List of Undergraduate Scholarships for International Students 2026 (with Deadlines & Tips)
List of Undergraduate Scholarships for International Students 2026. Planning to study abroad in the United States in 2026? Securing an undergraduate scholarship can make that dream much more affordable — and even possible — for international students.
Below is a detailed guide to some of the best scholarships you should consider applying for, including deadlines, eligibility highlights, and application tips to help give your study abroad dream a real boost.
1. American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship (AU EGLS)
Location: American University, Washington, D.C., USA
Scholarship Type: Full tuition, room & board (renewable for up to 4 years)
Target: High-achieving international students committed to leadership and social impact
Deadline: January 15, 2026 (for Fall 2026 intake)
This is one of the most competitive and prestigious undergraduate awards in the United States for international students. As part of the scholarship requirements, you must submit the Common Application and the special AU EGL Scholarship application by the deadline. The award is designed to empower students who have overcome barriers and demonstrate strong leadership potential.
Pro Tip: Start your Common App early and prepare standout essays to highlight your leadership, academic excellence, and global engagement.
2. University of Michigan International Student Scholarships
Location: University of Michigan – College of Literature, Science, and the Arts (LSA), USA
Scholarship Type: Renewable international undergraduate scholarship
Deadline: April 10, 2026 (11:59 pm EST)
This scholarship awards eligible newly admitted international undergraduates based on academic merit and financial need. It’s renewable for two to four years, making it a strong financial resource for your full Bachelor’s degree.
Eligibility highlights:
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Be admitted to the LSA undergraduate program.
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Be a non-U.S. citizen/permanent resident.
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Enroll full-time.
Tip: Apply for admission well before the scholarship deadline so you have time to complete the scholarship application process.
3. Yale University Need-Based Scholarships
Location: Yale University, USA
Scholarship Type: Need-based financial aid covering up to full demonstrated financial need
Deadline: Varies by admission cycle (typically early January–January 2 regular decision, but check Yale admissions)
Yale’s need-based financial aid does not require a separate scholarship application — instead, international students are automatically considered when they apply for admission and demonstrate financial need through Yale’s financial aid process. This can include full tuition, room, and board for those who qualify.
Insider tip: Yale’s financial aid is one of the most generous in the U.S., with many international students receiving substantial awards that cover most or all costs. Make sure your admissions and financial aid forms are completed accurately and submitted on time.
4. Merit & Institutional Scholarships (Various U.S. Colleges)
Many U.S. universities offer merit-based scholarships that automatically consider international students when they submit applications for undergraduate admission. Deadlines and award amounts vary, but here are a few to keep on your radar:
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University of Michigan Renewable Scholarships – Approximately April 10, 2026 deadline.
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Valencia College Global Achievers Award – Merit awards with a July 15, 2026 deadline (smaller awards but helpful).
Quick tip: Even if a scholarship isn’t full-ride, merit awards can reduce tuition significantly. Always check university admissions pages for additional opportunities.
List of Undergraduate Scholarships for International Students 2026
Scholarship Deadline Snapshot – 2026
| Scholarship | Level | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship | Undergraduate | January 15, 2026 |
| University of Michigan International Student Scholarships | Undergraduate | April 10, 2026 |
| Yale University Need-Based Aid | Undergraduate | Varies (commonly Early Jan / Regular Jan Deadline) |
| University of Michigan Renewable Merit Scholarships | Undergraduate | April 10, 2026 |
| Valencia College Global Achievers Award | Undergraduate | July 15, 2026 |
General Tips for Applying Successfully (2026 Cycle)
Start Early
Most scholarships for the 2026 fall intake require applications months before semester start. Beginning early gives you time to craft strong essays and secure recommendation letters.
Organize Your Documents
Typical requirements include:
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Academic transcripts
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Letters of recommendation
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Personal essays
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Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.)
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Financial documentation (if applying for need-based aid)
Apply for Admission and Scholarships Together
Many U.S. scholarships are tied to the university application — especially merit and institutional awards. Submit your application to the university before or by priority deadline to qualify for the best funding opportunities.
Check Scholarship Rules Carefully
Some awards (like the AU EGLS) require separate applications, while others (like Yale’s need-based aid) are evaluated automatically with your admissions and financial aid forms. Understanding these differences can boost your chances.
Conclusion
The 2026 scholarship cycle offers several life-changing opportunities for international students hoping to pursue undergraduate study in the United States. Whether you’re applying for a fully funded program like the American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship, renewable awards like those at the University of Michigan, or generous need-based support at Yale, planning early and meeting deadlines is key to success.