Pursuing a higher education degree in a foreign country can be a life-changing experience. For many international students, however, the financial burden of studying abroad can seem overwhelming. Fortunately, there are a wealth of undergraduate scholarships designed specifically for international students, providing them with the opportunity to study at some of the world’s top universities without the heavy financial strain.
In this article, we explore some of the best undergraduate scholarships for international students that can help alleviate tuition fees, accommodation costs, and other expenses while pursuing a degree in the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and other top academic destinations.
1. Fulbright Program (USA)
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Amount: Varies (covers tuition, living expenses, airfare, and health insurance)
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Eligibility: International students from eligible countries pursuing a master's or undergraduate degree
The Fulbright Program is one of the most prestigious and competitive scholarship programs globally, offering funding for international students to study in the United States. The program aims to promote mutual understanding between nations through educational exchange.
The scholarship covers all major expenses, including tuition fees, living costs, health insurance, and travel expenses. International students interested in studying in the U.S. can apply for the Fulbright Undergraduate Program through their home country’s Fulbright Commission.
This scholarship is a golden opportunity for students from eligible countries to attend top-tier universities in the U.S., such as Harvard, Yale, and MIT, without worrying about financial constraints.
2. Chevening Scholarships (UK)
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Amount: Full tuition fees, travel costs, and a living allowance
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Eligibility: Students from Chevening-eligible countries (includes most international students)
The Chevening Scholarship is the UK government’s global scholarship program, designed to help talented students from around the world gain a world-class education in the United Kingdom. While this program is primarily aimed at graduate students, there are some opportunities for undergraduate study as well, particularly for those who may later pursue postgraduate work.
Chevening scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs. As one of the most coveted scholarships in the world, it is highly competitive, and only a small number of applicants are selected each year. However, it is an incredible opportunity for international students who want to study in the UK at institutions such as Oxford, Cambridge, or LSE.
3. Australia Awards Scholarships (Australia)
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Amount: Full tuition, travel expenses, and a living allowance
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Eligibility: International students from the Asia-Pacific region, Africa, and other eligible countries
Australia Awards Scholarships provide undergraduate and postgraduate students from developing countries the opportunity to study at leading Australian universities. The program is aimed at enhancing the development potential of students from eligible countries by equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to contribute to their home nations.
The scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, return airfares, and overseas student health cover (OSHC). Students can study at universities like University of Sydney, University of Melbourne, and Australian National University. These scholarships are particularly valuable for those seeking to pursue public service or development-oriented careers.
4. Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program (France)
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Amount: €1,181 per month (for undergraduate students)
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Eligibility: Non-EU international students pursuing undergraduate or master’s programs in France
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship is a prestigious scholarship program funded by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs. While it is primarily known for supporting postgraduate students, it is also open to undergraduate students looking to study in France. This scholarship aims to attract top international students to French universities.
The scholarship offers financial support for living expenses, travel, and tuition, allowing students to study at some of the top universities in France, such as Sciences Po, École Normale Supérieure, and Université Paris-Sorbonne.
To be eligible for this scholarship, students must apply through their chosen university, as the universities select the candidates for the Eiffel program.
5. Rhodes Scholarships (UK)
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Amount: Full tuition, living stipend, and travel allowance
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Eligibility: International students from specific countries (including the U.S., Canada, India, and Australia)
While the Rhodes Scholarship is primarily a postgraduate award, there are exceptions made for certain undergraduate students in exceptional circumstances. The Rhodes Trust in Oxford, UK, offers comprehensive financial support for the full duration of an undergraduate degree program at the University of Oxford.
The scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel to and from the UK. Students are expected to demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world. As one of the oldest and most prestigious international scholarship programs, it is highly competitive, but for those who are selected, the Rhodes Scholarship provides unmatched opportunities.
6. The Gates Scholarship (USA)
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Amount: Full tuition, living expenses, and additional fees
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Eligibility: U.S. citizens, but also open to international students studying in the U.S. on an F-1 visa
Although the Gates Scholarship is targeted at U.S. students, international students on an F-1 visa are also eligible. The scholarship, funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, provides full financial support to highly talented, low-income students pursuing a degree at any accredited university in the U.S.
The scholarship covers all costs, including tuition, fees, room and board, books, and other expenses. It is aimed at underrepresented students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership skills, and a strong desire to give back to their communities.
7. Stanford University Scholarships (USA)
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Amount: Varies (based on need)
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Eligibility: International students applying to Stanford University
While Stanford University does not offer a specific scholarship program for international students, it has one of the most generous need-based financial aid policies in the world. The university meets 100% of the demonstrated financial need for all admitted students, regardless of nationality.
International students are eligible for full financial aid based on their family’s financial circumstances, which can cover tuition, room and board, and other associated costs. This makes Stanford an ideal option for high-achieving international students who need financial assistance.
8. University of Toronto International Scholars Program (Canada)
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Amount: $6,000–$20,000 CAD per year
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Eligibility: International students applying for undergraduate programs at the University of Toronto
The University of Toronto offers several scholarship opportunities for international students, including the International Scholars Program. This program provides substantial financial aid to high-achieving students from around the world, with awards ranging from $6,000 to $20,000 CAD annually.
The University of Toronto is one of Canada’s most prestigious institutions, and this scholarship program helps ensure that students from diverse backgrounds can afford to study there. Scholarships are based on both academic merit and financial need, making this an excellent opportunity for international students pursuing higher education in Canada.
9. UBC International Leader of Tomorrow Award (Canada)
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Amount: Full tuition, living expenses, and other fees
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Eligibility: International students applying to the University of British Columbia
The International Leader of Tomorrow Award at the University of British Columbia (UBC) is a highly competitive scholarship program designed for international students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership skills, and a commitment to creating positive change in their communities.
The award covers full tuition, fees, and living expenses, and is available to students pursuing an undergraduate degree at UBC. This prestigious scholarship not only helps with financial costs but also gives students the opportunity to engage with a global community of leaders.