Scholarships For International Relations And Diplomacy In The U.S.

Pursuing a degree in international relations and diplomacy can open doors to careers in government, non-profits, international organizations, and private sectors. However, the cost of higher education in the United States can be prohibitive for many students, especially international ones. Fortunately, there are numerous scholarships available specifically for students in these fields. Here’s a comprehensive guide to some of the top scholarships for international relations and diplomacy students in the U.S.

1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program

The Fulbright Program is one of the most prestigious scholarships in the world. It offers opportunities for students, young professionals, and artists from abroad to study and conduct research in the United States. The program operates in over 140 countries and is aimed at fostering mutual understanding between nations.

Eligibility: Varies by country, but generally includes a bachelor’s degree and proficiency in English.

Benefits: Full funding, including tuition, airfare, a living stipend, and health insurance.

Application: Interested candidates should apply through the Fulbright Commission/Foundation or U.S. Embassy in their home countries. 

Pathways to the Fulbright Foreign Student Program

2. The Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholarships

The Rotary Foundation offers global grant scholarships for graduate-level coursework or research for one to four academic years. The scholarships are designed to support studies that relate to Rotary’s areas of focus, including peace and conflict prevention/resolution, which aligns with international relations and diplomacy.

Eligibility: Students who have demonstrated a commitment to peace and conflict resolution.

Benefits: Minimum $30,000, covering tuition, travel, living expenses, and supplies.

Application: Candidates must be endorsed by a local Rotary club and apply through the Rotary Foundation.

3. Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP)

The JJ/WBGSP offers scholarships to students from developing countries to pursue a master’s degree in a development-related field. This program aims to build the capacity of countries by supporting their citizens to acquire knowledge and skills.

Eligibility: Students from developing countries with a relevant professional experience and a history of supporting their country’s development efforts.

Benefits: Tuition, a monthly living stipend, round-trip airfare, health insurance, and travel allowance.

Application: Applications are submitted online through the World Bank’s scholarship program portal.

4. The Edmund S. Muskie Graduate Fellowship Program

Administered by the U.S. Department of State, the Muskie Fellowship Program provides scholarships for master’s degree-level study to emerging leaders from Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, Central Asia, and the Balkans. The program aims to foster mutual understanding and build a network of professionals.

Eligibility: Citizens from eligible countries with a strong academic background and leadership potential.

Benefits: Full tuition, living stipend, travel allowance, and health insurance.

Application: Applications are usually submitted through a designated American Councils office in the applicant’s country.

5. Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Fellowship

Funded by the U.S. Department of State, the Pickering Fellowship seeks to attract and prepare outstanding young people for Foreign Service careers. It provides financial support for graduate studies and professional development opportunities.

Eligibility: U.S. citizens with a strong academic background and an interest in international affairs.

Benefits: Up to $37,500 annually for tuition, room, board, books, and mandatory fees during the first and second year of graduate school, as well as two summer internships.

Application: Online application, including essays, letters of recommendation, and transcripts.

6. The Herbert Scoville Jr. Peace Fellowship

The Scoville Fellowship provides recent college and graduate school alumni with the opportunity to gain experience in international peace and security issues. Fellows work with one of more than two dozen participating institutions in Washington, D.C.

Eligibility: U.S. citizens or individuals with the right to work in the U.S., with a demonstrated interest in peace and security issues.

Benefits: A salary of $3,400 per month, health insurance, and travel expenses to Washington, D.C.

Application: Online application, including a resume, essays, letters of recommendation, and transcripts.

Conclusion

These scholarships are excellent opportunities for students aiming to pursue a career in international relations and diplomacy. Each program has unique eligibility requirements and benefits, so it’s important to research and prepare thoroughly to maximize your chances of securing funding. By taking advantage of these scholarships, students can gain the necessary skills and experiences to become leaders in fostering global understanding and cooperation.