Pursuing a master’s degree in the USA can be a transformative academic and professional experience — but the cost of tuition and living expenses often poses a significant barrier for international students. Fortunately, there are a number of fully funded master’s programs and scholarships that cover tuition, living stipends, travel, and more, allowing talented students from around the world to earn a graduate degree without financial burden.
This guide provides an overview of some of the top fully funded master’s opportunities in the United States, who they’re for, what they cover, and tips on applying.
What Does “Fully Funded” Mean?
A fully funded scholarship or program typically covers:
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Tuition and fees for the full duration of the master’s program
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Living stipend to cover accommodation, food, and daily needs
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Health insurance in many cases
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Travel allowance (often airfare to and from the U.S.)
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Sometimes additional funding for books, research, and professional development
These awards are highly competitive and often include leadership, research, or professional development components.
1. Knight-Hennessy Scholars — Stanford University
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Host: Stanford University
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Field: Any graduate degree (including master’s)
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Coverage: Full tuition, living stipend, travel expenses, and leadership training
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Who It’s For: Exceptional students worldwide with academic and leadership potential
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program is one of the most prestigious and generous fully funded scholarships in the world. Each year Stanford awards funding to up to 100 scholars from any discipline. Scholars not only receive financial support but also leadership development opportunities and access to Stanford’s global networks.
Why It’s Exceptional:
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Covers the full cost of study at Stanford
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Open to students from every country
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Includes mentorship and professional development
Tip: Admission to Stanford graduate programs and the Knight-Hennessy selection process are separate — applicants must apply to both.
2. Fulbright Foreign Student Program
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Host: U.S. Government (varies by country)
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Field: Most disciplines
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Coverage: Tuition, living stipend, health insurance, travel to/from the U.S.
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Who It’s For: Graduates and young professionals looking to pursue graduate study and research
The Fulbright Foreign Student Program is one of the most recognized international exchange programs worldwide. Each year thousands of students receive funding to pursue master’s or research programs in the U.S., fostering intercultural exchange and leadership.
Benefits:
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Full support for study and research in the USA
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Widely available across more than 155 countries
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Provides opportunities to build international networks and cultural understanding
Application Tip: Deadlines and requirements vary by country — applicants usually apply through the U.S. embassy or a Fulbright commission in their home country.
3. AAUW International Fellowships
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Host: American Association of University Women (AAUW)
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Field: Any graduate field
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Coverage: Full tuition and living stipend (varies by award)
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Who It’s For: Women from all countries (non-U.S. citizens) pursuing graduate or postgraduate study
AAUW International Fellowships aim to empower women across the globe by supporting them through full tuition and living support for master’s or PhD studies in the U.S.
Key Advantages:
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Strong support system and global network
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Encourages women’s leadership and academic growth
Note: Deadlines are typically in late autumn or early winter for the following academic year.
4. Obama Foundation Scholars Program
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Host: Obama Foundation (in partnership with universities such as Columbia University and University of Chicago)
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Field: Public policy, leadership, community development, and related areas
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Coverage: Full tuition, living stipend, travel, and leadership programming
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Who It’s For: Emerging leaders with a commitment to impactful work
The Obama Foundation Scholars Program is designed for students who have demonstrated leadership and want to apply their master’s training toward real-world impact. Funding includes tuition and living costs, along with access to specialized leadership development programs.
Unique Feature:
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Combines academic study with immersive leadership experience
5. Rotary Peace Fellowship
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Host: Rotary International
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Field: Peace and conflict resolution
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Coverage: Tuition, fees, room and board, travel, and internships
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Who It’s For: Students pursuing peace, development, and conflict resolution graduate programs
The Rotary Peace Fellowship offers a fully funded master’s degree for students committed to peacebuilding and conflict prevention. These programs are held at recognized institutions including in the U.S. and internationally.
Why It’s Noteworthy:
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Fully funded with generous living and internship support
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Focuses on global peace initiatives
6. STEM Diversity Fellowships (e.g., GFSD)
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Host: Various research institutions and foundations
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Field: Science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM)
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Coverage: Full tuition + annual stipends + possible internships
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Who It’s For: Students from underrepresented backgrounds in STEM
Programs like the Graduate Fellowships for STEM Diversity (GFSD) provide multi-year support for students in STEM fields, combining tuition coverage with stipends and research or internship opportunities.
Benefits:
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Opportunity for practical experience in research or industry
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Support networks for minority and underrepresented students
7. University-Specific Fellowships and Support
Many U.S. universities also offer their own fully funded awards for outstanding applicants:
Yale University
Yale offers scholarship funding based on need and academic merit for graduate students, which can cover tuition and living expenses.
University of Minnesota
Provides fellowship support for graduate education, including full tuition and stipends for select programs.
How to Increase Your Chances
1. Start Early
Most programs have deadlines many months before enrollment.
2. Prepare Strong Materials
This includes academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, standardized test scores if required (e.g., GRE), and compelling personal statements.
3. Highlight Leadership and Impact
Many fully funded opportunities emphasize potential for leadership and global impact.
4. Tailor Applications
Each award has specific preferences — tailor your essays to reflect the program’s mission.
Final Thoughts
Fully funded master’s programs in the USA are highly competitive but incredibly rewarding. They not only remove financial barriers but also connect students with world-leading research institutions, influential networks, and professional opportunities that can accelerate careers and global impact.
Whether you’re pursuing public health, peace studies, STEM research, or international leadership, there are prestigious programs that help you achieve your goals with minimal financial burden. The key to success is researching each program thoroughly, preparing well in advance, and telling your unique story effectively in every application.