Discover top fellowships and scholarships for graduate students, plus expert tips on funding your master’s or doctoral degree without debt!
Top Fellowship and Scholarship Programs for Grad Students
Fulbright Scholars
The Fulbright Program is a prestigious, government-funded initiative that allows U.S. citizens, including graduate students, to conduct research, teach, or engage in diplomacy-building projects abroad. International students can also apply for funding to study in the United States through this program.
Rhodes Scholars
The highly competitive Rhodes Scholarship offers outstanding students the opportunity to pursue postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford in England, covering tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.
Marshall Scholarship
One of the most distinguished international scholarships, the Marshall Scholarship enables American students to undertake postgraduate studies at any university in the UK.
Forte MBA Fellowships
This fellowship is exclusively for female MBA students attending a Forte partner school. It includes full or partial tuition coverage and exclusive networking opportunities at high-profile business conferences.
Schwarzman Scholarship
Recipients of the Schwarzman Scholarship receive full funding for a one-year master’s program at Tsinghua University in Beijing, China, with a focus on leadership and global affairs.
Gates Cambridge Scholarship
This program offers full funding for American students pursuing a postgraduate degree at the University of Cambridge in the UK.
How to Win Scholarships for Graduate School
Highlight Your Career Goals
Graduate students typically have a clearer vision of their career paths. In your application, emphasize your long-term goals and how your graduate education will help achieve them. If you have work experience between undergrad and grad school, frame your studies as a continuation of your professional growth.
Perfect Your Essays
A strong, well-crafted essay can set your application apart. Make sure to:
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Address the essay prompt thoroughly
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Use a clear structure and engaging narrative
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Proofread multiple times
Showcase Your Work Experience
Whether through internships, full-time jobs, or volunteer work, demonstrating real-world impact can strengthen your application. If references are required, consider a mix of academic and professional recommenders.
Funding Sources for Graduate School
Graduate students generally finance their education through a mix of scholarships, financial aid, and institutional funding.
Private Scholarships
Many private organizations provide scholarships for graduate students in various fields, including law, medicine, business, and STEM.
Need-Based Financial Aid
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Submit the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) for grants and federal loans.
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Some institutions require the CSS Profile for additional financial aid consideration.
University-Specific Scholarships
Many graduate programs offer merit-based scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships that provide tuition support in exchange for research or teaching duties.
Tips for Paying for Graduate School
Look for Institutional Scholarships & Fellowships
Consult your university’s financial aid office for exclusive scholarship opportunities that may not be widely advertised.
Apply for Scholarships Early and Consistently
Deadlines vary, so apply to as many scholarships as possible throughout your academic journey.
Leverage Employer Tuition Reimbursement
Many companies, including Amazon, Starbucks, and Chipotle, offer tuition reimbursement programs for employees pursuing higher education.
Consider Online or Certificate Programs
Online graduate programs and certificate courses can be more affordable alternatives that still enhance your credentials and job prospects.
Graduate Assistantships
Many universities offer teaching or research assistantships, which provide tuition waivers and stipends while giving students valuable professional experience.
FAQs About Graduate School Scholarships
Is Graduate School Worth It?
Grad school can be a worthwhile investment, particularly for careers requiring advanced degrees (e.g., medicine, law, academia). Always consider the return on investment (ROI) and potential job opportunities before committing.
How Can I Get a Full-Ride Scholarship for Grad School?
Full-ride options include:
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Employer tuition reimbursement programs
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Highly competitive fellowships (e.g., Rhodes, Fulbright, Schwarzman)
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Graduate assistantships that cover tuition and provide stipends
Does FAFSA Cover Graduate School?
Yes, but with limitations. Grad students are not eligible for Pell Grants but can receive federal student loans and some need-based aid.
Can I Get Scholarships for a Master’s Program?
Yes! Private scholarships, institutional funding, and industry-specific fellowships are widely available. Check university websites and scholarship databases for opportunities.
When Should I Start Applying for Graduate Scholarships?
As early as possible! If you’re transitioning directly from undergrad, start applying in your senior year. Use scholarship search engines to stay updated on new opportunities.
Do Graduate Students Qualify for Pell Grants?
No, but other financial aid options, including loans, grants, and assistantships, can help offset costs.
Graduate school can be expensive, but with the right financial planning and scholarship applications, it is possible to reduce or even eliminate tuition costs. Start early, apply often, and make full use of available funding resources!