Studying in the United States is a dream for millions of students worldwide. With its world-class universities, diverse academic programs, and global career opportunities, the U.S. remains one of the most sought-after study destinations. However, the cost of tuition and living expenses can be a major barrier for many international students. Fortunately, fully funded scholarships and student visa opportunities can make this dream a reality.
If you’ve secured or are aiming to secure a fully funded scholarship in the U.S., you’re already halfway there. The next critical step is obtaining your U.S. student visa, which allows you to legally enter and study in the country. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to get a U.S. visa with a fully funded scholarship in 2025, covering everything from finding scholarships to preparing for your visa interview.
What Is a Fully Funded Scholarship?
A fully funded scholarship is a financial aid package that covers all academic and living expenses, including:
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Tuition and fees
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Accommodation
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Health insurance
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Travel expenses
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Books and supplies
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A monthly stipend (in many cases)
Such scholarships are often awarded based on academic merit, leadership potential, or financial need, and are usually provided by governments, universities, or private foundations.
Step 1: Secure a Fully Funded Scholarship
Before applying for a U.S. student visa, you must first gain admission to a U.S. institution and receive a scholarship award letter. Some of the top fully funded scholarships for international students include:
1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program
Administered by the U.S. Department of State, Fulbright covers tuition, living expenses, travel, and more for master’s or PhD programs.
2. Humphrey Fellowship Program
Designed for professionals seeking non-degree academic enrichment, it provides full financial support and leadership development.
3. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Partnered with universities like Stanford and Michigan, this program funds undergraduate and graduate education for students from Sub-Saharan Africa.
4. Knight-Hennessy Scholars at Stanford
Offers full scholarships for graduate degrees across all disciplines at Stanford University.
5. University-specific Scholarships
Many universities such as Harvard, Yale, MIT, and Duke offer full-ride scholarships to exceptional international students.
Tip: Apply early and follow all scholarship instructions carefully. Include compelling personal statements, strong recommendation letters, and academic transcripts.
Step 2: Receive Your I-20 or DS-2019 Form
Once you are admitted and awarded a scholarship, your university or program sponsor will issue one of two critical immigration documents:
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Form I-20 (for F-1 Student Visa applicants)
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Form DS-2019 (for J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa applicants)
These documents confirm your admission and your financial ability to study in the U.S., including your scholarship details.
Step 3: Pay the SEVIS Fee
Before applying for your visa, you must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee:
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$350 for F-1 visa
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$220 for J-1 visa
You’ll need the SEVIS ID from your I-20 or DS-2019 form to make the payment. After payment, save the confirmation receipt—you’ll need it for your visa interview.
Step 4: Complete the DS-160 Visa Application
The DS-160 is the online non-immigrant visa application form. Visit the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) to fill it out. Be sure to:
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Answer all questions truthfully
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Upload a recent passport-size photo
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Save your application ID
Once submitted, you’ll receive a confirmation page with a barcode. Print this and keep it for your visa appointment.
Step 5: Schedule Your Visa Interview
Book your U.S. visa appointment at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate in your country. You’ll need:
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Your DS-160 confirmation
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SEVIS payment receipt
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Passport (valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay)
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Visa appointment fee payment ($185 as of 2025)
Visa processing wait times vary by country, so schedule as early as possible—preferably at least 2–3 months before your program start date.
Step 6: Prepare for the Interview
The visa interview is a crucial step. The consular officer will determine if you qualify for the student visa and if you have strong ties to your home country. Be ready with:
Required Documents:
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Valid passport
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I-20 or DS-2019 form
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Scholarship award letter (clearly stating what expenses are covered)
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Academic documents (transcripts, degrees, test scores)
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Proof of intent to return home (e.g., property ownership, job offer, family ties)
Common Interview Questions:
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Why did you choose this university?
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What program are you studying?
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Who is sponsoring your education?
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What will you do after graduation?
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Why do you want to study in the U.S.?
Tips for Success:
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Dress formally and be confident
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Keep your answers honest and concise
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Demonstrate clear academic goals
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Show that your scholarship fully funds your stay
Step 7: Receive Your Visa
If approved, the officer will keep your passport for visa stamping. Processing times vary, but you typically receive your passport with the visa within a few days to weeks. Once you have your visa, you are legally allowed to enter the U.S. no more than 30 days before your program start date.
F-1 vs. J-1: Which Visa Should You Choose?
Category | F-1 Visa | J-1 Visa |
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Used for | Academic degrees (most common) | Exchange programs, scholarships |
Work rights | On-campus and limited off-campus | Academic training (similar to OPT) |
Dependents | F-2 (limited work rights) | J-2 (can apply for work permit) |
Two-year home rule | Not required | May be required depending on funding source |
Note: Most university-sponsored scholarships use the F-1 visa, while government or international organization scholarships (like Fulbright) may use the J-1 visa.
Can You Work While on a Scholarship?
If your scholarship covers all expenses, you might not need to work. However, F-1 and J-1 visas allow limited employment:
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F-1 Students can work on-campus up to 20 hours/week during term and full-time during breaks.
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Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT) allow F-1 students to work off-campus in fields related to their studies.
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J-1 Students can participate in Academic Training, similar to OPT.
Always get approval from your university’s Designated School Official (DSO) or program sponsor before starting any job.
After Arrival: Maintaining Your Visa Status
Once in the U.S., it’s critical to follow all visa regulations:
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Attend all classes and maintain full-time enrollment
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Do not overstay your visa or fall out of status
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Report address changes to your university
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Avoid unauthorized employment
Violating visa conditions can result in serious consequences, including deportation or a ban on reentry.
Final Thoughts
Getting a U.S. visa with a fully funded scholarship is absolutely achievable with careful planning and preparation. By securing a prestigious scholarship, organizing your documents, and performing well in your interview, you can open the door to one of the most transformative educational experiences in the world.