Pursuing a postgraduate degree in the U.S. can be a dream come true, but let’s be honest—it comes with a hefty price tag. If you’re an international female student looking for a fully funded scholarship for a master’s in the USA, the P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship (IPS) could be your golden ticket.
This scholarship is designed specifically for women leaders who want to contribute to their home countries after completing their studies in the U.S. It provides funding for international students in the USA, helping them cover tuition, living expenses, and other academic costs.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know: eligibility, funding details, application process, and tips to increase your chances of winning. Whether you’re seeking a scholarship for a master’s degree in the USA for international students or looking to understand the broader landscape of fully funded graduate programs in the USA, this article has you covered!
What is the P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship?
The P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship (IPS) is a merit-based, need-sensitive scholarship program for women from countries outside the U.S. and Canada. It was established in 1949 by the Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O.) Sisterhood to promote peace through education by supporting women pursuing graduate programs in the USA.
Although the IPS is not a fully funded scholarship, it provides substantial financial assistance (up to $12,500 per student) to help cover tuition, accommodation, and other study-related expenses. Recipients are expected to return to their home country after graduation to use their skills for leadership and community development.
Who is Eligible?
Before applying, ensure you meet the eligibility requirements. The P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship is specifically for:
✅ Women international students in American universities (excluding Canadian citizens or permanent residents of the U.S.).
✅ Applicants who have been accepted into an accredited graduate program in the USA.
✅ Students who plan to return to their home country after completing their degree.
✅ Women who demonstrate financial need but also show the ability to secure additional funding (IPS does not cover full tuition).
✅ First-time applicants who have at least one full academic year of study remaining.
Who is NOT Eligible?
❌ U.S. or Canadian citizens.
❌ Undergraduate students.
❌ Online students (only on-campus programs are eligible).
❌ Women who have not yet been admitted to a U.S. or Canadian university.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
Although the P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship is not a fully funded graduate program in the USA, it provides significant financial aid that can ease your burden.
The IPS Scholarship Covers:
✔️ Tuition fees.
✔️ Living expenses (rent, food, transportation).
✔️ Books and academic supplies.
✔️ Health insurance (partially covered).
The IPS Scholarship Does NOT Cover:
❌ Full tuition costs.
❌ Family expenses (spouses, children, dependents).
❌ Research or travel grants.
❌ Summer courses.
Pro Tip: Many students combine the IPS with other scholarships for master’s in the USA for international students, such as the Fulbright Foreign Student Program or university-based grants.
How Much Funding Can You Get?
The maximum IPS award is $12,500 per year. However, the actual amount depends on:
Your financial need (as assessed by P.E.O.).
Your total education expenses for the academic year.
Other scholarships, grants, or assistantships you receive.
Since IPS does not cover full tuition, many recipients apply for additional funding sources, such as:
University assistantships (teaching or research positions).
Fellowships for international students in the U.S.
Scholarships from American universities offering funding for international graduate students.
How to Apply for the P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship
The application process is straightforward but requires careful attention to deadlines and document submissions.
Step 1: Submit an Eligibility Form
Before applying, you must complete the Eligibility Form online (available on the P.E.O. official website from September 15 to December 15).
Step 2: Wait for an Invitation
If you meet the initial eligibility criteria, you will receive an official application link via email.
Step 3: Complete the Full Application
The full application includes:
- Personal statement explaining your goals and how you will use your education to promote peace.
Admission letter from an accredited graduate program in the USA.
Budget and financial statement (showing tuition costs and funding sources).
Letters of recommendation from professors, employers, or community leaders.
Step 4: Attend an Interview (If Required)
Some applicants may be required to attend an interview with a P.E.O. representative.
Step 5: Receive the Scholarship Decision
Scholarship results are announced by May 1. If selected, you’ll receive funding for the next academic year!
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning
- Apply Early: Submit your application as soon as possible to avoid last-minute issues.
- Demonstrate Financial Need: IPS prioritizes applicants who genuinely need financial support.
- Show Leadership and Impact: Highlight any women leadership development programs you have participated in and how you plan to contribute to your home country.
- Write a Compelling Essay: Your personal statement should tell a powerful story about your passion, achievements, and future goals.
- Secure Other Funding: Since IPS is not fully funded, having additional scholarships (such as universities that offer scholarships in the USA) strengthens your application.
Alternative Scholarships for Women in the USA
The P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship is just one of many scholarships for international graduate students in the USA. Here are some alternatives:
AAUW International Fellowships – For women pursuing master’s, Ph.D., or postdoctoral studies in the U.S.
Fulbright Foreign Student Program – A fully funded scholarship in the USA covering tuition, living expenses, and health insurance.
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program – Supports students from Africa studying in the U.S.
University-Specific Scholarships – Many universities in the USA with scholarships for international students offer tuition waivers, assistantships, and grants.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply for the P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship if I’m already studying in the U.S.?
Yes! If you’re already enrolled in a master’s degree program in the USA for international students, you can still apply as long as you have at least one academic year left. However, preference is given to first-time applicants.
2. Is this scholarship available for undergraduate students?
No. The P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship is strictly for graduate and post-graduate degrees in the USA. If you’re looking for an undergraduate scholarship for international students in the USA, you may want to explore universities in the USA with fully funded scholarships for international students or the Fulbright Foreign Student Program.
3. Does the scholarship cover doctoral programs?
Yes! This scholarship is open to both master’s and Ph.D. students, making it one of the best international graduate scholarships in the USA for women. However, you must demonstrate a strong commitment to leadership and development.
4. Can I work while receiving this scholarship?
While the scholarship does not restrict part-time work, recipients are expected to focus on their studies. Some universities in the U.S. allow international students to work on-campus jobs to supplement their funding.
5. Can I combine this scholarship with other funding sources?
Absolutely! Many recipients combine IPS with other fully funded scholarships for master’s in the USA, such as:
✔️ Graduate assistantships at American universities
✔️ Fellowships in the U.S. (such as AAUW International Fellowships)
✔️ Scholarships for international graduate students in the USA from private organizations
This combination allows students to reduce financial stress while focusing on their academic and leadership growth.
Other Notable Scholarships for International Students in the U.S.
If you’re searching for a fully funded scholarship in America, here are additional programs worth exploring:
Fulbright Foreign Student Program
✔️ Fully funded master’s or Ph.D. in the U.S.
✔️ Covers tuition, living costs, and airfare
✔️ Open to students from 160+ countries
AAUW International Fellowships
✔️ Focuses on women leaders in education
✔️ Awards up to $50,000 for master’s or Ph.D. students
✔️ Ideal for those in STEM, social sciences, and business fields
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
✔️ Available for students from Africa
✔️ Covers full tuition, housing, and living expenses
✔️ Includes mentorship and leadership development
Universities Offering Scholarships in the USA
Many American universities offer scholarships for international students, such as:
Harvard University Scholarships – Offers full funding to outstanding international students.
Stanford University Scholarships – Provides tuition waivers and assistantships.
MIT Scholarships for International Students – Covers full tuition for need-based applicants.
If you’re applying to graduate programs in the USA, check each university’s financial aid office for scholarship opportunities in the USA for international students.
Why Study in the U.S.?
Pursuing a post-graduate degree in the USA offers world-class education, networking opportunities, and global career prospects. Here’s why international students prefer American graduate programs:
Diverse Learning Environment – The U.S. has some of the best universities for international students, promoting cultural diversity.
Extensive Funding Options – With numerous scholarships for master’s in the USA for international students, the U.S. remains an attractive destination for education.
Career Advancement – A master’s degree in the USA can lead to top jobs, especially in fields like business, engineering, and healthcare.
Women Leadership Development Programs – Many universities encourage women in leadership, helping them become influential figures in their industries.
If you’re interested in fully funded scholarships in the USA for international students, keep researching and applying to maximize your chances of securing funding.
Final Thoughts
The P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship is an excellent opportunity for women international students in the USA to achieve their academic dreams. While it does not provide full funding, it can significantly ease financial burdens when combined with other scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships.
If you’re looking for a fully funded master’s degree in the USA, explore options such as:
✅ Fulbright Foreign Student Program
✅ AAUW International Fellowships
✅ University-based scholarships in the USA
With the right approach, persistence, and a strong application, you can secure the funding for international students in the USA that you need. Good luck on your academic journey!
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The P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship is an excellent funding opportunity for women international students pursuing a master’s or Ph.D. degree in the USA. While it’s not a fully funded scholarship, it provides significant financial assistance, allowing women to focus on their studies and leadership goals.
If you’re passionate about making a difference in your home country and need funding for international students in the USA, this scholarship could be the perfect fit.
Final Tip: Don’t rely on a single scholarship. Explore multiple fully funded scholarships for master’s in the USA to maximize your financial aid. Good luck!
