Thousands of capable Nepali students dream of studying in the United States each year. They work hard, stay focused, and often rank among the top in their academic fields. But for many, the cost of studying abroad—tuition, travel, and living expenses—makes that goal feel out of reach.
While fully funded scholarships exist, many go unnoticed or underused because reliable information is hard to find. Some students even fall into traps set by dishonest agents offering fake opportunities. This article aims to clear that up. It shares verified, up-to-date information about genuine scholarships available to Nepali students planning to study in the U.S. in 2025, without hidden fees, misleading advice, or third-party interference.
Why Access to Scholarships Is a Real Need in Nepal
For many students in Nepal, especially those from rural areas or families with limited income, studying abroad feels more like a distant hope than a real opportunity. Even when students meet the academic requirements, they often can’t cover the costs and don’t know where to seek help.
Another growing concern is the spread of misinformation. Some students fall victim to agents who ask for fees in exchange for fake promises of admission or scholarships. This adds unnecessary pressure to families struggling to support their children’s education.
Providing a reliable list of verified, fully funded scholarships from official sources can change this. It allows students to focus on preparing strong applications without worrying about scams or unfair fees. Most importantly, it gives qualified students a fair shot at higher education, no matter where they’re from.
What Does a Fully Funded Scholarship Typically Cover?
Fully funded scholarships offered by U.S. universities and organizations usually include:
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Full tuition costs
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Monthly living expenses
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Round-trip airfare
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Visa and SEVIS fee support
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Health insurance
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Book and academic supply allowances
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Research, conference, or internship funding, where applicable
These scholarships are designed to remove the financial burden so students can concentrate on their studies and professional growth.
General Eligibility Criteria
Each scholarship has its own rules, but here are the requirements most of them share:
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Must be a Nepali citizen with a valid passport.
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A strong academic record (typically a minimum GPA of 3.0 or equivalent).
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English language proficiency through standardized tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo.
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Relevant experience in leadership, community work, or professional roles, especially for graduate programs.
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A clear intention to return to Nepal and apply the knowledge gained, especially in programs like the Fulbright.
U.S. Government-Funded Scholarship Programs
Fulbright Foreign Student Program (Master’s and PhD)
The Fulbright Foreign Student Program provides fully funded opportunities for Nepali students to pursue graduate studies in the United States. It is one of the most respected scholarships, administered by the U.S. Department of State.
Who It's For
Applicants must have completed a four-year bachelor’s degree and gained at least three years of relevant academic or professional experience. English proficiency is required, proven through TOEFL or IELTS scores. Applicants must intend to return to Nepal and use their education to make a meaningful contribution.
Coverage and Support
The scholarship covers tuition, a monthly living allowance, round-trip airfare, health insurance, books, and research costs. Scholars also benefit from professional development workshops, cultural exchange activities, and academic support throughout their stay.
Selection and Application
Candidates apply through Fulbright Nepal (USEF), where the selection process includes document screening, language assessments, and interviews. Applicants with leadership experience and involvement in community work are often preferred. U.S. citizens and permanent residents are not eligible.
Deadline
May each year
Website: usefnepal.org
Humphrey Fellowship (Mid-Career, Non-Degree)
The Humphrey Fellowship is ideal for professionals with several years of experience in areas such as education, public health, law, environmental management, and related fields. It allows participants to develop their leadership skills and engage in academic and professional learning.
Who Should Apply
Eligible applicants must have at least five years of relevant work experience and hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent. They should have limited prior exposure to the U.S. education system and demonstrate a long-term commitment to public service or social development.
What the Fellowship Includes
This non-degree program provides full financial support. It covers tuition, a living stipend, airfare, insurance, English language training (if needed), and access to professional activities such as conferences, networking events, and policy briefings.
Program Highlights
Participants are placed at selected U.S. universities for 10 months. Although no degree is awarded, the experience equips professionals with new tools, contacts, and knowledge. Fellows are also encouraged to engage in community activities and field-based learning relevant to their professions.
Website: humphreyfellowship.org
EducationUSA Opportunity Funds Program (Undergraduate & Graduate)
This program supports talented Nepali students from low-income families who are ready to apply to U.S. universities but can’t afford the costs tied to the application process.
Who It Helps
The program is for academically high-performing students with leadership potential and a strong interest in contributing to their communities. It is available for both undergraduate and graduate applicants.
Support Provided
Once the student is admitted and fully funded by a U.S. institution, the program pays for test fees (TOEFL, SAT, GRE), application charges, document verification, visa expenses, and airfare.
Additional Guidance
Students also receive personal mentoring, support selecting universities, writing essays, and preparing for interviews. Advisors at the EducationUSA center in Kathmandu provide sessions.
Selection Process
Admission is competitive. Students are evaluated based on their academic record, financial need, written statements, and interviews. Many of them complete the program at MIT, Harvard, and NYU.
More Information
Students can visit the U.S. Embassy Nepal website or contact the EducationUSA Advising Center directly to attend a free group session or get one-on-one guidance.
Scholarships Offered by U.S. Universities
Harvard University (Undergraduate and Graduate)
Harvard University offers need-blind admission for all undergraduate applicants, including international students. Your financial background does not impact your chances of getting in. Once admitted, financial aid is based entirely on what your family can afford.
Most international students receive generous funding for tuition, housing, meals, travel, and personal expenses. On average, the aid package exceeds $60,000 per year. Families with income below $85,000 typically don’t pay anything toward the total cost.
Graduate students can also access funding, though it often varies by department. Many graduate programs offer fellowships, teaching or research assistantships, and need-based aid. Students applying for assistance must submit Harvard’s financial forms and documents, such as tax returns or income statements, not the standard U.S. federal forms.
Applicants are encouraged to show more than just strong grades. Leadership, community involvement, and a commitment to positively impact are considered during the admissions and aid review process.
Many Nepali students have received full support through these programs and have used their education to lead projects in education, healthcare, policy, and technology.
Official site: college.harvard.edu
Yale University
Yale offers one of the most generous financial aid programs for international students among top U.S. universities. While need-blind admission applies only to U.S. citizens, Yale remains fully committed to meeting the full demonstrated need of every admitted student, regardless of nationality.
Aid covers tuition, accommodation, health insurance, and other school-related expenses. Yale typically covers the full cost of attendance with no loans for students from low-income families, especially those with an annual income below $75,000.
Yale does not offer merit-based scholarships. Financial aid is awarded strictly based on need, determined through the CSS Profile and supporting documents such as bank letters and family income statements.
The financial aid office provides support throughout the process, with advisors who help international students understand requirements, deadlines, and options. Students from Nepal have gone on to study at Yale and pursued careers in research, technology, public health, and education both in Nepal and abroad.
Official site: finaid.yale.edu
Stanford University – Knight-Hennessy Scholars (Graduate)
Stanford’s Knight-Hennessy Scholars program supports graduate students from all academic backgrounds, including those applying to the Schools of Law, Medicine, Education, Engineering, and more. The program focuses on nurturing leaders committed to social impact and collaboration across disciplines.
Applicants must first be admitted to a Stanford graduate program and then apply separately to the Knight-Hennessy program. The application includes essays, academic records, recommendation letters, and a short video.
Selected scholars receive full funding for tuition, housing, daily living, travel, and academic development. The program also offers leadership training, mentorship, and support for projects and conferences.
Knight-Hennessy scholars are part of a global community and engage in structured leadership development through the King Global Leadership Program. The program encourages applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds, including underrepresented countries like Nepal.
Official site: knight-hennessy.stanford.edu
Amherst College (Undergraduate)
Amherst College is one of the few liberal arts institutions in the U.S. that guarantees to meet 100% of the demonstrated financial need for all admitted international students. While admissions for international students are need-aware, those who are accepted receive full support.
Aid packages include tuition, accommodation, meals, insurance, travel, and daily living support. Amherst does not offer merit-based awards; aid is based entirely on the applicant’s financial situation. The required documents include the CSS Profile and supporting materials, such as family income reports and tax forms.
Amherst’s small class sizes and strong academic advising make it a supportive environment for international students. The college has a history of admitting Nepali students who have gone on to successful careers in global health, public policy, teaching, and research.
Beyond regular financial aid, Amherst also offers summer funding, paid internships, and on-campus job opportunities. These opportunities allow students to manage their living costs and academic goals without financial stress.
Official site: amherst.edu
Scholarships from Global and U.S.-Based Foundations
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program helps academically strong students from low-income backgrounds access higher education. While it initially focused on African countries, some U.S. universities now extend the opportunity to students from Nepal, especially those involved in social work or community leadership.
Partner institutions such as UC Berkeley, Michigan State University, and Arizona State University offer full scholarships that cover tuition, housing, meals, books, travel, and personal costs. This makes it one of the most inclusive programs available.
The support goes beyond academics. Scholars receive one-on-one mentoring, leadership training, and opportunities to participate in projects connecting their studies to real-world issues.
The program is open to both undergraduate and graduate students. Selection depends on academic performance, financial need, and a strong commitment to return home and make a positive impact.
Each university has its own application process. Applicants usually submit academic transcripts, financial documents, and personal essays, and attend interviews. Accepted students join a global network of peers working to improve communities through education and service.
Over 40,000 students have already received this scholarship. Nepali students should visit participating universities' websites to check current eligibility and application timelines.
Website: mastercardfoundation.org
Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship
This scholarship supports professionals from developing countries, including Nepal, who want to pursue a master's degree in areas tied to social and economic development.
It’s aimed at people already working in public service, non-governmental organizations, or local development projects. Eligible study areas include education, public health, economics, infrastructure, agriculture, and related fields. Selected universities in the U.S., Japan, and other regions host programs.
To qualify, applicants must be under 45, hold a bachelor’s degree earned at least three years earlier, and have a minimum of three years of relevant work experience. Preference is given to those who have not studied abroad and are currently in roles that support development goals.
The scholarship covers tuition, a living stipend, health insurance, round-trip airfare, and travel costs for internships or training. Applicants must first be accepted into an approved master’s program through the World Bank portal before applying for the scholarship.
This is a strong fit for mid-career professionals looking to return home with practical knowledge that can support national growth.
Website: worldbank.org
AAUW International Fellowships (Women Only)
The AAUW International Fellowships program supports women from outside the U.S. who want to pursue graduate or postgraduate studies at U.S. institutions. It is open to women with strong academic records committed to positive change in their communities.
Funding ranges from $18,000 to $30,000, depending on the level of study. This helps cover tuition, living expenses, books, and health insurance.
To apply, you need a degree equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s and proof of admission (or a pending application) to an accredited university. Applicants are expected to return to their home countries and apply what they learn to advance local communities, especially in education, health, leadership, or public policy.
The selection process considers academic background, clarity of goals, financial need, and commitment to supporting women and girls. Those involved in grassroots projects or public service are especially encouraged to apply.
Many Nepali women have received this fellowship and gone on to work in leadership roles, education, and research. It’s more than a scholarship—an investment in the next generation of changemakers.
Website: aauw.org
Subject-Specific Funding Opportunities
STEM and Engineering
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University of Kansas – Graduate Fellowships
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Clarkson University – International STEM Aid
Public Health and Medicine
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Emory University – Global Health Scholarships
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Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School – International Fellowships
Social Sciences and Development
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Brown University – Watson Institute Fellowships
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University of Chicago – International Awards
Study Levels Covered by Scholarships
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Bachelor’s – Yale, Harvard, Amherst, EducationUSA
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Master’s – Fulbright, Mastercard, Stanford, World Bank
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PhD – Fulbright, Knight-Hennessy, AAUW, Yale, Harvard
Step-by-Step Application Process
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Start research at least 6 to 12 months before deadlines
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Choose a program that fits your academic and professional goals
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Prepare documents:
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Transcripts
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English test scores
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Letters of recommendation
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Statement of Purpose (SOP)
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Curriculum Vitae (CV)
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Valid passport
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Apply through the official university or program portals
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Attend interview (if shortlisted)
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Await results and prepare for the visa application
Commonly Required Documents
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Academic transcripts from SEE to Bachelor's or Master's
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Valid English proficiency test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo)
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Statement of Purpose or Motivation Letter
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At least two academic or professional recommendation letters
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Valid passport with at least one year's validity
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Financial aid forms (for need-based universities)
Mistakes That Reduce Your Chances
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Applying through agents instead of official portals
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Submitting incomplete or generic application materials
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Ignoring deadlines or skipping key steps
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Copying SOPs from others
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Using unofficial websites or links
How to Spot and Avoid Scholarship Scams
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Avoid any scholarship that asks for application or processing fees
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Don’t trust unsolicited emails or social media ads
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Always check for .gov, .edu, or official .org domains
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Contact EducationUSA Nepal for free, verified advice
Trusted Resources in Nepal
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EducationUSA Advising Center, USEF Nepal (Kathmandu)
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U.S. Embassy’s Education and Cultural Affairs Division
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Fulbright Nepal (for graduate programs)
Quick Summary of Verified Scholarships
Please refer to our full table in the guide for deadlines, eligibility, and official links. Only government—or university-backed programs are included. Agent-based or third-party sites are not recommended.
Final Thoughts
If you're a Nepali student aiming for higher education in the U.S., don’t let financial limitations stop you. These scholarships are not rumors or advertisements—they are real, tested, and accessible. Thousands have used them successfully, and so can you.
Start early. Research thoroughly. Apply only through verified sources. If you prepare well and stay honest with your documents, nothing stops you from getting a fully funded education in the U.S.
FAQs
1. Are these scholarships limited to specific districts in Nepal?
No. Any Nepali citizen can apply as long as they meet the eligibility criteria.
2. Do I need to use a consultancy or agent?
No. All programs mentioned here are accessible directly online. Using agents can lead to scams.
3. Can I get a scholarship if I studied in Nepali-medium schools?
Yes. Many students from government schools have received these scholarships. You need to show strong academic and language skills.
4. Is the English test mandatory?
Yes, most U.S. programs require IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo. Some may waive this if prior education was in English.
5. What if I get rejected the first time?
You can reapply next year. Improve your documents, gain more experience, and apply again with better preparation.
