American University Scholarships

American University (AU), located in Washington, D.C., is one of the top private research universities in the United States. Known for its strong academic programs, diverse student body, and commitment to global engagement, AU attracts students from around the world. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as international relations, business, law, and public policy.

However, attending American University can be expensive, with tuition, housing, and other costs exceeding $75,000 per year. To ensure that students from different financial backgrounds can access world-class education, AU offers a variety of scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs.

For students seeking fully funded education in the USA, American University provides need-based financial aid, merit-based scholarships, and special funding opportunities for international students. This article provides a comprehensive guide to American University scholarships, covering eligibility criteria, application processes, and funding opportunities for undergraduate, graduate, and international students.

Understanding American University’s Financial Aid and Scholarship System

American University provides a combination of need-based financial aid and merit-based scholarships to help students fund their education. The university awards millions of dollars in scholarships and grants each year, ensuring that talented students can pursue their academic goals without financial barriers.

Key Features of AU’s Financial Aid System

• Merit-Based Scholarships: AU offers full-tuition and partial-tuition scholarships for outstanding students.
• Need-Based Financial Aid: AU meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for eligible students.
• Financial Aid for International Students: AU provides both need-based aid and merit scholarships for international students.
• Research Grants and Fellowships: AU offers funding for students conducting research and special projects.
• Work-Study Opportunities: Students can earn money through on-campus employment programs.

These policies make American University one of the best choices for students looking for fully funded education in the USA.

American University Scholarships for Undergraduate Students

AU’s undergraduate financial aid program ensures that students from diverse financial backgrounds can afford a world-class education.

1. AU Presidential Scholarship

The Presidential Scholarship is awarded to high-achieving students who demonstrate exceptional academic and leadership potential.

Eligibility Criteria

• Open to U.S. and international students.
• Must have a strong academic record (top 10% of high school class).
• Demonstrate leadership qualities and community involvement.
• No separate application required; awarded based on admission application.

Scholarship Coverage

• $20,000–$30,000 per year (renewable for four years).

2. AU Frederick Douglass Distinguished Scholars Program (Full-Tuition Scholarship)

The Frederick Douglass Distinguished Scholars (FDDS) Program is AU’s most prestigious full-tuition merit-based scholarship, awarded to students with outstanding leadership and academic achievements.

Eligibility Criteria

• Open to U.S. students.
• Strong academic record (GPA of 3.8 or higher recommended).
• Demonstrated leadership and commitment to social justice and community engagement.
• Requires an additional application and essay.

Scholarship Coverage

• Full Tuition, Room, and Board (Renewable for Four Years).

3. AU National Merit Scholarships

AU offers scholarships to students who are National Merit Finalists.

Eligibility Criteria

• Must be a National Merit Finalist.
• Must have selected American University as first-choice institution.
• Based on academic merit and standardized test scores.

Scholarship Coverage

• $10,000–$15,000 per year (renewable for four years).

4. AU Leadership Scholarships

AU offers Leadership Scholarships to students with strong extracurricular involvement and leadership skills.

Eligibility Criteria

• Open to U.S. and international students.
• Must have a record of leadership in school, community service, or extracurricular activities.
• Awarded based on admission application (no separate application required).

Scholarship Coverage

• $5,000–$15,000 per year.

American University Scholarships for International Students

American University is committed to helping international students afford a U.S. education.

1. American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship (AU EGLS)

The AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship is AU’s most prestigious scholarship for international students, designed for students committed to leadership and global service.

Eligibility Criteria

• Must be an international student.
• Demonstrate academic excellence (GPA of 3.8 or higher recommended).
• Strong leadership record in school, community service, and extracurricular activities.
• Must be committed to bringing positive change to their home country.
• Requires a separate AU EGLS application.

Scholarship Coverage

• Full Tuition, Room, and Board (Renewable for Four Years).

2. AU International Student Financial Aid

AU provides need-based financial aid for international students.

Eligibility Criteria

• Must be an admitted international student.
• Must demonstrate significant financial need.

Scholarship Coverage

• Partial Tuition Grants (amount varies by student need).

For international students looking for scholarship opportunities in the USA, AU offers competitive funding packages.

American University Scholarships for Graduate Students

AU offers fully funded scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships for graduate students in its various professional schools and research programs.

1. AU Graduate Fellowships

AU provides fellowships that cover full tuition and living stipends.

Types of AU Graduate Fellowships

• Dean’s Fellowship – For outstanding graduate students in all disciplines.
• Research Fellowships – Provides funding for STEM and social science students.
• Diversity Fellowships – Available for students from underrepresented backgrounds.

2. AU Research and Teaching Assistantships

Graduate students at AU often work as research assistants (RAs) or teaching assistants (TAs).

Benefits of Assistantships

• Full Tuition Coverage.
• Monthly Stipend (average $35,000 per year).
• Health Insurance Benefits.

3. AU Law School Scholarships

AU Washington College of Law offers need-based and merit-based scholarships.

Scholarship Options

• AU Law Merit Scholarships – Full or partial tuition scholarships.
• Public Interest Law Fellowships – For students working in legal aid, non-profits, or government service.

4. AU School of International Service (SIS) Scholarships

AU provides full-tuition scholarships for students studying international relations and global affairs.

Funding Options

• SIS Dean’s Scholarships.
• International Affairs Fellowships.

How to Apply for American University Scholarships

Applying for AU scholarships requires submitting financial aid documents and ensuring all deadlines are met.

Step 1: Apply for Admission to AU

Students must first be admitted to AU through:

• Common Application or Coalition Application (for undergraduates).
• AU Graduate School Application (for graduate students).

Visit the Official Website

Step 2: Submit Financial Aid Forms

U.S. students must submit:

• CSS Profile (via College Board).
• FAFSA (for federal aid eligibility).
• Tax Returns and other financial statements.

International students must provide:

• CSS Profile (if applicable).
• International student financial aid application.
• Income statements or government documents.

Visit the Official Website

Step 3: Review AU’s Financial Aid Award

Once admitted, students receive a customized financial aid package, detailing tuition coverage and additional funding.

Step 4: Accept the Scholarship Offer

Students must accept their financial aid package and enroll at AU to secure funding.