Location: USA
Program: Bachelors
Eligibility: International Students
Duration: 4 years
Deadline: January 15, 2026
The AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship is a highly competitive award designed for exceptional international students who demonstrate leadership, community service, and a commitment to positive change. The program specifically targets students from diverse, underrepresented backgrounds who aim to return home after graduation to contribute to development in their communities.
Preference is given to international students (non-U.S. citizens or permanent residents) who have overcome significant challenges and demonstrated leadership, community service, and a commitment to creating positive change in underserved communities in their home countries.
American University (AU), Washington, D.C, founded in 1893, American University is a private institution located in Washington, D.C., with a strong reputation in international affairs, public policy, business, communication, and law. The university attracts students from over 120 countries, creating a diverse and globally focused community. Its location in the U.S. capital offers students unique opportunities for internships, research, and networking with government agencies, nonprofits, and global organizations, making AU a hub for those aspiring to leadership and service at both national and international levels.
Benefits of the Scholarship
The AU EGL scholarship covers:
- All billable American University expenses (full tuition, accommodation, and board)
- Visa Sponsorship (an F-1 or J-1 student visa)
- Additional $40,000 per year.
Eligibility Criteria
You are NOT eligible to apply if:
- You are a U.S. citizen, U.S. permanent resident, U.S. pending permanent resident, or dual citizen of the U.S. and another country.
- You are enrolled in or have already begun any post-secondary studies at another university in your home country or the United States.
- You graduated secondary school earlier than 2023.
Also Check:
Fully Funded Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships at the University of Toronto
ARES International Training Scholarships 2026/2027
Selection Criteria
AU EGLS will give Preference to:
- International students who have overcome various obstacles and challenges as well as those from diverse and underrepresented global and socioeconomic backgrounds.
- A demonstrated commitment to leadership, volunteerism, community service, and to advancing the needs of people in their home country.
- Students who meet our English Proficiency requirements.
- Students who are still enrolled in secondary/high school and graduating by June 2026.
How to Apply
IMPORTANT: The AU Emerging Global Leadership Scholarship application process involves two steps:
- Applicants who wish to be considered for AU EGLS full or partial scholarships must first submit their Common application and all supporting documents before January 15, 2026.
- Submit the AU EGL Scholarship application and essays via your applicant portal by the required January 15, 2026 deadline. You must complete Step 1 before submitting the AU EGLS application. Late applications will not be considered.
CLICK HERE to visit the official webpage and submit your application.
