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Graduate School Scholarships

Last updated on: Apr 21, 2025

Graduate School Scholarships: How to Fund Your Higher Education

By: Caleb S.

13 min read

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Published on: Mar 13, 2025

Earning a graduate degree is a big step toward advancing your education and career, but it can also come with a hefty price tag. Tuition, living expenses, and study materials can quickly add up, making it challenging for many students to afford.

That’s where graduate school scholarships come in! They offer financial support that can ease the burden and help you focus on your studies.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of the most well-known and sought-after graduate school scholarships. We will take a look at their eligibility criteria, application tips, and how to improve your chances of securing funding.

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Top Graduate School Scholarships

Here are some of the top graduate school scholarships that can help make your dream of advanced education a reality:

#1 Fulbright Program (USA & International)

The Fulbright Program offers scholarships to students pursuing graduate studies, research, and teaching opportunities abroad. Funded by the U.S. government, it promotes cultural exchange and academic collaboration worldwide.

Eligibility: U.S. and international students.
Coverage: Tuition, living expenses, travel, and health insurance.
Application Process: Requires a research proposal, academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and an interview.

#2 Rhodes Scholarships (UK)

One of the most prestigious graduate scholarships, the Rhodes Scholarship enables students to pursue postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford.

Eligibility: Students from eligible countries with exceptional academic records and leadership qualities.
Coverage: Full tuition, stipend, and travel expenses.
Application Process: Includes personal statements, academic records, references, and an interview.

#3 Chevening Scholarships (UK)

The Chevening Scholarships, funded by the UK government, support outstanding students pursuing a master’s degree in the UK.

Eligibility: Open to students from Chevening-eligible countries with leadership potential.
Coverage: Tuition fees, travel, monthly stipend, and additional grants.
Application Process: Requires work experience, leadership credentials, and a strong academic background.

#4 Gates Cambridge Scholarships (UK)

Founded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Gates Cambridge Scholarship supports international students at the University of Cambridge.

Eligibility: Non-UK citizens pursuing a full-time postgraduate degree.
Coverage: Full tuition, maintenance allowance, travel, and academic development funding.
Application Process: Academic transcripts, research proposal, recommendation letters, and an interview.

#5 DAAD Scholarships (Germany)

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers various scholarships for international students seeking master’s or PhD programs in Germany.

Eligibility: International students with outstanding academic records.
Coverage: Tuition, living allowance, travel, and health insurance.
Application Process: Varies by program but generally includes academic transcripts, research proposal, and language proficiency.

#6 Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degrees (EU)

The Erasmus Mundus Program provides scholarships for students enrolling in joint master’s degree programs across multiple European universities.

Eligibility: Students worldwide applying to Erasmus Mundus partner programs.
Coverage: Tuition, travel, monthly stipend.
Application Process: Online application, academic credentials, and statement of purpose.

#7 Schwarzman Scholars (China)

The Schwarzman Scholars Program at Tsinghua University in China aims to develop future global leaders through a one-year master’s program.

Eligibility: Students worldwide with leadership potential.
Coverage: Full tuition, room and board, travel, and stipend.
Application Process: Includes a personal statement, recommendation letters, and an interview.

#8 Knight-Hennessy Scholars (USA)

Offered at Stanford University, the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program supports graduate students across various disciplines.

Eligibility: Open to students worldwide.
Coverage: Full tuition, living expenses, travel.
Application Process: Leadership assessment, recommendation letters, and personal essays.

#9 AAUW International Fellowships (USA)

The American Association of University Women (AAUW) International Fellowships provide financial aid to women pursuing graduate and postgraduate studies in the U.S.

Eligibility: International women pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree.
Coverage: $18,000–$30,000 depending on the degree level.
Application Process: Academic records, research proposal, and recommendation letters.

#10 National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship (USA)

The NSF Graduate Research Fellowship supports STEM graduate students conducting research in the U.S.

Eligibility: U.S. citizens and permanent residents in STEM fields.
Coverage: $37,000 annual stipend plus tuition support.
Application Process: Research proposal, academic transcripts, and reference letters.

#11 Ford Foundation Fellowship Program (USA)

The Ford Foundation Fellowship supports graduate students committed to diversity and social justice in academia.

Eligibility: U.S. citizens or permanent residents pursuing a PhD.
Coverage: Full tuition and stipend.
Application Process: Research statement, recommendation letters, and academic records.

#12 Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans (USA)

The Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans provide financial support to immigrants and children of immigrants pursuing graduate education in the U.S.

Eligibility: Immigrants or first-generation Americans.
Coverage: Up to $90,000 in tuition and stipend support.
Application Process: Personal essays, academic records, and interviews.

#13 Truman Scholarship (USA)

The Truman Scholarship supports graduate education for students committed to public service careers. It’s ideal for students who aim to pursue public policy or government-related careers.

Eligibility: U.S. citizens in the junior year of undergraduate study with a demonstrated interest in public service.
Coverage: $30,000 for graduate study.
Application Process: Includes a rigorous application process with essays, academic transcripts, references, and an interview.

#14 Yale Greenberg World Fellows Program (USA)

The Yale Greenberg World Fellows Program aims to support leaders who have demonstrated a commitment to making a difference in their communities and beyond.

Eligibility: Mid-career professionals from across the globe in the public, private, or nonprofit sectors.
Coverage: Full tuition, housing, and a stipend.
Application Process: Requires a strong professional background, references, and leadership experience.

#15 The Japan-IMF Scholarship Program for Advanced Studies (Japan)

The Japan-IMF Scholarship Program offers scholarships for students pursuing a doctoral degree in macroeconomics, finance, or related areas.

Eligibility: International students with a strong background in economics and finance.
Coverage: Full tuition, stipend, and travel allowances.
Application Process: Academic records, personal statement, research proposal, and references.

What is a Graduate School Scholarship?

A graduate school scholarship is financial aid awarded to students pursuing a master's or doctoral degree. Unlike loans, scholarships don’t need to be repaid.

They can be merit-based (awarded for academic excellence, leadership, or achievements), need-based (given to students with financial hardships), or field-specific (targeting students in areas like STEM, business, or healthcare).

Many universities, government programs, and private organizations offer scholarships to help students cover tuition, living expenses, research costs, and more.

Types of Graduate School Scholarships

Graduate school scholarships can be classified into various categories:

Merit-Based Scholarships

Merit-based scholarships are given to students with exceptional academic performance, leadership, or professional achievements. They are often awarded to top students in a specific field or based on overall academic performance. This may include GPA or standardized test scores.

In some cases, professional experience or extracurricular involvement may also be considered.

Examples:

Dean’s Scholarships
Academic Excellence Awards
Talent-Based Scholarships in fields like music, arts, or athletics

Need-Based Scholarships

Need-based scholarships are designed to help students who have demonstrated financial need. These scholarships are typically awarded based on a family’s income level. They are intended to make education more accessible for those who might otherwise struggle to afford tuition and other costs.

Applicants may need to provide documentation such as tax returns or other financial records to demonstrate their need.

Examples:

Federal and state grant programs (e.g., Pell Grants)
Scholarships from universities based on financial need
Scholarships for low-income or underprivileged students

Field-Specific Scholarships

Field-specific scholarships support students in specific disciplines like STEM, business, healthcare, education, or the arts. These scholarships are often provided by professional organizations, corporations, or academic institutions.

They aim to encourage students to pursue degrees in fields that are in high demand or have societal importance.

Examples:

STEM scholarships (e.g., Google Scholarship, Microsoft Scholarship)
Business-focused scholarships (e.g., MBA scholarships from top universities)
Healthcare scholarships for nursing, medical, or public health students

Diversity and Inclusion Scholarships

Diversity and inclusion scholarships support students from underrepresented groups. This includes racial and ethnic minorities, women, LGBTQ+ students, and international students. The goal is to promote diversity in higher education.

These scholarships ensure that students from all backgrounds can pursue graduate studies.

Examples:

Scholarships for women in STEM or business
Scholarships for students from underrepresented ethnic or racial groups
Scholarships for LGBTQ+ students or students with disabilities
International student scholarships

University-Sponsored Scholarships

Many universities offer scholarships to attract talented students to their graduate programs. These scholarships may be based on academic merit, research potential, or leadership qualities and are often designed to enhance the university's reputation and prestige.

University-sponsored scholarships may also be part of a broader effort to recruit students from diverse backgrounds or international students.

Examples:

Graduate assistantships (which include a stipend and tuition remission)
Scholarships specifically for students attending that institution (e.g., University of Chicago Graduate Scholarships)
Research fellowships for students in specific fields of study

External Scholarships

External scholarships are awarded by organizations outside of universities, such as nonprofits, foundations, corporations, and government agencies. These scholarships may be available to students from any university and can range from one-time awards to multi-year funding.

External scholarships often target specific fields of study or provide support for students from certain geographic regions or demographic groups.

Examples:

Government-funded scholarships (e.g., Fulbright Program, DAAD Scholarships)
Private foundation scholarships (e.g., Gates Cambridge Scholarships, Rotary International Scholarships)
Scholarships from corporations or industry groups (e.g., ExxonMobil, National Science Foundation)

10 Tips for Securing a Graduate School Scholarship

Securing a graduate school scholarship can be competitive, but with the right approach, you can improve your chances. Here are some helpful tips to guide you through the process:

Start Early
The earlier you start looking for scholarships, the better. Many scholarships have deadlines months in advance, so give yourself plenty of time to research and apply.
Tailor Your Application
Don’t send the same application to every scholarship. Tailor your scholarship essay, resume, and application to match the specific scholarship’s requirements and values. Show them why you’re a great fit.
Highlight Your Achievements
Make sure to emphasize your academic successes, leadership experiences, and any volunteer work or internships. Scholarships often look for well-rounded candidates, so show off your skills!
Get Strong Recommendations
A glowing letter of recommendation can make a big difference. Choose people who know you well and can speak to your strengths, whether they're professors, mentors, or employers.
Stay Organized
Keep track of all the scholarships you're applying for. Make a checklist of deadlines and required documents to ensure you don’t miss anything important.
Write a Compelling Personal Statement
Your personal statement is your chance to shine. It should reflect your passion, goals, and why you’re deserving of the scholarship. Be authentic and share how the scholarship will help you achieve your academic and professional aspirations.
Check Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, double-check the eligibility criteria. Applying for scholarships you’re not eligible for is a waste of time. Focus on the ones that match your background and qualifications.
Don’t Forget About Smaller Scholarships
While big scholarships are tempting, smaller scholarships can add up. They may have less competition, so take the time to apply for as many as you can.
Proofread Your Application
Make sure your application is free of errors. Double-check your essays, personal statements, and forms for grammar and spelling mistakes. A polished application makes a great impression.
Follow Up
After you apply, don’t be afraid to follow up with the scholarship committee. A polite email showing your continued interest can help keep your application top of mind.

In Conclusion, Graduate school scholarships can make a huge difference by easing the financial burden and helping you focus on your studies. With so many options available, understanding the different types of scholarships and how to apply for them can give you a strong advantage.

The key is to stay persistent and put your best effort into every application. Write a compelling personal statement, highlight your achievements, and don’t get discouraged if you don’t win the first one you apply for. Keep refining your approach, and you’ll increase your chances of success.

If you need expert help with crafting a strong essay, our professional paper writing service is here to assist you. SharkPapers.com has helped many students secure top scholarships, and we’d love to help you too.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a full scholarship for a master’s?

Yes, it is possible to get a full scholarship for a master’s degree. Many universities, government programs, and private organizations offer full scholarships that cover tuition, living expenses, and even travel. Some well-known programs include the Fulbright Program, Rhodes Scholarship, and Gates Cambridge Scholarship. To increase your chances, maintain a strong academic record, gain relevant experience, and submit a compelling application.

Can graduate students get scholarships?

Absolutely! Graduate students can apply for various scholarships, including merit-based, need-based, field-specific, and diversity scholarships. Many universities offer funding for graduate students, and external organizations also provide financial aid to support advanced education.

Researching and applying to multiple scholarships can help reduce the financial burden of grad school.

Does FAFSA give scholarships for graduate school?

FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) does not directly provide scholarships, but it helps graduate students access financial aid options such as federal grants, work-study programs, and low-interest student loans.

While undergraduate students may qualify for Pell Grants, graduate students are typically eligible for need-based aid, assistantships, and federal loans through FAFSA.

How to get grad school completely paid for?

There are several ways to get your graduate education fully funded:

Scholarships & Fellowships – Apply for fully funded programs like the Knight-Hennessy Scholars at Stanford or the DAAD Scholarship in Germany.
Graduate Assistantships – Many universities offer teaching or research assistantships that provide tuition waivers and stipends.
Employer Sponsorship – Some companies fund graduate education for employees in exchange for a work commitment.
Grants & Work-Study Programs – Federal and private grants can cover educational costs, while work-study programs allow you to earn money while studying.
Military or Government Programs – Programs like the GI Bill or government-funded scholarships can pay for your entire degree.

Can Ph.D. students also apply for graduate school scholarships?

Yes! Many graduate school scholarships are available for both master’s and Ph.D. students. In fact, Ph.D. programs often have more funding opportunities, including full scholarships, research grants, and teaching assistantships that cover tuition and provide a stipend.

Is a fellowship the same thing as a graduate school scholarship?

Not exactly. While both provide financial support, fellowships often come with additional perks like research funding, networking opportunities, or professional development. Scholarships are usually awarded based on merit or financial need, while fellowships are often tied to research, teaching, or leadership potential.

Can I get a graduate school scholarship if I attend part-time?

It’s possible, but fewer scholarships are available for part-time students. Many funding opportunities prioritize full-time students. However, some universities, professional organizations, and employers offer scholarships or tuition assistance for part-time graduate students.

Are graduate programs more likely to have funding?

Yes! Many graduate programs, especially in research-based fields, offer funding in the form of scholarships, grants, assistantships, or fellowships. Ph.D. programs, in particular, often provide full funding, including tuition waivers and living stipends, to attract top students.

Can international students win graduate school scholarships?

Absolutely! Many universities and organizations offer scholarships specifically for international students. Programs like Fulbright, Chevening, and DAAD provide funding for non-U.S. students to study abroad. Additionally, many schools have internal scholarships for international graduate students.

Caleb S.

Marketing, Education, Literature

Helping students achieve their academic dreams is what brings Caleb S. the most fulfillment. With his Master's degree from Oxford University, Caleb has plenty of experience with writing that he can utilize to benefit those who seek his help. Prioritizing his client's needs, he always goes above and beyond to provide top-notch service.

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