45 Best Fully Funded Scholarships at Duke University 2026 – 2027: Top Duke University Scholarship Awards, Financial Aid and the Karsh International Scholars Program

Looking for Fully Funded Scholarships at Duke University 2026-2027?

Duke University offers a range of fully funded scholarships for 2026. These scholarships cover tuition, housing, and living costs for both undergraduate and graduate programs.

You can apply for university, government, and external scholarships. Many awards focus on academic merit, leadership, service, and financial need.

International and U.S. students can find opportunities each year. This guide highlights the main funding paths at Duke.

You will learn about international awards, need-based aid, and graduate fellowships. These scholarships can cover full tuition, room and board, health insurance, and stipends.

Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships at Duke University 2026 – 2027, Best Duke Scholarships

*Check exact deadlines for the 2026–2027 intake.

1) Karsh International Scholarship

The Karsh International Scholarship at Duke University supports high-achieving international undergraduate students. You will study in Durham, North Carolina, a thriving academic hub.

This scholarship focuses on academic excellence, leadership, and global impact. You do not need to submit a separate application.

What the scholarship covers:

• Full tuition
• Housing and meals
• Mandatory fees
• Funding for research or internships

Eligibility:

• Non-U.S. citizens or non-permanent residents
• Admitted as undergraduate
• Strong academics and financial need

Key Facts:

2026 Cycle:

2) Robertson Scholars Leadership Program

The Robertson Scholars Leadership Program is a fully funded, merit-based undergraduate scholarship at Duke University and UNC–Chapel Hill. You will study on both campuses in North Carolina.

The program emphasizes leadership, ethics, and public service. You receive eight semesters of full tuition, housing, and meals.

You also get support for summer projects, study abroad, and conferences. The program looks for students with strong academics and real leadership impact.

Key Benefits:

Eligibility:

3) Fulbright Foreign Student Program

The Fulbright Foreign Student Program is a fully funded U.S. government scholarship. It supports international students admitted to Duke for master’s or PhD study.

You join a global network in over 160 countries. The program values academic merit, leadership, and cross-cultural exchange.

You receive full tuition, housing, living stipend, health insurance, and round-trip airfare. Awards usually last 1–2 academic years.

Key Coverage:

Eligibility:

Apply through your home country Fulbright office. Deadlines vary, often 8–12 months before enrollment.

4) Duke Merit Scholarships

Duke Merit Scholarships reward high-achieving undergraduates. These awards can cover full tuition, fees, room, and board for up to four years.

You do not need a separate application for most merit scholarships. Duke reviews your regular admission file.

The Office of University Scholars and Fellows selects recipients based on academics, leadership, and service.

5) Duke Need-Based Scholarships

Duke University meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted students. You receive grants, not loans, for undergraduate and some graduate programs.

International students can also qualify. Duke adjusts aid if costs rise during your studies.

Key Features:

Eligible Programs:

6) Kazakhstan Government Scholarships at Duke

The Kazakhstan Government Scholarship supports Kazakh citizens studying abroad. Duke University participates, mainly in business, public policy, and science fields.

You can use this scholarship at Duke for master’s or PhD study. Both Duke and the Kazakh government must approve your placement.

Key Funding:

Eligibility:

7) Duke University Scholars Program

The Duke University Scholars Program is a The merit-based undergraduate award is designed for exceptional students with strong academic preparation..

 You earn it for academic strength, leadership, and service.

This program covers full tuition, fees, room, and board for four years. Duke selects scholars during the admissions process.

You also receive advising, enrichment funding, and leadership support.

8) Trinity College Merit Scholarships

Trinity College Merit Scholarships support top undergraduate students. You can earn this award for strong academics and leadership.

Some tracks focus on students from North or South Carolina. The scholarship covers full tuition, housing, and meals for up to four years.

Selection uses your Duke admission application. You do not need a separate form.

Key Facts:

Funding Snapshot:

9) Duke Comprehensive Financial Aid

Duke University in Durham, North Carolina offers need-based, fully funded financial aid for undergraduates, including international students. Duke provides support based on your financial need, not your grades.

Duke meets 100% of verified need.

Aid covers:

• Tuition
• Housing
• Meals
• Required fees

Duke awards grants, not loans, so you avoid long-term debt.

Coverage Overview

Key Facts

10) Karsh International Scholars Program

The Karsh International Scholars Program at Duke University supports high-achieving international undergraduates with financial need. Duke ranks among the top private research universities in the U.S.

You automatically qualify by applying to Duke as an international student. Duke selects scholars for their academic strength, leadership, and financial need.

What the scholarship covers

Key facts for 2026 intake

11) Duke Graduate School Fellowships

Duke University’s Graduate School supports PhD students through fully funded fellowships. These awards focus on research progress and reduce teaching or service duties during key study periods.

Fellowships cover:

• Full tuition
• Health insurance
• Living stipend

Many fellowships also fund summer research or dissertation travel.

Key Fellowship Types

Eligibility Snapshot

12) Duke PhD Tuition Scholarships

Duke University offers fully funded PhD tuition scholarships across most doctoral programs. You receive full tuition coverage and financial stability so you can focus on your research.

Most Duke PhD programs guarantee five years of funding and six years of health and dental insurance. Departments manage awards through the Graduate School and academic units.

What the scholarship covers

Key funding facts

You apply through your PhD program. No separate scholarship form is needed.

13) Masters Funding via Fulbright

The Fulbright Foreign Student Program funds full master’s study at Duke University. You apply through your home country.

The award covers:

• Full tuition
• Monthly living stipend
• Round‑trip airfare
• Health insurance

Funding usually lasts one to two years, depending on your program.

You must have a bachelor’s degree and meet English requirements. Deadlines vary by country, often 12–18 months before fall 2026 enrollment.

14) Duke Undergraduate Tuition Scholarships

Duke University offers fully funded undergraduate tuition scholarships for high-achieving students. The awards focus on merit, leadership, and service.

Many scholarships cover:

• Full tuition
• Fees
• Room and board for four years

You apply automatically through undergraduate admission.

Key Duke Undergraduate Tuition Scholarships

Core Facts and Eligibility

15) Duke Room and Board Coverage

Duke University covers room and board for select fully funded scholarships tied to 2026 entry. You pay nothing for housing or meal plans if you qualify.

Coverage applies for all four undergraduate years.

The Karsh International Scholarship and top merit awards include full campus housing and meals. Duke provides this coverage automatically after you enroll.

Room & Board Coverage by Program

What Duke Pays

16) Bruce A. and Martha L. Karsh Endowment

The Bruce A. and Martha L. Karsh Endowment funds the Karsh International Scholarship at Duke University. Duke ranks among the top private research universities in the U.S.

Founded in 2010, the endowment supports high-achieving international undergraduates with financial need. You receive full tuition, housing, meals, and mandatory fees.

The program also funds research, internships, and civic engagement. You can build strong academic and global leadership skills through these opportunities.

17) Full Tuition Scholarships for International Students

Duke University offers full tuition support for selected international students in 2026.

 These awards focus on academic merit, leadership, and financial need across undergraduate and graduate programs.

Key options include the Karsh International Scholarship for undergraduates and Duke-supported Fulbright placements for graduate study.

Both cover full tuition and add support for housing, fees, and health insurance.

18) Duke Living Stipend Awards

Duke University offers living stipend awards for funded graduate and doctoral programs in 2026. You get monthly support to cover housing, food, and basic costs while you study full time.

These awards often pair with tuition coverage and health insurance. You can access stipends through fellowships, research assistantships, or teaching roles.

Typical Stipend Details

Common Funding Sources

19) Duke Research Funding Grants

Duke University supports PhD and postdoctoral research through internal and external research funding. These grants focus on original research, dissertation work, and early-stage projects across disciplines.

You can apply through Duke’s Research Funding database, which lists updated opportunities year-round.

Key Grant Types

Eligibility and Access

20) Duke University Health Insurance Coverage

Duke University The program requires all students to have approved documentation, especially international applicants must ensure compliance with regulations. health insurance.

If you don’t show comparable coverage, Duke automatically enrolls you in the Student Blue Health Plan.

Fully funded scholarships often pay for health insurance. This means you don’t pay out-of-pocket premiums during your funded period.

What the Plan Covers

How Funding Applies

21) Duke Scholarship Application Guidance

You can apply for most fully funded Duke University scholarships through your admission application. Duke reviews merit awards automatically, so you don’t need a separate form for most programs.

You must meet program deadlines for Fall 2026 entry. Some awards require extra steps, like interviews or essays.

Duke notifies finalists by email in spring. Check each program’s funding rules early.

Application Pathways

Key Preparation Checklist

22) Duke Partial Tuition Scholarships

Duke University offers several partial tuition scholarships for 2026. These awards lower your tuition costs but don’t cover all expenses.

You can get these scholarships through merit-based programs, school-specific awards, or external funding. Duke gives merit awards to students with strong academics and leadership.

Most partial scholarships are open to both undergraduate and graduate students. Award amounts depend on your school, funding source, and the annual budget.

23) Duke International Graduate Funding

Duke University offers strong funding for international master’s and PhD students. You can access fully funded packages that combine fellowships, assistantships, and external awards like Fulbright.

Most PhD students get full tuition, health insurance, and a living stipend through The Graduate School. Funding usually lasts 4–5 years based on your academic progress.

Key Funding Types

Eligibility Snapshot

24) Karsh Scholarship Leadership Criteria

You must show leadership through action. Duke looks for students who start projects, guide teams, or lead service that helps others.

You should show impact in your school or community. Examples include civic service, research leadership, or social initiatives.

Duke values integrity and responsibility. The university looks for ethical choices, collaboration, and respect for different cultures.

25) Duke Scholarship Renewal Policies

Duke University requires you to follow annual renewal rules to keep fully funded scholarships for 2026. You must stay enrolled full time and make steady academic progress each year.

Most Duke merit and international scholarships expect you to keep good academic standing, often with a minimum GPA. Duke reviews your record every year before renewing funding.

Some awards require continued leadership, service, or campus involvement. Duke may pause or end funding if you don’t meet these terms or change your enrollment status.

26) Duke Alumni-funded Scholarships

Duke University offers several alumni-funded scholarships for undergraduates with strong academics and clear financial need.

The Alumni Endowed Scholarship, founded in 1979, supports students with family ties to Duke and leadership potential.

These awards often cover full tuition and housing when combined with Duke’s need-based aid. Selection focuses on academic strength, service, and long-term engagement with the Duke alumni community.

27) Duke Fellowship for Doctoral Students

Duke University offers fully funded fellowships for PhD students across most schools. You receive multi-year support focused on research progress.

These fellowships are for admitted and continuing doctoral students, including international students. They form the core of Duke’s five-year PhD funding model.

Key Funding Coverage

Key Facts for 2026 Entry

28) Duke International Student Funding Options

Duke University in Durham, North Carolina, offers strong funding for international students in both undergraduate and graduate programs.

You can combine university aid with major external awards to reach full funding for 2026 entry.

Key options include:

• Karsh International Scholarship for undergraduates with full tuition, housing, and fees
• Fulbright Foreign Student Program for funded master’s and PhD study
• Duke fellowships and assistantships that cover tuition and provide stipends

29) Duke University External Scholarship Listings

Duke University maintains external scholarship listings to help you find fully funded awards from governments, foundations, and nonprofits worldwide.

These listings support undergraduate, master’s, PhD, and professional programs starting in 2026.

You can access these listings through Duke’s financial aid and graduate funding offices. They focus on awards that cover full tuition, living costs, travel, and health insurance.

Common External Scholarships Linked to Duke

Key Features of Duke External Listings

You should check deadlines early. Many awards open 12–18 months before enrollment.

30) Duke Financial Aid for Undergraduates

Duke University offers one of the strongest need-based aid programs in the United States. Your aid depends on family income, not merit scores, which is especially important for talented students in the USA.

Duke meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted undergraduates. Over 50% of students receive financial aid, mostly as grants that you don’t have to repay.

International students may qualify for aid, but Duke reviews their applications with financial need in mind. If you enroll without aid, you can’t add it later.

31) Karsh International Leadership Awards

You can study at Duke University with full financial support through the Karsh International Leadership Awards, launched in 2010.

Duke selects high-achieving international undergraduates with strong leadership and financial need.

The award covers your full undergraduate study. It emphasizes service, research, and global leadership.

Key Facts

32) Duke University Grant Programs

Duke University offers grant programs for your study and research across many schools. You can use these grants for tuition, living costs, summer research, travel, and dissertation work.

33) Duke Tuition Waivers for Scholars

Duke University offers tuition waivers for selected scholars in approved programs. These waivers can reduce or fully cover tuition, often linked to merit awards, need-based aid, or funded academic roles.

Many graduate scholars get waivers through teaching or research appointments. Undergraduate scholars usually access tuition coverage through named merit programs.

Tuition Waiver Coverage

Common Eligibility Paths

34) Duke Full Ride Scholarships

Duke University ranks among the top private universities in the United States. The university offers full ride scholarships that cover tuition, housing, meals, and fees for high-achieving students.

You can study in Durham, North Carolina, a vibrant U.S. research and healthcare hub. These awards recognize academic excellence, leadership, and service for both U.S. and international students.

Key Duke Full Ride Scholarships (2026 Intake)

What You Receive and How Selection Works

You apply through Duke’s regular admission process. Most full ride awards do not require a separate scholarship form.

35) Karsh Scholarship for Community Service

You can apply for the Karsh International Scholarship at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina. This fully funded undergraduate scholarship supports international students with financial need and a clear record of community service.

The award covers all study costs and expects you to engage in civic service during your degree.

Key Benefits

Eligibility Snapshot

36) Duke Graduate School Merit Awards

Duke University provides Graduate School Merit Awards to outstanding master’s and PhD students in Durham, North Carolina. You earn these awards based on academic strength, research promise, and faculty review.

Most awards reduce tuition and may offer stipends or research funds. Departments nominate you during admission, so you usually do not need a separate application.

Key Award Features

Funding and Selection

37) Fulbright Transportation Grants

Fulbright Transportation Grants help Duke students who receive Fulbright awards for study, research, or teaching abroad.

You use this funding to cover one round‑trip flight between the United States and your host country.

The grant removes a major cost barrier for global academic work. The program targets U.S. citizens accepted into Fulbright pathways tied to Duke programs.

Funding levels vary by country and federal allocations. Transportation support applies to all standard Fulbright awards.

What the Grant Covers

• One round‑trip international flight
• Travel dates aligned with Fulbright start and end terms
• Access to Fulbright travel guidance and emergency support

Grant Details

Eligibility and Timing

38) Duke Programs for Minority Students

Duke University runs several programs to support students from underrepresented racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups. These programs focus on access, retention, and academic success at both undergraduate and graduate levels.

You can access need-based aid, targeted fellowships, and mentoring through offices like Duke Student Affairs and individual schools. Many awards stack with fully funded scholarships, including grants that cover full tuition, housing, and living costs.

Duke also offers summer bridge programs, research funding, and leadership training. These opportunities help you prepare for competitive majors, graduate school, and professional careers.

39) Duke Endowed Scholarships

Duke University awards endowed scholarships funded by alumni and donors. You can receive these awards based on merit, need, or both.

Many scholarships support undergraduate study across Trinity College and Pratt School of Engineering. These scholarships often renew for four years if you meet academic standards.

Some also fund research, leadership programs, or service work.

Key Facts

Eligibility Snapshot

40) Karsh Scholarship Selection Process

Duke University reviews your application automatically for the Karsh Scholarship when you apply for undergraduate admission. You do not need a separate Karsh Scholarship application.

The selection team considers your academic record, leadership, and community service. They also review your financial need using Duke’s aid forms.

Finalists show a strong global perspective and campus engagement. Duke announces awards with admission decisions or soon after.

41) Duke Merit Funding for Masters Students

Duke University provides merit-based funding for select master’s students** in Durham, North Carolina. These awards recognize academic strength, leadership, and professional promise.

Most funding comes from each school, not a central pool. Merit funding often reduces tuition and may pair with fellowships or assistant roles.

Amounts vary by program and year.

Key Duke Merit Funding Sources

What You Should Know

42) Duke University Student Bursaries

Duke University offers student bursaries to help you cover short-term financial gaps. These awards focus on need-based support and often assist during emergencies.

You can use bursaries for basic costs like housing, food, books, or health needs, especially for international applicants who demonstrate a need for financial assistance. Many programs serve undergraduates, graduate students, and international students.

Key Bursary Facts

Eligibility and Access

43) Duke Scholarship Interviews

You may face an interview for selective Duke scholarships, including the Karsh International Scholarship. Duke uses interviews to assess leadership, service, and your fit with its academic mission.

Interviews are usually virtual and last 30–45 minutes. You should expect questions about your goals, community impact, and academic interests.

Some programs interview finalists only, after admission review. You can strengthen your chances by giving clear examples, staying concise, and showing long-term commitment to service.

44) Duke Teaching Assistantship Funding

Duke University Teaching Assistantships support PhD and select master’s students in Durham, North Carolina. You get paid, receive tuition support in many programs, and gain hands-on teaching experience.

These assistantships usually fund years two through five of PhD study. Departments assign roles based on need, skills, and enrollment.

Key Funding Details

Common Roles and Fields

You apply through your department after admission. International students qualify, but must follow visa rules.

45) Karsh Program Application Timeline

You apply for the Karsh International Scholarship through Duke’s regular undergraduate admission process. Duke selects Karsh Scholars after admission, based on merit and financial need.

Key timeline for Fall 2026 entry

• Apply to Duke: by January 2, 2026
• Financial aid forms: January–February 2026
• Admission decisions: Applications for the fall 2026 intake will be accepted until late March 2026.

Eligibility Criteria for Fully Funded and Financial Aid at Duke

Fully funded scholarships at Duke University for 2026 focus on strong academics, clear financial need, and fit with each program. Your eligibility depends on your grades, background, and the specific award’s rules.

Academic Requirements

You must show strong academic performance in a challenging course load. Duke reviews your grades, class rank, and school profile during admission.

For undergraduate awards, you need:

• A high school diploma or equivalent
• Strong results in core subjects like math, science, and language
• Competitive SAT or ACT scores, if you submit them

Duke-administered merit scholarships do not require a separate application. Duke reviews all admitted students automatically.

Need-based financial aid considers your academic record and your family’s finances. Graduate and professional programs set their own academic requirements, often including prior degrees and minimum GPA standards.

Citizenship and Residency

Many fully funded options at Duke support international students, U.S. citizens, and permanent residents. Duke’s need-based aid applies to students from any country.

Key points:

• International students qualify for need-based aid and the Karsh International Scholarship
• U.S. citizens and permanent residents qualify for federal aid and Duke grants
• You do not need North Carolina residency for Duke scholarships

You must have or obtain the correct visa status if you study from outside the U.S. Duke’s aid decisions do not depend on your country of origin, but some external awards may limit eligibility by nationality.

Program-Specific Conditions

Each fully funded scholarship sets its own rules. You must meet all program conditions to receive and keep the award.

Common requirements:

• Full-time enrollment in an approved degree program
• Progress toward your degree each year
• Good academic standing, often a minimum GPA

Some programs require:

• Leadership or service experience
• Commitment to unpaid internships or research
• Participation in mentoring or campus activities

The Karsh International Scholarship focuses on academic talent, financial need, and engagement beyond the classroom. Always review the official program page before you apply.

Application Process

You apply for fully funded scholarships at Duke University 2026 through the standard Duke admission process. Duke reviews your scholarship eligibility at the same time as your admission file.

Required Documentation

You must submit a complete Duke admission application for scholarship consideration.

Core documents:

• Online application (Common Application or Coalition Application)
• Academic transcripts from all secondary schools or universities
• Standardized test scores, if you choose to submit them
• Personal essays and short responses
• Letters of recommendation from teachers or counselors

For need-based funding, submit financial aid forms. International students usually complete the CSS Profile and Duke’s financial aid certification. Duke uses these forms to confirm your financial need.

Key Deadlines

You must meet Duke’s admission deadlines to qualify for scholarships. Most fully funded awards do not require a separate application.

Typical timelines for 2026 entry:

• Early Decision: The deadline for applications is November 2025 for the fall 2026 intake.
• Regular Decision: Early January 2026
• Financial aid forms: Due near the admission deadline

Some scholarships, including Karsh, require you to apply as a first-year undergraduate. Duke does not offer this award to transfer students.

Always check Duke’s official site for the most current dates.

Selection Procedure

Duke selects scholarship prestigious recipients through a holistic review. You do not interview for most fully funded scholarships.

The review focuses on:

• Academic strength, including course rigor and grades
• Leadership and service, especially community impact
• Financial need, for need-based awards
• Fit with Duke’s values, such as global engagement

The Karsh Scholarship committee looks at long-term leadership potential and your plan to use Duke’s resources. Duke notifies selected students with their admission decision or soon after.

You improve your chances by submitting clear essays, accurate financial data, and strong recommendations.

BFFS Scholar Quest Frequently Asked Questions: Best Fully Funded Duke Scholarships 2026 – 2027

Find answers to common questions about generous fully funded scholarships at Duke University for 2026. We cover eligibility, deadlines, international student options, and how Duke selects full-ride recipients.

What are the eligibility requirements for fully funded scholarships at Duke University for the 2026 academic year?

You must apply for admission to Duke and meet your program’s academic standards.
Most fully funded awards require strong academic records, leadership, and service.

Some scholarships, such as Duke need-based aid and the Karsh International Scholarship, also require documented financial need.

What is the application deadline for fully funded scholarships at Duke University for 2026?

Deadlines depend on the scholarship and degree level.
For undergraduate programs, Duke’s main application deadline is early January 2026 for Regular Decision.

Many scholarships, including Karsh and Duke merit awards, follow the admissions timeline.

Are there any fully funded scholarships available at Duke University for international students for 2026?

Yes, Duke offers several fully funded options for international students.
The Karsh International Scholarship is the most prominent and covers tuition, housing, meals, and core costs.

International students may also combine Duke need-based aid with external awards, such as the Fulbright Foreign Student Program for graduate study.

How can international students apply for the Karsh International Scholarship for the 2026 academic year at Duke University?

You apply through Duke’s standard undergraduate admissions process.
Duke automatically considers eligible international applicants for the Karsh International Scholarship.

You must show financial need, academic excellence, and a record of service or leadership.

What are the criteria for receiving a full ride scholarship at Duke University?

Duke reviews academic performance, leadership, community impact, and fit with the scholarship mission.
Some awards focus on merit, while others weigh financial need heavily.

Programs like the Robertson Scholars Leadership Program also assess collaboration and leadership potential.

Strategies to Increase Your Chances of a Full Ride Scholarship at Duke University

Apply early.
Submit a strong, complete application with clear goals.

Show your commitment to academic excellence and your potential to contribute to a diverse cohort. consistent leadership in your activities.
Demonstrate a focus on service and academic excellence.

Look for external scholarships that Duke allows you to combine with university funding.
Check out opportunities like the SMART Scholarship and others.

Maximize your chances by staying organized and proactive.
Highlight your exceptional achievements and unique strengths in every part of your application to attract mentorship opportunities.

View our Recent BFFS Scholar Quest Content here!

• 19 Fully Funded Scholarships in Luxembourg: International 2026
• 25 Fully Funded Scholarships Singapore International Students 2026
• 25 Fully Funded Scholarships in Austria: International Students 2026
• 25 Fully Funded Scholarships in Norway International Students 2026
• 45 Fully Funded Scholarships | California Institute of Technology 2027