Here are some notable fully funded Ph.D. scholarships in the United States for 2025:
1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program
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Overview: Offers scholarships for international students to pursue graduate studies, including Ph.D. programs, in the U.S.
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Coverage: Full tuition, living expenses, and health insurance.
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Eligibility: Open to students from over 160 countries.
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How to Apply: Apply through the Fulbright Commission or U.S. Embassy in your home country.
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Deadline: Varies by country.
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Link: Fulbright Program
2. NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP)
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Overview: Offers support for outstanding graduate students pursuing research-based master’s and Ph.D. degrees in the sciences, engineering, and social sciences.
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Coverage: Provides a stipend of $37,000 per year for three years and covers tuition fees.
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Eligibility: U.S. citizens, nationals, and permanent residents.
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How to Apply: Submit a research proposal and academic transcripts.
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Deadline: Typically in October each year.
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Link: NSF GRFP
3. Hertz Fellowship
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Overview: A highly competitive fellowship that provides funding for students pursuing a Ph.D. in applied physical, biological, or engineering sciences.
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Coverage: Up to $250,000 over five years.
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Eligibility: U.S. citizens or permanent residents in applied science fields.
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How to Apply: Submit an application with academic and personal information, research interests, and recommendations.
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Deadline: Typically in October each year.
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Link: Hertz Foundation
4. University-Specific Scholarships
Many U.S. universities offer fully funded Ph.D. programs. Some examples include:
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Harvard University: Full funding for Ph.D. students across various fields.
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Stanford University: Offers full tuition and a stipend for Ph.D. students in most disciplines.
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Yale University: Provides full funding including a stipend, health insurance, and other benefits.
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Princeton University: Covers full tuition, health insurance, and provides a stipend for doctoral students.
How to Apply: Check the individual university’s Ph.D. program pages for specific application instructions and funding details.
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Link: Harvard Ph.D. Programs, Stanford Ph.D. Programs, Yale Ph.D. Programs, Princeton Ph.D. Programs
5. Rhodes Scholarship (For U.S. Students)
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Overview: Though traditionally for studying at the University of Oxford, U.S. Rhodes Scholars can pursue Ph.D. programs in a variety of disciplines, including those based in the U.S.
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Coverage: Full tuition, travel expenses, and living stipend.
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Eligibility: U.S. citizens, typically between the ages of 18-24.
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How to Apply: Applications are accepted through the Rhodes Trust.
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Deadline: Annually in October.
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Link: Rhodes Scholarship
6. The Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans
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Overview: Provides funding to immigrants and children of immigrants who are pursuing a Ph.D. in any field.
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Coverage: Up to $90,000 in total support.
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Eligibility: Applicants must be U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents who are immigrants or children of immigrants.
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How to Apply: Submit an application with essays, academic transcripts, and recommendations.
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Deadline: November (specific date varies).
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Link: The Soros Fellowships
7. The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program
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Overview: A prestigious fellowship at Stanford University that covers full tuition, stipend, and related fees for Ph.D. students.
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Coverage: Full tuition, living stipend, and one-time travel allowance.
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Eligibility: Open to graduate students from all disciplines, including international applicants.
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How to Apply: Apply to the Stanford graduate program and the Knight-Hennessy Scholars program.
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Deadline: Typically in October.
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Link: Knight-Hennessy Scholars
8. The Marshall Scholarship
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Overview: Though intended for study at UK universities, U.S. students can also use the scholarship for research in a Ph.D. program if studying in the U.S.
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Coverage: Full tuition, fees, and a stipend.
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Eligibility: U.S. citizens who have at least a 3.7 GPA.
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How to Apply: Apply directly through the Marshall Commission.
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Deadline: Typically in October each year.
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Link: Marshall Scholarship
Tips for Application:
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Prepare Early: These scholarships often have competitive application processes, so start preparing well in advance.
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Read the Guidelines: Each program has specific eligibility requirements, so carefully read the instructions before applying.
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Recommendation Letters: Strong recommendation letters from professors or professionals in your field can significantly enhance your application.
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Research Focus: Having a clear research focus that aligns with the program's goals can improve your chances of getting selected.
By taking advantage of these opportunities, you can pursue your Ph.D. studies in the U.S. without financial barriers. Be sure to check the official websites for more detailed information and application procedures for each program.