Top 10 Hidden Fellowships for International Students Must Apply

As an international student, navigating the world of funding options can be overwhelming. Fellowships for international students are often underreported, leaving many talented individuals unaware of the opportunities that exist. Fellowships not only provide financial support but also enhance academic and professional journey, allowing you to gain invaluable experiences.

Here, I’ll share the top 10 hidden fellowships for international students that you must apply for to unlock your potential.

• AAUW International Fellowship Program

• PEO International Peace Scholarship

• United Nations University (UNU) Fellowship

• Open Society Foundations Fellowship

• Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI) Fellowship

• Ford Foundation International Fellowships Program

• Fulbright Foreign Student Program

• Rotary Peace Fellowship

• Chevening Scholarships

• Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees

1. AAUW International Fellowship Program

American Association of University Women (AAUW) offers the International Fellowship Program specifically designed for women from around the globe. This fellowship aims to support women pursuing graduate studies in the United States. Successful candidates can receive funding of up to $30,000 to cover tuition and living expenses, making it an invaluable resource for those seeking education in a new environment. Eligibility is limited to international women enrolled in a full-time graduate program, emphasizing the program’s commitment to empowering women.

2. PEO International Peace Scholarship

PEO International Peace Scholarship Fund provides financial assistance for women from other countries who wish to pursue graduate studies in the U.S. and Canada. This fellowship offers funding up to $12,500 per year, making a significant impact on the educational journey of its recipients. It’s particularly aimed at women demonstrating a commitment to promoting peace, making it a fitting option for those focused on making a difference in their communities.

3. United Nations University (UNU) Fellowship

United Nations University offers fellowships for students from developing countries who wish to engage in postgraduate studies related to sustainable development. The fellowship covers tuition and provides a monthly stipend, supporting students as they work toward degrees in crucial global issues. Eligibility is open to international students from developing nations, making it an excellent opportunity for those passionate about sustainable practices.

4. Open Society Foundations Fellowship

Open Society Foundations offers fellowships to students and professionals pursuing projects that promote social justice and human rights. Funding varies based on the project, often including support for travel and research. This fellowship invites international students with compelling projects or initiatives, encouraging them to develop innovative ideas that can lead to meaningful change.

5. Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI) Fellowship

Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI) Fellowship empowers emerging entrepreneurs from Latin America and the Caribbean to develop their leadership skills and innovative ideas. This program offers professional development and training opportunities in the United States, helping young leaders foster valuable connections and experiences. It encourages participation from diverse backgrounds by targeting young leaders from eligible countries in the Americas.

6. Ford Foundation International Fellowships Program

The Ford Foundation offers an International Fellowships Program that funds graduate studies for individuals from marginalized communities. This fellowship covers tuition, travel, and living expenses, removing financial barriers for deserving candidates pursuing higher education. Applicants must come from low-income communities and demonstrate a strong commitment to social change, aligning with the foundation’s mission.

7. Fulbright Foreign Student Program

While the Fulbright Foreign Student Program is widely recognized, many potential candidates overlook it due to its competitive nature. This prestigious program offers full funding for international students to study in the U.S., covering tuition and living expenses. Eligibility varies by country, but it generally requires applicants to have a graduate-level degree, making it a significant opportunity for those with a strong academic background.

8. Rotary Peace Fellowship

Rotary Peace Fellowship offers fully funded master’s degrees and professional development certificates focused on peace and conflict resolution. Recipients enjoy full tuition coverage, travel expenses, and living stipends, making it a comprehensive package for those dedicated to promoting peace. Eligibility includes demonstrating a commitment to peace and conflict resolution, aligning with the program’s core mission.

9. The Chevening Scholarships

Funded by the UK government, Chevening Scholarships offer funding for international students pursuing postgraduate studies in the UK. This fellowship covers tuition fees, travel, and living costs, making it a remarkable opportunity for students from around the world. Candidates must demonstrate leadership potential and a strong academic background, making it an attractive option for ambitious individuals.

10. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees

Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees program provides scholarships for students pursuing joint master’s degrees across various European universities. This fellowship covers tuition fees, travel, subsistence costs, and installation support, making it a comprehensive resource for students looking to study in multiple countries. It is open to students from all countries, fostering a diverse and dynamic academic environment.

Networking Opportunities Through Fellowships

Building Connections with Fellow Scholars:

• Fellowships give students a unique platform to connect with scholars who share similar academic interests. They enable you to collaborate on research projects, exchange knowledge, and gain fresh perspectives.

• The interaction with fellow scholars isn’t just limited to formal settings. Many fellowships organize workshops, seminars, and retreats where participants can engage in informal discussions, strengthening bonds and fostering long-lasting professional relationships.

• These connections often lead to future collaborations in research, co-authoring papers, or even working together on initiatives outside of academia. The shared fellowship experience also creates a sense of camaraderie, which can be valuable when navigating academic challenges.

• Fellowships often feature a mentorship component that pairs students with senior professionals or academic experts in their fields. These mentors offer invaluable guidance, helping fellows shape their research and career paths while providing advice on navigating academic challenges. As a result, students gain essential insights that enhance their educational journey and professional growth.

Engaging with Mentors and Professionals:

• One of the significant advantages of a fellowship is the opportunity to interact with mentors who are established professionals in their field. These mentors can provide personalized advice, opening doors to new opportunities and offering insights that would be difficult to access otherwise.

• Mentorship can significantly impact a fellow’s career trajectory. A mentor’s guidance can steer a student towards the right research opportunities, connect them with influential contacts, or help them refine their academic focus. Many fellows continue to maintain strong relationships with their mentors even after the fellowship ends, benefiting from ongoing advice and professional connections.

• Fellowships often go beyond academic mentorship by connecting students with professionals working in industries related to their field of study. This allows fellows to understand the real-world applications of their academic knowledge, gain exposure to current trends in their industries, and build a network of contacts that can be instrumental in securing future internships or job opportunities.

Enhancing Career Prospects:

• Networking through fellowships can have a direct and lasting impact on a fellow’s career. Whether through connections made with fellow scholars, mentors, or professionals, fellows often find that these relationships open doors to new opportunities.

• Many fellows are introduced to job opportunities, internships, and collaborative projects through the networks they build during their fellowship. Additionally, being part of a fellowship program signals to employers that the student has been recognized for their academic or professional excellence, making them stand out in the job market.

• Beyond immediate job opportunities, the connections made through fellowships create a long-term network of peers and professionals that fellows can rely on throughout their careers. This network can be a valuable source of advice, mentorship, and future opportunities, helping to build a strong foundation for professional success.

Impact of Fellowships on Your Career

Enhancing Your CV:

• Fellowships enhance your CV by showcasing your selection from a competitive pool, proving your academic excellence and leadership skills.

• You gain practical experience through research, project work, and conference presentations, which adds depth and credibility to your resume.

• By managing projects and collaborating with industry professionals, you demonstrate your ability to work independently and stand out in the job market.

Real-World Applications of Fellowship Experiences:

• Fellowships help you develop critical thinking, communication, leadership, and project management skills, all of which are valuable across various industries.

• You gain hands-on experience, understanding industry standards and expectations through real-world exposure.

• Networking during your fellowship connects you with peers, mentors, and professionals, leading to job offers, internships, and long-term career opportunities.