American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship Opens for 2026, Offering Full-Ride to International Students

The American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship (AU EGLS) offers exceptional international students a transformative opportunity to pursue undergraduate education in the United States. This prestigious program identifies and supports future leaders committed to positive social change in their home communities.

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Deadline

Application Deadline: January 15, 2026

All application materials, including the Common Application, supporting documents, and official English proficiency test scores, must be submitted by this final deadline. The American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship uses a rolling review process, so early submission is strongly encouraged to maximize your chances of consideration.

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About the Program

The American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship was established to promote educational access, opportunity, and international diversity at AU. This competitive program specifically targets talented international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and leadership potential.

The AU EGLS seeks candidates who are dedicated to driving positive civic and social change in their communities. Scholarship recipients are expected to return to their home countries after graduation to support under-resourced and underserved populations, creating lasting impact through their education and leadership skills.

American University’s commitment through this scholarship reflects its mission to develop globally conscious leaders who will address critical challenges facing communities worldwide.

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Eligibility Requirements

Who Can Apply

To qualify for the American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship, applicants must meet these strict criteria:

• International Student Status: You must be an international student who will require a non-immigrant visa (F-1 or J-1 student visa) to study in the United States
• Recent Secondary School Graduate: You must have graduated from secondary school in 2023 or later
• Leadership and Service Record: You must demonstrate proven commitment to community service, leadership activities, and social impact initiatives
• First-Time University Applicant: You must be seeking to begin your first undergraduate degree

Who is NOT Eligible

You cannot apply for the American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship if you:

• Hold U.S. citizenship, U.S. permanent residency, pending permanent resident status, or dual citizenship with the United States
• Are currently enrolled in or have previously attended any post-secondary institution (university or college) in any country
• Graduated from secondary school before 2023
• Do not require a student visa to study in the United States

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Benefits

Full-Ride Scholarship Awards

The American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship awards two exceptional students annually with full-ride scholarships. These premier awards cover:

• Complete tuition for four years of undergraduate study
• University housing (on-campus accommodation)
• Meal plan (board)
• All billable university expenses

Partial Scholarship Awards

Beyond the two full scholarships, the American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship program offers up to eight additional partial scholarships each year. These partial awards provide:

• Up to $40,000 per academic year in scholarship funding
• Automatic consideration for all AU EGLS applicants who are not selected as full scholarship finalists
• Additional eligibility for general merit-based scholarships offered by American University

Non-Billable Expenses

Important financial consideration: Even full scholarship recipients must budget approximately $4,000 annually to cover non-billable expenses, including:

• Mandatory health insurance
• Textbooks and course materials
• International airline tickets
• Personal expenses and miscellaneous costs
• Applicable taxes

Applicants must demonstrate their ability to cover these costs as part of the application process.

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Application Guidelines

The American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship application is integrated with AU’s general undergraduate admission process. There is no separate scholarship application form.

Application Components

1. Common Application Submission: Complete the Common Application following all requirements listed in American University’s international student instructions checklist
2. Applicant Portal Creation: Set up your online applicant portal when you receive the invitation from AU
3. Financial Documentation: Demonstrate your capacity to cover the required $4,000 minimum annual non-billable expenses
4. English Proficiency Testing: Submit official scores from accepted English language tests
5. Additional Supporting Materials: Provide any required letters of recommendation and supplementary documents

Important Application Tips

• Submit your application well before the January 15, 2026 deadline
• Ensure all materials are complete and accurate
• Double-check that official test scores are sent directly from testing agencies
• Keep copies of all submitted documents for your records
• Monitor your applicant portal regularly for updates and requests for additional information

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Required Documents

To complete your American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship application, you must submit:

Core Application Materials

• Common Application: Fully completed with all sections, including essays and activity lists
• Academic Transcripts: Official secondary school transcripts showing your complete academic record
• Letters of Recommendation: As specified in AU’s admission requirements

Financial Documents

Submit both documents through your applicant portal:

• Bank Letter: Official letter from your financial institution confirming available funds to cover non-billable expenses (minimum $4,000 annually)
• AU Declaration of Finances Form (AU DFF): Completed and signed form available through your applicant portal

English Language Proficiency

Official test scores must be sent directly from the testing agency to American University, Undergraduate Admissions. Self-reported scores are not accepted. Acceptable tests include:

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
• IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
• Duolingo English Test
• PTE (Pearson Test of English)
• Cambridge Assessment English Test

Critical: Scores must arrive by January 15, 2026.

Special Circumstance Document

• EducationUSA/FLEX/YES Adviser Letter (if applicable): If you are applying through EducationUSA support or are a past recipient of FLEX or YES high school scholarships, submit a letter from your adviser confirming your candidacy. Send as PDF to the admissions email.

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Program Structure and Duration

Undergraduate Degree Program

The American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship supports recipients through a complete four-year undergraduate degree program at American University in Washington, DC.

Academic Expectations

Scholarship recipients must:

• Maintain satisfactory academic progress throughout their studies
• Remain enrolled full-time each semester
• Meet AU’s academic standards and scholarship requirements
• Actively engage in campus life and leadership opportunities

Post-Graduation Commitment

A core component of the American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship philosophy is the expectation that recipients will:

• Return to their home countries after graduation
• Apply their education and skills to benefit under-resourced communities
• Serve as change agents and leaders in their home regions
• Contribute to sustainable development and social progress

This commitment aligns with the scholarship’s mission to create positive global impact through education.

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Why You Should Apply

Transformative Educational Opportunity

The American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship provides more than financial support—it offers:

World-Class Education: Study at a prestigious university in Washington, DC, the heart of American politics and international affairs

Leadership Development: Access to extensive leadership programs, internship opportunities, and mentorship from accomplished faculty and professionals

Global Network: Join a diverse community of scholars from around the world, building connections that span continents and industries

Career Advancement: Gain credentials and experiences that position you for influential roles in your home country and internationally

Investment in Your Community

By receiving the American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship, you become part of a movement to:

• Address critical challenges facing developing communities
• Transfer knowledge and skills to under-resourced regions
• Inspire the next generation of leaders in your home country
• Create sustainable solutions to social, economic, and environmental issues

Financial Freedom to Focus on Excellence

The comprehensive scholarship coverage—whether full or partial—removes significant financial barriers, allowing you to:

• Concentrate fully on your academic pursuits
• Engage in extracurricular leadership activities
• Participate in internships and research opportunities
• Build meaningful relationships without financial stress

Personal Growth and Global Perspective

Living and studying in the United States provides:

• Exposure to diverse perspectives and cultures
• Development of cross-cultural communication skills
• Enhanced problem-solving abilities through diverse academic challenges
• Personal independence and confidence

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How to Apply

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Review Eligibility Carefully verify that you meet all American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship eligibility requirements before beginning your application.

Step 2: Prepare Required Materials Gather all necessary documents including:

• Academic transcripts
• Financial documentation
• Identification documents for visa purposes

Step 3: Register English Proficiency Test Schedule your TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, PTE, or Cambridge test early enough to receive scores before the deadline. Remember to designate American University as a score recipient.

Step 4: Complete Common Application Access the Common Application online and:

• Fill out all required sections thoroughly
• Write compelling essays that showcase your leadership and commitment to social change
• List all relevant extracurricular activities, community service, and achievements
• Request letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors who know you well

Step 5: Submit Financial Documents Once you create your applicant portal:

• Upload your bank letter
• Complete and submit the AU Declaration of Finances Form
• Ensure both documents clearly show your ability to cover the $4,000 annual requirement

Step 6: Send Official Test Scores Contact your testing agency to send official English proficiency scores directly to American University, Undergraduate Admissions.

Step 7: Submit Special Documents (If Applicable) If you work with EducationUSA or participated in FLEX/YES programs, request and submit your adviser confirmation letter.

Step 8: Monitor Your Application After submission:

• Check your applicant portal regularly
• Respond promptly to any requests for additional information
• Watch for scholarship decision notifications

Application Timeline Recommendations

• 3-4 months before deadline: Begin gathering documents and preparing essays
• 2-3 months before deadline: Take English proficiency test
• 1 month before deadline: Complete and review entire application
• 2 weeks before deadline: Submit application to allow time for any technical issues
• By January 15, 2026: Ensure all materials are received by American University

Additional Resources and Support

For questions about the American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship:

• Visit the American University website for detailed information
• Contact AU’s Office of Undergraduate Admissions
• Reach out to EducationUSA advisers in your country
• Connect with current AU students or alumni from your region

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Final Thoughts

The American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship represents an extraordinary opportunity for talented international students to transform their lives and communities. With comprehensive financial support, world-class education, and a commitment to developing global leaders, this program invests in individuals who will shape a better future.

If you are passionate about creating positive change, demonstrate exceptional academic promise, and are ready to commit to serving your community after graduation, the American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship could be your pathway to achieving your goals.

Don’t miss this opportunity—submit your complete application by January 15, 2026.

Click here to apply.

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