American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship – Apply Now

The AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship is aimed at high-achieving international students who wish to pursue a Degree in the US, and who are determined to create positive, civic, and social change in his/her community. It is intended for students who will be returning home to improve under-resourced communities in his/her home country.

Host Institution(s):

American University, Washington DC, USA

Level/Field(s) of study:

Any undergraduate study offered at the University.

Number of Scholarships:

One (1) scholarship is available.

Scholarship value/inclusions/duration:

The AU EGL scholarship covers all billable AU expenses (full tuition, room, and board). The scholarship does not cover non-billable expenses such as mandatory health insurance, books, airline tickets, and miscellaneous expenses (approximately U.S. $4,000).

It is renewable for a total of four years of undergraduate study, based on continued satisfactory academic performance.

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Eligibility:

Preference will be given to:

1. International students who have overcome various obstacles and challenges, as well as those from diverse and underrepresented global and socioeconomic backgrounds.
2. A minimum 3.8 GPA equivalent (or in the top 10% of graduating class) for 9th-12th grades.
3. A demonstrated commitment to leadership, volunteerism, community service, and to advancing the needs of people in their home country.
4. Students with one of the following: 95+ TOEFL iBT (all subscores must be 20 or above); sub-scores of 24+ on the paper-based TOEFL (Taken after May 31, 2017); 7.0+ IELTS (all subscores must be 6.0 or above); 33 minimum SAT Reading Subscore; 29 minimum ACT English; 65 minimum PTE; or 120+ Duolingo
5. Students who are still enrolled in secondary/high school and graduating by June 2027.
6. Important: Students in the IB system should plan to graduate with a full IB diploma with at lease 3 HL subjects. Students studying in the British A-Levels system must complete at least 3 A levels and finish 13 years of study before August 2027.

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Application instructions:

• To apply to the AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship, you must apply and complete the AU EGLS application, Common or Coalition Application, and international admissions process by 15 December 2026 (priority deadline) or by 15 January 2027 at the latest. AU EGLS applicants must apply for Regular Decision for fall (August) 2027. Do not apply Early Decision (ED).
• It is important to visit the official website (link found below) to access the application form and for detailed information on how to apply for this scholarship.

HOW TO APPLY: Interested candidates should visit the AU official website.

Website:

Official Scholarship Website: http://www.american.edu/admissions/international/egls.cfm

FAQs

1. What is the American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship?

The Emerging Global Leader Scholarship is a fully funded award offered by American University in the United States. It supports outstanding international students who demonstrate leadership potential, academic excellence, and a strong commitment to positive social change in their home communities.

2. Who is eligible to apply for the scholarship?

The scholarship is open to first-year undergraduate international students who require a U.S. student visa (non-U.S. citizens and non-permanent residents). Applicants must have strong academic records, proven leadership experience, and a commitment to community service and development.

3. What does the scholarship cover?

The Emerging Global Leader Scholarship typically covers full tuition, accommodation, and other mandatory university fees. However, it does not usually include expenses such as visa fees, airfare, health insurance, or personal living costs.

4. How can I apply for the scholarship?

Applicants must first apply for admission to American University and then submit a separate scholarship application, including essays, academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and proof of English proficiency. Early application is strongly encouraged due to limited slots and high competition.