Fully Funded Scholarships in California for International Students: Top Scholarship Opportunities and Application Process for 2025 – 2026

Key Highlights: Main Facts about California Scholarship Programs for International Students 2025 – 2026

California has a ton of fully funded scholarships for international students planning to study during the 2025–2026 academic year. 

This list of scholarships for international students 2026 don’t just cover tuition—they often take care of housing and sometimes throw in a monthly living stipend.

If you’ve been dreaming of studying in the United States, these financial aid programs can actually make it happen.

What Makes These Scholarships Stand Out:

• They cover tuition fees and living expenses.
• Top universities and organizations in California offer them.
• Students from many countries can apply.

Key Facts Table:

Applying for these scholarships usually requires:

• Academic transcripts
• Letters of recommendation
• A personal essay or statement

Deadlines and requirements can vary a lot, so it’s smart to double-check before you start applying to make sure you are eligible for this scholarship.

These financial aid options open doors to world-class education.

1) Full Financial Support Scholarships at University of California, Irvine

If you want to study in California but need help with costs, the University of California, Irvine Fully Funded Scholarships are a strong choice for international students in 2025-2026.

These scholarships cover tuition fees, housing, and health insurance, so you can focus on classes, not bills.

UCI’s Scholarship Opportunities Program (SOP) actually guides you through top scholarships and helps you with your application from start to finish.

Here’s a quick overview of key facts:

Key features:

• No IELTS required for some awards.
• Comprehensive advising and support for major scholarships.
• Health, vision, and dental coverage included.
• Open to both undergraduates and graduates.
• Scholarships like the Education Future International Scholarship are currently available.

To apply, students must:

• Prepare your transcripts and show strong grades.
• Show leadership or community involvement.
• Complete the online application by the official deadline.

UC Irvine offers a fully funded scholarship that helps you build your career with a degree program in a vibrant, diverse campus community.

Want more details or ready to apply? Visit the UCI Scholarships page.

2) Stanford University Knight-Hennessy Graduate Scholarships

The Stanford University offers numerous opportunities for students through its various scholarship programs. Knight-Hennessy Graduate Scholarships are a huge opportunity for international students who want a fully funded graduate education in the US.

Each year, about 100 top students get financial coverage for up to three years to pursue any graduate degree at Stanford—full tuition, a living stipend, travel expenses, and even some academic funds.

Key Facts About Knight-Hennessy Graduate Scholarships

Why Apply?

• Complete funding for your degree and all living costs.
• Access to the King Global Leadership Program for extra skill-building.
• A diverse and talented community of global leaders.
• Emphasis on leadership, independence, and a civic mindset.

Admissions Checklist:

• Submit a Knight-Hennessy application.
• Apply separately to your chosen Stanford graduate program.
• Show your leadership abilities and desire to make an impact to qualify for multiple scholarships.

Popular Areas of Study:

• Engineering, Business, Law, Medicine, Education, Social Sciences.

Notable Features:

• Excellent career support and connections with top employers.
• Strong alumni network across fields like tech, law, and business.

Curious to see more details or want to apply? Students eligible for this scholarships can head to the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program application page.

3) California State University Graduate Equity Fellowship

Trying to afford graduate school and build real faculty connections?

 The California State University Graduate Equity Fellowship might be exactly what you need.

This fully funded fellowship supports students with financial need who want to pursue master’s degrees at a bunch of California State University (CSU) campuses.

Key features you should know about:

• Financial support: Recipients get between $500 and $2,000 per year.
• Mentoring: Students work with faculty mentors for extra support.
• Access: Both domestic and international students with economic needs can apply.

Data Table: Graduate Equity Fellowship at California State University

Notable program highlights:

• Boosts diversity in graduate programs across multiple CSU campuses.
• Reduces financial strain so you can finish your degree faster.
• Helps connect you with faculty mentors and research opportunities.
• Open to many fields, including science, business, education, and more.

Famous faculty and alumni from CSU campuses include leaders in teaching, public service, business, and science.

Many fellowship recipients have completed advanced degrees and landed jobs with top employers in California and beyond.

Checklist to apply:

• Check if your campus offers the fellowship.
• Prepare your academic transcripts and proof of financial need.
• Submit your application by your campus deadline.
• Stay in touch with faculty mentors if chosen.

Thinking about graduate school? This opportunity could give you a real financial and academic boost.

Don’t forget to review your specific CSU campus info, the selection process and apply for the Graduate Equity Fellowship before the deadline sneaks up.

4) University of Southern California Incoming International Freshman Merit Awards: Merit Scholarship

Are you an international student eyeing USC? There are some major scholarship opportunities you really shouldn’t miss.

The University of Southern California hands out several respected merit awards to incoming freshmen from all over the world.

Scholarship Overview

As an international freshman, you can land scholarships like the Trustee, Presidential, or Dean’s Scholarship. Each one highlights your academic strength, talents, and leadership potential.

Key Scholarship Details

Special Features

• No additional application: When you apply to USC, you’re automatically in the running.
• Open to all majors: Every academic area is fair game.
• Competitive selection: USC looks for high grades (usually 3.8+), strong test scores, involvement, and leadership.

Admissions Fast Facts (2025)

• Acceptance rate: About 9–12% for all applicants.
• Popular programs: Business, Engineering, Cinematic Arts, Communications.
• Notable alumni: Neil Armstrong, George Lucas, Shonda Rhimes.

Checklist to Apply:

• Submit your Common Application.
• Answer USC’s supplemental questions.
• Hit the fall 2025 deadline (usually December or January).

Other Information

If you’re considering loans, you might need a US citizen or resident as a co-signer. Scholarship recipients need to keep a strong GPA each year to hang on to their awards.

For all the details, check out the USC Scholarships for International Students page.

5) MBA Scholarship Awards for International Students at Berkeley Haas

Berkeley Haas offers excellent MBA scholarship opportunities for international students, making it easier for you to join a top business school in California. 

Students from every country get considered for these awards.

You don’t need to fill out a separate scholarship application—just apply to the MBA program, and you’re eligible.

Key Facts:

• Scholarships are mostly merit-based and open to both international and domestic applicants.
• Berkeley Haas awarded over $13 million in scholarships to new MBA students for the 2024-2025 academic year.
• Some fellowships target special groups or interests, like leadership or underrepresented backgrounds.
• Awards can cover a large portion of tuition, which really helps with accessibility.

Berkeley Haas MBA Scholarships at a Glance (2025):

Checklist for Applying:

• Finish your MBA application by the deadline.
• Show off your leadership, academic, and professional strengths.
• If you can, submit in the earliest round for a better shot.

Unique Features:

• No extra forms—just apply to the MBA program.
• Lots of awards for students from different backgrounds and interests.

Want more info? Check out the Berkeley Haas MBA scholarship opportunities and requirements.

Honestly, this support helps many international students chase their MBA dreams at Haas.

6) California Institute of Technology (Caltech) International Graduate Scholarships

If you’re thinking about studying science or engineering at the highest level, the California Institute of Technology international graduate scholarships are a game changer.

You could earn a fully funded master’s or PhD at Caltech, with tuition, living expenses, and research costs all covered.

Popular fields of study include physics, chemistry, engineering, applied sciences, and computational biology.

Caltech’s famous research centers—like the Jet Propulsion Laboratory and the Resnick Sustainability Institute—offer hands-on research experiences for undergraduate students.

Many graduates end up in impactful jobs in academia, industry, or national labs.

Key Features of Caltech International Graduate Scholarships:

• Covers full tuition
• Stipend for living expenses
• Access to research and teaching assistantships
• Open to talented international students, scholarships are awarded based on merit.

Admission at a Glance (2025):

Checklist for Applying:

• Strong academic record
• High test scores (GRE if required)
• Research proposal
• Letters of recommendation
• Complete the ISFAA form for financial aid
• Send everything in by the deadline

Caltech grads land jobs at NASA, Google, Apple, and top universities. 

Starting salaries often fall between $70,000 and $120,000, depending on your field and position.

The financial aid and scholarships at the university are competitive and go to those with excellent academic and research backgrounds.

For the full scoop and how to apply, visit the Caltech Scholarships for International Graduate Students page.

7) Funding Awards for International Graduate Students at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

If you’re an international student thinking about an advanced degree in the USA, UCLA has a bunch of scholarships, grants, and assistantships that might help cover your costs. 

The university stands out for international grad students, giving access to over 625 scholarships, fellowships, and grants—each with its own eligibility rules and award amounts.

Key Facts about UCLA International Graduate Student Scholarships

Unique Aspects and Benefits

• Wide Range of Scholarships: Hundreds of awards support all sorts of disciplines and research areas.
• Departmental Funding: Some departments give out their own merit scholarships to students who really stand out.
• Assistantships: You can get Teaching Assistantships (TAs) or Research Assistantships (RAs) that come with a stipend and tuition remission.
• Competitive Selection: If you have strong academics and research interests, apply early—funding goes to top candidates.
• International Community: UCLA’s diverse student body creates a supportive space for students from everywhere.

Checklist for Applicants

• Check the UCLA Graduate Programs Funding page for opportunities.
• Look at your department’s site for special funding.
• Get your transcripts, test scores, references, CV/resume, and a solid personal statement ready.
• Pay attention to your program’s deadlines—usually between November and December for the next academic year.

After graduation, UCLA alumni work at top companies, universities, and public organizations around the world. 

If you want a world-class degree in California and need some financial help, check out UCLA’s international graduate scholarship options.

8) University of California San Diego Graduate Fellowships for International Students

UC San Diego has a variety of fellowships for international students aiming for graduate studies in California.

These awards help manage both educational and living costs while you’re at UCSD.

The School of Global Policy and Strategy (GPS) offers unique fellowships, including some that cover full or partial tuition.

Most awards depend on your academic achievements and leadership skills, so competition is real and the scholarships are valued.

Here’s a quick table for 2025:

Popular fields are Public Policy, International Studies, and Data Science. UCSD’s reputation for research and support for global students is strong.

What should you know?

• Academic records, research experience, and leadership skills Scholarships require strong communication skills and will boost your application.
• Contact your department directly—many offer extra fellowships not found on central sites.
• The Black Alumni Scholarship Fund has awarded over $802,000 to 350+ students since 2002, with some spots for international students.
• If you’re in financial trouble at UCSD, you can apply for emergency funds or talk to student services.
• Most scholarships need your transcripts, recommendation letters, and sometimes proof you need help.
• Application deadlines for 2025-2026 are usually December to January—plan ahead.

UC San Diego fellowships for international students can really help you make the most of grad school in California.

9) SDSU International Students Financial Assistance Awards

SDSU International Student Center Scholarships offer real support for students coming from abroad to San Diego State University.

 If you’re worried about higher out-of-state tuition, these scholarships can make a difference in your journey.

You can apply now for 2025-26 funding through the Aztec Scholarships portal. There are several awards, including the respected SDSU Merit Scholarship for students with strong academics.

Competition is based on your GPA, test scores, and academic performance.

Quick Facts Table: SDSU International Scholarships 2025-26

What makes these scholarships unique?

• They’re designed just for international students.
• Awards go to those with strong grades and campus involvement.
• Some support covers full tuition for the most qualified.

To get started, make sure you:

• Keep your GPA at 3.5 or above.
• Get involved on campus—leadership and community spirit count.
• Prepare your paperwork early.

Apply for these SDSU International Student Center Scholarships and invest in a future at a university known for its diversity and opportunity.

10) Pepperdine University International Student Scholarships

Pepperdine University International Student Scholarships help ambitious students from all over the world pay for their studies in California.

Whether you want a fully funded scholarship or a merit award, Pepperdine has options for the 2025-2026 academic year.

Key highlights for international applicants:

• Merit-based scholarships for top students.
• Fellowships: About 35 awarded each year, each with a $6,000 stipend.
• Education Future International Scholarship—open to both US and international candidates.
• 3 unique scholarship programs for global students.
• Financial aid programs like Fulbright and Rotary scholarships.
• Most deadlines are in mid-November.

Application Checklist for 2025-2026:

• Academic transcripts
• Recommendation letters
• Personal statement
• Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL 80+ or IELTS 6.5+)

Table: Scholarship Programs at Pepperdine University

*Check official deadlines for the Education Future International Scholarship.

Why choose Pepperdine?

• Renowned faculty
• Supportive campus for international students
• Scholarships make the experience more affordable

Find the details and apply at the Pepperdine International Student Scholarships page.

Pepperdine graduates land jobs at top companies, universities, and non-profits.

With great scholarships and a strong alumni network, Pepperdine University International Student Scholarships can open doors for your future.

11) Santa Clara University International Student Financial Support

Santa Clara University lets international students apply for financial help. While you won’t get federal or state aid, SCU has its own scholarships and funding just for international students.

This support can make your education at this respected California school feel a bit more possible. Honestly, it’s a relief to know they have options for folks coming from abroad.

Types of Scholarships Available:

• Merit-Based Scholarships: SCU rewards strong academic performance and leadership.
• Education Future International Scholarship: Open for 2025-2026, aimed at international students who show need and promise.
• Global Engagement Scholarships: You’ll find several options through SCU’s Global Engagement Office.

Key Facts and Figures for 2025-2026:

Checklist for Applicants:

• Check out scholarship options on SCU’s Global Engagement site
• Prep your academic transcripts and test scores
• Gather recommendation letters and required docs
• Get your application in before the deadline
• Apply early to maximize your chances for many scholarships available.—it really does help your chances

Unique Points:

• SCU puts a lot of weight on academics and leadership
• International scholarships build a more diverse campus
• Don’t miss the deadlines—SCU won’t make exceptions

Career Opportunities:

Santa Clara University has a strong job placement record with Silicon Valley employers.

International grads often land roles in tech, business, and engineering, with starting salaries usually above $60,000 a year.

Want more details? Head to the Santa Clara University International Scholarships page.

12) Loyola Marymount University Global Education Scholarship Guide

Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles offers international students some pretty appealing Global Education Scholarships.

These awards ease the tuition burden and let you actually focus on your studies and campus life in California.

LMU looks for strong academics, leadership, and community involvement when choosing students. They want people who’ll add something real to their campus.

Why choose LMU’s Global Education Scholarships?

• Awards range from helpful awards to significant scholarships in the USA. $5,000 up to full tuition—it depends on merit and need
• Open to both international and U.S. students, these opportunities for students are highly competitive.
• Recognize academic achievement, leadership, and service
• Help diversify LMU’s student body

Key Facts about LMU Global Education Scholarships

Checklist for Applicants:

• Check your GPA—aim for 3.5 or better
• Collect recommendation letters
• Write a thoughtful personal essay
• Highlight any leadership roles or activities
• Submit your application early (seriously, don’t wait!)

You’ll find more details and application info on the LMU scholarships website.

Applying early really does make a difference since the funds don’t last forever.

13) Saint Mary’s College Undergraduate Scholarships for International Students

Saint Mary’s College in California gives international students a shot at a quality education in the U.S. with a variety of financial awards.

You can get considered for merit-based and need-based scholarships as an applicant.

 These awards help cover tuition, so you can focus on your studies and enjoy the tight-knit campus vibe.

Scholarship Fast Facts Table

• Automatic Renewal: If you stay enrolled full-time, merit-based scholarships renew for up to four years.
• Easy Access: No extra application needed for most awards—just apply for admission.
• Cultural Focus: Saint Mary’s really values international students and encourages a diverse campus.

Popular Programs at Saint Mary’s College

• Business Administration
• Psychology
• Biological Sciences
• Computer Science

Career Outcomes and ROI

Grads from Saint Mary’s often head into business, tech, teaching, or healthcare. A lot of alumni report being satisfied and seeing solid early career earnings.

Application Checklist

• Online application for admission
• Transcripts and academic records
• English language test scores (if needed)
• Personal statement or essay
• Financial documentation (for need-based awards)

Important Deadlines:

• Deadlines usually match undergraduate admissions. For fall 2025, try to apply by January 15, 2025, if you want the best shot at scholarships.

Want to know more? Check out Saint Mary’s College for details or to apply.

14) Cal Grant Financial Aid Options for International Students

Cal Grant Programs offer certain international students in California a way to pay for school costs.

Most Cal Grants go to state residents, but if you have refugee status, asylum, or special immigration classifications, you might still qualify.

It’s a grant, so you don’t have to pay it back. That’s always a relief.

To apply, fill out the FAFSA or CA Dream Act Application. Make sure you submit before March 2nd—missing that deadline could shut you out for the year.

Main types of Cal Grants

• Cal Grant A: Covers tuition and fees at most California colleges and universities.
• Cal Grant B: Gives a living allowance for books and expenses, plus tuition help after the first year.
• Cal Grant C: Focuses on technical or vocational students.

Typical Cal Grant Benefits for Qualified International Students

Application Checklist:

• Check your immigration status (only certain categories work)
• Complete FAFSA or CA Dream Act Application
• Meet income and academic requirements
• Submit by March 2nd

The California Student Aid Commission runs the Cal Grant Program.

For all the details and the official application, head to the California Student Aid Commission Cal Grants page.

15) American Indian Scholarship Opportunities for 2025-2026 in Southern California

The American Indian Scholarship of Southern California supports Native American students who care about academics and giving back to their communities.

If you’re a member of a federally recognized tribe, have at least a 3.0 GPA, and show financial need, you can apply as long as you attend an accredited college or university in California.

Important Dates and Details for 2025-2026:

Special Features:

• They look for students who serve their communities, not just those with good grades.
• If you’re passionate about preserving your culture, that’s a big plus.
• You can use the funds for books, tuition, or other school costs—pretty flexible.

Checklist for Your Application:

• Provide proof of tribal membership.
• Give real examples of your community service.
• Show why you need financial assistance to be considered for international fellowships.
• Talk about how you stay connected with your culture.
• Don’t miss that July 15, 2025 deadline.

Honestly, if you’re a Native student in Southern California, this scholarship could make a real difference.

You can find more info or grab the application from the American Indian Scholarship Fund of Southern California.

16) UC Riverside Chancellor’s Scholarship Award for International Students

The UC Riverside Chancellor’s Scholarship for International Students hands out a $5,000 annual award you can renew for up to four years.

That takes a big chunk out of tuition for high-achieving students, and you don’t need to fill out a separate application—they automatically consider you when you apply for admission.

Key Details at a Glance

Quick facts:

• Location: Riverside, California
• Top Programs: Engineering, Business, Biology, Computer Science
• Popular Research Centers: Center for Advanced Neuroimaging, Center for Sustainable Suburban Development
• Admission Rate (2025): Around 65%
• Career Outcomes: Graduates land jobs at Amazon, Google, Kaiser Permanente, and others
• Application Deadline (2025-26): November 30, 2025

Checklist for Applicants:

•  Apply to UC Riverside by the deadline
•  Meet minimum GPA and academic requirements to qualify for many scholarships.

Want more details? Head over to the UCR scholarships page for the full scoop.

17) San Francisco State University Scholarships for International Students

San Francisco State University International Student Scholarships offer a bit of financial relief for your studies at SFSU.

While they don’t provide full funding or federal aid for international students, you can still snag some Helpful awards include scholarships that support undergraduate students. to cut tuition costs.

Key Details for 2025-2026:

Popular Programs at SFSU:

• Business Administration
• Computer Science
• Engineering
• Cinema

What makes this scholarship valuable for you?

• Direct financial relief of $1,500—it’s not massive, but every bit helps.
• Open to all international students studying at least part-time.
• Easy application through the main university portal.
• Access to hundreds of other scholarships from different departments, so it’s worth poking around.

To Apply:

• Enroll for at least 6 units.
• Submit your application through the portal.
• Deadline: Varies—check the scholarship portal for the latest.

If you’re dreaming of studying in San Francisco and could use some extra support, definitely consider applying for these SFSU scholarships.

18) University of San Diego Academic Merit Awards

If you’re an international student eyeing college in California, you might want to check out the University of San Diego merit scholarships.

These awards cover part of your costs for the 2025–2026 academic year, and you don’t need to fill out a separate application—they’ll consider you when you apply for admission.

Key Facts About USD Merit Scholarships:

• Award Amounts: $18,000–$28,000 per year
• Renewable: Up to 4 years (if you keep your GPA up and stay full-time)
• Application: No separate scholarship form needed
• Selection Factors: Academic records, test scores, and the overall strength of your application
• Eligibility: International undergraduate applicants
• Law Scholarship: Joel Stern Pipeline Scholarship for 2L and 3L law students
• 2025–2026 Deadlines: Check the USD admissions page for updates

USD Merit Scholarships at a Glance

Why choose USD merit awards?

• About 30% of international applicants get some merit support—not bad odds.
• The campus has a strong global support network and a pretty welcoming vibe.
• Applying early is smart if you want a better shot at funding.
• Strong job prospects: USD grads end up at top employers, and there’s plenty of career advising and internships around.

What steps do you need to take?

• Apply for admission on time (set a reminder, seriously).
• Keep your grades and test scores strong.
• Plan to enroll full-time.
• Maintain your GPA if you want to keep the scholarship each year.

Want the details or ready to apply? Visit the USD scholarships page for everything you need.

19) Chapman University International Financial Aid

Chapman University really steps up for international students, offering several financial aid opportunities.

You can go for both merit-based and need-based scholarships, which helps a lot with tuition and living costs in Orange, California.

Key Financial Aid Facts for International Students at Chapman University:

Why consider Chapman University for international financial aid?

• Generous financial packages for talented applicants
• Merit scholarships can reach up to $40,000 each year
• Dedicated international student office to help with questions about visas, scholarships, and cultural support

Application checklist:

• Academic records and transcripts
• Completed application and financial documents
• Proof of English language ability
• Submit by early January for fall admission

For more info, check out Chapman’s financial aid opportunities for international students.

Chapman’s aid options can open doors for students from all over the world.

20) University of the Pacific Grants for International Students

University of the Pacific The university in California offers various scholarships for international students. merit-based scholarships to international first-year and transfer students with strong academic backgrounds.

Once you apply for admission, the university automatically considers you for these grants—no extra scholarship application needed. 

Award amounts depend on your high school grades, test scores, and academic performance.

To keep the scholarship each year, you’ll need to maintain the grades the university requires, as many scholarships require a minimum GPA.

Key Facts (2025):

Checklist for Applicants:

• Submit your university application
• Show strong academic results
• Keep your grades up while you study
• Check updates and deadlines on the Pacific scholarships page

Benefits:

• Access to California’s educational and cultural activities
• Annual award renewal if you meet requirements
• Support for international student success

These University of the Pacific international student merit scholarships can make a quality education here much more affordable and open up new career opportunities.

21) CSULB Financial Awards for International Students

California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) offers scholarships for international students coming in 2025-2026.

The BeachScholarships application lets you apply for multiple awards with one form, saving you time and hassle.

Types of Scholarships Available:

• BeachScholarships Program
• Study California Scholarship
• Study Abroad and Internship Scholarships

Eligibility Checklist:

• Be a full-time international student at CSULB
• Stay in good academic standing
• For Spring 2025 scholarships, you need to live in the Long Beach area

Key Application Facts for 2025-2026:

Check official deadlines and submit your application on the CSULB scholarships page at CSULB International Student Scholarships.

These awards can help with tuition and living costs while you experience life on this vibrant, diverse California campus.

Understanding Fully Funded Scholarships

What Are Fully Funded Scholarships and Their Main Requirements

Fully funded scholarships are financial aid packages that cover all the big costs tied to your studies.

Usually, this means tuition, living expenses, health insurance, travel, and sometimes research costs.

Unlike partial funding, these awards aim to let you skip extra loans, grants, or work-study jobs just to get by.

Common requirements for fully funded scholarships:

• Strong academic performance (often a GPA of 3.5 or above)
• High scores on standardized tests (SAT, GRE, or TOEFL)
• Leadership roles in school, community, or volunteer settings
• Research experience or achievements in a related field
• Clear career plans that fit the goals of whoever’s funding you

Most fully funded scholarships are fiercely competitive, sometimes with less than 10% acceptance.

Committees want applicants who stand out—leadership, unique stories, the works.

 Some come from universities, others from big organizations like the Mastercard Foundation.

Key Advantages for International Students

If you snag a fully funded scholarship, the program covers your school fees and personal costs.

That takes away a lot of stress, so you can actually focus on classes, projects, and building your career.

You may receive many scholarships that cover tuition and other expenses.

• Full tuition payment (sometimes $40,000–$60,000 a year at private schools)
• Monthly stipends for living costs (about $1,000)
• Health insurance that could save you $1,500–$2,500 each year
• Allowance for textbooks and research materials

Other perks might include career mentorship, networking events, and professional development activities.

Many programs offer extra support for cultural adjustment and even help with work placements after you graduate.

Main Benefits Checklist:

• No student loans needed
• Focus on academic and research work
• Mentoring from faculty and professionals
• Lifelong international connections
• Access to top-notch facilities and resources

These scholarships give international students a real shot at studying in California’s best schools.

Steps to Apply for Scholarships if You Are from Another Country

Who Can Apply and What You Need

If you want to apply for fully funded scholarships in California, you’ll need to meet some key academic and language standards. 

Most programs ask for at least a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale. For top schools or grad programs, expect higher bars.

Proving your English language skills is a must. You can do this with test scores like:

• TOEFL: 90-100 (iBT minimum)
• IELTS: 7.0 or above
• Duolingo: 110-120

Some scholarships set specific rules about which countries you can apply from. Usually, you need to be a non-US citizen with a valid passport.

Some programs even save spots for students from certain regions.

Your field of study matters. Your past schooling should line up with the major or area you want to pursue.

Certain awards only support fields that match their mission—think STEM, arts, or social sciences.

Quick checklist for eligibility:

• Strong academic record (usually 3.0 GPA and above)
• English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo)
• Non-US citizenship
• Background in your chosen field
• Meet any country or program-specific rules

Documents You Need to Send

Every scholarship and exchange program has its own list of required papers. Most ask you to use online portals.

Deadlines for 2025-2026 usually fall around May 1, 2025. Still, you should always double-check your chosen school’s specific dates.

You’ll need to prepare these items:

Tips for the application process:

• Start collecting documents early. Missing deadlines is a pain you don’t want.
• Check all translation and evaluation rules—some schools get picky.
• Use California study abroad scholarship portals or official university sites to apply. Don’t just rely on third-party sites.

Get your documents ready and follow each requirement.

That’s how you boost your odds for a funded exchange program or scholarship in California.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for top fully funded scholarships as an international student at California universities, including merit scholarship, financial need, foundation scholarships, scholarships fund, and fellowships 2025?

Applicants need strong academic performance, usually a minimum GPA of 3.5 or higher.

Programs often look for leadership experience and involvement in extracurriculars or community work.

For graduate scholarships, universities may ask for high standardized test scores like the GRE or GMAT, typically in the 85th percentile or above.

You’ll probably need to show independent thinking and leadership, too.

Eligibility Requirements Table

Checklist:

• GPA meets or exceeds 3.5
• Leadership experience (school, volunteering)
• Excellent test scores (if required)
• Strong personal statements

Which schools in California grant fully funded scholarships for master’s programs to international students for 2025–2026?

Top choices include the University of California system (UC Berkeley, UCLA, UC San Diego), Stanford University, and Caltech.

They offer fellowships, assistantships, and merit-based awards that can cover your full tuition and living costs.

Stanford’s programs are fiercely competitive. If you’re selected, you might get complete coverage as a master’s candidate.

USC also gives merit scholarships that sometimes pay the entire tuition for international graduate students.

Table: Top Fully Funded Master’s Scholarships in California for International Students

Don’t forget: Some programs want you to submit a separate application for scholarships or fellowships. It’s annoying, but it happens.

What does it take to apply for a full undergraduate scholarship in California, including the Education Future International Scholarship?

You’ll need a completed Common Application or Coalition Application and your academic transcripts showing a minimum GPA of 3.7.

Most universities want English proficiency scores (TOEFL 100+ or IELTS 7.0+) and SAT/ACT results unless they’re test-optional.

Scholarships typically require 2–3 recommendation letters and a personal essay about your achievements and goals.

If you’re after arts or research-based scholarships, prepare a portfolio or proposal too.

Checklist for Applying:

• Common App/Coalition App filled out
• Transcripts (GPA 3.7+)
• English proficiency test scores
• Students must submit SAT/ACT scores (if required) for financial aid for international students.
• 2–3 strong recommendation letters
• Personal statement or essay
• Portfolio or research proposal if needed

Application Requirements Table

What steps should international students take in the application process to apply for full scholarship programs 2025 in California?

Start applications 12–15 months ahead. Most deadlines land between November 2024 and January 2025 for the 2025–2026 intake.

Create your account on each school’s portal or the Common App/UC Application if that’s what they use.

Fill out the International Student Financial Aid Application (ISFAA) is essential for accessing fully funded opportunities. or whatever financial forms they want.

Don’t forget to hunt for outside scholarships—lots of these have their own application quirks and deadlines.

Application Steps:

1. Undergraduate students should register for each university portal to access available scholarships.
2. Collect and organize all required documents.
3. Fill out the ISFAA or school-specific aid form.
4. Prep your essays and ask for recommendation letters (early is better).
5. Apply for external opportunities, too.
6. Send in any extra applications if the school asks.
7. Keep an eye on your email for updates or interview invitations.

Timeline Table

Can international students get full financial support for both tuition and living costs through California scholarships 2025 – 2026?

Yes, plenty of California universities offer total cost scholarships that cover tuition and living expenses.

Some programs even toss in stipends for housing, meals, and health insurance, making them fully funded opportunities.

Stanford’s Knight-Hennessy Scholarship, for example, pays for tuition, room, board, books, and travel. That can run over $75,000 a year.

UC Berkeley The program gives monthly stipends of about $2,500–$3,000, along with multiple scholarships. At California State University, the Graduate Equity Fellowship can reach $4,500 per year, and you can sometimes stack it with other awards.

Private schools like USC might include housing, meal plans, and extra stipends in their aid packages. Not too shabby.

Comprehensive Funding Table

What support and benefits come with fully funded college scholarships for international students at US universities?

Fully funded scholarships do a lot more than just pay your tuition.

Most packages include health insurance (usually worth $2,000–$4,000 per year).

You also get a monthly living stipend that ranges from $1,500 to $3,000.

That helps you cover rent, groceries, and all the little things you need every day.

Some scholarships throw in a one-time relocation allowance (often $1,000–$2,000) to help you get settled in a new city or country.

A bunch of programs add professional development funds for conferences, research supplies, or extra training.

Sometimes, you’ll even get a summer stipend.

That lets you focus on research or academic work without worrying about money during the break.

Benefits Table

Extra Benefits Include:

• Peer mentor programs
• Networking and career support
• Leadership training

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