Accepting applications Partial

10 US Colleges Offering 100% Financial Aid for International Students in 2027

Last updated Sep 25, 2026

Deadline

2027-01-15

Country

USA

Level

undergraduate

Organization

Berea College, Grinnell College, Carleton College, Davidson College, Bates College, Colby College, Kenyon College, Oberlin College, Macalester College, and Skidmore College

Field

All fields

Funding

partial

Overview

This opportunity highlights 10 prestigious US liberal arts colleges that offer significant need-based financial aid to international undergraduate students. These institutions aim to make education accessible to low-income students by meeting a high percentage of demonstrated financial need.

Coverage

Financial aid packages vary by institution and individual financial evaluation. Benefits may include partial or full tuition coverage, on-campus housing, meal plans, and mandatory institutional fees. Some packages may include campus employment, grants, or loans. Note that personal expenses, books, health insurance, and travel costs are not always covered.

Eligibility

Open to international students, including those from Ethiopia, applying for undergraduate studies.

Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate financial need, request financial aid during the admission process, and submit all required financial documentation. Standard requirements include academic transcripts, degree certificates, CV/resume, passport, and personal essays via the Common Application.

How to apply

Applications must be submitted through the Common Application portal (https://www.commonapp.org/). You must indicate your need for financial aid during the application process and provide the necessary financial documents required by each specific college.

Notes

Deadlines vary by institution, typically ranging from November 30, 2026, to January 15, 2027. Always check the specific financial aid page of the university you are applying to for their unique requirements and deadlines.

Source & Verification

Host organization: Berea College, Grinnell College, Carleton College, Davidson College, Bates College, Colby College, Kenyon College, Oberlin College, Macalester College, and Skidmore College

Original source: BrightScholarship

Official application page: https://www.commonapp.org/

Verify the deadline, eligibility, and document list on the official website before applying.

How to Apply

1

Read the full requirements

Visit the official application page and read all eligibility criteria carefully before investing time in the application.
2

Gather your documents

Collect transcripts, certificates, and references. Official copies may require apostille — start this process early.
3

Request recommendation letters

Contact your referees at least 4–6 weeks before the deadline. Brief them on the scholarship and your goals.
4

Write your motivation letter

Be specific about your goals, why you chose this program, and your plan to contribute to Ethiopia after completing your studies.
5

Proofread and submit early

Submit at least 3–5 days before the deadline. Technical issues are common — never submit on the last day.