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Scholarships for International Students

International students may apply for and receive merit awards and scholarships from AU and other organizations to help finance their studies. The information below is intended as a resource for international students as they plan for financing their study at AU.

F-1 and J-1 students are not eligible for loans from the U.S. federal government.

Undergraduate Students

Merit Awards for International 1st-Year Students

No separate application form or process is required to be considered for AU merit scholarships. A separate application is required only for the AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship.

American University’s merit awards for international students are partial, not full, scholarships. They are awarded based on a combination of outstanding academic achievement, excellent communication skills in English, leadership, volunteerism, and community service. Merit award consideration is highly competitive and the number of scholarships available is limited. All American University merit awards are awarded at the time of admission, and not after enrollment. These funds are renewable for all four years of study based on successful continued academic performance.

Graduate Students

Merit Awards

Talented international master's and doctoral students may qualify for Graduate Merit Awards through their departments. These awards offer waivers ranging from twelve credits to full tuition each year. Stipends may also be available. Applicants should check directly with departments for further information.

Fellowships & Assistantships

How to Apply 

All graduate school applicants can indicate their interest for Merit Assistance when they apply to one of the graduate programs.

When to Apply 

The priority deadline for university-wide merit awards is February 1 for fall applicants. Some academic departments continue to consider merit award applicants until late Spring, however applicants are encouraged to apply by February 1.