Finding and Applying to More Programs

How to Find Programs That Pay for You#

The list of 25 programs in this guide is a starting point, not the full picture. There are hundreds of funded Master's opportunities across America. The challenge is finding them. Here is how to do it.

Google Search Strategies#

Start with targeted Google searches. Use specific phrases like:

• "fully funded Master's programs in [your field]"
• "Master's scholarships for international students [your field]"
• "tuition waiver Master's [university name]"
• "graduate assistantship [your field] international students"

Look beyond the first page of results. University program pages, scholarship databases, and forums like GradCafe and Reddit's r/gradadmissions can all provide useful leads.

Program Websites#

Once you identify a program that interests you, go directly to its website. Look for sections labeled "Financial Aid," "Funding," "Scholarships," or "Cost and Aid." Read these pages carefully.

Pay attention to phrases like:

• "All admitted students receive full funding"
• "Merit-based scholarships available"
• "Assistantships available for qualified students"
• "We meet the full demonstrated need of all admitted students"

If the funding information is unclear, email the program directly. Do not be afraid to ask. Admissions offices expect these questions. Ask specifically: Do you offer full funding for international Master's students? What percentage of your Master's students receive full funding? What is the typical funding package?

Common Application Deadlines#

Most Master's programs have application deadlines between December and February. Some programs have earlier deadlines in November, while a few have deadlines as late as March or April.

Here is a general timeline:

• September - October: Research programs, prepare for standardized tests
• October - November: Request letters of recommendation, begin drafting your statement of purpose
• November - December: Finalize application materials, submit early-deadline applications
• December - February: Submit remaining applications
• March - April: Receive decisions, compare offers

Start early. Rushing your applications will result in weaker materials.

Fields With More Funding#

Not all fields are equally funded at the Master's level. STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) often have more funding available through research assistantships. Professors in STEM departments frequently have grant money that they use to fund graduate students.

Other fields with relatively strong Master's funding include:

• Public Policy and Public Affairs: Programs at schools like Princeton, Georgetown, and NYU often fund their students
• Fine Arts (MFA): Many top MFA programs in creative writing, art, and film are fully funded
• Public Health: Some MPH programs offer assistantships and scholarships
• Education: Certain education programs offer funding, especially those focused on research

Fields like business (MBA), law, and some professional programs tend to have less scholarship funding for Master's students. If you are considering these fields, you may need to look harder or consider loans.

External Scholarships#

In addition to university-based funding, there are external scholarships you can apply for:

• Fulbright Program: Provides funding for international students to study in America. Check if your country has a Fulbright commission.
• Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program: Provides full funding for students from Africa at partner universities.
• AAUW International Fellowships: For women pursuing graduate study in America.
• PEO International Peace Scholarship: For international women students.
• Rotary Foundation Global Grants: For students whose studies align with Rotary's areas of focus.
• Government Scholarships: Many countries offer scholarships for citizens to study abroad. Check with your country's ministry of education.

Apply to external scholarships in addition to university funding, not instead of it. Having multiple funding sources increases your chances of studying for free.

How to Research Funding#

For every program you are interested in, answer these questions:

1. Does this program offer funding to Master's students?
2. Is funding available to international students specifically?
3. Is funding guaranteed for all admitted students or competitive?
4. What does the funding cover (tuition only, tuition plus stipend, health insurance)?
5. Are there additional costs not covered by the funding?

If you cannot find answers on the website, email the admissions office or the department's graduate coordinator. Be polite, specific, and concise in your emails.

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Related Videos#

• McDonnell International Scholars Academy: Full Scholarship at WashU
• 25 Schools Offering Full Scholarships for Master's Degrees (USA)