Karsh International Scholars Program at Duke University 2026
- Omran Aburayya
- Aug 15
- 2 min read
If you’re an academically excellent international student with financial need, dreaming of undergraduate study in the United States—your path may lead to Duke University. The Karsh International Scholars Program is a transformative, fully funded opportunity for undergraduates, offering full coverage plus enrichment opportunities. Created in 2010 by Bruce A. and Martha L. Karsh, this scholarship honors international scholars who are intellectually curious, civically engaged, and committed to interdisciplinary inquiry. Applications for the 2026 intake are through Duke’s admission process—no separate application needed.
🎓 Scholarship Summary
Location: Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
Study Level: Undergraduate (Bachelor’s degree) (not for those who already hold a BA/BSc)
Target Group: International students (non-U.S. citizens), demonstrating strong academic preparation and financial need
Fields of Study: Any discipline offered by Duke University (interdisciplinary focus is encouraged)
Coverage:
Tuition, room and board, mandatory fees
Financial need beyond standard costs covered
Funding for three summers to support research projects, unpaid internships, and academic career development
Duration: Full duration of undergraduate program (typically four years)
Application Deadline: Matches Duke undergraduate admissions cycle; typically Early Decision in early November, Regular Decision in early January
Eligible To: New applicants (no prior BA/BSc), non-U.S. citizens or dual citizens, who submit Duke application with financial aid request
📚 Program Overview
Established in 2010 by Bruce A. and Martha L. Karsh, this scholarship was founded to value the exceptional contributions international scholars bring to Duke. It supports a community of intellectually and civically engaged students who promote interdisciplinary pursuits, rigorous academic research, and societal impact . Each year, the program brings together students from myriad countries—Brazil, India, Pakistan, Vietnam, Ghana, Nepal, Tunisia, and beyond—forming a globally diverse cohort united by academic excellence and leadership potential .
🎁 Benefits
Tuition & Living Expenses Fully Covered: Covers full tuition, campus housing, meals, and mandatory university fees. Financial need beyond these costs is also supported .
Summer Funding for Enrichment: Up to three summers of funding to pursue research, unpaid internships, or other academic growth experiences .
Inclusive, Interdisciplinary Community: Engage with scholars across disciplines and cultures, forming a vibrant, purpose-driven cohort .
Holistic Support & Mentorship: Benefit from faculty advising and a supportive campus structure through the Office of University Scholars & Fellows .
Campus Life at Duke: Access research centers, extracurriculars, leadership development, and lifelong networking in Duke’s dynamic academic environment.
✅ Eligibility Criteria
Must be an international student (not a U.S. citizen or dual U.S. national) .
Cannot already hold a BA or BS degree .
Need to demonstrate financial need using Duke’s financial aid forms .
Should exhibit strong academic qualifications and leadership potential .
Must apply to Duke University undergraduate program and apply for financial aid; no separate application for the Karsh Scholarship is required .
📝 Application Procedure
Apply to Duke University as an undergraduate via Early Decision or Regular Decision pathways.
Request Financial Aid, completing required forms (e.g., CSS Profile or institutional equivalent) during the application process .
Submit all supporting documentation to verify academic standing and financial situation.
Deadlines to Note:
Early Decision (typically early November)
Regular Decision (typically early January)
Selection Process: Successful applicants are automatically considered for the Karsh Scholarship as part of admissions + financial aid; selected students are then notified accordingly.
