Where can I get merit scholarships for a finance degree in the USA?
Yes. Boston University and WashU Olin consider international applicants automatically for merit scholarships, and American University considers all applicants, including international ones. USC offers no need-based aid to international applicants. Check current award terms and deadlines for your intake and program.
Yes, many US business schools give merit scholarships to international students, including those from India, and several consider you automatically when they review your application. What you receive depends on your profile, your intake and how early you apply, so use the lists below to build a shortlist and then confirm terms on each page.
US finance programs that publish scholarships for international students
| University | Program | What the official page says |
|---|---|---|
| University of Minnesota (Carlson) | MS in Finance | Merit scholarships are listed on the program page; check the details for your intake |
| University of Southern California | MS in Finance | No need-based aid for international applicants; check the program page for merit awards |
| Boston University (Questrom) | MS in Finance | International applicants are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships, if you apply by the published deadlines |
| Washington University (Olin) | MS in Finance | Every admitted applicant is automatically considered for merit-based scholarships |
| American University (Kogod) | MS in Finance | All applicants, including international ones, are considered for merit scholarships; answer yes on the application when asked |
What to do to improve your scholarship chances in the USA
- Separate the level you are applying for. Undergraduate and master's awards follow different rules, so read the page for your level.
- Check whether the scholarship needs its own form or is decided with your admission file.
- Apply in early rounds where the school says early applications get priority consideration.
- Look at whether the award renews each year and what grade you must keep.
- Look for funding outside the university as well, such as external scholarships and education loans.
Need-based aid is rare for international students, and USC states that it does not offer it, so plan on merit awards, savings and an education loan.
My Advice
Choose a mix of target and reach schools, then compare net cost after merit awards, not sticker tuition. Prepare strong test scores where required and a clear statement of your finance goals, and read each scholarship page again just before you submit.
This information is available on: bu.edu, olin.washu.edu, kogod.american.edu, admission.usc.edu
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