Scholarships to study in the USA for international students

The United States is a magnet for international students from all over the world due to its world-renowned universities, diverse cultures, and abundant career and postgraduate opportunities. However, studying in the USA can be expensive, leading some to hold back when considering ​what to study in the USA. 

Malaysian students seeking to finance their education in the US can consider the wide range of scholarships available to them from universities and the US government. These scholarships can cover tuition fees to living and travel expenses to daily allowances (depending on the programme) to help make your American college dream a reality. 

Applicants should note that these scholarships are typically very competitive because they attract a lot of interest. Therefore, applications must be made within 8-12 months before the university application period begins. 

Beyond the chance to study in top universities in the United States, pursuing an academic career or scholarship in the US offers a wealth of benefits that can shape your future academic and professional career, such as: 

• World-class education: Earn an internationally recognised degree that can help you gain better job opportunities and career development globally. 

• Multicultural environment: Enjoy multicultural learning environments where you can interact with students from all walks of life, broaden your perspectives, and build lifelong connections. 

• Work and internship opportunities: Gain valuable work experience through on-campus jobs (up to 20 hours per week during term and up to 40 hours per week during school holidays), internships, and optional practical training programmes to enhance your skills and resume. 

• Pathways to a post-graduation work visa: After graduation, Malaysian students can choose to live and work in the United States for up to 12 months using a post-graduation work visa. Find out more about applying for visas in the US after graduation. 

• English language immersion: Enhance your English language skills through daily interactions and academic coursework, improving your communication and confidence. 

Terms and Conditions for Reading Partial Scholarship Information from Educational Institutions 

*Partial Scholarship Information from IDP Partner Educational Institutions may change at any time without notice and it is possible that this article has not been updated according to the changes. Please contact the IDP Education office for more complete information by filling out the form on this page! 

*IDP is not a scholarship provider. IDP is an overseas education consultant. IDP Education counselors can guide you to obtain a Letter of Acceptance from Educational Institutions and Universities in Australia, the United Kingdom, Ireland, the United States, Canada, and New Zealand as your first step to studying abroad. 

The USA offers a diverse range of scholarships for Malaysian students catering to various academic levels, fields of study, and backgrounds. Here are the main types of scholarships you can explore:  

• Government-funded scholarships: These scholarships are offered by the US government to promote international exchange and attract talented, capable students from around the world. 

• University-specific scholarships: Many universities in the USA offer their own scholarships to international students, often based on academic merit, financial need, or specific programme requirements. 

Government-funded scholarships in the USA  

Foreign Fulbright Scholarships  

The Fulbright Foreign Student Program is a scholarship offered to international students who are looking for opportunities to take part in postgraduate study programs such as a Masters or Ph.D at a university in the USA.  This prestigious scholarship covers full tuition fees, health insurance, travel costs, textbooks, and living expenses.  

Fulbright Scholarship benefits awarded to recipients: 

• J-1 visa sponsorship (a non-immigration visa for students and other academics) 

• Funding support for tuition fees, book fees, living expenses and other professional fees 

• Funding support for eligible enrichment activities under programme guidelines 

• Health and accident insurance benefit plan in accordance with US government regulations 

 Fulbright Scholarship eligibility requirements: 

• Hold Malaysian citizenship and does not hold US dual citizenship (dual citizens are not eligible for this programme) or permanent residency, or be currently living in the US 

• Have leadership skills and demonstrate experience in serving the community 

• Possess equivalent of a US Bachelor’s Degree (S1) for Master’s level applicants, or Master’s Degree (S2) for doctoral level applicants 

• Possess good academic record (GPA of minimum 3.0 on a 4.0 scale) 

• Fluency in English (recommended recent score of minimum 6.5 (IELTS Overall Score); 550 (Paper Based TOEFL); or 79-80 (Internet Based TOEFL - IBT or equivalent) 

• Have commitment and preparation in the applicant's field of study 

• Have achievements in academic fields 

• Be strongly committed to returning to Malaysia after completing the Fulbright scholarship programme 

• Be willing to work for at least 5 years before retirement 

• Additional eligibility requirements as specified by the Fulbright programme 

 Applicants are not eligible if they are: 

• Employees, immediate family members of employees or dependents of employees of AMINEF, the US Embassy or the US Department of State 

• Pursuing another degree 

• Have received another scholarship when applying 

• Currently applying for a similar programme for a dual degree 

 Documents required for Fulbright scholarship application include: 

• Completed scholarship forms, including a one-page study objective, a one-page personal statement, a sample of academic writing and a bibliography of published works 

• Copy of most recent TOEFL or IELTS score not less than 2 years old 

• Two letters of recommendation, from employers or university lecturers 

• Photos of academic transcripts and diplomas in original language and English translation (if applicable) 

• Photocopy of valid identity document from KTP or passport 

• Curriculum vitae or resume 

 Fulbright scholarship application collection is done offline (not via email). When all documents are complete and fulfilled, applicants are required to send the document files to the AMINEF address.  

Humphrey Fellowship Program  

The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program is awarded to experienced professionals who are looking for opportunities to develop their careers in the field of public service. Unlike traditional academic programmes, the Humphrey Fellowship is a non-degree programme that focuses on professional development and collaborative exchange. Additionally, applicants are not given the freedom to choose a university independently. The university will be determined by the scholarship provider based on ability, expertise, and interest.  

Humphrey Fellowship benefits awarded to recipients: 

• Round-trip international travel: Fellows receive support for their travel to and from the United States. 

• Tuition and fees: The programme covers tuition fees for the customised program at the host university. 

• Monthly living allowance: A stipend is provided to cover living expenses during the fellowship period. 

• Health insurance: Comprehensive health insurance is included to ensure fellows' well-being. 

• Professional development allowance: Funds are allocated to support professional activities such as attending conferences, workshops, and field trips. 

 Humphrey Fellowship eligibility requirements: 

• Be an Malaysian citizen and does not hold US dual citizenship (dual citizens are not eligible for this programme) or permanent residency, or be currently living in the US 

• Possess leadership qualities and show experience in community service 

• Have preparation in, and a demonstrated commitment to, their chosen field of study 

• Be proficient in English (recommended recent score of minimum 6.0 (IELTS Overall Score); 525 (Paper Based TOEFL); or 70/71 (Internet Based TOEFL - IBT) or equivalent) 

• Be mid-career professionals in leadership positions, including policy-makers, planners, administrators, managers, non-governmental organisation (NGO) leaders, or journalists 

• Have a minimum of five years’ work experience in the public or non-profit private sectors, including with NGOs 

• Hold a Bachelor’s Degree (S1) with minimum GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale 

• Have an outstanding academic record 

• Demonstrate that they can realistically accomplish a professional program in the US 

• Not be employees or close family members or dependents of employees of AMINEF, the US Embassy, or the US Department of State 

• Not be receiving another scholarship at the time of this scholarship application 

 Applicants are not eligible if they are: 

• An employee, close family member of an employee, or dependent of an employee of AMINEF, the US Embassy, or the US Department of State 

• Currently pursuing a degree or another similar program for a double degree 

• Receiving another scholarship at the time of the application 

 Documents required for Humphrey scholarship application include: 

• Completed application form 

• Copy of most recent (less than two years old) TOEFL ITP/ iBT or IELTS or Duolingo score 

• Two letters of reference, one of which must be from your immediate supervisor in your current position, the other from a professor, professional mentor, or another associate outside the candidate’s current work setting. The letters of reference should be written in English or should include an English translation 

• Copy of academic transcript and diploma (in original language and English translation) 

• Copy of valid identity document (KTP or passport) 

• Curriculum vitae​​ 

Many US universities offer their own scholarships to attract talented international students. These scholarships can be merit-based, need-based, or program-specific. Here are a few examples: 

Note: This list is non-exhaustive. It is recommended to research scholarship options at your target university or institution for the latest updates and information. 

Full scholarship universities in the USA 

Several universities may even offer full scholarships to exceptional international students in the USA. These scholarships cover the entire cost of tuition and sometimes include additional benefits like living expenses and health insurance. They may be means-tested based on the applicant’s financial status or awarded on the basis of academic merit and excellence. 

Remember that full-ride scholarships are highly competitive, and admission to these universities is very selective. Students need to have exceptional academic records, strong extracurricular involvement, and compelling application essays to increase their chances of securing these scholarships. 

Note: This list is non-exhaustive. It is recommended to research scholarship options at your target university or institution for the latest updates and information. 

Scholarships for Bachelor’s Degrees in the USA 

While programmes like the Fulbright and Humphrey scholarships are designed for graduate and postgraduate students, there are also scholarships designed for undergraduates pursuing Bachelor’s Degrees in US universities. Examples include: 

Confused about which university scholarship to apply for in the United States? We can help! Let us guide you through the entire application process including choosing a study programme and applying for a visa. Contact our education specialist now, for free.​​​ 

Getting a scholarship in the USA requires careful planning and a strong application. Here's a step-by-step guide so you know how to survive the process: 

1. Research early: Start researching scholarship opportunities at least 12 months before the application period begins. This gives you ample time to identify suitable scholarships, gather the required documents, and prepare a compelling application. 

2. Prepare a strong application: Your application is your chance to shine. Make sure it includes: 

3. Academic transcripts: Showcase your academic achievements and potential. 

4. Letters of recommendation: Secure strong letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors who can speak to your abilities and character. 

5. ​​​​​Personal statement: Craft a compelling personal statement that highlights your goals, aspirations, and why you deserve the scholarship. 

6. Proof of English proficiency: Submit your TOEFL, ​​​​IELTS, or Duolingo scores to demonstrate your English language skills. 

7. Meet deadlines: Pay close attention to scholarship deadlines and submit your application on time. 

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