Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields are among the fastest-growing and most high-demand areas in the global job market. If you’re an international student looking to study STEM in the United States, fully funded scholarships can make this world-class education affordable — and sometimes even free.
This guide highlights the top fully funded and high-value STEM scholarships in the USA for undergraduate and graduate students applying for the 2026 academic year.
What Is a Fully Funded STEM Scholarship?
A fully funded STEM scholarship typically covers:
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly living stipend
- Health insurance
- Books and academic supplies
- Travel allowances (in some cases)
These awards are often offered by the U.S. government, universities, private foundations, or corporations committed to advancing STEM education.
1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program (STEM Focus)
Degree Level: Master’s & PhD
Who It’s For: International students
Benefits:
- Full tuition coverage
- Living stipend
- Airfare
- Health insurance
Fulbright is a prestigious U.S. government scholarship that supports graduate study and research in a variety of fields, including STEM disciplines such as engineering, computer science, biology, and physics.
Eligibility includes strong academic records, research proposals, and leadership potential.
2. National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship
Degree Level: Master’s & PhD (U.S. citizens and permanent residents)
Who It’s For: Students pursuing advanced STEM research
Benefits:
- Annual stipend (support for 3 years)
- Cost-of-education allowance
Note: This award is not open to most international students, but some programs allow eligible non-citizens. Check NSF eligibility requirements carefully.
3. Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program (Stanford University)
Degree Level: Graduate (including STEM)
Who It’s For: International applicants
Benefits:
- Full tuition support
- Monthly stipend
- Leadership development experiences
This competitive scholarship supports graduate study at Stanford University across disciplines — including STEM fields.
4. SMART Scholarship Program (Department of Defense)
Degree Level: Undergraduate & Graduate
Who It’s For: U.S. citizens and permanent residents only
The Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation (SMART) Scholarship covers full tuition and living expenses in exchange for post-graduation service in STEM roles with the U.S. Department of Defense.
Note: International students are typically not eligible for SMART due to federal service requirements.
5. Microsoft Tuition Scholarships
Degree Level: Undergraduate & Graduate
Who It’s For: STEM students worldwide
Benefits:
- Partial to full tuition awards
- Networking and internship opportunities with Microsoft
These scholarships are awarded to students strong in computer science, software engineering, and related STEM disciplines.
6. Google Scholarships (e.g., Google Lime, Generation Google)
Degree Level: Undergraduate
Who It’s For: Technically gifted students, including underrepresented groups
Benefits:
- Financial award (varies)
- Access to events, mentoring, and internships
Google scholarships support students aiming for careers in software engineering, data science, AI, and other tech fields.
7. American Association of University Women (AAUW) STEM Awards
Degree Level: Graduate (Women in STEM only)
Who It’s For: Women pursuing full-time graduate study
Benefits:
- Significant funding toward tuition and research costs
AAUW fellowships support women in STEM fields such as engineering, computer science, and mathematics.
8. GE-Reagan Foundation Scholarship
Degree Level: Undergraduate
Who It’s For: U.S. citizens (certain awards open to international students studying in the USA)
Benefits:
- Large financial awards renewable for up to four years
This scholarship honors leadership and character, and STEM majors are strongly encouraged to apply.
9. University-Specific STEM Scholarships
Many U.S. universities offer fully funded STEM scholarships, including:
🔹 Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Need-based aid that can fully cover tuition and fees for qualified students.
🔹 Caltech (California Institute of Technology)
Strong STEM financial aid packages for international students based on need or merit.
🔹 Georgia Tech Presidential or Stamps Scholarships
High-value awards for top STEM achievers.
🔹 University of Michigan, University of Illinois, Carnegie Mellon
Competitive merit scholarships with strong STEM support.
Tips to Win STEM Scholarships in the USA
1. Build Strong Academics
High GPA, strong test scores (if required), and rigorous coursework.
2. Focus on Research or Projects
Publications, lab experience, science competitions, and portfolios make a strong impact.
3. Develop Technical Skills
Coding projects, internships, hackathons, robotics teams, etc.
4. Craft a Strong Personal Statement
Highlight passion for STEM, future goals, and real impact.
5. Get Strong Recommendations
Letters from STEM teachers, mentors, or research supervisors carry weight.
Application Timeline (2026 Intake)
| Period | Action |
|---|---|
| Jan–Apr 2025 | Start research & prepare materials |
| May–Aug 2025 | Begin essays & recommendations |
| Sep–Dec 2025 | Submit applications for most programs |
| Jan–Mar 2026 | Interviews & final submissions |
Conclusion
Fully funded STEM scholarships in the USA provide outstanding opportunities for talented students from around the world. While competition is high, careful preparation, strong academics, and early research can help you secure funding to study cutting-edge science and technology in America.
Start your scholarship journey now and make your 2026 STEM plans a reality.
