Applying to graduate school from abroad? Tufts University provides critical support for international applicants, including application fee waivers based on financial need and rich funding options for enrolled students.
Application Fee Waiver Options for International Applicants
Tufts considers waiving the graduate application fee for international students in financial need.
- When prompted in the application, indicate your request for a Tufts-specific fee waiver if you require financial assistance.
- This option is explicitly available to international applicants seeking graduate admission.
- Note: Fee waivers are evaluated on a case-by-case basis and must be requested during the application process.
Graduate Funding Opportunities for International Students
Although graduate-level federal aid is not available to international students, Tufts offers several institutional funding options:
Tuition Scholarships & Assistantships
- In the School of Arts & Sciences (GSAS), qualified candidates—both master’s and PhD—can receive tuition scholarships, as well as teaching or research assistantships.
- Similarly, in the School of Engineering, most full-time PhD students are eligible for tuition scholarships; master’s students may access alumni or bridge-school-based awards.
GSAS Fellowships & Specific Awards
- Incoming students may be considered for:
- Future Leaders Fellowship — full tuition for master’s or entry-level doctoral students.
- Dean’s & Provost Fellowships — a $10,000 stipend boost during the first two years for exceptional PhD candidates.
- City Year award — 25% tuition reduction for City Year members/alumni (not stackable with other aid).
Research, Travel & Professional Development Grants
Tufts makes internal funding available, including:
- Graduate Conference Reimbursement Fund — up to $600 for presenting at conferences (articulated for both domestic and international students). :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
- Summer research grants, publishing funds, and professional development grants via GSAS programs like GREAT and GIFT.
- Graduate travel support and research grants available through global initiatives for internationally focused academic work.
Emergency Assistance for International Students
Short-term emergency support is offered through:
- Friends of the International Center Fund — small grants for international graduate students.
- Laila Fund — short-term loans for urgent needs.
External Funding Resources
International students are also encouraged to pursue external fellowships like Fulbright Foreign Student Program—which supports graduate-level study in the U.S.
Why This Matters for International Applicants
- Fee Waiver Accessibility – Tufts can waive the application fee if you’re applying for financial aid—make sure to request it during application.
- Comprehensive Institutional Funding – From tuition scholarships and assistantships to fellowships and travel support, Tufts supports international graduate students financially.
- Back-Up Support in Emergencies – The International Center offers helpful short-term financial aid for unexpected challenges.
- Opportunities for External Awards – Prestigious international scholarships like Fulbright can supplement funding significantly.
Next Steps for International Prospective Students
- During Application: Indicate your need for a fee waiver when applying.
- Explore Funding: Read through GSAS and School of Engineering aid webpages to learn more about scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships.
- Plan Ahead: Apply for the International Student Financial Aid Application (ISFAA) via your applicant status page to be considered for need-based funding.
- Seek External Awards: Research notable external fellowship options like Fulbright to augment your funding strategy.
- Stay Connected: Reach out to your program’s admissions office or GSAS for guidance on aid eligibility and processes.
Tufts University is dedicated to supporting global scholars. Take advantage of the fee waiver and funding avenues to ensure a smooth and supported graduate application journey.