The United States of America is one of the most popular destinations for higher education among Nepali students. 

Every year, thousands of students from Nepal choose the USA for its world-class universities, diverse academic programs, and global career opportunities. 

However, studying in the USA can be expensive, with tuition fees and living costs often being a challenge for many students.

Fortunately, there are several scholarships and financial aid options available for Nepali students. 

These scholarships can cover tuition fees, living expenses, health insurance, and even travel costs—making it possible for talented and deserving students to pursue their American dream.

Why Choose the USA for Higher Education?

 

The United States is a top destination for higher education, offering world-renowned universities, diverse academic programs, and cutting-edge research opportunities.

Students benefit from innovative teaching methods, state-of-the-art facilities, and a strong focus on critical thinking and creativity.

With its multicultural environment, the USA fosters global networking, personal growth, and career readiness.

Flexible learning options, abundant scholarships, and vast career prospects make studying in the USA an ideal choice for aspiring international students.

Quality Education

The United States offers world-class education with prestigious universities, innovative teaching methods, and cutting-edge research opportunities. Its emphasis on critical thinking, creativity, and practical learning ensures graduates excel globally across diverse fields.

Diverse Programs

The United States offers diverse programs across countless fields, from arts and sciences to technology and business, allowing students to customize their education and pursue specialized interests with global recognition.

Cultural Exposure

Studying in the USA offers rich cultural exposure through diverse communities, traditions, and perspectives. Students experience global connections, broaden their worldviews, and develop cross-cultural understanding essential for personal and professional growth.

Career Opportunities

The USA offers vast career opportunities across diverse industries, supported by innovation, global companies, and a strong job market. International graduates gain valuable skills, internships, and pathways to rewarding professional success.

Types of Scholarships Available for Nepali Students

  1. Merit-Based Scholarships – Awarded to students with excellent academic records, leadership skills, or extracurricular achievements.
  2. Need-Based Scholarships – Provided to students who demonstrate financial need.
  3. University-Specific Scholarships – Offered directly by US universities to attract international students.
  4. Government-Funded Scholarships – Sponsored by US or Nepal-US exchange programs.
  5. Private/Non-Profit Scholarships – Funded by foundations and international organizations.

 

Popular scholarships for Nepali students in the USA

Popular scholarships for Nepali students in the USA provide financial support to pursue higher education in renowned universities.

These opportunities include merit-based, need-based, and specialized scholarships offered by institutions, governments, and organizations.

They help reduce tuition costs, encourage academic excellence, and open pathways to global career and research opportunities.

1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program (Nepal)

  • One of the most prestigious US government-funded scholarships.
  • Covers tuition fees, living allowance, airfare, and health insurance.
  • Ideal for students pursuing a Master’s or PhD degree.

 

2. Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship

  • For mid-career professionals with leadership potential.
  • Provides a year of professional development in the USA.

 

3. Stanford University Scholarships (Knight-Hennessy Scholars)

  • Fully funded scholarship for graduate-level students.
  • Covers tuition, living expenses, and academic costs.

 

4. Harvard University Scholarships

  • Provides need-based financial aid to international students, including those from Nepal.
  • Some students receive up to 100% coverage of tuition and living expenses.

 

5. Yale University Scholarships

  • Offers full or partial scholarships to international students.
  • Generous financial aid packages depending on the student’s need.

 

6. Clark University Global Scholars Program

  • Merit-based scholarships for first-year international students.
  • Awards range from $15,000 to $25,000 per year.

 

7. Illinois Wesleyan University Scholarships

  • Full-tuition scholarships are available for highly qualified international students.

 

8. AAUW International Fellowships

  • For female students pursuing graduate and postgraduate studies in the USA.

 

9. Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program

  • Supports students from developing countries (including Nepal) pursuing graduate studies in development-related fields.

Top US Universities Offering Scholarships for Nepali Students

University NameScholarship TypeCoverage
Harvard UniversityNeed-based aidUp to 100%
MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology)Need-based aidFull/partial
Stanford UniversityKnight-HennessyFully funded
Yale UniversityNeed-based aidFully funded
University of ChicagoMerit & need-based aidPartial/full
NYU (New York University)Merit scholarshipsPartial
Columbia UniversityNeed-based aidPartial/full
Amherst CollegeGenerous need-based aidFully funded for some students

Undergraduate Scholarships for Nepali Students in the USA

Scholarship / ProgramCoverageDiscipline / Requirement
Yale ScholarshipsNeed-based full aid + housingNeed-based, top-tier academics
Global UGRADFully funded (1 semester)Exchange-focused achievers
Clark University Global ScholarsMerit-based aidAcademic excellence
MPOWER Global Citizen ScholarshipUp to USD 8,000Currently studying in a U.S. college

Graduate Scholarships for Nepali Students in the USA

Scholarship / ProgramCoverageDiscipline / Requirement
East-West Center Graduate Degree FellowshipUp to USD 100,000Varied based on program
Fulbright Foreign StudentFully fundedStrong academics & leadership
Knight-Hennessy (Stanford)Full tuition + living + travelAdmission to Stanford + strong leadership
AAUW International FellowshipUp to USD 50,000Women only must return post-study
Nepali Student Scholarship (UO)USD 30k/yearAcademic merit + financial need
Rotary Global GrantVariesFocus on humanitarian sectors
MPOWER Global Citizen ScholarshipUp to USD 8,000Enrolled in a U.S. institution

Eligibility Criteria for Scholarships

  • Strong academic record (high GPA and transcripts)
  • Standardized test scores (SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT, TOEFL, IELTS)
  • Demonstrated leadership, extracurricular activities, or community service
  • Financial need documents (for need-based aid)
  • Well-written Statement of Purpose (SOP) and Letters of Recommendation

 

Application Process for Scholarships

 

The application process for scholarships in the USA typically involves researching opportunities, checking eligibility requirements, and preparing essential documents such as transcripts, recommendation letters, and personal essays.

Applicants often need to complete online or paper forms, outlining academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and financial need. Deadlines are strict, so early preparation is key.

Some scholarships may also require standardized test scores or interviews. Careful attention to instructions and submission guidelines increases the chances of receiving financial aid.

1. Research: Research for scholarship applications involves identifying opportunities, reviewing eligibility criteria, and gathering details to match academic, personal, and financial goals.

 2. Prepare Documents: Prepare documents for scholarship applications by collecting transcripts, recommendation letters, resumes, test scores, and essays that highlight academic, personal, and career achievements.

3. Meet Deadlines: Meet deadlines by tracking scholarship due dates, preparing materials early, and submitting applications on time to avoid disqualification or missed opportunities.

4. Apply Online: Apply online by completing scholarship application forms, uploading required documents, and ensuring accuracy before submission through official portals or websites.

5. Interview (if required):The Interview involves showcasing your achievements, goals, and personality while answering questions confidently to demonstrate suitability for the scholarship.

Tips to Increase Scholarship Chances

  • Apply early and before priority deadlines.
  • Maintain strong academic performance throughout your studies.
  • Highlight achievements in extracurricular activities and leadership roles.
  • Write a compelling and personalized Statement of Purpose.
  • Apply to multiple universities with generous international aid policies.
  • Network with Nepali student associations and alumni in the USA for guidance.

Other Funding Options

On-Campus Jobs

International students in the USA can legally work up to 20 hours per week on campus during semesters, gaining experience, building networks, and earning extra income for living expenses.

Graduate Assistantships

Graduate students can receive tuition waivers or stipends through teaching or research assistant roles. These positions offer financial support, academic experience, and valuable professional development opportunities within their field.

Partial Funding & Family Support

Students often combine partial scholarships or university aid with family contributions to manage tuition and living expenses. This blended approach helps reduce financial pressure while pursuing higher education abroad.

Educational Loans

Loans should be a last resort due to repayment challenges. They can provide financial support but may create long-term debt, requiring careful planning, responsibility, and consideration of future income prospects.

Studying in the USA is a dream for many Nepali students, and with the right planning, scholarships can make this dream affordable and achievable. 

From fully funded government programs like Fulbright to need-based aid at top universities like Harvard and Yale, countless opportunities are waiting for you.

At Goreto Education Consultancy, we guide Nepali students through the entire process—from choosing the right university to preparing scholarship applications—so you can focus on building your future in the USA.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Universities offer merit-based, need-based, athletic, and departmental scholarships, plus some external funding from organizations and foundations.

Yes, some universities provide full tuition scholarships or even full-ride packages, but they are highly competitive and usually merit-based.

In most cases, yes. Strong academic and test scores increase your chances of getting scholarships.

On average, Nepali students receive $15,000–$30,000 per year in financial aid, depending on the university and program.

Apply early, maintain excellent grades, write a strong personal statement, and highlight extracurricular achievements or leadership roles.

Yes, most scholarships are renewable annually if you maintain the required GPA and meet the university’s conditions.

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