Duke University Karsh International Scholarship 2025-26: USA

The Duke University Karsh International Scholarship is a prestigious, fully funded program designed to attract exceptional international students for undergraduate studies. The Karsh International Scholarship at Duke University, established in 2010 through a donation from Martha L. and Bruce A. Karsh, supports outstanding international students who demonstrate financial need. This scholarship recognizes students who are intellectually curious, civically engaged, and committed to interdisciplinary learning and research that benefits society.

The Duke University Karsh International Scholarship covers tuition, room and board, mandatory fees, and provides additional funding for research and internships. The current cohort includes scholars from over 20 countries, reflecting Duke’s diverse and global academic community. The application deadline for the 2025–26 academic year is 1st November 2025.

University/Institution Details

Host University: Duke University
Host Country: USA
Global Ranking: Ranked 22nd globally by U.S. News & World Report and 20th by Times Higher Education.
Programs Offered: Undergraduate degrees (B.A. and B.Sc.) across various disciplines.
Program Duration: Typically 4 years for undergraduate programs.

Study Areas

Duke University offers a wide range of undergraduate programs across disciplines such as:

Sciences
Engineering
Humanities
Social Sciences
Arts
Business
Public Policy

Duke University Karsh International Scholarship Benefits

The Karsh International Scholarship provides:

Full coverage of tuition fees
Room and board expenses
Mandatory university fees
Funding for three summers of research
Unpaid internships
Other academic career advancement opportunities

Benefits Not Included

While the scholarship is comprehensive, it does not cover:

Personal expenses
Travel costs to and from Duke University
Optional fees not mandated by the university

Eligibility Criteria for Duke University Karsh International Scholarship

To be eligible for the Karsh International Scholarship, applicants must:

Be international students without U.S. citizenship or dual citizenship including the U.S.
Have completed high school education and be planning to pursue an undergraduate degree at Duke University
Demonstrate strong academic preparation and potential for leadership
Show documented financial need
Not already hold a B.A. or B.Sc. degree
Open to students from any academic discipline.

Required Documents

Applicants should prepare the following:

Completed Duke University application form
Academic transcripts
Standardized test scores (SAT or ACT)
Personal statement or essay
Letters of recommendation
Financial aid application (e.g., CSS Profile)
Proof of financial need
Valid passport copy and visa documentation (if available)

Duke University Karsh International Scholarship Application Process

To apply for the Karsh International Scholarship:

Apply for undergraduate admission to Duke University by the specified deadline.
Indicate your intent to apply for financial aid during the admission application process.
Submit all required financial aid documents by the appropriate deadlines.
No separate scholarship application is required; all international applicants requesting financial aid will be considered for the Karsh Scholarship.

Tips for a Successful Application

Start Early: Begin the application process well in advance to ensure all materials are submitted on time.
Highlight Leadership: Emphasize any leadership roles or initiatives you’ve undertaken in your personal statement.
Demonstrate Impact: Showcase how your experiences have prepared you to contribute to the Duke community.
Proofread: Ensure all application materials are free from errors and clearly present your qualifications.
Seek Feedback: Have mentors or advisors review your application materials for constructive feedback.

Monthly Living Expenses for International Students

While the Karsh Scholarship covers tuition, room, and board, it’s essential to be aware of other potential expenses:

Personal Expenses: Approximately $3,274 annually, covering items like laundry, clothing, and personal care.
Books and Supplies: Estimated at $536 per year.
Transportation: Varies based on home country; domestic transportation ranges from $582 to $1,317 annually.

Why Choose This Opportunity?

The Karsh International Scholarship offers more than just financial support; it provides a platform for international students to thrive academically and personally at one of the world’s leading universities. With access to Duke’s extensive resources, research opportunities, and a diverse community, scholars are well-equipped to make significant global impacts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is there a separate application for the Karsh Scholarship?
No, all international applicants who apply for financial aid are automatically considered.

Q2: Can I apply if I have dual citizenship with the U.S.?
No, the scholarship is only for international students without U.S. citizenship or dual U.S. nationality.

Q3: Does the scholarship cover summer programs?
Yes, it provides funding for three summers to support research, unpaid internships, and other academic pursuits.

Q4: Are there specific academic programs required for eligibility?
No, the scholarship is open to students from any academic discipline.

Q5: What is the deadline for the 2025–26 academic year?
The application deadline is November 4, 2025.

Official Link for More Details and Application

For comprehensive information and to begin your application, visit the official Karsh International Scholars Program page: