Are you a student actively searching for fully funded master’s programs in the United States? If so, you are exploring one of the most opportunity-rich destinations for graduate education worldwide. The USA offers a wide range of fully funded and partially funded master’s programs designed to support talented international students across diverse academic disciplines. You may be wondering which fully funded master’s options are available to you and how to identify the most suitable opportunities. This article provides a detailed overview of prominent scholarship programs and degree pathways available to students pursuing a master’s degree in the United States.
For many students aspiring to study abroad, master’s programs rank among the most popular academic choices, particularly those offered by American universities. One major reason is the availability of scholarships that significantly reduce or completely eliminate tuition and living expenses. If you are considering this academic journey, this guide will help you understand your options and make informed decisions.
Before applying, it is essential to conduct thorough research and carefully select fully funded master’s programs in the USA that align with your academic goals, financial needs, and long-term career plans.
Advantages of Pursuing a Fully Funded Master’s Program in the USA
The United States has maintained a global reputation for excellence in higher education for decades and currently hosts more than one million international students across its colleges and universities. Its advanced academic infrastructure, research-driven learning environment, and globally recognized qualifications continue to attract students from all regions of the world.
Another notable advantage of studying in the USA is the opportunity for international students to gain valuable professional exposure. Most foreign students enter the country on an F-1 student visa, which may later provide pathways to work authorization and, in some cases, permanent residency (Green Card). Upon completion of a master’s degree, graduates are often eligible for post-study employment opportunities, enabling them to gain international work experience and enhance their global career prospects.
Top Fully Funded Master’s Programs in the USA with International Scholarships
Master of Public Health (MPH) Programs
The Master of Public Health (MPH) program is designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and practical skills required to protect, promote, and improve public health at local, national, and global levels. Through interdisciplinary coursework, students gain a solid understanding of healthcare systems, disease prevention, health policy, epidemiology, and strategies for addressing public health challenges that pose risks to communities and vulnerable populations. Graduates of MPH programs are well prepared for careers in public health agencies, non-governmental organizations, research institutions, and international development bodies.
Below are notable scholarship opportunities available to international students pursuing MPH programs in the United States:
Hubert Humphrey Fellowships (2024–2025) – USA
Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
Institution: Various universities across the United States
The Hubert Humphrey Fellowship Program provides full financial support to experienced professionals seeking to enhance their leadership skills and academic knowledge in public health and related fields across participating U.S. universities.
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USA Fulbright Scholarship Program for International Students
Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
Institution: Various universities across the United States
The Fulbright Program offers comprehensive funding for international students to pursue graduate studies, including MPH programs, while promoting cultural exchange and academic collaboration between the United States and other countries.
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NextGen Scholarship
Scholarship Type: Partial Funding
Institution: Various universities across the United States
The NextGen Scholarship supports international students committed to global development and leadership by providing partial financial assistance toward tuition and related academic expenses.
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International Merit Scholarship at Western Colorado University (2024)
Scholarship Type: Partial Funding
Institution: Western Colorado University, United States
This merit-based scholarship is awarded to high-achieving international students enrolled in eligible graduate programs, including public health-related disciplines, to help reduce the cost of tuition.
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Master of Arts (MA) Degree Programs
The Master of Arts (MA) degree is an advanced postgraduate program rooted in the liberal arts and humanities. It offers in-depth academic training in disciplines such as philosophy, foreign languages, English, history, literature, cultural studies, and related fields. MA programs are designed to strengthen critical thinking, research, communication, and analytical skills, preparing graduates for careers in education, research, public service, media, diplomacy, and further doctoral studies.
Below are prominent scholarship opportunities available to international students pursuing MA programs in the United States:
California Institute of the Arts Merit Scholarships
Scholarship Type: Partial Funding
Institution: California Institute of the Arts
These merit-based scholarships are awarded to outstanding international students admitted into eligible MA programs, particularly in arts, humanities, and creative disciplines. The funding helps offset tuition costs and supports academic excellence.
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USA Fulbright Scholarship Program for International Students
Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
Institution: Various universities across the United States
The Fulbright Program provides comprehensive financial support for international students pursuing graduate studies, including MA programs. It covers tuition, living expenses, and other academic costs while promoting cultural exchange and global understanding.
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Japan World Bank Joint Graduate Scholarship Programme
Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
Institution: Various universities in the United States
This prestigious scholarship supports students from developing countries who wish to pursue graduate studies, including MA programs, in development-related fields. It covers tuition, living allowances, travel expenses, and health insurance.
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Master of Business Administration (MBA) Programs
The Master of Business Administration (MBA) is one of the most sought-after graduate degrees globally. It provides students with both theoretical foundations and practical skills in key areas such as management, finance, marketing, strategy, entrepreneurship, and leadership. MBA programs are ideal for individuals seeking senior management roles, business leadership positions, or entrepreneurial ventures.
Below are top fully funded and merit-based MBA scholarship opportunities in the United States:
Harvard University MBA Scholarship for International Students (2024)
Award Type: Fully Funded
Institution: Harvard University
Country: United States
This highly competitive scholarship supports exceptional international students admitted to Harvard’s MBA program, covering tuition and associated educational expenses while fostering global leadership.
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William R. Berkley Scholarships at NYU Stern School of Business (2024)
Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
Institution: New York University
Country: United States
The William R. Berkley Scholarship is awarded to outstanding MBA candidates at NYU Stern School of Business, recognizing academic excellence, leadership potential, and commitment to global business innovation.
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Scholarship for Distinguished MBA from SMU Cox (2024)
Scholarship Type: Tuition Only
Institution: SMU Cox School of Business
Country: United States
The Scholarship for Distinguished MBA Candidates at SMU Cox School of Business is a merit-based award designed to attract high-achieving international and domestic students with strong academic records and leadership potential. This scholarship significantly reduces the financial burden by covering full or partial tuition costs, enabling recipients to focus on developing advanced business and management competencies within a globally respected MBA program.
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Master of Public Administration (MPA) Programs
The Master of Public Administration (MPA) program is comparable to an MBA but places a stronger emphasis on public service, governance, and policy implementation. It prepares graduates for leadership and management roles in government agencies, international organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and public-sector institutions. The curriculum typically covers public policy analysis, public finance, ethics, organizational leadership, and program evaluation.
Below are prominent scholarship opportunities for international students pursuing MPA programs in the United States:
USA Fulbright Scholarship Program for International Students
Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
Institution: Various universities in the United States
Country: United States
The Fulbright Program offers comprehensive funding for international students enrolled in MPA and related graduate programs. The scholarship covers tuition, living expenses, travel costs, and health insurance while promoting cross-cultural exchange and leadership development.
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Hubert Humphrey Fellowships (2024–2025) – USA
Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
Institution: Various universities in the United States
The Hubert Humphrey Fellowship Program is designed for mid-career professionals committed to public service and leadership. It provides full financial support for non-degree academic study and professional development in public administration and related fields.
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American Education Fund for Kosovo
Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
Institution: Various universities in the United States
This scholarship supports outstanding students from Kosovo who wish to pursue graduate-level education, including MPA programs, in the United States. It aims to foster leadership, institutional development, and long-term contributions to public service.
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Master of Science (MSc) Degree Programs
A Master of Science (MSc) degree is a rigorous postgraduate qualification that emphasizes scientific, technical, and analytical training. MSc programs typically involve advanced coursework in a specific discipline and, in many cases, a research-based thesis. These programs prepare graduates for professional careers in science, technology, engineering, data analysis, healthcare, and academia, as well as for doctoral-level studies.
Key scholarship opportunities for MSc students in the United States include:
USA Fulbright Scholarship Program for International Students
Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
Institution: Various universities in the United States
Country: United States
The Fulbright Scholarship provides full financial support to international students pursuing MSc degrees across a wide range of scientific and technical disciplines, fostering academic excellence and global collaboration.
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Stanford University Scholarships (2024–2025)
Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
Institution: Stanford University
Country: United States
Stanford University offers fully funded scholarship opportunities for exceptional international students admitted into eligible MSc and graduate programs. These scholarships typically cover tuition, living expenses, and other academic costs, supporting innovation, research, and leadership development at one of the world’s leading institutions.
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Hubert Humphrey Fellowships (2024–2025) in the USA
Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
Institution: Various universities across the United States
The Hubert Humphrey Fellowship Program is a prestigious, fully funded initiative designed for mid-career professionals who have demonstrated leadership potential and a commitment to public service. The fellowship provides participants with advanced academic coursework, professional development, and practical exposure across multiple U.S. universities. It is particularly suitable for individuals seeking to strengthen their expertise in areas such as public policy, law, governance, and social development while building global professional networks.
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Master of Laws (LLM) Degree Programs
The Master of Laws (LLM) is a specialized postgraduate law degree aimed at deepening students’ knowledge in specific legal fields such as international law, corporate law, human rights law, intellectual property, and comparative law. LLM programs are ideal for law graduates and legal professionals seeking academic advancement, international exposure, or enhanced career prospects in legal practice, academia, or policy-related roles.
Below are notable scholarship opportunities available to international students pursuing LLM programs in the United States:
American University Washington College of Law Scholarships for LL.M.
Scholarship Type: Full Tuition Scholarship
Institution: American University Washington College of Law
These scholarships are awarded to outstanding LLM candidates based on academic merit and professional promise. They significantly reduce or fully cover tuition costs, enabling international students to pursue advanced legal education in a globally recognized law school.
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Appel Fellowship on Multinational Enterprise Regulation
Scholarship Type: Full Tuition
Institution: Columbia University – Columbia Law School
The Appel Fellowship supports exceptional LLM students specializing in multinational enterprise regulation and related areas of international business law. The fellowship provides full tuition coverage and offers scholars access to cutting-edge research, policy engagement, and global legal networks.
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University of Cincinnati LLM Scholarships
Scholarship Type: Variable (Merit-Based)
Institution: University of Cincinnati – College of Law
These merit-based scholarships are awarded to high-performing international students enrolled in the LLM program. Funding levels vary depending on academic excellence and professional background, helping to reduce the overall cost of legal education.
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Master of Fine Arts (MFA) Degree Programs
The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) is a terminal degree focused on creative and performing arts disciplines such as theatre, graphic design, photography, filmmaking, creative writing, and visual arts. MFA programs emphasize hands-on practice, artistic development, and professional portfolio building. According to industry data, MFA graduates can earn annual salaries ranging from approximately $39,000 to $168,000, depending on specialization and career path.
Key scholarship opportunities for international students pursuing MFA programs in the United States include:
USA Fulbright Scholarship Program for International Students
Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
Institution: Various universities across the United States
The Fulbright Program provides comprehensive financial support for international students pursuing MFA and other graduate programs. It covers tuition, living expenses, travel, and health insurance while fostering cultural exchange and artistic collaboration.
Find Out More and Apply
Japan World Bank Joint Graduate Scholarship Programme
Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
Institution: Various universities in the United States
This highly competitive scholarship supports students from developing countries who wish to pursue graduate studies, including MFA programs aligned with development and social impact. The funding typically covers tuition, living costs, travel expenses, and health insurance.
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MFA Cinder Scholarship
The MFA Cinder Scholarship is a TalNexus-sponsored award designed to support talented students pursuing a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree in the United States. This scholarship is aimed at encouraging creativity, artistic excellence, and professional development within the creative arts sector. It provides financial assistance to help offset educational expenses and support students as they refine their artistic skills and portfolios.
Scholarship Benefit: Up to $4,000
Country: United States
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Fellowships in Visual Arts at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, USA
The Fellowships in Visual Arts offered by the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) are prestigious awards that support emerging and established artists pursuing advanced studies or professional development in visual arts disciplines. These fellowships are highly competitive and recognize artistic merit, originality, and potential for long-term impact in the arts community.
Scholarship Benefit: Up to $8,000
Country: United States
Institution: Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
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Master’s Scholarships at the University of California – Mastercard Foundation (USA)
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of California, Berkeley provides comprehensive financial support to outstanding students from underrepresented and economically disadvantaged backgrounds. This scholarship is designed to empower scholars to pursue graduate studies while developing leadership skills and a commitment to giving back to their communities.
Scholarship Benefit: Fully Funded (Tuition, Housing, Transportation, Living Expenses, and Visa Support)
Country: United States
Institution: University of California, Berkeley
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Master of Music (MM / MMus) Degree Programs
The Master of Music (MM or MMus) degree is a specialized graduate program tailored for students seeking professional careers in music performance, composition, conducting, music education, and music research. These programs combine rigorous academic coursework with intensive practical training, preparing graduates for roles as performers, educators, composers, and music industry professionals.
Below are notable scholarship opportunities available to international students pursuing Master of Music programs in the United States:
Bruce K. Lee Scholarship
Scholarship Type: Partial Funding
Country: United States
Institution: Various colleges and universities across the United States
The Bruce K. Lee Scholarship supports students enrolled in music-related graduate programs by providing partial financial assistance. It is awarded based on merit and demonstrated commitment to music education and professional growth.
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International Education Fees Scholarships in the USA (2024)
Scholarship Type: Tuition Only
Country: United States
Institution: Texas A&M University
This scholarship is designed to reduce tuition costs for international graduate students, including those enrolled in Master of Music programs. It helps ease the financial burden of international education while enabling students to focus on academic and artistic excellence.
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Conclusion
Regardless of your academic background, financial situation, field of study, or country of origin, there are fully funded and partially funded master’s scholarships in the United States available to support your educational aspirations. From fine arts and music to public service, law, and sciences, these opportunities are designed to empower talented students worldwide. With careful research, early preparation, and a clear understanding of eligibility requirements, you can identify a scholarship that aligns with your goals and take a significant step toward achieving a world-class master’s degree in the USA.