UndergraduatePartial Funding

Fordham University International Student Merit Scholarships

Last verified 18 May 2026 by the Scholarships for Africans editorial team

Fordham University offers merit-based scholarships to admitted undergraduate students, including international applicants.

Provider: Fordham University
Host country: United States
Deadline: Application deadlines vary depending on the admission cycle (Early Decision, Early Action, Regular Decision). Early deadlines are typically in November.
Region: North America

Official source

Topics

Undergraduate scholarships

Eligibility & requirements at a glance

Fordham University International Student Merit Scholarships is open to African students applying to study in United States at the Undergraduate level, with partial funding funding. Below is a quick summary of who can apply, what's covered, and the key dates — full details are further down the page.

Who can apply: Undergraduate · applicants for United States
Funding: Partial Funding
Study level: Undergraduate
Deadline: Application deadlines vary depending on the admission cycle (Early Decision, Early Action, Regular Decision). Early deadlines are typically in November.

Key eligibility criteria

Open to international (non-U.S. citizen) applicants admitted to an undergraduate degree program at Fordham University. Eligibility is primarily based on academic merit demonstrated in the application for admission.

What the partial funding award covers

Accommodation
Health insurance

About the Fordham University International Student Merit Scholarships (2026)

''' ## Overview Fordham University, a renowned private research university in New York City, demonstrates a strong commitment to building a diverse and talented student body by offering a range of merit-based scholarships to international students. These scholarships are designed to recognize and reward exceptional academic achievement and potential. They are available to prospective undergraduate students from around the world, including applicants from Africa, who are seeking to enroll in a full-time degree program at one of Fordham's undergraduate colleges. While Fordham provides several scholarships, this brief focuses on the merit-based awards for which international applicants are automatically considered upon applying for admission. These awards are competitive and are based on the overall strength of the applicant's admission application. The primary goal of these scholarships is to make a Fordham education more accessible to high-achieving global scholars. It is important for applicants to note that these are partial scholarships and will not cover the full cost of attendance. Therefore, students must be prepared to secure additional funding to cover the remaining expenses, including tuition, fees, room, and board. *Please be aware that the specific university webpage detailing these international scholarships is currently unavailable. The information in this brief is based on Fordham's general admissions and scholarship information. Applicants should regularly check the main Fordham admissions website for an updated and functional link.*_ ## Benefits The International Student Merit Scholarships offered by Fordham University provide partial funding. The financial benefits are awarded to help offset the cost of tuition. While specific scholarship amounts are not published and can vary from year to year, receiving a merit scholarship is a prestigious honor that enhances a student's academic profile. Key benefits include: * **Financial Assistance:** The scholarships provide a significant, though partial, contribution towards tuition fees, reducing the overall financial burden on students and their families. * **Prestige and Recognition:** Being named a merit scholar is a mark of academic distinction that can open doors to other opportunities, such as research positions, internships, and further academic pursuits. * **Renewable Awards:** Most of Fordham's merit scholarships are renewable for all four years of undergraduate study (or up to eight semesters). This renewal is typically contingent upon the student maintaining a certain minimum GPA and full-time enrollment status, providing a stable source of funding throughout their degree. Applicants should understand that these scholarships do not cover costs such as housing, meals, health insurance, books, or personal expenses. Families will need a comprehensive financial plan to cover these additional costs. ## Eligibility To be considered for Fordham University's International Student Merit Scholarships, applicants must meet several core criteria. The primary requirement is a strong application for admission to an undergraduate program. General eligibility requirements include: * **International Student Status:** Applicants must be non-U.S. citizens or non-U.S. permanent residents. You must be applying on a student visa (F-1). * **Admission to Fordham:** You must first apply and be accepted into a full-time undergraduate degree program at Fordham College at Rose Hill, Fordham College at Lincoln Center, or the Gabelli School of Business. * **Academic Merit:** Consideration is based on a holistic review of the applicant's academic profile. This includes outstanding high school grades, a rigorous curriculum, and strong standardized test scores (if submitted). While most international applicants are automatically considered for merit awards, some specific scholarships may have additional requirements, such as an interest in a particular field of study or demonstrated talent in areas like music or theatre. For renewable scholarships, students will be required to maintain a specific cumulative GPA (often 3.0 or higher) and continuous full-time enrollment in their program. ## Required Documents There is typically no separate application for Fordham's general merit scholarships. Consideration is automatic with the application for admission. Therefore, the required documents are the same as those needed to complete your Fordham undergraduate application via the Common Application. A complete application portfolio generally includes: * **Common Application:** The completed online application form. * **Official High School Transcripts:** Records of all secondary school coursework and grades. If the original documents are not in English, a certified English translation must be provided. * **Standardized Test Scores:** Fordham University is currently test-optional. Students may choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. International students who choose not to submit scores will not be disadvantaged in the review process. * **English Language Proficiency:** Applicants whose native language is not English must submit scores from an approved English language test (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo English Test). This requirement may be waived for students who have attended a school where English is the primary language of instruction for a specified number of years. * **Letter of Recommendation:** At least one letter from a teacher or school counselor who can speak to your academic abilities and character. * **Application Essay and Personal Statements:** The Common Application essay is required, providing a platform to share your personal story and aspirations. * **Portfolio or Audition Materials:** If you are applying to a program in the arts (theatre, dance, visual arts), a portfolio or audition will be required. ## How to Apply Applying for a merit scholarship at Fordham is integrated into the admissions process. All international applicants who apply for undergraduate admission by the specified deadlines are automatically considered. Follow these steps: 1. **Complete the Common Application:** Visit the Common Application website and add Fordham University to your list of colleges. 2. **Submit All Required Admission Documents:** Ensure that your application is complete with all necessary materials, including transcripts, test scores (if you choose to submit them), English proficiency scores, and letters of recommendation, before the deadline. 3. **Indicate Your Interest:** On the application, you will be asked to indicate your desired campus (Rose Hill or Lincoln Center) and major. 4. **Submit by the Deadline:** You must submit your completed application for admission by one of Fordham's deadlines (Early Decision, Early Action, or Regular Decision). There is no separate scholarship application form or deadline for general merit awards. 5. **Receive Notification:** Scholarship notifications are typically sent at the same time as the offer of admission. If you have been selected for a merit scholarship, the details of the award will be included in your acceptance package. ## Key Dates Fordham University operates on a standard U.S. university admissions timeline with several application deadlines. To be considered for merit scholarships, you must submit your admission application by one of these key dates. While exact dates change annually, the general timeline is as follows: * **Early Decision:** The deadline is typically **November 1**. This is a binding option, meaning if you are accepted, you must withdraw all other college applications and enroll at Fordham. * **Early Action:** The deadline is also typically **November 1**. This option is non-binding. * **Regular Decision:** The deadline is typically in **early January**. Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply under the Early Action or Early Decision plans to demonstrate their strong interest in the university, which can be favorable in a competitive selection process. Always confirm the exact dates on the official Fordham University admissions website. ## Selection Criteria Selection for Fordham's merit scholarships is highly competitive and based on a holistic review process. The admissions committee seeks to identify students who have demonstrated excellence both inside and outside the classroom. The primary selection criteria include: * **Academic Performance:** Your high school GPA and class rank are critical. The committee looks for students who have challenged themselves with advanced coursework (such as IB, A-Levels, or AP courses) and have earned outstanding grades. * **Application Essays:** Your personal statement and any supplemental essays are used to assess your writing ability, creativity, and personal character. They provide insight into your unique experiences and potential to contribute to the Fordham community. * **Letters of Recommendation:** Strong, detailed recommendations from teachers and counselors provide third-party validation of your academic potential, intellectual curiosity, and work ethic. * **Extracurricular Involvement:** Meaningful engagement in activities outside of academics—such as leadership roles, community service, arts, or athletics—demonstrates a well-rounded profile. * **Standardized Test Scores:** If submitted, SAT or ACT scores are considered as another measure of academic readiness. ## Tips for African Applicants 1. **Highlight Your Academic Excellence:** The most important factor is your academic record. Excel in your secondary school studies, especially in subjects relevant to your intended major. 2. ** contextualize Your Achievements:** The U.S. admissions committee may not be familiar with your school or educational system. Use the essay or the "Additional Information" section of the Common Application to explain your background and the context of your achievements. 3. **Craft a Compelling Narrative:** Your application essay is your chance to stand out. Write about a unique experience, your passion for learning, or how your perspective as an African student will enrich the Fordham campus community. 4. **Secure Strong Recommendations:** Build relationships with your teachers. Ask for recommendations from those who know you well and can write specifically about your strengths and intellectual promise. 5. **Plan Your Finances:** Since these scholarships are partial, it is crucial to have a clear and realistic plan for funding the remainder of your education. Research other external scholarships for African students studying in the U.S. and be prepared to provide a detailed financial plan. 6. **Do Not Wait Until the Last Minute:** The U.S. application process is complex. Start early to gather your documents, write your essays, and request recommendations to ensure you meet the November deadlines. ## Official Source The primary source for information on scholarships for international students is the Fordham University website. Please note that the direct link for international scholarships has been found to be non-operational recently. It is recommended to navigate from the main undergraduate admissions page to find the most current information. * **Official Scholarship Page (Monitor for updates):** [https://www.fordham.edu/admissions-and-aid/undergraduate-admission/international-applicants/scholarships-for-international-students/](https://www.fordham.edu/admissions-and-aid/undergraduate-admission/international-applicants/scholarships-for-international-students/) '''

What the Partial Funding Fordham University International Student Merit Scholarships covers

The award components below were extracted from the sponsor's published description. Always cross-check the exact figures, ceiling amounts and conditions on the official site before you budget around them.

Accommodation
Health insurance

Fordham University International Student Merit Scholarships eligibility for United States applicants

Always cross-check eligibility against the sponsor's official site before applying — sponsor rules can change between intakes.

Open to international (non-U.S. citizen) applicants admitted to an undergraduate degree program at Fordham University. Eligibility is primarily based on academic merit demonstrated in the application for admission.

Documents required for the Fordham University International Student Merit Scholarships application

A planning baseline drawn from how 90%+ of African scholarship sponsors structure their checklist. The sponsor's portal is the source of truth for any single application.

Valid international passport (bio page scan)
Most recent academic transcripts (sealed or e-verified copies)
Curriculum vitae / résumé (1–2 pages, reverse-chronological)
Personal statement or motivation letter (500–1,000 words, tailored to the sponsor)
Two to three reference letters (academic for students, professional for working applicants)
Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL or Duolingo) — Medium-of-Instruction letter may substitute for Anglophone-Africa graduates
Passport-sized photograph meeting ICAO biometric standards
Standardised test scores where required (SAT or ACT for many U.S. universities)
Secondary-school leaving certificate (WAEC, KCSE, NSC, EGSECE or equivalent)
Country-of-origin proof (national ID or birth certificate) — required by many Africa-focused funders

How to apply for the Fordham University International Student Merit Scholarships 2026

A practical, sponsor-agnostic sequence used by >95% of international scholarship applicants. Adapt to the sponsor's specific portal — the order rarely changes.

1
Confirm eligibility on the official site
Open https://www.fordham.edu/admissions-and-aid/undergraduate-admission/international-applicants/scholarships-for-international-students/ and verify the sponsor's stated criteria match your profile — currently: "Open to international (non-U.S. citizen) applicants admitted to an undergraduate degree program at Fordham University. Eligibility is primarily based on academic merit demonstrated in the application for admission.". Sponsor rules change between intakes, so always confirm against the live call.
2
Secure a study place or admission offer
Apply to the host university or programme first where required, and obtain a conditional admission letter. A growing number of sponsors only fund applicants who already hold an offer.
3
Sit required tests and gather documents
Register for IELTS / TOEFL / Duolingo (or SAT / GRE where required), request official transcripts, brief two or three referees, and prepare passport and identity documents at high resolution.
4
Draft your essays and statements
Write a 500–1,000-word personal statement and any additional essays the sponsor specifies. Anchor each essay in concrete examples and tie your goals back to the sponsor's mission.
5
Complete the online application
Create an account on https://www.fordham.edu/admissions-and-aid/undergraduate-admission/international-applicants/scholarships-for-international-students/, fill in every field, and upload the required documents in the formats specified (PDF, max file size, single-file vs multi-file). Save progress frequently — most portals time out after 30–60 minutes.
6
Submit by Application deadlines vary depending on the admission cycle (Early Decision, Early Action, Regular Decision). Early deadlines are typically in November. (aim 7 days early)
Sponsor portals routinely slow or fail in the final 24 hours. Submit early, download the confirmation receipt, and screenshot the submission timestamp. Late submissions are not accepted under any circumstances.
7
Prepare for shortlist interviews
If shortlisted, Fordham University will contact you within 4–12 weeks. Re-read your essays, rehearse 3–5 likely questions out loud, and confirm your time zone for any video interview.

Fordham University International Student Merit Scholarships deadline & application timeline

The sponsor has not published a fixed deadline yet. Use the milestones below as a generic 12-month plan; substitute dates once the intake window opens.

12 months out
Register for tests (IELTS/TOEFL/SAT/GRE), shortlist 3–5 universities, identify referees.
6 months out
Sit your tests, draft a personal statement, request transcripts and confirm reference letters.
3 months out
Finalise essays, upload supporting documents, complete the online application portal.
1 month out
Final review, double-check uploaded files, submit a week before the deadline to avoid portal issues.
Application deadline
Submit by 23:59 in the sponsor's stated time zone — usually local to the sponsor, not your country.

Ready to apply?

Cross-check the latest eligibility rules and deadline on the sponsor's official portal before you start your application.

Visit official site

Frequently asked questions

Who can apply for the Fordham University International Student Merit Scholarships?+

Applicants must be eligible African nationals applying at the Undergraduate level, meet the academic and English-language requirements set by Fordham University, and be able to relocate to United States for the duration of the programme.

Is the Fordham University International Student Merit Scholarships fully funded?+

Funding model: Partial Funding. Where listed as fully funded, the award typically covers tuition, monthly stipend, health insurance and round-trip airfare. Always confirm the latest funding breakdown on the sponsor's official page.

When is the application deadline?+

The application deadline is Application deadlines vary depending on the admission cycle (Early Decision, Early Action, Regular Decision). Early deadlines are typically in November.. Submit at least one week early — sponsor portals frequently slow or fail in the final 24 hours, and late submissions are not accepted under any circumstances.

What documents do I need to apply?+

At minimum: passport bio page, academic transcripts, CV, personal statement, two to three references, and an English-language test score (IELTS, TOEFL or Duolingo). Research-led Masters and PhD applications also require a research proposal and a writing sample.

How can I improve my chance of winning?+

Apply early, tailor every essay to the specific sponsor (do not recycle a generic statement), secure at least one reference who knows your work in detail, and apply to two or three additional scholarships in parallel — never rely on a single application.

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