get up to three years of work experience in USA through Optional Practical Training (OPT).
Tuition fees range from $30,000 to $70,000 (₹25–58 lakh) per year, and living costs add to the expenses. Fully funded master’s program scholarships help by covering full tuition, living expenses, and some other expenses.
Every year, thousands of students secure scholarships.
If you're applying for 2025-26, this blog will help you find the best fully funded master’s program scholarships and improve your chances of success.
Table of Contents
- What is a Fully Funded Master’s Program Scholarship in USA?
- Top Fully Funded Master’s Program Scholarships in USA 2025
- How to Apply for Fully Funded Master’s Program Scholarships in USA?
- Important Deadlines for Fully Funded MS Scholarships in USA 2025-26
- Required Documents for MS Scholarship Applications
- Selection & Evaluation Criteria for Fully Funded Master’s Program Scholarships
- Tips to Improve Your Chances of Securing a Fully Funded Master’s Program Scholarship in USA
- How To Get a Fully Funded Master’s Program Scholarship in USA
What is a Fully Funded Master’s Program Scholarship in USA?
A fully funded master’s program scholarship covers the entire cost of a master’s degree in USA, including tuition, living expenses, health insurance, and sometimes travel.
Who Can Apply?
- 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.
Who Should Apply?
Criteria | Details |
Nationality | Open to Indian and USA students |
Level of Study | Master’s & PhD |
Field of Study | Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) |
Research Innovation | 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 Apply for Fully Funded Master’s Program Scholarships in USA?
In 2024 alone, USA hosted over 950,000 international students (Open Doors Report, 2024), and many were competing for the same limited funding.
Here’s exactly how to go about it to have a better chance.
1. Find the Right Scholarships Early
Waiting until the last minute? That’s a mistake. Most fully funded scholarships open applications 12-18 months before the program starts.
Task | When to Start? (Before Program Begins) |
Research scholarships | 12-18 months |
Take GRE/TOEFL/IELTS | 9-12 months |
Prepare SOP & LORs | 6-12 months |
Submit applications | 6-9 months |
Interview (if required) | 3-6 months |
Receive results & apply for visa | 3-4 months |
If you’re applying for Fall 2025, you should already be shortlisting scholarships now.
2. Meet the Eligibility Criteria
What They Usually Look For:
- Strong academics (GPA of 3.5+ or equivalent)
- Competitive test scores (GRE/GMAT where required)
- Research experience (for STEM scholarships)
- Leadership & community involvement
- Financial need (for need-based scholarships)
Pro Tip: If a scholarship asks for “demonstrated leadership,” include specific projects, volunteer work, or initiatives you’ve led instead of vague statements.
3. Get Standardized Tests Done Early
If you’re applying for an English-taught program, you’ll also need TOEFL or IELTS (unless you’re from an English-speaking country).
Test | Required For | Competitive Score |
GRE | MS programs (varies by field) | 315+ |
GMAT | Business schools | 700+ |
TOEFL | English proficiency | 100+ (out of 120) |
IELTS | English proficiency | 7.0+ |
4. Write a Powerful Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Connect your past achievements, future goals, and why the scholarship matters.
What Makes a Strong SOP?
A clear personal story (Why this field? Why this scholarship?)
Specific achievements (not just “I love research”—show published papers or projects)
Future impact (How will you use this degree for change?)
Tailored to the scholarship (Don’t copy-paste generic statements!)
5. Secure Strong Recommendation Letters
Most fully funded scholarships require 2-3 recommendation letters from professors, mentors, or employers. These letters should back up the achievements and goals mentioned in your SOP.
How to Get Good LORs?
Ask professors/employers who know you well, not just famous names
Give them at least a month’s notice to write the letter
Share your resume, SOP, and key achievements to help them craft a strong letter
6. Ace the Scholarship Interview (If Required)
Not all scholarships have an interview stage, but top ones like Fulbright, Rhodes, and Knight-Hennessy do.
Common Interview Questions:
- Why do you deserve this scholarship?
- Tell us about a challenge you faced and how you overcame it.
- How will you use this degree after graduation?
Important Deadlines for Fully Funded MS Scholarships in USA 2025-26
According to the Institute of International Education (IIE), over 70% of scholarships receive their highest number of applications in the first 30 days after opening. This means early applicants have a better chance of getting shortlisted.
Scholarship Name | Application Opens | Application Deadline |
Fulbright Foreign Student Program | Feb 2024 | Varies by country (Mostly May-Oct 2024) |
Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program (Stanford University) | June 2024 | October 9, 2024 |
Gates Millennium Scholars Program | July 2024 | January 2025 |
AAUW International Scholarships (For Women in STEM & Business) | Aug 2024 | November 15, 2024 |
Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program | Jan 2025 | February 28, 2025 |
Harvard University Graduate Scholarships | Aug 2024 | December 2024 (TBA) |
MIT Graduate Financial Aid for International Students | Sept 2024 | January 2025 |
Yale University MS Scholarships | Aug 2024 | December 2024 - January 2025 |
Columbia University Graduate Scholarships | Aug 2024 | Varies by Program (Mostly Dec-Jan) |
University of Chicago Graduate Funding for International Students | Sept 2024 | January 2025 |
Tata Scholarship for Cornell University | Oct 2024 | January 2025 |
S.N. Bose Scholars Program (For Indian Students in STEM Fields) | Aug 2024 | November 2024 |
Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships | Feb 2024 | March 2025 |
Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation Loan Scholarship | Jan 2025 | March 2025 |
Joint US-India Science & Technology Endowment Fund (For STEM Students) | July 2024 | December 2024 |
Required Documents for MS Scholarship Applications
1. Academic Records
Bachelor’s degree certificate (or provisional if pending)
Transcripts with grades & cumulative GPA
Grading scale explanation (if not in a 4.0 scale)
2. Standardized Test Scores (If Required)
GRE/GMAT – Only for programs that need it
TOEFL/IELTS – For non-native English speakers
Test | Minimum Score |
GRE | 310+ |
GMAT | 650+ |
TOEFL | 90+ |
IELTS | 7.0+ |
3. Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Why do you want the scholarship
Your academic & career goals
Specific achievements & plans
4. Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
2-3 letters from professors/employers
Official letterhead & signed
Highlight academic & research skills
5. Resume/CV
Education, research, internships
Leadership, publications, projects
6. Financial Documents (If Required)
Proof of income (tax returns, bank statements)
Required for need-based scholarships
7. Research Proposal (If Required)
For research-based scholarships
Clear objectives & significance
8. Identity Proof
Passport scan (for international applicants)
National ID (if required)
Selection & Evaluation Criteria for Fully Funded Master’s Program Scholarships
Selection committees look for candidates with leadership skills, research potential, and a clear purpose. A strong application shows why you are the right choice.
How the Selection Process Works
Scholarships follow a structured evaluation process. Missing a requirement or submitting a weak application means automatic disqualification.
Stage | What Happens? |
Eligibility Check | Applications are filtered based on GPA, nationality, and required documents. |
Document Review | SOP, LORs, and resume are assessed for academic and leadership potential. |
Shortlisting | Strong applications are selected for further review. |
Interview (If Required) | Finalists are evaluated on goals, impact, and communication skills. |
Final Decision | Selection based on overall merit, alignment with scholarship goals. |
Example: The Fulbright Foreign Student Program shortlists candidates based on leadership and academic performance. Only a small percentage of applicants make it through each year.
What Scholarship Committees Look For
Every scholarship has different priorities, but most evaluate candidates on the following:
Criteria | Why It Matters | What They Expect |
Academic Performance | Strong GPA & coursework | Consistently high grades, relevant research work. |
Leadership & Impact | Contribution beyond academics | Community service, internships, leadership roles. |
Research & Innovation | Important for STEM fields | Published papers, research projects, patents. |
Statement of Purpose (SOP) | Clear career goals, motivation | Specific plans, relevance to the scholarship. |
Letters of Recommendation (LORs) | Validation from professors/employers | Strong endorsements with concrete examples. |
Interview Performance | If required, final assessment | Confidence, clarity, future vision. |
Example: The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program (Stanford) prioritizes candidates with a strong leadership record and a clear vision for impact. A good GPA alone isn’t enough.
Tips to Improve Your Chances of Securing a Fully Funded Master’s Program Scholarship in USA
1. Maintain a Strong Academic Record
Most scholarships prefer candidates with a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Some programs may have lower cutoffs, but a strong academic background always helps.
Tip: If your GPA is low, highlight research projects, internships, or technical skills in your application.
2. Write a Strong Statement of Purpose (SOP)
A generic SOP will not get you noticed. Clearly explain:
- Why you want to pursue this MS program.
- How the scholarship fits into your career goals.
- What makes you a strong candidate.
Tip: Use real experiences instead of vague statements. If you worked on a project that made an impact, mention results and numbers.
3. Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
Choose referees who know your work well, not just those with big titles. A good LOR should:
- Highlight specific achievements.
- Explain why you are a strong candidate.
- Be on an official letterhead and signed.
Tip: Give your referees enough time to write a detailed, personalized recommendation.
4. Show Leadership and Impact
Scholarships favor candidates who have made a difference. This can be through:
- Research projects
- Internships
- Volunteering and community work
- Leading student clubs or initiatives
Tip: Even small projects count if they show initiative and problem-solving.
5. Perform Well in Interviews (If Required)
If shortlisted, you may have to attend an interview. Common questions include:
- Why do you deserve this scholarship?
- How will you use this degree in the future?
- What challenges have you faced, and how did you overcome them?
Tip: Practice your answers, stay confident, and avoid memorized responses.
6. Apply to Multiple Scholarships
Don’t rely on just one application. Many scholarships have different criteria, and applying to several increases your chances.
Tip: Keep track of deadlines and required documents using a simple spreadsheet.
7. Submit a Complete and Error-Free Application
A missing document or a small mistake can lead to rejection. Before submitting:
- Check all required documents.
- Proofread your SOP and LORs.
- Make sure you meet the eligibility criteria.
Tip: Ask a professor or mentor to review your application before submission.
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)
Which USA universities offer the highest number of fully funded MS scholarships?
Top universities like Harvard, Stanford, MIT, Yale, and Carnegie Mellon offer fully funded MS scholarships. Many public universities (e.g., UIUC, UT Austin, University of Michigan) provide tuition waivers and assistantships for international students.
Are there fully funded MS scholarships specifically for Indian students?
Yes, options include Fulbright-Nehru Master's Fellowships, Tata Scholarship (Cornell), Inlaks Foundation Scholarships, and AAUW International Fellowships. Some universities also offer India-specific funding.
What are the key factors that make an MS scholarship application stand out?
Strong academic performance, research experience, leadership roles, a compelling SOP, and strong recommendation letters increase your chances. For research-based MS programs, published work or internships add value.
How can I secure a full MS scholarship if I have an average GPA?
Highlight research projects, relevant work experience, extracurricular achievements, and leadership roles. Some scholarships focus on holistic profiles rather than just grades.
Are there any fully funded MS scholarships that do not require GRE/GMAT scores?
Yes, some programs have waived GRE/GMAT requirements, especially for STEM fields. Scholarships like Knight-Hennessy (Stanford) and Fulbright do not require standardized test scores.
Do MS scholarships cover additional costs like health insurance, travel, and research grants?
Some fully funded scholarships include stipends for living expenses, travel, and health insurance. Research-based MS programs may also provide grants for lab work and conferences.
What is the best way to find industry-sponsored MS scholarships in USA?
Look for funding from companies like Google, Microsoft, IBM, and Amazon, which offer scholarships for students in AI, Data Science, and Engineering. University career centers also list corporate-funded scholarships.
Can I defer my MS scholarship to a later academic year if I receive funding but need to delay admission?
It depends on the scholarship policy. Some allow deferrals for one year, while others require you to reapply if you postpone admission.
Do fully funded MS scholarships include funding for internships or professional certifications?
Some STEM and business scholarships offer additional grants for internships and certifications. For example, tech-related scholarships may fund AI or cybersecurity certifications.
How do I maintain eligibility for a renewable MS scholarship throughout my studies?
Maintain the required GPA, meet research or project deadlines, and stay in good academic standing. Some scholarships also require community engagement or mentorship participation.
Are there specific MS scholarships available for underrepresented communities or first-generation college students?
Yes, programs like AAUW International Fellowships, PEO International Peace Scholarships, and the Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships support underrepresented groups, including women, minorities, and first-generation students.
Do universities allow students to combine external scholarships with fully funded MS scholarships?
Most universities allow stacking of external scholarships, but total aid cannot exceed tuition and living expenses. Some scholarships have restrictions, so check individual policies.
Are there fully funded MS scholarships for students pursuing interdisciplinary or emerging fields of study?
Yes, programs like Knight-Hennessy Scholars (Stanford) and NSF Fellowships support AI, sustainability, biotechnology, and space research. Many universities also offer funding for interdisciplinary studies.
How do I prove financial need when applying for need-based fully funded MS scholarships?
Submit bank statements, family income proof, and tax documents as per university requirements. Some scholarships require a personal statement explaining financial need.
What are some common mistakes that lead to MS scholarship application rejections?
- Incomplete applications or missing documents
- Weak SOP or generic recommendation letters
- Not meeting eligibility criteria (GPA, test scores, deadlines)
- Failure to demonstrate research potential or career goals
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