The Fulbright Foreign Student Program exists and qualifies migrant scholars from Middle Eastern countries for fully funded PhD programs in the USA, with funding amounting to full tuition, a living stipend, and health insurance.
Migrant scholars from countries such as Iran, Iraq, and Turkey can apply for this prestigious award.
The USA is a hub for higher education, offering a diverse range of fully funded scholarships to international students, including PhD scholarships.
The scholarship deadlines for these programs vary, but most applications are due between December and February.
Who Qualifies
Migrant scholars from Middle Eastern countries who hold a valid visa, such as an F-1 or J-1 visa, are eligible to apply for fully funded PhD programs in the USA.
Additionally, scholarships for refugees are also available for those who have been displaced due to conflict or persecution.
The eligibility criteria for these scholarships include a strong academic record, proficiency in English, and a clear research proposal.
Migrant scholars who are currently residing in the USA on a visa, such as an H-1B or L-1 visa, may also be eligible to apply for these programs.
Fulbright Foreign Student Program
* Amount: Full tuition, living stipend, and health insurance
* Eligibility: Migrant scholars from Middle Eastern countries
* Deadline: Varies by country, but most applications are due between February and October
* Official URL: https://foreign.fulbrightonline.org/
Harvard University Middle Eastern Studies Scholarship
* Amount: $50,000 per year
* Eligibility: Migrant scholars from Middle Eastern countries pursuing a PhD in Middle Eastern studies
* Deadline: December 15
* Official URL: https://mes.havard.edu/
Stanford University Middle East Initiative Scholarship
* Amount: $40,000 per year
* Eligibility: Migrant scholars from Middle Eastern countries pursuing a PhD in any field
* Deadline: January 15
* Official URL: https://meni.stanford.edu/
University of California, Berkeley Graduate Division Scholarship
* Amount: $30,000 per year
* Eligibility: Migrant scholars from Middle Eastern countries pursuing a PhD in any field
* Deadline: December 1
* Official URL: https://grad.berkeley.edu/
Massachusetts Institute of Technology Middle East Initiative Scholarship
* Amount: $45,000 per year
* Eligibility: Migrant scholars from Middle Eastern countries pursuing a PhD in any field
* Deadline: February 15
* Official URL: https://mei.mit.edu/
Application Steps
- Research and select a PhD program at a US university that aligns with your research interests and goals.
- Review the eligibility criteria and application requirements for the program.
- Prepare and submit a strong application package, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
- Take the required standardized tests, such as the GRE or TOEFL.
- Submit a research proposal that outlines your research goals and objectives.
- Apply for a visa, such as an F-1 or J-1 visa, if you are not already residing in the USA.
- Submit a financial aid application, if required by the university.
- Participate in an interview, if required by the university.
Documents Checklist
* Transcripts and diplomas from all previous academic institutions
* Letters of recommendation from academic or professional mentors
* Personal statement or research proposal
* Standardized test scores, such as GRE or TOEFL
* Visa application documents, such as a passport and proof of financial support
* Financial aid application, if required by the university
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the eligibility criteria for fully funded PhD programs in the USA?
- How much funding is available for fully funded PhD programs in the USA?
- What is the deadline for applying to fully funded PhD programs in the USA?
- Can I apply for a fully funded PhD program in the USA if I am already residing in the USA on a visa?
- What types of scholarships for refugees are available in the USA?
- How do I apply for a visa to study in the USA?
- Can I apply for a fully funded PhD program in the USA if I am not proficient in English?
- What are the scholarship deadlines for fully funded PhD programs in the USA?
External Authority Links
* https://www.usnews.com/education/best-graduate-schools/articles/how-to-get-into-grad-school
* https://www.gradschoolsguide.com/
Related Guides
For more information on Canada scholarships, fully funded scholarships, PhD scholarships, and scholarships for refugees, please visit our blog at https://migrantscholar.com/blog.
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Last Reviewed: 26 July 2026