{"id":19671,"date":"2025-04-17T11:07:36","date_gmt":"2025-04-17T05:37:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/?p=19671"},"modified":"2026-03-02T10:48:55","modified_gmt":"2026-03-02T05:18:55","slug":"phd-scholarships-in-usa","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/student-finances\/phd-scholarships-in-usa\/","title":{"rendered":"Top Fully Funded PhD Scholarships in USA for International Students"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

So, you\u2019ve got your sights set on earning a PhD in the USA \u2014 exciting, right? But then reality hits: tuition, research costs, living expenses, and a whole lot more. The good news? You don\u2019t have to shoulder it all alone. The U.S. offers some amazing fully funded PhD scholarships that can cover everything from tuition fees and monthly stipends to research support and health insurance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In this guide, we\u2019re diving into some of the top scholarships in USA for international students<\/a><\/strong> that don\u2019t just offer funding \u2014 they open doors. Whether you\u2019re aiming for a globally renowned program like Fulbright, a women-exclusive fellowship like AAUW, or something more specialized like the Hertz or IBM PhD Fellowships, we\u2019ve got it all covered here. Ready to find your perfect match? Let\u2019s explore your options!<\/p>\n\n\n

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Prestigious and Widely Known Scholarships in USA<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s face it \u2014 getting into a top PhD program in the U.S. is a huge accomplishment in itself. But scoring a fully funded scholarship from a globally recognized program? That\u2019s a total game-changer. This category includes some of the most competitive and prestigious PhD scholarships in the USA for international students. What makes them stand out? First, the financial coverage is incredibly generous \u2014 we\u2019re talking full tuition, monthly stipends, airfare, health insurance, and often extra support for research, conferences, or even housing. Second, they\u2019re often tied to top-tier institutions and research bodies across the U.S., so the credibility and exposure you gain are unmatched. Below are some prestigious and widely known scholarships in USA: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fulbright Foreign Student Program<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you’re dreaming of doing your PhD in the USA without worrying about tuition, living expenses, or even research costs, then the Fulbright Foreign Student Program might just be your golden ticket. Run by the U.S. Department of State, this program supports bright international students like you from over 160 countries. So what do you get? A lot, honestly.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The scholarship covers your full tuition, gives you a monthly stipend (somewhere between $1,000 to $2,500, depending on where you live in the U.S.), pays for your round-trip airfare, health insurance, and even throws in support for research and conferences. Each year, about 4,000 students around the world win this scholarship. Following are the key details of Fulbright Foreign Student Program: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

What You Need to Know<\/strong> <\/td>Details<\/strong> <\/td><\/tr>
Who funds it?<\/strong> <\/td>U.S. Department of State <\/td><\/tr>
Who can apply?<\/strong> <\/td>Students from 160+ countries worldwide <\/td><\/tr>
What does it cover?<\/strong> <\/td>Full tuition, $1,000\u2013$2,500\/month stipend, airfare, health insurance, research & conference support <\/td><\/tr>
What can I study?<\/strong> <\/td>Any field (except clinical medicine) <\/td><\/tr>
How many are awarded?<\/strong> <\/td>Around 4,000 scholarships every year <\/td><\/tr>
How long does it last?<\/strong> <\/td>Usually 3 to 5 years, depending on your PhD program <\/td><\/tr>
Where can I study?<\/strong> <\/td>400+ U.S. universities and colleges <\/td><\/tr>
When to apply?<\/strong> <\/td>Application period differs by country (Feb to Oct typically) <\/td><\/tr>
Official Website<\/strong> <\/td>foreign.fulbrightonline.org<\/a><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/div><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

AAUW International Fellowships<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

AAUW International Fellowships, offered by the American Association of University Women, this scholarship is exclusively for women from around the world.  What makes this fellowship so special? First off, it\u2019s one of the oldest and most prestigious scholarship programs for women globally, running since 1917.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The fellowship provides up to $50,000 per year for PhD-level studies \u2014 which can go a long way in covering tuition, housing, books, research expenses, and even childcare if needed. Even better? You don\u2019t need to be from a specific academic background. Whether you\u2019re working on tech, arts, economics, or science, all disciplines are welcome. Following are the AAUW International Fellowships: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

What You Need to Know<\/strong> <\/td>Details<\/strong> <\/td><\/tr>
Who offers it?<\/strong> <\/td>American Association of University Women (AAUW) <\/td><\/tr>
Who can apply?<\/strong> <\/td>Women who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents <\/td><\/tr>
What does it cover?<\/strong> <\/td>Up to $50,000 per year for PhD programs <\/td><\/tr>
What\u2019s it for?<\/strong> <\/td>Tuition, living expenses, research, books, and more <\/td><\/tr>
Who\u2019s it for?<\/strong> <\/td>Women planning to return home and become leaders in their fields <\/td><\/tr>
Fields of Study<\/strong> <\/td>Open to all academic disciplines (STEM strongly encouraged) <\/td><\/tr>
Duration<\/strong> <\/td>1 academic year (renewable in some cases) <\/td><\/tr>
Official Website<\/strong> <\/td>aauw.org<\/a><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/div><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Hertz Foundation Graduate Fellowship<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Hertz Foundation Graduate Fellowship is prestigious and super-selective fellowship built for PhD students in applied physical, biological, and engineering sciences. Here\u2019s the exciting part \u2014 this isn\u2019t your average scholarship. The Hertz Fellowship fully covers your tuition and gives you a personal stipend of up to $38,000 per year. That means you can study at top U.S. research universities without stressing about fees or rent.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The support continues for up to five years, which is rare and incredibly valuable in a PhD program. The Foundation even gives you the flexibility to combine the fellowship with other awards (like NSF or NDSEG), so you\u2019re in control of your academic journey. Below are the key details of Hertz Foundation Graduate Fellowship: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

What You Need to Know<\/strong> <\/td>Details<\/strong> <\/td><\/tr>
Who offers it?<\/strong> <\/td>Fannie and John Hertz Foundation <\/td><\/tr>
Who can apply?<\/strong> <\/td>Students in applied physical, biological, and engineering sciences <\/td><\/tr>
What does it cover?<\/strong> <\/td>Full tuition + up to $38,000 annual stipend <\/td><\/tr>
How long does it last?<\/strong> <\/td>Up to 5 years of support <\/td><\/tr>
Other Perks<\/strong> <\/td>Mentorship, flexibility to combine with other fellowships, leadership network <\/td><\/tr>
Official Website<\/strong> <\/td>hertzfoundation.org<\/a> <\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/div><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

IBM PhD Fellowship Award Program<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The IBM PhD Fellowship Award Program is designed just for top-performing PhD students who are working in computer science and related fields. Whether your thing is AI, quantum computing, cybersecurity, or cloud computing, IBM is ready to back your potential. The fellowship includes full tuition and fees for two years, along with a generous living stipend.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

But the real cherry on top? You\u2019ll have opportunities to collaborate with IBM\u2019s world-class research team. What sets IBM apart is how closely it aligns with what\u2019s actually happening in tech today. Their fellowship isn\u2019t just about writing papers \u2014 it\u2019s about making breakthroughs that change industries. Below are the key details of IBM PhD Fellowship Award Program: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

What You Need to Know<\/strong> <\/td>Details<\/strong> <\/td><\/tr>
Who offers it?<\/strong> <\/td>IBM <\/td><\/tr>
Who can apply?<\/strong> <\/td>PhD students in computer science, AI, quantum computing, cybersecurity, cloud, and related fields <\/td><\/tr>
What does it cover?<\/strong> <\/td>Full tuition + 2 years of stipend support <\/td><\/tr>
Extras<\/strong> <\/td>Access to IBM researchers, collaboration on live projects <\/td><\/tr>
Duration<\/strong> <\/td>2 academic years <\/td><\/tr>
What are they looking for?<\/strong> <\/td>Technical depth, innovation, strong research alignment with IBM <\/td><\/tr>
Official Website<\/strong> <\/td>research.ibm.com<\/a><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/div><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Other Notable PhD Scholarships in USA<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Now, while the big names like Fulbright and AAUW often steal the spotlight, there\u2019s a whole world of other fully funded scholarships that are just as powerful \u2014 especially if you\u2019re looking for support based on your background, goals, or area of research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

These scholarships may not always make the headline lists, but trust us \u2014 they\u2019re incredible opportunities, especially for students from developing countries, underrepresented communities, or those researching niche or socially impactful fields. Below are the key details of other notable PhD scholarships in USA.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re from a developing country and dreaming of a world-class PhD in the USA \u2014 but funding feels like a roadblock \u2014 the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship is for you. Here\u2019s how it works: this program covers tuition and living expenses for bright students who have no other means to finance their education. But there\u2019s a twist \u2014 the scholarship is structured as 50% grant and 50% loan, which means part of the amount is repayable (but at a super low interest rate, and often with very flexible terms). Following are the key details of Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

What You Need to Know<\/strong> <\/td>Details<\/strong> <\/td><\/tr>
Who offers it?<\/strong> <\/td>Aga Khan Foundation <\/td><\/tr>
Who can apply?<\/strong> <\/td>Students from developing countries with demonstrated financial need <\/td><\/tr>
Funding Model<\/strong> <\/td>50% grant + 50% low-interest loan <\/td><\/tr>
What does it cover?<\/strong> <\/td>Tuition + living expenses for PhD and other postgraduate studies <\/td><\/tr>
Fields of Study<\/strong> <\/td>Open to all academic disciplines <\/td><\/tr>
Official Website<\/strong> <\/td>akdn.org<\/a><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/div><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Campbell Fellowships for Transformative Research<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Campbell Fellowship offered by the School for Advanced Research (SAR), this fellowship is specifically designed to support female scholars from developing countries who are researching women\u2019s roles, challenges, and progress in their communities. Selected fellows receive a monthly stipend, free housing, and access to world-class academic resources and libraries \u2014 all while living and working in an intellectually vibrant setting in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The fellowship lasts up to nine months, giving you dedicated time to focus on your research, collaborate with peers, and publish your work. Following are the key details of Campbell Fellowships for Transformative Research: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

What You Need to Know<\/strong> <\/td>Details<\/strong> <\/td><\/tr>
Who offers it?<\/strong> <\/td>School for Advanced Research (SAR) <\/td><\/tr>
Who can apply?<\/strong> <\/td>Female PhD scholars from developing nations<\/strong> <\/td><\/tr>
Focus Areas<\/strong> <\/td>Women\u2019s development, anthropology, sociology, gender studies, and related fields <\/td><\/tr>
Support Provided<\/strong> <\/td>Monthly stipend, on-campus housing, access to academic and research resources <\/td><\/tr>
Fellowship Duration<\/strong> <\/td>Up to 9 months <\/td><\/tr>
Official Website<\/strong> <\/td>sarweb.org<\/a><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/div><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Texas A&M Hertz Fellowship<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Texas A&M Hertz Fellowship is the university\u2019s own version of the nationally recognized Hertz support system, and it’s built for PhD students in science, technology, engineering, and math disciplines. What makes this program awesome? For starters, it comes with full tuition coverage \u2014 no surprise bills or hidden lab fees. On top of that, recipients get a generous annual stipend, exclusive access to research labs, and dedicated mentorship from faculty and experts who genuinely care about your growth. Following are the key details of Texas A&M Hertz Fellowship: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

What You Need to Know<\/strong> <\/td>Details<\/strong> <\/td><\/tr>
Institution<\/strong> <\/td>Texas A&M University <\/td><\/tr>
Who can apply?<\/strong> <\/td>High-achieving PhD students in STEM and Engineering fields <\/td><\/tr>
What does it cover?<\/strong> <\/td>Full tuition + generous annual stipend <\/td><\/tr>
Other Benefits<\/strong> <\/td>Access to advanced research labs, mentorship, faculty support <\/td><\/tr>
Fellowship Duration<\/strong> <\/td>Typically aligned with full PhD duration (up to 5 years) <\/td><\/tr>
Official Website<\/strong> <\/td>engineering.tamu.edu<\/a><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/div><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n
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Conclusion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

And there you have it \u2014 a complete list of some of the most powerful fully funded PhD scholarships in the USA for international students. These programs aren\u2019t just about the money (though, let\u2019s admit, that helps a lot!). They\u2019re about backing brilliant minds, supporting global talent, and helping students like you thrive at some of the best universities in the world. Need help with housing, scholarship advice, or just planning your big move? Reach out to University Living<\/a><\/strong> today \u2014 we\u2019re here to make your study abroad dream smooth, secure, and totally stress-free. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n
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What are the best fully funded PhD scholarships in the USA for international students?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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Some of the top fully funded PhD scholarships for international students in the USA include the Fulbright Foreign Student Program<\/strong>, AAUW International Fellowships<\/strong>, Hertz Foundation Graduate Fellowship<\/strong>, IBM PhD Fellowship<\/strong>, and scholarships by organizations like the Aga Khan Foundation<\/strong> and Texas A&M<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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Does the Fulbright Scholarship cover all PhD expenses in the USA?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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Yes, the Fulbright Foreign Student Program<\/strong> covers full tuition fees, a monthly living stipend, round-trip airfare, health insurance, and even research and conference allowances.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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Who can apply for AAUW International Fellowships?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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AAUW Fellowships<\/strong> are open to women from any country<\/strong> except the United States. You must be pursuing full-time postgraduate or doctoral studies and planning to return to your home country after completing your degree.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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Is there any fully funded PhD scholarship for STEM students in the USA<\/strong>?<\/h3>\n
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Absolutely! The Hertz Foundation Graduate Fellowship<\/strong> and Texas A&M Hertz Fellowship<\/strong> are both tailored for high-achieving PhD students in STEM fields<\/strong>, offering full tuition, annual stipends, and research opportunities.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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How much does the IBM PhD Fellowship pay<\/strong>?<\/h3>\n
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The IBM PhD Fellowship<\/strong> provides full tuition coverage<\/strong> and a generous stipend for two academic years<\/strong>, along with opportunities to collaborate with IBM research teams.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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Are there fully funded PhD scholarships in the USA for students from developing countries<\/strong>?<\/h3>\n
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Yes! The Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship<\/strong> is designed for students from developing nations and provides tuition and living expenses under a 50% grant and 50% low-interest loan model. The Campbell Fellowship<\/strong> is another great option for women from developing countries researching women\u2019s development.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

So, you\u2019ve got your sights set on earning a PhD in the USA \u2014 exciting, right? But then reality hits: tuition, research costs, living expenses, and a whole lot more. The good news? You don\u2019t have to shoulder it all alone. The U.S. offers some amazing fully funded PhD scholarships that can cover everything from […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":19738,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[975],"tags":[994],"class_list":["post-19671","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-student-finances","tag-united-states"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/19671","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=19671"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/19671\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/19738"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=19671"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=19671"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=19671"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}