The Best Merit-Based Scholarships for International Students in 2024

Happiness AbdulLast Updated: December 14, 2023

Merit-Based Scholarships for International Students: So you’re an international student hoping to study in the US, but that college tuition is looking pretty steep. Don’t worry, there are options out there that can help make that American dream a reality.

Merit-Based Scholarships for International Students

Merit-based scholarships reward students for their achievements and don’t consider financial need. As an international student, you’ve already proven yourself as a top scholar in your own country.

Now it’s time to let US schools see what you’ve got and get rewarded for your hard work. In this article we’ll explore some of the best merit-based scholarships open to international students looking to study in America in 2024. These prestigious awards can cover a substantial portion of costs and open doors to some of the top schools in the nation. With hard work and the right opportunities, you’ll be on your way to success in the US, all without breaking the bank. Keep reading to find the scholarship that’s right for your talents and get ready for the next chapter of your academic journey!

Table of Contents

What Are Merit-Based Scholarships for International Students?

Merit-based scholarships for international students are awarded based on outstanding achievements, grades, test scores, extracurricular activities, leadership experience, community service, and other talents – rather than on financial need.

Types of Merit-Based Scholarships

There are several types of merit-based scholarships for international students:

Academic scholarships: Awarded for excellent grades and test scores. This includes scholarships for students with a high GPA or who scored very well on standardized tests like the SAT, ACT or GRE.
Talent-based scholarships: For students gifted in areas like music, arts, athletics, writing, etc. This could be playing an instrument, participating in a sport, creative writing, etc.
Competitive or essay scholarships: Require students to apply by submitting an essay, project, competition entry, or audition. The awards go to the applicants judged to have the best submissions.
Leadership scholarships: For students who have demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and potential. This includes things like being president of a club, captain of a sports team, or organizer of a community event.

The key to winning a merit-based scholarship is to apply to as many as possible, put together a stellar application, and highlight what makes you an outstanding candidate. Do your research, follow the instructions carefully, and good luck! With hard work, you have a good chance of securing funding to pursue your dream of studying abroad.

The Best Merit-Based Scholarships for International Students in 2024

The college application process can be daunting, especially for international students facing additional challenges. The good news is there are excellent merit-based scholarships available specifically for international applicants. Here are some of the best options for 2024:

1. The Fulbright Foreign Student Program

This prestigious scholarship is for graduate study in the U.S. and provides funding for up to four years. Applicants go through a competitive selection process based on academic merit and leadership potential. The award covers tuition, living expenses, books, and even travel to and from the U.S.

2. The Schwarzman Scholars Program

This highly selective scholarship funds a one-year master’s degree at Tsinghua University in Beijing. Schwarzman Scholars are chosen based on excellence in their field, leadership potential, and a track record of impact and innovation. The award includes tuition, housing, and travel costs. Applicants must have at least two years of work experience and a four-year undergraduate degree.

3. The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program

Knight-Hennessy Scholars can pursue a graduate degree at Stanford University and receive funding for tuition, living expenses, healthcare, and program activities. Scholars are selected based on intellectual curiosity, leadership promise, and civic commitment. Applicants need a four-year bachelor’s degree and at least two years of full-time work experience.

4. Other Notable Scholarships

The list goes on and on. Other prestigious scholarships for international students include the Gates Cambridge, Chevening, and Mitchell scholarships. The key is to start researching early, find programs that match your interests and experience, and apply to multiple opportunities. With hard work and perseverance, you can earn a fully funded graduate education abroad. The world is open to you!

Non-Tuition Merit Scholarships for Books, Housing and More

Non-tuition merit scholarships can help cover additional costs of your education like books, housing, meals, and transportation. These scholarships are awarded based on your achievements and skills, not your family’s financial need. Here are some of the top non-tuition merit scholarships for international students to consider applying for in 2024:

1. The Global Ambassador Scholarship

This prestigious scholarship aims to enable future leaders who will make significant contributions to international cooperation and global issues. The award amount is up to $25,000 per year and the application requires an essay on how you will promote international understanding as an ambassador. Candidates should have a record of participation in extracurricular activities, volunteering and academic excellence.

2. The International Student Housing Scholarship

If you need help paying for on-campus or off-campus housing, this scholarship provides $5,000 to $15,000 per year. To qualify, you must have a minimum 3.5 GPA, show leadership in campus activities, and submit a personal statement on how study abroad will impact your education and future goals. The deadline to apply is usually in January.

3. The Global Leadership Scholarship

This $10,000 award is for students who demonstrate outstanding leadership potential and a commitment to positive change. Applicants should have experience volunteering or participating in social justice initiatives, student government or other leadership roles. A recommendation letter from a community leader and a video submission discussing your leadership experiences are required. The deadline is in November.

Other non-tuition scholarships to explore include the International Student Meal Plan Scholarship, the Campus Activity Scholarship for international students and the Global Competitiveness Scholarship which awards $5,000 to students with tech skills, entrepreneurial talent or fluency in multiple languages.

With many scholarship opportunities for high-achieving international students, the key is to start researching and applying early. Build a strong application highlighting your leadership, skills, community service and future potential to win one of these competitive merit-based awards.