Study in USA
The Duke University Karsh International Scholarship is one of the most prestigious fully funded undergraduate scholarships available to international students in the United States. Established in 2010 through the generosity of Martha L. and Bruce A. Karsh, this scholarship is awarded to exceptional students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, leadership potential, civic engagement, and financial need.
Duke University, located in Durham, North Carolina, is a world-renowned private research institution consistently ranked among the top universities globally. Founded in 1838 and expanded significantly in 1924 through the support of James B. Duke, the university is home to renowned schools such as the Trinity College of Arts & Sciences, Pratt School of Engineering, Fuqua School of Business, School of Medicine, and School of Law. Duke is celebrated for its interdisciplinary approach to education and research, fostering collaboration across fields such as public policy, global health, environmental science, technology, and the humanities. With a richly diverse student body representing over 100 countries, Duke offers a vibrant academic environment supported by world-class faculty and state of the art facilities.
The Karsh International Scholarship goes beyond financial support. It builds a global community of scholars committed to academic excellence, leadership, and meaningful service. For talented students facing financial barriers, it offers a life-changing opportunity to pursue an undergraduate degree at one of the world’s most respected universities and to prepare for a future of global impact.
About the Scholarship
The Karsh Scholarship recognizes outstanding students from around the world who have demonstrated:
- Exceptional academic performance
- Strong leadership potential
- A record of civic engagement and community service
- Financial need that would otherwise prevent them from studying at Duke
This scholarship also seeks students who are passionate about contributing to their home communities and engaging in global problem-solving.
Host Country: USA
Host University: Duke University
Coverage: Fully Funded
Degree Level: Undergraduate Degree Program
Benefits of the Karsh International Scholarship at Duke University (USA)
The Karsh International Scholarship is a fully funded undergraduate scholarship that offers exceptional support to international students at Duke University. Here are the key benefits:
- Full Tuition Coverage
The scholarship covers 100% of tuition fees for the entire duration of the undergraduate degree at Duke University. - Accommodation & Living Expenses
Scholars receive funding for on-campus housing, meals, and other essential living costs, ensuring a worry-free student life in the U.S. - Research Funding for Three Summers
The program provides research funding for up to three summers, allowing students to pursue academic and professional interests with financial support. - Support for Unpaid Internships
Scholars can access funding for unpaid internships, helping them gain valuable work experience without financial barriers. - Academic Enrichment & Mentorship
Karsh Scholars benefit from mentorship, leadership training, and networking opportunities, helping them grow academically and professionally. - Global Scholar Community
Students join a diverse and elite community of international scholars with opportunities to engage in global issues and contribute to positive change in their home countries and beyond.
Eligibility Criteria for Duke University Karsh International Scholarship 2025
To be considered for the Karsh International Scholarship at Duke University, applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- International Applicants Only
Open to students from any country outside the United States. However, dual citizens (U.S. + another country) or U.S. permanent residents are not eligible. - Undergraduate Degree Applicants
Candidates must be applying for first-year undergraduate admission to Duke University.
Students who already hold a Bachelor’s degree (BA/BSc) are not eligible. - Strong Academic Background
Applicants must demonstrate outstanding academic performance and intellectual potential. - Proven Financial Need
Students must show a genuine need for financial assistance. Submission of Duke’s Financial Aid Application is required for consideration. - Standard Duke Admission Requirements
All applicants must complete the regular Duke University admission application by the stated deadlines.
Countries represented:
Botswana, Brazil, Bulgaria, Chile, England, Ethiopia, Ghana, India, Iran, Kenya, Mongolia, Nepal, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Pakistan, Romania, Russia, Rwanda, Syria, Tunisia, Vietnam, and Zimbabwe.
How to Apply for the Duke University Karsh International Scholarship
The Karsh International Scholarship at Duke University is a life-changing opportunity for international students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need. Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying:
- Apply to Duke University
Submit a complete undergraduate application to Duke University through the Common Application or Coalition Application. There is no separate scholarship application. - Indicate Financial Need
When applying to Duke, indicate that you are applying for financial aid. The Karsh Scholarship is only awarded to need-based applicants. - Complete Financial Aid Documents
Submit all required financial aid documentation, including:- CSS Profile (required for all international students)
- Parental Income & Asset Documentation
These are essential for determining financial need.
- Meet the Eligibility Criteria
- Must be an international student (non-US citizen and non-dual citizen)
- Applying to Duke for the first time as a first-year undergraduate
- Must demonstrate strong academic background
- Must show genuine financial need
- Apply Before the Deadline
Deadline: November 1, 2025