American University’s merit awards for international students are partial, not full, scholarships. They are highly competitive and based on a combination of outstanding academic achievement, excellent communication skills in English, leadership, volunteerism, and community service. No need-based financial aid is available to international students (non-U.S. citizens).
AU does not require a separate application form or process to be considered for AU Merit scholarships.
Important for first-year applicants who wish to be considered for AU’s partial scholarships:
Apply for the fall (August) semester, not spring. Fall application deadline is January 15. AU merit awards are offered only at the time of admission. There are nofurther opportunities for AU partial scholarships once you have begun your studies. No increases in scholarship amounts are available from year to year. The initial amount of your AU merit award remains constant for all four years of study. Your AU CFIS and bank letter must demonstrate that you have at least U.S.$59,109 available for your first year of study, even if you hope to qualify and receive one of AU’s competitive merit scholarships. Plan to have similar funding available for each additional year of undergraduate study (up to four years total).