25 Master's Degrees with Full Scholarships for International Students
Complete list of 25 US master's programs offering 100% scholarships to international students, including Princeton, MIT, Stanford, and more.
Looking for a master's degree in America without the crushing debt? I've compiled 25 master's programs that offer 100% scholarships to international students. These aren't just any programs — we're talking Princeton, MIT, Stanford, and other top-tier universities.
Elite Universities with Full Master's Scholarships#
Ivy League and Top Private Universities#
Princeton University leads the pack with their Masters in Public Affairs program offering full funding. This is one of the most prestigious public policy programs in the world.
MIT's Masters in Media Arts and Sciences gives international students complete financial support to study at one of the world's top technology institutions.
Stanford University offers the Knight Hennessy Scholarship — this isn't just tuition coverage, it's full funding for graduate study at one of America's most selective universities.
Public University Powerhouses#
UC Berkeley and Arizona State University both offer Mastercard Foundation Scholarships. These programs specifically target international students and cover everything from tuition to living expenses.
Arizona State also has a separate Master of Global Management program with full scholarships — perfect if you're interested in international business.
Specialized Programs by Field#
Music and Arts#
If you're artistically inclined, these programs offer world-class training with full funding:
- Curtis Institute of Music — Master of Music
- The Juilliard School — Master of Music
- Northwestern University — Master of Fine Arts in Documentary Media
- Vanderbilt University — Master of Fine Arts Programs in Creative Writing and Studio Art
Creative Writing Programs#
Several universities offer fully-funded MFA programs in creative writing:
- University of Michigan — Masters of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
- Brown University — Masters of Fine Arts in Literary Arts
- University of Texas at Austin — Masters of Fine Arts and Writing
- University of Iowa — Master of Fine Arts in fiction or poetry
- Indiana University Bloomington — Master of Fine Arts in fiction or poetry
Public Policy and Health#
Georgetown University's McCourt Scholars Program, New York University's Master of Public Administration, and Johns Hopkins University's Master of Public Health all provide full scholarships for international students interested in making a policy impact.
Engineering and Technical Programs#
Cornell University offers the Dean's Fellowship for their Masters in Engineering program. This is substantial funding at one of the top engineering schools in America.
For those looking at broader university fellowships, consider:
- Ohio State University Fellowship
- University of Illinois Urbana Champaign Equity Masters Fellowships
- University of Washington Herbold Fellowship
- University of Texas at Austin Harrington Masters Fellowship
Regional Powerhouses#
Washington University in Saint Louis offers the McDonald International Academy — a lesser-known gem that provides excellent funding for international graduate students.
University of Notre Dame's Masters of Global Affairs is perfect for students interested in international relations and global policy.
How to Apply#
Here's what you need to know: You apply directly to each school's website. Each program has its own application process, deadlines, and requirements. Don't use third-party services — go straight to the source.
If you want to maximize your chances, I recommend checking out my guides on schools with 100% scholarships still accepting applications and universities offering full scholarships with no SAT requirements.
Strategic Application Tips#
Start early. Many of these programs have January or March deadlines. Check my posts about universities with January deadlines to make sure you don't miss opportunities.
Apply broadly. Don't put all your eggs in one basket. These programs are competitive, but applying to multiple schools increases your chances significantly.
Research thoroughly. Each program looks for different qualities in applicants. Tailor your application to match what each school values.
Related Resources#
For more comprehensive scholarship opportunities, check out:
- 20+ American universities with 100% scholarships for international students
- 10 tuition-free universities for international students in America
- 100% scholarships for international students in the USA
- Universities offering full scholarships for transfer students
Bottom Line#
These 25 programs represent some of the best opportunities for international students to earn a master's degree in America without debt. From Ivy League prestige to specialized arts programs, there's something for every academic interest.
The key is applying directly through each university's website and starting your application process early. Don't wait — many of these programs have limited spots and competitive deadlines.
Get More Help#
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