Fully Funded McDonnell International Scholarship in USA 2025
The McDonnell International Scholarship is your chance to receive an incredible financial package to support your graduate and professional studies at Washington University in St. Louis, USA.
The 2025 McDonnell International Scholars Academy takes care of full tuition, provides a monthly living stipend, and even covers relocation and travel expenses for all selected candidates.
In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about this fantastic opportunity, including tips on how to apply.
About the 2025 McDonnell International Scholarship
The McDonnell International Scholars Academy is all about building a community of culturally and academically diverse leaders who are ready to tackle some of the world’s biggest challenges.
With a focus on driving positive and lasting change, the program is a hotbed of groundbreaking ideas that emerge from its strong international partnerships.
What makes the Academy truly special is the transformative experience it offers. Through mentorship, professional development, and unique engagement opportunities, you’ll grow your leadership skills and gain the confidence to lead with a global perspective and a commitment to social responsibility.
McDonnell Scholars are chosen not just for their academic excellence, but for their potential to become leaders in their fields with a deep understanding of different cultures.
If selected, you’ll receive generous financial support to help you focus on your studies at Washington University in St. Louis.
Who Can Apply for the 2025 McDonnell International Scholars Academy?
To be eligible for the 2025 McDonnell International Scholars Academy:
- You must apply to an eligible Washington University doctoral or master’s degree program.
- Keep in mind that applying to the McDonnell Academy is a separate process from applying to your graduate program at Washington University in St. Louis. You’ll need to submit applications for both the McDonnell Academy and the WashU program.
- You should have earned, or plan to earn, a bachelor’s degree or higher by the end of the 2024-25 academic year (by July 2025).
- This scholarship is specifically for graduate studies, so it’s not available for undergraduate programs.
- While applicants from all countries are welcome, priority is given to international graduates from the Academy’s Partner Universities.
What You’ll Get with the McDonnell International Scholarship 2025
As a McDonnell Scholar, you’ll receive:
- Full tuition coverage and a monthly living stipend
- A relocation expense allowance and a travel allowance
- The chance to live in private, modern cohort housing just a short walk from campus
- Access to multifaceted instruction, cultural experiences, dedicated mentorship, and a global network of students and alumni
How Are McDonnell Scholars Selected?
- Academic Excellence: We’re looking for scholars who stand out academically and have the ambition to become future leaders in fields like academia, government, the professions, or the corporate world.
- Global Perspective: Scholars should have a global outlook, an appreciation for diversity, and an interest in social and cultural issues. Being open to dialogue across different disciplines and cultures is key.
- Leadership Potential: We want to see a desire and potential to make a positive impact in your community and beyond. Engaging in the Academy’s leadership development and communication opportunities is a must.
- Community Spirit: You’ll be joining a tight-knit, diverse community of scholars. We’re looking for individuals who are eager to participate in the Academy’s activities and build strong connections within our global network of partners.
How to Apply for the 2025 McDonnell International Scholarship
Ready to apply? Here’s what you need to do:
- Visit the Scholarship Webpage: Click the button below to get to the official scholarship page.
- Apply to a Washington University Program: Make sure to apply to an eligible Washington University doctoral or master’s degree program.
- Submit Your McDonnell Academy Application: You’ll complete your McDonnell Academy application online as part of your WashU graduate program application. Be sure to submit the following materials by January 31 at 11:59 pm CST:
- A personal essay
- A short video
- A recommendation letter
For more details on the required components and how to apply, visit the [application instructions page]. Decisions are usually made by the end of March, and no later than mid-April. Around 20 scholars are admitted to the McDonnell Academy each year.
Once a decision is made, you’ll see an update on your applicant dashboard within the online application. If accepted, you’ll also receive an email notification with further instructions.
Deadline: January 31, 2025
