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Are you eyeing a Master of Science degree in the USA but feel daunted by the expenses? Fear not! Scholarships can be the key to unlocking your educational aspirations. In this blog, "Funding Your Future: A Guide to Attaining Scholarship for MS in USA," we'll walk you through the process step-by-step. Discover how to navigate scholarship options, craft standout applications, and seek recommendations from university admissions. Let's embark on this journey together and pave the way to your academic success. Scholarship for MS in USA awaits!
Top 5 Scholarships for MS in USA
Scholarships play a pivotal role in assisting students pursuing their Master of Science degrees in the USA. These financial aids provide invaluable assistance, covering various expenses such as tuition fees, living costs, travel, and more. Here's an insightful overview of the top 5 scholarships available for MS students in the USA, outlining their benefits and opportunities for aspiring scholars.
| Scholarship Program | Description | Amount/Funding |
|---|---|---|
| Fulbright Foreign Student Program | Government-funded scholarships for international students to study in the US, available for all fields except medicine. | Duration of study (1 year or more) |
| Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship | Offers a 50% grant and 50% loan with a 5% service charge, repayable over five years after graduation. | Varies (50% grant, 50% loan) |
| AAUW International Fellowship | Supports women from abroad to pursue full-time academic studies in the U.S. | $20,000 for master's; up to $50,000 for doctoral |
| Global Study Awards | Provides funds to cover tuition and living costs for up to 52 weeks. | Approximately $12,370 |
| Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation | Interest-free loans for academically bright Indian students. | Up to $25,496 (interest-free loan) |
1. Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship
The Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship presents a valuable opportunity for students aspiring to pursue their MS in USA. This scholarship, primarily targeted at individuals from developing countries who lack the financial means to cover their studies, offers a unique blend of grant and loan assistance. 50% of the scholarship is granted upfront, while the remaining 50% is provided as a loan with a capped annual service charge of 5%. The repayment period extends over five years post-completion of the educational course. Recipients receive financial support covering tuition and living expenses tailored to their individual needs. Preference is given to applicants under the age of 30.
Eligibility Criteria for Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship
- Applicants must be enrolled in a graduate course.
- Residency in an eligible country is required, such as India.
- Candidates must originate from countries listed as eligible by the foundation, including India.
2. Fulbright Foreign Student Program
The Fulbright Foreign Student Program stands as one of the most prestigious government-funded scholarships for international students seeking advanced studies in the United States. This esteemed program offers scholarships to graduate students across various academic fields, excluding medicine, for a duration of one year or more. Recipients of the Fulbright scholarship receive comprehensive support and resources to pursue their academic endeavors, enabling them to excel in their chosen disciplines and fulfill their dreams of studying in the USA.
Eligibility Criteria for Fulbright Foreign Student Program
- Applicants must hold the equivalent of a U.S. Bachelor's degree.
- A minimum of 3 years of professional work experience is required.
- Admission to a U.S. university is necessary to qualify for the scholarship.
3. Global Study Awards
The Global Study Awards, initiated by the British Council in 2015, are designed to provide financial support to students pursuing postgraduate studies in the USA. This scholarship program offers approximately INR 10L, covering tuition fees and living expenses for up to 52 weeks, provided that the tuition fees are lower.
Eligibility Criteria for Global Study Awards
- Applicants must have an acceptance letter from a US university.
- A strong IELTS score, verified by a Test Report Form (TRF), is required.
- Candidates should possess either an International Student Identity Card (ISIC) or an International Youth Travel Card (IYTC).
4. AAUW International Fellowship
The AAUW International Fellowship is another scholarship for MS in USA, provided by the American Association of University Women, is dedicated to promoting education and equality for non-US citizen women pursuing full-time studies. Over the past few years, this esteemed fellowship has supported over 3,600 women from 150+ nations. For women applying for master's or their first professional degree, the fellowship offers $20,000, while those pursuing doctoral or postdoctoral studies receive $25,000 and $50,000, respectively.
Eligibility Criteria for AAUW International Fellowship
- Applicants must hold a degree equivalent to that of a US undergraduate degree.
- Candidates should demonstrate academic parity with students in the US to ensure eligibility.
5. Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation Scholarship
The Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation, established in 2002, aims to provide financial support to academically bright Indian st udents pursuing higher education. One of its key initiatives is offering interest-free loans of up to $25,496 to eligible candidates. This foundation plays a crucial role in facilitating the academic aspirations of Indian students and empowering them to excel in their chosen fields of study.
Eligibility Criteria for Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation Scholarship
- Established in 2002, this foundation extends financial support to Indian nationals below 30 years old.
- Applicants must have graduated from accredited Indian colleges.
- Candidates should be pursuing a master’s degree at a US university.
University-Specific MS Scholarships in USA
University-specific scholarships in the USA provide tailored financial support for MS students, varying by institution. These scholarships, often merit-based, cover partial to full tuition fees and recognize academic excellence, leadership qualities, and diverse achievements, opening doors to higher education for deserving candidates across various fields of study.
Specific MS Scholarships in the USA include -
- Illinois State University- It offers a merit-based scholarship that provides international postgraduate students with a partial tuition waiver. Eligible students with excellent academic records can receive $5,000 per semester.
- The University of Oregon - It awards multiple scholarships based on GPA and standardized test scores. One notable scholarship is the Sushil Jajodia Indian Student Scholarship, which grants $3,000 annually to an Indian student with a strong academic performance.
- New York University Wagner- It offers merit-based scholarships for various degree courses, including the Dean’s Scholarship, which covers full tuition fees. Another option is the Public Service Scholarship, which provides partial tuition coverage based on overall merit and application quality.
- East Tennessee State University- The International Students Academic Merit Scholarship rewards graduate students with up to $11,500 per academic year, focusing on those with significant academic achievements.
- Michigan State University- It provides merit-based scholarships ranging from $18,000 to $25,000 per year for up to eight semesters. Awards are based on the student’s application essay, English proficiency, academic performance, and geographic diversity.
Below is a table showing the top scholarships that the universities provide-
| University | Scholarship Name | Amount per Year |
|---|---|---|
| Illinois State University | Merit-Based Scholarship | $10,000 |
| University of Oregon | Sushil Jajodia Indian Student Scholarship | $3,000 |
| New York University Wagner | Dean’s Scholarship | Full Tuition |
| East Tennessee State University | International Students Academic Merit Scholarship | $11,500 |
| Michigan State University | Merit-Based Scholarships | $18,000 to $25,000 |
Key Requirements for Scholarships for MS in USA
The eligibility and selection process for this scholarship vary widely concerning the country. Visit here to find information about your home country's eligibility and application process for this scholarship program.
Here are some smart tips to keep in mind that will help you bag scholarships in the USA:
- Acceptance letter from the US university: An acceptance letter confirms your admission to a program and is crucial for scholarship eligibility. It serves as proof of your acceptance into a US university.
- A bachelor’s degree or an equivalent degree: You must have completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution to qualify for postgraduate scholarships in the U.S.
- Excellent academic record: A strong academic record demonstrates your capacity for success in higher education. Scholarships often require high GPAs or honors to indicate academic excellence.
- Work experience, if needed: Relevant work experience can strengthen your scholarship application, particularly for programs that value professional backgrounds and practical skills in their candidates.
- Leadership quality: Demonstrating leadership qualities through past roles in organizations or projects can significantly enhance your scholarship application by showing your potential to contribute positively.
- In case of financial need-based scholarship, demonstrate the supporting documents and an affidavit: For need-based scholarships, provide financial documents and an affidavit to prove your financial situation, ensuring eligibility for financial assistance.
- Good IELTS/TOEFL/PTE score for English proficiency: A high score in English proficiency tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE is essential to prove your ability to succeed in an English-speaking academic environment.
- A good score on the GRE/SAT/ACT exam: Competitive scores on standardized tests like the GRE, SAT, or ACT are critical as they reflect your academic preparedness and skills relevant to your chosen field of study.
How to Get a Scholarship for MS in USA
For Indian students aiming to pursue an MS in the USA, securing a scholarship can be a crucial step given that most major universities require proof of funds for admission. Although university-based scholarships for international students are limited, numerous private and government scholarships are available.
To enhance your chances of obtaining a scholarship for MS in USA, consider these tips:
- Follow Eligibility Guidelines: Adhere to the specific eligibility criteria set by both private and public universities, which may include requirements related to work experience, nationality, and age.
- Seek Departmental Grants: Some university departments may have funds available to support financially needy students, so it's worth inquiring directly.
- Build a Strong Academic Profile: Academic excellence is critical. Focus on achieving high grades in your undergraduate studies and participating in extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and potential.
- Prepare Diligently: Work hard to excel in standardized tests and thoroughly research the scholarships available, including their eligibility requirements. Effective essays are often required and can significantly impact your application.
- Apply Through Your Institution: Apply for scholarships directly through your educational institution, which might have its own set of criteria like a minimum academic score or specific qualifying exams.
- Complete Applications Accurately: Ensure all details in your application forms are accurate and complete, as incomplete applications are often rejected.
- Enhance Your Academic Profile: Strengthen your profile with elements such as leadership experiences, publications, extracurricular involvements, internships, and recognitions.
- Craft an Outstanding Scholarship Essay: Submit an impeccable scholarship cover letter or essay that communicates why you are a deserving candidate.
Following these guidelines will help you navigate the competitive landscape of scholarships for MS programs in the USA.
Conclusion
Securing a scholarship for an MS in the USA allows graduate students to pursue advanced education without financial strain. With many scholarships available, knowing how to get a scholarship for MS in the USA involves thorough research, careful preparation, and early application submission. These scholarships recognize academic excellence and diverse talents, transforming the dream of studying at a top university into reality and fostering career advancement.
