International Scholarships at Georgetown University, USA

Georgetown University, renowned for its commitment to global education and leadership, offers a wide range of merit-based scholarships for international students pursuing the Global Human Development (GHD) program. These scholarships are designed to support students from diverse regions, including Sub-Saharan Africa, the Philippines, Latin America, Asia, and the Middle East, helping them to achieve their academic and professional goals in the field of human development. With a strong focus on merit, leadership, and potential for impact, these scholarships cover full or partial tuition, ensuring access to world-class education for talented students from across the globe.

Overview of the GHD Program

The Global Human Development (GHD) program at Georgetown University is a rigorous, interdisciplinary Master’s program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address complex development challenges. Students in this program explore areas such as economic growth, education, global health, conflict resolution, and sustainable development. The curriculum is built on Georgetown’s long-standing commitment to promoting social justice, and it prepares students to become leaders in international development through hands-on learning, practical fieldwork, and collaboration with global organizations.

The program offers a comprehensive academic experience, and the scholarships available through the GHD program are designed to attract outstanding students who demonstrate strong academic performance, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities.

Scholarship Opportunities for International Students

Georgetown University recognizes the financial challenges faced by many students, particularly international students, when pursuing higher education abroad. To address this, the GHD program provides several scholarship opportunities to students from specific regions. These scholarships aim to reduce the financial burden associated with tuition and living expenses, allowing students to focus on their academic studies and fieldwork.

Here are the primary scholarships available for GHD students:

1. Full-Tuition Scholarship for Sub-Saharan African Students

One of the flagship scholarships offered by the GHD program is a full-tuition scholarship for students from Sub-Saharan Africa. This scholarship is made possible through the generous support of the Amre and Caroline Heinz-Youness Family and the William and Catherine McGurn Family. At least one student from the region is selected each year for this prestigious award.

• Eligibility: Applicants must be citizens of Sub-Saharan African countries and demonstrate outstanding academic performance, leadership skills, and a commitment to improving human development in their region.
• Scholarship Value: Full coverage of tuition fees for the entire duration of the GHD program.
• Additional Support: In addition to the full-tuition scholarship, several partial scholarships are also available to students from Sub-Saharan Africa, providing further financial assistance for living expenses and other educational costs.

2. Father Bienvenido Nebres, S.J. Scholarship for Students from the Philippines

The Father Bienvenido Nebres, S.J. Scholarship is a full-tuition award for a student from the Philippines pursuing the GHD program. Named in honor of Father Nebres, a Jesuit leader and advocate for education in the Philippines, this scholarship aims to support students from the country who have shown exceptional academic achievements and a dedication to fostering development in the Philippines and beyond.

• Eligibility: Open to students from the Philippines who are enrolling in the GHD program and who have demonstrated academic excellence and a commitment to social justice and development.
• Scholarship Value: Full coverage of tuition fees.

3. Partial Tuition Scholarship for Students from Asia

In addition to the Father Bienvenido Nebres, S.J. Scholarship, the GHD program offers a partial tuition scholarship for a student from Asia. This award is intended to assist students from the region in financing their education while pursuing their Master’s degree at Georgetown University.

• Eligibility: Open to students from Asian countries (excluding the Philippines) who are admitted to the GHD program.
• Scholarship Value: Partial tuition coverage, which significantly reduces the overall cost of the program.

4. Beeck Latin America Endowed Scholarship

The Beeck Latin America Endowed Scholarship is specifically designed for students from Latin America who are pursuing the GHD program at Georgetown University. This scholarship provides significant financial support, covering 50% of tuition for one student from the region each year.

• Eligibility: Open to students from Latin American countries who have demonstrated academic excellence and leadership potential.
• Scholarship Value: 50% of tuition costs covered, making it easier for Latin American students to access the resources and education they need to become leaders in the field of human development.

5. Partial Tuition Scholarship for Students from the Middle East

The GHD program also offers a partial tuition scholarship for a student from the Middle East. This scholarship aims to support students from the region who are dedicated to addressing development challenges in their home countries and beyond.

• Eligibility: Open to students from Middle Eastern countries who are accepted into the GHD program.
• Scholarship Value: Partial tuition coverage, reducing the financial burden of pursuing a Master’s degree.

Application Process for GHD Scholarships

To be considered for any of the merit-based scholarships offered by the GHD program, applicants must submit a complete application for admission to the program. The scholarships are awarded based on the overall strength of the application, including academic achievements, leadership qualities, and commitment to the field of global human development.

To apply and learn more, click here Georgetown University official website. 

Required Application Materials:

• Online Application: All applicants must submit an online application through Georgetown University’s admissions portal.
• Personal Statement: Applicants are required to write a personal statement that outlines their academic and professional background, career goals, and motivation for pursuing the GHD program. The statement should also highlight the applicant’s commitment to human development and any relevant experience in the field.
• Supplemental Data Sheet: This document includes additional information about the applicant’s academic and professional background and is used to assess eligibility for scholarships.
• Official Transcripts and Test Scores: Applicants must provide official transcripts from all previous academic institutions attended, as well as standardized test scores, such as the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) and TOEFL/IELTS (for non-native English speakers).
• Letters of Recommendation: Three letters of recommendation are required to support the applicant’s qualifications and potential for success in the GHD program. These letters should come from academic or professional references who can speak to the applicant’s leadership abilities, academic performance, and dedication to human development.
• Application Fee: There is a non-refundable application fee that must be paid during the submission of the online application.

Selection Criteria

The GHD scholarships are highly competitive and are awarded based on the following criteria:

• Academic Excellence: A strong academic record is essential for scholarship consideration. This includes high grades, challenging coursework, and demonstrated intellectual curiosity.
• Leadership Potential: Applicants should have a proven track record of leadership in academic, professional, or community settings. This could include leading teams, initiatives, or projects that have made a tangible impact on human development or social justice.
• Commitment to Human Development: A clear dedication to the field of human development is critical. Applicants should demonstrate a passion for addressing global challenges, such as poverty, inequality, education, and health, and outline how the GHD program will help them achieve their career goals.
• Geographical Diversity: The GHD scholarships prioritize diversity and inclusivity. Applicants from underrepresented regions or communities are encouraged to apply and will be given special consideration.

Important Deadlines

The deadline for submitting an application for the GHD program, including all scholarship materials, is January 15 each year. This is a critical date for all applicants, as late submissions may not be considered for scholarships.

Why Choose Georgetown University’s GHD Program?

Georgetown University’s GHD program is one of the leading programs in the world for students interested in human development. With a world-class faculty, a multidisciplinary approach to learning, and a commitment to hands-on, practical experience, students are well-prepared to take on leadership roles in development organizations, NGOs, and government agencies. The GHD program also provides students with numerous opportunities for internships and fieldwork, allowing them to apply their knowledge in real-world settings and gain valuable experience that will enhance their careers.

Additionally, Georgetown’s location in Washington, D.C., provides students with access to a wealth of resources, including international organizations, non-profits, and government agencies that play a significant role in global development. The university’s strong alumni network also offers students the opportunity to connect with professionals working in the field and gain valuable mentorship and career guidance.

The merit-based scholarships offered by Georgetown University’s Global Human Development program provide a unique opportunity for international students to pursue a Master’s degree in human development without the financial burden. With full and partial scholarships available for students from regions such as Sub-Saharan Africa, the Philippines, Latin America, Asia, and the Middle East, the GHD program is committed to fostering diversity and supporting students who are passionate about making a positive impact on the world. Interested applicants should submit their application materials by January 15 to be considered for these prestigious awards.

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