Top Merit-Based High School Scholarships in USA for International Students 2025/2026 Many students worldwide dream of studying in the US.
The US offers students many opportunities to learn and build a bright future and has some of the best schools in the world. But it can be very expensive to study in America. Scholarships are necessary for this reason.
This article will discuss the best merit-based high school scholarships available to international students in the US for the 2025-2026 school year. Students who excel academically, demonstrate leadership or have unique skills are eligible for these scholarships.
Merit-based scholarships are not based on your family’s financial situation. They are based on your effort and academic performance among other things. So if you have been doing well academically you may be eligible for one of these scholarships and study in the US for free or at a reduced cost.
Let’s review some of the best scholarships you should know.
Disclaimer Notice: This is a general educational blog, giving out information concerning scholarship, school fees, Cut off marks, student results, admission form, and other school news guides. We are not affiliated with the Government or any educational institution.
Why Choose the US for High School Studies?
Before we look at the scholarships let’s see why many students want to study in the US.
- Quality education: American high schools offer very good education with modern methods.
- Exposure: You will meet students from different countries, learn about many cultures and build international friendships.
- Activities: Apart from studies you can join sports, music, art, debate and many other clubs.
- Path to top universities: Many international students who finish high school in the US easily get admission into top American colleges.
Because of all these reasons getting a high school education in the US is a big dream for many students.
What Are Merit-Based Scholarships?
Students who have shown exceptional abilities in leadership, athletics, music or academics are awarded merit-based scholarships. It means you are exempt from proving your family’s inability to pay school fees (a requirement known as need-based). All you need to do is show your superiority in your field.
Top Merit-Based High School Scholarships in USA for International Students 2025/2026
Now let’s look at the best scholarships you can apply for. These scholarships are mainly for students who want to study high school (grades 9-12) in the US.
1. ASSIST Scholarships
Bright international students can get a one year scholarship to attend prestigious private high schools in the US through the American Secondary Schools for International Students and Teachers (ASSIST) program.* Eligible? Students from many countries who have completed grade 8 or 9 and have good academic records.
- What’s covered? Mostly tuition and living expenses at the partner high school.
- Why good? Study in a top American boarding school, join sports and clubs, university prep.
Website: assist-inc.org
2. United World Colleges (UWC) Scholarships
UWC has schools in the USA (UWC-USA in New Mexico) and other countries. They offer scholarships to talented students worldwide so they can finish their last two years of high school.
- Who can apply? Students 16-19 with good grades, leadership and want to make the world a better place.
- What is covered? Partial or full tuition, room and board.
- Why it is good: You meet students from over 80 countries and prepare for top universities.
Website: uwc.org
3. The Davis International Scholars Program
UWC is a partner in this program. When you go to college you might be eligible for Davis scholarships if you attended UWC high schools. It’s a pathway between high school and college.
- Who can apply? Students who win UWC scholarships for high school.
- What is covered? Helps later with college fees in the USA.
This is why applying to UWC is so powerful. It opens many doors.
4. The FLEX Program
The US government funds the Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX) Program. It allows high school students from specific European and Asian countries to study in the United States for one academic year.
- Who can apply? Students from eligible countries (mostly Eastern Europe, Eurasia, Central Asia) who show leadership, speak English well and have good grades.
- What is covered? Travel, school fees, living with an American host family.
- Why it is good: You experience American family life and study in a public high school.
Website: discoverflex.org
5. AFS Global Citizen Scholarships
AFS is a global exchange organization that also offers scholarships. Some are full or partial merit scholarships for high school study abroad.
- Who can apply? Students with good grades, curious about the world and leadership traits.
- What is covered? Depends on country; can cover tuition, travel and living.
- Why it is good: Many AFS students live with host families and learn American culture up close.
Website: afs.org
6. HMC Projects Scholarship
Through their partner schools, they sometimes connect with American high schools but mostly place students in UK schools. Check if there are any openings in the US.
How to Increase Your Chances of Winning
Winning a merit-based scholarship is not easy because many students apply. Here’s how:
- Perform well in school: Maintain a high GPA. Most scholarships require good academic standing.
- Be a leader: Volunteer in your community, start a club, or be a class president. Scholarship boards like students who give back.
- Get better at English: Many of these scholarships require you to take the TOEFL or another English language exam. Practice speaking, read books, and watch English news.
- Write a good essay: Most scholarships require you to explain why you want to study in the US. Be genuine and passionate.
- Get good recommendations: Ask your teachers for positive letters about your work and character.
- Apply early: Never miss deadlines. Prepare your documents ahead of time.
What to Prepare
When you apply, you will need:
- Your school report cards (transcripts)
- Certificates for awards or activities
- Personal statement or essay
- Recommendation letters
- Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS or similar)
- Sometimes an interview (online or in person)
Merit-Based High School Scholarships in USA FAQs
1. If my grades are not good, can I still get a scholarship?
Most merit scholarships require good grades. Look for courses that focus on leadership, art or sports if your grades are not good.
2. Do I need to pay back the scholarship?
No. Scholarships are gifts. They are not loans.
3. Can I continue my education in the USA after high school?
Yes, many students continue their education after high school. You will also be eligible for college scholarships based on your high school performance.
4. Are boarding schools the only ones eligible for these scholarships?
Programs like FLEX put you in regular public schools with host families but many are for boarding schools.
Conclusion
Studying in the USA can change your life. Making friends from around the world, learning in a new environment and opening doors to college and future jobs are all benefits. Apply for these scholarships now if you have been working hard in your studies.
Remember every program has its own rules and deadlines. So go to their websites, read the content carefully and start applying as soon as possible. Write well, be confident and keep your documents ready.
Your chance to make your dream come true is with the best merit-based high school scholarships for international students in the USA we discussed.
Hope you found this helpful. Share it with your friends who want to study in America if you liked it. Good luck!
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