If you’re considering pursuing a master’s degree in the United States, there are numerous fully funded opportunities available to support international students. This guide highlights some scholarship options that can make achieving your academic goals more attainable.
The U.S. continues to be one of the most sought-after destinations for higher education, attracting students from across the globe with its world-class academic standards and wide range of funding programs. For those planning to earn a master’s degree abroad, particularly in the United States, these opportunities can help make the journey both affordable and worthwhile.
The first step is to carefully research and identify programs that align with your academic interests and career objectives.
Why Consider a Fully Funded Master’s Degree in the U.S.?
The United States hosts some of the most prestigious universities worldwide and is recognized for its rigorous, innovative education system. Every year, it welcomes over a million international students.
A key advantage of studying in the U.S. is the opportunity to learn within a structured academic environment that fosters international talent and professional growth.
Most international students enter the U.S. on an F-1 student visa, which in some cases can serve as a stepping stone toward permanent residency (Green Card). Completing a master’s program also opens doors to employment opportunities in the U.S., allowing graduates to gain valuable work experience in their fields.
Fully Funded Master’s Programs in the USA with Scholarships for International Students
1. Master of Public Health (MPH) Programs
The Master of Public Health (MPH) degree equips students with the skills to improve community and global health. It emphasizes understanding healthcare systems, public health policies, and strategies for disease prevention and health promotion. The program is ideal for those who want to address major health challenges and drive positive change in public health outcomes.
Available Scholarships:
Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship, USA
Type: Fully Funded
Institution: Partner universities across the United States
Fulbright Foreign Student Program, USA
Type: Fully Funded
Institution: Various universities throughout the United States
NextGen Scholarship
Type: Partially Funded
Institution: Available at multiple U.S. universities
International Merit Scholarship – Western Colorado University
Type: Partially Funded
Institution: Western Colorado University
2. Master of Arts (MA) Programs
The Master of Arts (MA) degree focuses on disciplines in the humanities and social sciences, including literature, philosophy, history, and foreign languages. It provides a strong academic foundation while enhancing analytical and critical thinking skills. Graduates often pursue careers in education, writing, cultural studies, and research.
Available Scholarships:
California Institute of the Arts Merit Scholarships
Type: Partially Funded
Institution: California Institute of the Arts
Fulbright Foreign Student Program, USA
Type: Fully Funded
Institution: Multiple universities across the United States
Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
Type: Fully Funded
Institution: Partner universities in the United States
3. Master of Business Administration (MBA) Programs
An MBA program combines academic knowledge with practical training in fields such as finance, marketing, strategic management, and operations. It is particularly suited for professionals seeking to strengthen their leadership abilities and advance in the corporate or entrepreneurial world.
Available Scholarships:
Harvard University MBA Scholarship
Type: Fully Funded
Institution: Harvard University
Country: United States
William R. Berkley Scholarship – NYU Stern School of Business
Type: Fully Funded
Institution: New York University (NYU)
Country: United States
Distinguished MBA Scholarship – SMU Cox School of Business
Type: Tuition Coverage Only
Institution: SMU Cox School of Business
Country: United States
4. Master of Public Administration (MPA) Programs
The Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree, while sharing some similarities with the MBA, focuses on governance, nonprofit management, and public service. It equips students with leadership and policy-making skills essential for careers in government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and institutions dedicated to public policy and administration.
Available Scholarships:
Fulbright Foreign Student Program, USA
Type: Fully Funded
Institution: Multiple universities in the United States
Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship, USA
Type: Fully Funded
Institution: Partner universities across the United States
Learn More and Apply Scholarships
Type: Fully Funded
Institution: Various universities in the United States
5. Master of Science (MSc) Programs
The Master of Science (MSc) degree is research-driven and designed for students who want to deepen their expertise in scientific, technological, or analytical fields. Common areas of specialization include computer science, engineering, biology, economics, and other STEM-related disciplines. Most MSc programs require a thesis or significant research project, making them ideal for students pursuing advanced study or academic careers.
Available Scholarships:
Fulbright Foreign Student Program, USA
Type: Fully Funded
Institution: Various universities across the United States
Stanford University Scholarships (2026)
Type: Fully Funded
Institution: Stanford University
Country: United States
Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowships (2026), USA
Type: Fully Funded
Institution: Partner universities across the United States
American Education Fund for Kosovo
Type: Fully Funded
Institution: Select universities in the United States
6. Master of Laws (LLM) Programs
The Master of Laws (LLM) is an advanced degree tailored for legal professionals who wish to deepen their knowledge in specialized areas of law. It is particularly valuable for those pursuing careers in international law, corporate law, or human rights, and it can also serve as a pathway to academic positions or professional certification.
Available Scholarships:
American University Washington College of Law – LL.M. Scholarships
Type: Full Tuition Scholarship
Institution: American University Washington College of Law
Appel Fellowship on Multinational Enterprise Regulation
Type: Full Tuition
Institution: Columbia University – Columbia Law School (CLS)
Cincinnati University LL.M. Scholarships
Type: Merit-Based
Institution: College of Law, University of Cincinnati
7. Master of Fine Arts (MFA) Programs
The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) is a terminal degree in the arts designed for students pursuing advanced studies in creative fields such as painting, filmmaking, theater, graphic design, and photography. It helps artists refine their craft, gain professional recognition, and prepare for careers as creators, directors, performers, or educators.
Available Scholarships and Fellowships:
Fulbright Foreign Student Program, USA
Type: Fully Funded
Institution: Various universities across the United States
Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
Type: Fully Funded
Institution: Multiple universities across the United States
MFA Cinder Scholarship (TalNexus)
Benefit: Up to $4,000
Institution: TalNexus (for MFA students in various creative fields)
Country: United States
Fellowships in Visual Arts – Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Benefit: Up to $8,000
Institution: Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Country: United States
8. MasterCard Foundation Full Scholarships
Through a partnership with the University of California, Berkeley, the MasterCard Foundation provides fully funded scholarships for international students pursuing master’s degrees. The program is designed to support students from disadvantaged backgrounds by covering all major expenses, including tuition, housing, travel, living costs, and visa fees. Beyond financial support, the initiative empowers scholars to return to their communities as leaders and change-makers.
Scholarship Details:
Benefit: Complete Funding (tuition, accommodation, travel, living expenses, and visa costs)
Institution: University of California, Berkeley
Country: United States
9. Master of Music (MM/MMus) Programs
The Master of Music (MM or MMus) degree provides advanced training in areas such as performance, composition, conducting, and music theory. These programs are tailored for students aiming to become professional musicians, composers, educators, or music directors, offering both academic depth and practical expertise in the field.
Available Scholarships:
Bruce K. Lee Scholarship
Type: Partial Funding
Institution: Various U.S. colleges and universities
Country: United States
Scholarships for International Education Fees – Texas A&M University (TAMU)
Type: Tuition Only
Institution: Texas A&M University
Country: United States