Do you dream of studying in the USA but worry about tuition and visa hurdles? You’re not alone. Thousands of talented international students are searching for fully funded scholarships that not only pay for their education but also sponsor their student visa to legally study—and potentially work—in America.
In this 2025 guide, we explore the top USA scholarships with visa sponsorship, covering undergraduate, graduate, and PhD programs. These scholarships also often come with post-study work options, making it easier to stay in the U.S. after graduation.
Why Choose Scholarships with Visa Sponsorship?
While many U.S. universities offer scholarships, not all of them assist with visa paperwork. Visa-sponsored scholarships simplify your journey by providing:
- Full or partial tuition funding
- Support in obtaining your F-1 or J-1 visa
- Assistance with SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) registration
- Guidance for OPT (Optional Practical Training) or CPT (Curricular Practical Training) after graduation
💡 Tip: F-1 visas allow you to work on campus and participate in internships, while J-1 visas are common in exchange programs.
Top USA Scholarships with Visa Sponsorship (2025)
Here are fully or partially funded scholarships that also include visa support for international students:
1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program
Level: Master’s, PhD
Visa Sponsored: Yes (J-1 visa)
Covers: Tuition, living expenses, airfare, visa fees, health insurance
One of the most prestigious U.S. government programs for international students, Fulbright fully sponsors education and provides complete visa guidance through the U.S. embassies.
🔗 https://foreign.fulbrightonline.org
2. Stanford University – Knight-Hennessy Scholars
Level: Graduate (All disciplines)
Visa Sponsored: Yes (F-1 visa with support)
Covers: Full tuition, stipend, travel, academic enrichment
Stanford’s Knight-Hennessy program is open to international students and provides a full ride for graduate studies, with strong university-backed visa sponsorship.
🔗 https://knight-hennessy.stanford.edu
3. AAUW International Fellowships (for Women)
Level: Master’s, PhD, Postdoc
Visa Sponsored: Yes (J-1 or F-1 visa support)
Covers: $18,000–$30,000 depending on program level
This program helps non-U.S. women pursue studies in the U.S., especially in STEM, business, and social sciences. AAUW also assists with visa paperwork.
4. Yale University Scholarships for International Students
Level: Undergraduate & Graduate
Visa Sponsored: Yes (F-1 visa support)
Covers: Up to 100% of demonstrated financial need
Yale offers generous financial aid packages to students from any country, along with full visa assistance through its Office of International Students & Scholars (OISS).
5. Harvard University Scholarships
Level: Undergraduate & Graduate
Visa Sponsored: Yes
Covers: Full or partial funding based on need + visa help
Harvard offers financial aid and scholarships across programs, and international students receive expert visa guidance and OPT/CPT support post-graduation.
🔗 https://college.harvard.edu/financial-aid/international
6. MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program (at select U.S. universities)
Level: Undergraduate & Graduate
Visa Sponsored: Yes (F-1 visa via partner universities)
Covers: Tuition, living expenses, travel, visa costs
Open to students from Sub-Saharan Africa, this program partners with top U.S. schools like Michigan State University, UC Berkeley, and Duke University to fund full education with visa sponsorship.
🔗 https://mastercardfoundation.org
7. Clark University Global Scholars Program
Level: Undergraduate
Visa Sponsored: Yes
Covers: $15,000–$25,000 per year + visa support
Clark provides scholarships for international students who show academic merit and leadership potential, plus assistance through the student visa process.
8. Obama Foundation Scholars (at Columbia University)
Level: Graduate (Public service professionals)
Visa Sponsored: Yes
Covers: Tuition, housing, travel, stipend, J-1 visa sponsorship
This competitive scholarship targets emerging global leaders and includes direct visa support and cultural exchange opportunities.
🔗 https://www.obama.org/programs/scholars/columbia-university/
9. University of Oregon International Scholarships
Level: Undergraduate & Graduate
Visa Sponsored: Yes
Covers: $5,000–$30,000 per year
Oregon offers a range of merit-based and need-based scholarships, with full assistance for obtaining your F-1 visa and planning your stay.
🔗 https://admissions.uoregon.edu/international
Eligibility Requirements (Typical)
To apply for scholarships with visa sponsorship, you generally need to:
✅ Be a non-U.S. citizen or resident
✅ Have a strong academic background
✅ Meet English language requirements (TOEFL/IELTS, unless waived)
✅ Submit transcripts, recommendation letters, and a Statement of Purpose
✅ Show leadership, innovation, or commitment to community service
✅ Be admitted to a university in the U.S. that supports international students
2025 Application Timeline
| Step | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Research Scholarships | July – September 2024 |
| Prepare Applications | August – October 2024 |
| Submit Applications | September – December 2024 |
| Admission & Interviews | January – March 2025 |
| Visa Processing | April – June 2025 |
| Travel to the USA | July – August 2025 |
Can I Work After Graduation?
Yes! Most F-1 visa holders are eligible for:
OPT (Optional Practical Training):
- 12 months of work in your field of study
- STEM students can extend up to 24 additional months
CPT (Curricular Practical Training):
- Part-time or full-time internships during your studies
These options allow you to stay in the USA and gain work experience. Some employers may even sponsor your H-1B work visa afterward.
Tips for Getting a Scholarship with Visa Sponsorship
- Start early – U.S. scholarship deadlines are often 8–12 months before intake
- Use EducationUSA – They offer free guidance on scholarships and visa applications
- Write a compelling personal statement – Showcase your leadership and goals
- Target universities with strong international offices
- Apply to multiple programs – Don’t rely on just one opportunity
Sample Documents You’ll Need
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- English proficiency test results
- CV or résumé
- Statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
- Financial declaration (if partial scholarship)
- Passport copy
- Proof of admission or application to a U.S. school
FAQs – Scholarships & Visas
❓ Do I need to apply separately for the visa?
In most cases, once you’re awarded the scholarship and admitted to a school, the university provides an I-20 form to apply for your F-1 visa.
❓ Can I stay in the U.S. after graduation?
Yes. You can apply for OPT, CPT, or even an H-1B work visa depending on your field.
❓ What if I don’t get a full scholarship?
You can combine partial scholarships with campus jobs, assistantships, or EducationUSA Opportunity Funds.
Final Thoughts
With the right scholarship, your dream of studying in the U.S. can become reality—without the financial and visa headaches. These scholarships not only pay for your education but also support your legal journey to study, grow, and work in America.
Whether you’re applying for a master’s in engineering, a PhD in public health, or a bachelor’s in data science, there is a USA scholarship with visa sponsorship for you in 2025.
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