Undergraduate Scholarships for International Students

Studying abroad at the undergraduate level is a dream for many students, but financial constraints often make it seem out of reach. Fortunately, in 2026 there are a growing number of undergraduate scholarships for international students that make this dream accessible — with fully funded packages that cover tuition, accommodation, living expenses, travel, and more. These scholarships aim to support talented students regardless of their financial background and empower them to pursue world-class education in top universities.

Many of these scholarship programs offer substantial financial value. For instance, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides up to $100,000 USD per year for 4–5 years, the University of Alabama International Scholarship can be worth up to $40,000 USD annually, and the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship at the University of Toronto covers full tuition and living expenses for up to 4 years. With such generous funding, international students can focus on academics, career development, and global networking rather than worrying about financial burdens.

Today’s top scholarship programs not only provide financial support but also offer mentorship, leadership training, research opportunities, and access to international communities. Whether you want to study in the USA, Canada, Europe, or Asia, there are excellent opportunities for qualified applicants. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the best undergraduate scholarships for international students in 2026, including program details, eligibility criteria, benefits, application steps, and deadlines — so you don’t miss your chance to study abroad with full financial support.

Scholarship Summary

1. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

Courses Offered and Their Advantages

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program funds undergraduate degrees in fields such as Engineering, Business, Computer Science, Agriculture, Humanities, and Health Sciences.
Advantages:

• Full financial support throughout the degree

• Mentorship and career development

• Community leadership training

Program Period – Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

• 4–5 years of undergraduate study depending on the program structure.

Scholarship Coverage and Benefits – Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

• Up to $100,000 USD per year covering full tuition, living stipend, travel, and health insurance.

• Mentorship and professional development support.

• Access to leadership and internship opportunities.

Eligibility Criteria – Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

• Must be a citizen of an African or selected partner country.

• Excellent academic record.

• Demonstrated leadership and community involvement.

How to Apply – Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

• Apply to participating partner universities or through the program portal.

• Submit academic transcripts, essays, and recommendation letters.

Website for Apply – Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

👉 Official Website: https://mastercardfdn.org

2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship

Courses Offered and Their Advantages

The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship at the University of Toronto supports undergraduate study in all academic disciplines including Science, Arts, Commerce, and Engineering.
Advantages:

• Full university tuition and residence support

• Recognition for academic excellence

• Opportunity to study at a top Canadian university

Program Period – Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship

• Up to 4 years of undergraduate study at the University of Toronto.

Scholarship Coverage and Benefits – Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship

• Full tuition coverage.

• Books and incidental costs covered.

• Accommodation and living expenses provided.

Eligibility Criteria – Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship

• International students in top 1–2% of their class.

• Strong leadership, creativity, and community service.

• Admission to the University of Toronto.

How to Apply – Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship

• Complete the admission application to the University of Toronto.

• Indicate your scholarship interest on the application.

• Provide essays and academic records.

Website for Apply – Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship

👉 Official Website: https://future.utoronto.ca

3. University of Alabama International Scholarships

Courses Offered and Their Advantages

The University of Alabama offers various undergraduate majors, including Engineering, Business, Communications, Biological Sciences, and Computer Science.
Advantages:

• Strong campus support services

• Scholarship combined with merit awards

• Access to U.S. internship and career networks

Program Period – University of Alabama International Scholarships

• Up to 4 years of undergraduate study.

Scholarship Coverage and Benefits – University of Alabama International Scholarships

• Merit-based scholarships up to $40,000 USD per year.

• Partial to full tuition coverage.

• Option to combine multiple awards.

Eligibility Criteria – University of Alabama International Scholarships

• International student admission to the University of Alabama.

• Competitive GPA and academic achievements.

How to Apply – University of Alabama International Scholarships

• Apply through the University of Alabama admissions portal.

• Submit transcripts and GPA documentation.

Website for Apply – University of Alabama International Scholarships

👉 Official Website: https://www.ua.edu

4. University of Melbourne Global Scholarships

Courses Offered and Their Advantages

The University of Melbourne offers undergraduate programs in Arts, Science, Engineering, Biomedical Sciences, Law, and Business Analytics.
Advantages:

• World-class research and faculty support

• Leadership development for scholars

• Access to internships and professional pathways

Program Period – University of Melbourne Global Scholarships

• 3–4 years of undergraduate study in Australia.

Scholarship Coverage and Benefits – University of Melbourne Global Scholarships

• Tuition fee support up to $30,000 AUD per year.

• Living cost allowance.

• Health insurance and travel support.

Eligibility Criteria – University of Melbourne Global Scholarships

• High academic achievement required.

• Admission to University of Melbourne undergraduate programs.

How to Apply – University of Melbourne Global Scholarships

• Apply through the University of Melbourne scholarship portal.

• Provide academic transcripts and supporting documents.

Website for Apply – University of Melbourne Global Scholarships

👉 Official Website: https://scholarships.unimelb.edu.au

5. Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship

Courses Offered and Their Advantages

The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship supports undergraduate students in diverse areas such as Social Sciences, Education, Engineering, Health Studies, and Economics.
Advantages:

• Flexible award for students studying abroad

• Emphasis on community development and leadership

• Opportunity to study at prestigious global institutions

Program Period – Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship

• Varies depending on study duration and program entry.

Scholarship Coverage and Benefits – Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship

• Partial to full tuition support.

• Contribution toward living and travel expenses.

• Especially aimed at students with financial need.

Eligibility Criteria – Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship

• International applicants from eligible regions.

• Strong academic credentials.

• Demonstrated financial need.

How to Apply – Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship

• Apply through the Aga Khan Foundation scholarship process.

• Submit academic transcripts and financial records.

Website for Apply – Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship

👉 Official Website: https://www.akdn.org

Final Thoughts

In 2026, undergraduate scholarships for international students provide outstanding opportunities to study abroad with minimal or no financial burden. These programs not only cover academic costs but also support living expenses, travel, and personal development. With good planning, strong academic performance, and timely applications, you can secure funding for your dream undergraduate degree in top universities around the world.