2026 Karsh International Scholarship at Duke University: Full Funding for Global Scholars

If you are an international student with exceptional academic talent and a passion for community service, the 2026 Karsh International Scholarship at Duke University is your gateway to a world-class education in the United States. This prestigious, fully-funded award is designed to empower the next generation of global leaders by removing all financial barriers.

In this guide, we provide a comprehensive breakdown of the Karsh International Scholars Program, the benefits it offers, and a step-by-step strategy to submit a winning application for the 2026 academic year.

What is the Karsh International Scholarship?

Established in 2010 through a generous donation by Martha L. and Bruce A. Karsh, this scholarship recognizes the vital contributions international students bring to the Duke University community.

The program isn’t just a financial award; it is an intellectual community. Karsh Scholars are expected to promote interdisciplinary inquiry and use their academic research in the service of society. Current scholars represent a diverse group from countries such as Kenya, Zimbabwe, Brazil, Vietnam, and Pakistan.

Scholarship Summary

Category	Details
Host Institution	Duke University, USA
Study Level	Undergraduate (Bachelor’s Degree)
Funding Type	Fully Funded (Full Sponsorship)
Eligible Countries	All International Students (Non-U.S. Citizens)
Deadline	November 1, 2026 (Early Decision) / January 2027 (Regular Decision)

2026 Scholarship Benefits: What’s Covered?

The Karsh International Scholarship is one of the most generous in the USA. It covers the total cost of attendance for four years:

Full Tuition & Fees: No out-of-pocket costs for classes or mandatory university fees.
Accommodation (Room & Board): Full coverage for on-campus housing and meal plans.
Living Allowances: Stipends to help with personal expenses.
Summer Funding: Up to $7,000 in total for three summers to support research projects, unpaid internships, or community service globally.
Technology Support: Provision for a laptop to assist with your academic journey.

Eligibility Criteria for Applicants

To be considered for the 2026 intake, you must meet the following requirements:

International Status: You must not be a U.S. citizen or hold dual U.S. citizenship.
Degree Status: You must not have already obtained a B.A. or B.S. degree. This is specifically for first-time undergraduate students.
Academic Excellence: You must demonstrate a very strong high school academic record.
Financial Need: You must provide documentation proving that you require financial assistance to attend Duke.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide

There is no separate application for the Karsh Scholarship. Selection is based on your admission and financial aid application to Duke University.

Step 1: Apply for Admission

Submit your application to Duke University through the Common Application or Coalition Application. Ensure you complete all required essays and submit letters of recommendation.

Step 2: Indicate Interest in Financial Aid

This is the most critical step! On your application, you must check the box indicating you are interested in need-based financial aid. If you do not check this box, you will not be considered for the Karsh Scholarship.

Step 3: Submit the CSS Profile

International students must complete the CSS Profile via the College Board website to document their financial need. Duke uses this to verify that you qualify for the scholarship’s financial requirements.

Step 4: Finalist Interviews

Shortlisted candidates (finalists) will be notified in early spring and invited for an interview (usually via Zoom or Skype). Winners are announced shortly after.

Pro-Tips for a Competitive Application

Show Service: Since the scholarship emphasizes “scholarship in the service of society,” highlight your volunteer work and leadership in your community.
Academic Rigor: Take the most challenging courses available in your local curriculum (A-Levels, IB, etc.).
Authenticity: In your essays, explain how your unique international perspective will enrich the Duke campus.

Important Deadlines to Remember

Early Decision: November 1, 2026
Regular Decision: Early January 2027 (Check official site for exact date)

Official Link: For more details and to start your application, visit the Duke University Karsh Scholars Page.