Fully Funded Master’s Degree Scholarships in the USA (with USA Work Visa)

Do you dream of studying in the USA for free and working legally after graduation? You’re not alone. Many top universities and global organizations offer fully funded master’s degree scholarships that also open doors to USA work visa opportunities.

This guide covers the best scholarships, their benefits, who can apply, and how to submit your application. These opportunities are fully funded, cover your tuition, living expenses, and some even lead to job offers and visa sponsorship after graduation.

Top Fully Funded USA Master’s Scholarships with Work Visa Options

1. University of Chicago Fellowships

Duration: 2 years

Fields: Social Sciences, Business, Law, Public Policy, STEM

Eligibility: International and domestic students with outstanding academic records.

Coverage: Full tuition, living stipend, and health insurance.

Provider: University of Chicago

🔗 Apply Here

2. Harvard University Scholarships

Duration: 1-2 years

Fields: All graduate programs

Eligibility: Exceptional students from all over the world; financial need considered.

Coverage: Full tuition, living costs, and visa sponsorship.

Provider: Harvard University

🔗 Apply Here

3. Columbia University Fellowships

Duration: 1-2 years

Fields: Public Health, Journalism, Law, Social Work, STEM

Eligibility: International students with excellent academic performance.

Coverage: Full funding, living stipend, and visa sponsorship.

Provider: Columbia University

🔗 Apply Here

4. Chevening Scholarships (UK & US Partnerships)

Duration: 1 year

Fields: All fields

Eligibility: Future leaders, strong academic background, and at least 2 years of work experience.

Coverage: Full tuition, living expenses, flights.

Provider: UK Government, partnered with US institutions.

🔗 Apply Here

5. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s (EMJM) Scholarships

Duration: 1-2 years

Fields: Environmental Studies, Engineering, Health, Economics, and more

Eligibility: International students from all countries.

Coverage: Full tuition, living allowance, travel, and insurance.

Provider: European Commission, partnered with some US universities.

🔗 Apply Here

6. MIT Graduate Fellowships

Duration: 1-2 years

Fields: STEM, Business, Policy

Eligibility: Outstanding international students.

Coverage: Full tuition, monthly stipend, visa support.

Provider: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

🔗 Apply Here

7. Yale University Scholarships

Duration: 1-2 years

Fields: Arts, Sciences, Business, Law, Public Policy

Eligibility: International students based on financial need and merit.

Coverage: Full financial aid based on need, visa support.

Provider: Yale University

🔗 Apply Here

8. Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship

Duration: 1-2 years

Fields: All fields (priority to development-related areas)

Eligibility: Students from developing countries with financial need.

Coverage: Tuition and living expenses (50% grant, 50% loan)

Provider: Aga Khan Foundation

🔗 Apply Here

9. Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program

Duration: 1 year (non-degree program)

Fields: Public Policy, Human Rights, Environmental Studies, Communication

Eligibility: Mid-career professionals with leadership potential.

Coverage: Full funding, living expenses, visa sponsorship.

Provider: U.S. Department of State

🔗 Apply Here

10. Fulbright Scholarships

Duration: 1-2 years

Fields: All fields

Eligibility: International students with strong academic records.

Coverage: Full tuition, airfare, living stipend, visa sponsorship.

Provider: U.S. Government

🔗 Apply Here

11. Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program (Stanford University)

Duration: Full duration of the master’s program

Fields: All graduate programs at Stanford

Eligibility: Exceptional leadership, global vision, and academic excellence.

Coverage: Full tuition, living stipend, travel, and visa sponsorship.

Provider: Stanford University

🔗 Apply Here

12. AAUW International Fellowships (For Women)

Duration: 1-2 years

Fields: All fields

Eligibility: Women from outside the USA pursuing graduate studies.

Coverage: Full funding, living expenses.

Provider: American Association of University Women (AAUW)

🔗 Apply Here

13. Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP)

Duration: 1-2 years

Fields: Development, Economics, Policy, Infrastructure

Eligibility: Citizens of World Bank member countries.

Coverage: Full tuition, monthly stipend, airfare.

Provider: World Bank & Government of Japan

🔗 Apply Here

14. Rotary Peace Fellowship

Duration: 15-24 months

Fields: Peace and Conflict Studies, Development

Eligibility: Mid-career professionals with leadership and service experience.

Coverage: Full tuition, living costs, round-trip travel, internship support.

Provider: Rotary International

🔗 Apply Here

15. Gates Cambridge Scholarship

Duration: 1-3 years (at the University of Cambridge, UK, but strong USA job pathways)

Fields: All fields

Eligibility: International students with academic excellence and leadership potential.

Coverage: Full tuition, living allowance, visa support.

Provider: Gates Foundation & University of Cambridge

🔗 Apply Here

How to Apply for Fully Funded Master’s Scholarships in the USA

If you want to secure a fully funded master’s scholarship in the USA, you need a clear, step-by-step plan. Here’s a detailed, practical, and easy-to-understand guide to help you apply successfully, from start to finish:

1. Research Scholarships Thoroughly

• Carefully revisit the list of top scholarships like Fulbright, Knight-Hennessy, MIT, Yale, and more.
• Check university financial aid portals and official scholarship websites.
• Explore government-sponsored programs like the World Bank, AAUW, and Rotary Peace Fellowships.
• Search for scholarships specific to your field through professional associations.

👉 Tip: Save all important links and deadlines in one place for easy access.

2. Create a Scholarship Tracker

Use a spreadsheet to track:

• Scholarship names
• Eligibility criteria
• Application deadlines
• Required documents
• Application status (Not Started, In Progress, Submitted)

👉 This will help you stay organized and never miss a deadline.

Example of a scholarship tracker

3. Assess and Strengthen Your Profile

Make sure you meet:

• Minimum GPA (usually 3.0 or above)
• Language Requirements (IELTS/TOEFL or a waiver if applicable)
• Standardized Tests (GRE, GMAT if required)

Gain additional experience:

• Research work
• Internships
• Leadership roles
• Volunteer experience

👉 The stronger your profile, the better your chances.

4. Prepare Core Application Materials

📚 a. Academic Documents:

• Degree certificates
• Official transcripts (translated if necessary)
• Test score reports (if required)

✍️ b. Personal Statements:

• Draft a strong, general Statement of Purpose (800-1000 words).
• Tailor it to fit each specific scholarship.

Highlight:

• Your academic background
• Your career goals
• Why are you applying to that school or scholarship
• How will you contribute to the institution and community

🤝 c. Letters of Recommendation:

Identify 3–5 reliable recommenders (professors, employers).

Provide them with:

• Your updated CV
• Personal statement draft
• Key achievements you want them to mention
• Submission instructions and deadlines

5. Prepare Supporting Documents

• Updated CV/Resume (focus on academics, leadership, and achievements)
• Writing samples (if requested)
• Portfolio (for creative programs)
• Research proposal (if applying for research-based courses)

6. Complete and Submit Online Applications

• Register on official scholarship or university portals.
• Fill in all required fields carefully and accurately.
• Upload proofread, error-free documents.
• Pay application fees (if required, many are free).
• Submit at least one week before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.

7. Track and Follow Up

• Confirm your application was successfully submitted.
• Make sure your recommenders have sent their letters.
• Check your email regularly in case additional documents are requested.

8. Prepare for Possible Interviews

• Practice common scholarship interview questions (Why this program? What are your goals?)
• Schedule mock interviews to build confidence.
• Be ready to explain your background and your interest in the scholarship clearly.
• Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interview panel.

9. Manage Scholarship Offers or Rejections

• If selected, accept the offer promptly.
• Ask about next steps like visa processing or arrival plans.
• If rejected, ask for feedback and consider applying in the next cycle.

10. Complete Post-Acceptance Requirements

• Submit any additional documents requested by the university.
• Apply for your U.S. student visa (usually an F-1 or J-1 visa).
• Arrange for housing, travel, and insurance.
• Attend pre-departure and orientation programs.

Key Tips for a Successful Application

• Start Early: Some scholarships open a year in advance. Don’t wait.
• Tailor Your Personal Statement: Show why you’re the perfect fit for each program.
• Get Strong Recommendations: Choose people who know you well and can support your story.
• Check Every Detail: Avoid simple mistakes and grammatical errors.
• Submit on Time: Aim to apply at least one week early.
• Practice Interviewing: Confidence makes a big difference.

Words of Encouragement

Winning a fully funded master’s scholarship in the USA is possible if you start early, stay organized, and believe in yourself. Every successful scholar was once a hopeful applicant just like you. Don’t hold back, take your first step today. I wish you success in your application, good luck.