For many international students, pursuing higher education in the United States can feel out of reach because of tuition and living costs. But the good news is that some U.S colleges are deeply committed to supporting global talent. These institutions don’t just welcome international students– they back it up with scholarships, financial aid packages, and policies designed to make a world-class education more affordable.

Here are 6 U.S. universities and colleges recognized for giving some of the most generous scholarships to international students:

1. Vassar College

Around two-thirds of Vassar students receive financial aid, and the average Vassar scholarship awarded is around $56,923 per year. This leads the way, with international students receiving an average aid package that is often higher than full tuition. Known for its liberal arts focus and inclusive campus, Vassar ensures that cost isn’t a barrier for talented students from abroad.

Source: https://www.vassar.edu/admission/financial-aid/tuition 

2. Wellesley College

Wellesley meets 100% of calculated financial need for all admitted students, including those from abroad. Nearly 60% of students receive aid, with an average annual award of financial assistance of around $65,500.

Source: Wellesley - Financially Possible

3. Georgetown University

Georgetown offers need-based scholarships to a very limited number of international students. It meets full demonstrated financial need for eligible students, but awards for international applicants are highly competitive.

Source: How Aid Works for Undergraduates

4. Williams College

Although Williams isn't need-blind for international applicants, approximately 70 percent of international students receive financial aid from the college, with aid awards averaging more than $80,000 annually. Financial aid awards for international students are comprehensive, meet 100% of demonstrated need, and are guaranteed for all four years.

Source: Financial Aid Instructions for International Applicants

5. Cornell University

Cornell’s undergraduate admission process for international students is "need-aware". However, Cornell still meets 100 percent of admitted international undergraduates’ demonstrated financial need with annual aid offers that include Cornell grants, an annual work-study award, and reasonable student loans depending on total family income.

Source: First-Year and Transfer Students — International | Financial Aid

6. Dartmouth College

Dartmouth has expanded its longstanding need-blind admissions policy to include all international citizens, beginning with the Class of 2026. Known for its tight-knit campus culture and strong alumni network, Dartmouth also upholds a need-blind policy for international applicants, making it a strong choice for affordability and community.

Source: International Students | Financial Aid

Bonus: Need-Blind Schools That Cover Full Financial Need

Only a handful of U.S. universities admit international students without considering their financial situation and guarantee to cover full demonstrated need. These include:

• Harvard University

• Yale University

• Princeton University

• MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology)

• Amherst College

• Bowdoin College

• Brown University

• University of Notre Dame

• Washington & Lee University

Final Takeaway

Choosing a U.S. university isn’t just about prestige– it’s also about affordability and support. Colleges like Vassar, Georgetown, and Duke are leading in average scholarship generosity, while institutions like Harvard, MIT, and Amherst go the extra mile with need-blind admissions.

For international students, this means opportunity isn’t limited by financial barriers. With the right research and strong applications, studying in the U.S. can be both achievable and transformative.