The American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship offers an outstanding opportunity for international students who want to study in the United States in 2026. This scholarship is designed for talented students from diverse and underrepresented socioeconomic and global backgrounds and is offered by American University in Washington, D.C. It aims to support future global leaders by providing access to high-quality undergraduate education in the USA while promoting academic excellence, leadership development, and international diversity.
The AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship focuses on expanding educational access for students who have faced financial or social challenges. It allows selected students from around the world to study in the USA with significant financial support, making it possible to pursue higher education without major financial barriers. The scholarship is available for all undergraduate fields offered at American University and is considered one of the most competitive fully funded scholarships in the United States for international students.
For the 2026 academic year, the AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship is fully funded and covers major educational expenses, making it especially attractive for students who cannot otherwise afford to study abroad. The scholarship supports students who demonstrate strong leadership qualities, academic potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their home countries, particularly in under-resourced and underserved communities. It is renewable for up to four years of undergraduate study, subject to maintaining satisfactory academic performance.
American University is offering two fully funded Emerging Global Leader Scholarships for Fall 2026. In addition, eight partial scholarships are also available for international students who are not selected for the full award but wish to continue their studies at the university with additional financial support. Applicants considered for partial scholarships must demonstrate the ability to cover remaining expenses beyond the initial required amount.
Eligibility for the AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship is primarily aimed at international students graduating from secondary or high school by June 2026. Preference is given to students from underrepresented backgrounds who have overcome challenges and shown a strong commitment to leadership, volunteering, and community service. Applicants must meet English language and academic requirements through standardized tests such as TOEFL, IELTS, SAT, ACT, PTE, or Duolingo. Students enrolled in IB or British A Levels must meet specific graduation and subject requirements. Applicants who are US citizens, permanent residents, dual citizens, or those who have already started post-secondary education are not eligible.
The scholarship covers full tuition fees as well as room and board at American University, significantly reducing the cost of studying in the USA. However, expenses such as medical insurance, books, airfare, and personal costs are not included. Alongside the full scholarships, partial scholarships valued at up to $40,000 per year are also offered to support additional international students.
To apply for the AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship 2026, applicants must complete the Common Application as the first step and then submit the AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship application and required essays through the applicant portal. All applications must be submitted online before the deadline, and applicants must apply under the Regular Decision cycle for Fall 2026. Official English language test scores must also be submitted as part of the application.
The application deadline for the American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship is January 15, 2026. This scholarship represents a valuable opportunity for international students seeking a fully funded undergraduate education in the United States while developing leadership skills and contributing to global and local communities.
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