Learn how to apply for the AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship, a fully funded award for international students at American University. Requirements, deadlines, benefits, and application process explained step by step.

AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship: Full Guide, Requirements, Benefits and How to Apply

The AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship is one of the most competitive and prestigious opportunities for international students who aspire to study in the United States. Offered by American University (AU) in Washington, DC, this program supports high-achieving students committed to leadership, community service, and positive civic change in their home countries.

This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know: eligibility criteria, what the scholarship covers, deadlines, the full application process, and how to submit your documents successfully.

What Is the AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship?

The AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship (AU EGLS) promotes educational access and global diversity by supporting students who demonstrate academic excellence and a strong commitment to social impact. This scholarship is designed for international students who aim to return to their home countries and contribute to community development.

Each year, American University awards:

• Two full AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarships (full tuition, room, and board)

• Up to eight partial scholarships (valued up to USD 40,000 per year)

More details on the scholarship are available on the
official American University page:
https://www.american.edu/admissions/international/egls.cfm

What the AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship Covers

The full AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship covers all billable expenses for four years of undergraduate study, including:

• Full tuition

• Room and board

However, students must cover non-billable expenses such as health insurance, books, airfare, taxes, and personal costs. These are estimated at about USD 4,000 per year, and proof of funds is required.

The partial AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship provides up to USD 40,000 per year. Selected students must show proof of funds for the remaining unmet cost.

Who Is Eligible?

You are eligible if you:

• Are an international student requiring a non-immigrant visa (F-1 or J-1)

• Demonstrate leadership potential and a record of community service

• Plan to contribute to your home country after graduation

• Meet AU’s English proficiency requirements

• Will graduate secondary school by June 2026

You are not eligible if you:

• Are a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or hold dual U.S. citizenship

• Have started university studies elsewhere

• Graduated secondary school before 2023

Application Requirements for the AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship

To apply for the AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship, students must complete two steps, both due by 15 January 2026.

STEP 1 — Submit the Common Application

Applicants must submit:

• The Common Application

• All required academic documents

• English proficiency test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo English Test, PTE, or Cambridge test sent directly by the testing agency)

Full checklist for international applicants:
https://www.american.edu/admissions/international/apply.cfm

STEP 2 — Submit the AU EGL Scholarship Application

After creating the AU applicant portal, students must upload:

• AU Declaration of Finances Form confirming at least USD 4,000

• Official bank letter with proof of funds

• EducationUSA letter (if applicable)

• Additional essays required for the AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship

Semi-finalists and finalists will be invited to Zoom interviews and may need to submit extra essays.

Selection Criteria: What AU Looks For

American University gives preference to applicants who have:

• Overcome obstacles or challenges

• Leadership experience

• Documented volunteer work or community involvement

• A commitment to improving their home country

• Strong academic performance and English proficiency

Application Deadlines

AU EGL Scholarship Deadline

15 January 2026 — FINAL DEADLINE
(Common Application + AU EGL Scholarship Application must both be submitted)

General AU Undergraduate Deadlines

• Early Action: 1 November

• Early Decision I: 1 November

• Early Decision II: 15 January

• Regular Decision: 15 January

Full timeline and details:
https://www.american.edu/admissions/international/egls.cfm

How to Apply — Direct Links

Apply via the Common App:
https://www.commonapp.org/

AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship Details:
https://www.american.edu/admissions/international/egls.cfm

International Application Instructions:
https://www.american.edu/admissions/international/apply.cfm

Contact for questions:
intadm@american.edu 

Apply here 

Final Advice for Applicants

Because the AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship is extremely selective, applicants should prepare early, especially regarding essays, proof of funds, and English proficiency. Highlight your leadership journey, your community service, and your long-term commitment to contributing positively to your home country.

For more international career opportunities, visit Opportunities For Youth .