If you are an international student with refugee status looking to pursue an undergraduate degree in the United States, there are several scholarship opportunities available to support your education. These scholarships can help cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs associated with studying in the USA. The US government and various organizations offer these scholarships to help refugee students achieve their academic goals and build a better future for themselves.
Who Qualifies
To be eligible for these scholarships, international students must have refugee status in the United States. The following visa categories qualify:
* Refugee (PRR)
* Asylum (ASY)
* Asylee (ASL)
* Special Immigrant Visa (SIV)
* Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
* Deferred Enforced Departure (DED)
* Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)
Available Scholarships
The Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans
The Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans provide up to $90,000 in funding to support graduate or undergraduate education. To be eligible, applicants must be 30 years old or younger and have a bachelor's degree or be in their final year of undergraduate study. The deadline for application is November 1st, and more information can be found on their official website.
The Fulbright Scholarship Program
The Fulbright Scholarship Program offers full funding for undergraduate or graduate study in the United States. Eligible applicants must have a strong academic record, proficiency in English, and a commitment to returning to their home country after completing their studies. The deadline varies by country, and more information can be found on the official website.
The United Nations Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture
The United Nations Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture provides financial assistance to students who have been victims of torture and are seeking to pursue higher education. The fund offers up to $10,000 in funding to cover tuition fees and living expenses. Eligible applicants must have a strong academic record and be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program. The deadline for application is March 31st, and more information can be found on their official website.
The International Student Scholarship
The International Student Scholarship provides up to $5,000 in funding to support undergraduate or graduate study in the United States. Eligible applicants must have a strong academic record, proficiency in English, and be enrolled in a US institution. The deadline for application is October 15th, and more information can be found on their official website.
The Davis-Putter Scholarship Fund
The Davis-Putter Scholarship Fund provides up to $10,000 in funding to support undergraduate or graduate study in the United States. Eligible applicants must be actively working for peace and justice, have a strong academic record, and be enrolled in a US institution. The deadline for application is April 1st, and more information can be found on their official website.
Application Steps
- Research and select a scholarship program that matches your eligibility criteria and academic goals.
- Review the application requirements and ensure you have all necessary documents.
- Prepare a strong personal statement, including your academic background, career goals, and reasons for applying for the scholarship.
- Secure letters of recommendation from academic or professional mentors.
- Submit your application before the deadline, ensuring all required documents are attached.
- Follow up with the scholarship committee to confirm receipt of your application.
- Prepare for and participate in any required interviews or assessments.
- Receive and review the scholarship award letter, ensuring you understand the terms and conditions of the award.
Documents Checklist
* Passport
* Visa documents (if applicable)
* Academic transcripts
* Proof of English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL or IELTS scores)
* Personal statement
* Letters of recommendation
* Proof of financial need (e.g., tax returns, bank statements)
* Proof of refugee status (e.g., resettlement agency documents)
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the difference between a refugee and an asylum seeker?
- Can I apply for a scholarship if I am still in the process of seeking asylum?
- How can I demonstrate my English proficiency for a scholarship application?
- Can I apply for multiple scholarships at the same time?
- How long does it take to receive a scholarship award decision?
- Can I use a scholarship to pursue an online degree program?
- How can I find more information about scholarships for refugee students?
- Can I renew my scholarship award for multiple years?
For more information on scholarships and educational opportunities for refugee students, visit our blog at https://migrantscholar.com/blog.
Related Guides
- USA scholarships for migrants
- Fulbright scholarships
- scholarships for asylum seekers
- fully funded scholarships
- scholarship deadlines 2026
- scholarship glossary
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Last Reviewed: 26 July 2026