Top 20 Christian Scholarships For International Students 2025

For international students, the pursuit of higher education often comes with financial challenges. However, for those who identify as Christians, scholarships rooted in faith-based values offer a unique opportunity to alleviate financial burdens while nurturing spiritual growth. These scholarships go beyond just academic support, they empower students to develop their leadership potential, deepen their faith, and serve their communities.

1. The World Evangelical Alliance Scholarship Program

The World Evangelical Alliance offers scholarships to Christian students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees. These scholarships aim to empower young leaders committed to spreading the Gospel through education and service.

Eligibility: Active participation in an evangelical church and enrollment in a recognized university.
Benefits: Partial or full tuition coverage.
How to Apply: Submit a recommendation letter from your pastor, academic transcripts, and an essay on your faith journey.

2. International Scholarship Program by Christian Aid Mission

Christian Aid Mission provides scholarships for students from developing countries who wish to study theology or ministry-related fields abroad.

Eligibility: Applicants must demonstrate financial need and a commitment to returning to their home country to serve the Christian community.
Benefits: Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
How to Apply: Apply online through their website with proof of financial need and a personal statement.

3. Lilly Endowment Scholarship

The Lilly Endowment Scholarship supports international students pursuing careers in ministry, theology, or Christian education.

Eligibility: Open to undergraduate and graduate students studying theology or ministry.
Benefits: Tuition assistance and mentorship programs.
How to Apply: Complete an application form, submit a faith statement, and provide references from church leaders.

4. Billy Graham Scholarship Fund

Established to honor the legacy of Billy Graham, this scholarship provides financial assistance to international students committed to evangelism and ministry.

Eligibility: Students enrolled in Bible colleges or seminaries.
Benefits: Partial tuition assistance.
How to Apply: Submit a personal essay, academic records, and church recommendations.

5. Christian Community Credit Union Scholarship

This scholarship supports students pursuing degrees in Christian education, business, or ministry.

Eligibility: Active membership in a Christian church and enrollment in a faith-based university.
Benefits: Up to $4,000 in tuition aid.
How to Apply: Apply online, including proof of church membership and academic achievements.

6. The Knights of Columbus Scholarship

The Knights of Columbus offer scholarships to Catholic students pursuing higher education globally.

Eligibility: Membership in the Knights of Columbus or a related organization.
Benefits: Up to $5,000 annually.
How to Apply: Provide academic records, financial need documentation, and church involvement proof.

7. ScholarLeaders International Scholarships

This program supports Christian leaders from developing countries seeking to further their education at recognized institutions.

Eligibility: Commitment to Christian leadership and ministry in one’s home country.
Benefits: Full or partial funding for tuition and research.
How to Apply: Submit a leadership proposal and academic records.

8. Catholic Relief Services Scholarship

Catholic Relief Services provides scholarships to international students pursuing degrees in social work, theology, or related fields.

Eligibility: Catholic faith affiliation and demonstrated commitment to service.
Benefits: Tuition and living expense support.
How to Apply: Provide proof of academic enrollment and a personal essay.

9. The Anglican Communion Scholarship

This scholarship supports Anglican students pursuing higher education internationally.

Eligibility: Membership in the Anglican Church and acceptance into a recognized university.
Benefits: Tuition coverage and living stipends.
How to Apply: Apply through the Anglican Communion’s official website.

10. The Lausanne Scholarship for Theological Studies

This program is designed for students passionate about theological studies and evangelism.

Eligibility: Enrollment in theological programs and active church involvement.
Benefits: Partial funding for tuition and research.
How to Apply: Submit a detailed study proposal and a church endorsement letter.

11. Calvin College International Scholarship

Calvin College offers scholarships to Christian students from diverse backgrounds.

Eligibility: Admission to Calvin College and active participation in Christian activities.
Benefits: Tuition discounts and financial aid packages.
How to Apply: Apply for admission and indicate scholarship interest during the application process.

12. Fuller Seminary International Student Scholarship

Fuller Seminary provides scholarships for international students enrolled in ministry and theological programs.

Eligibility: Admission to Fuller Seminary and active involvement in church activities.
Benefits: Up to 50% tuition coverage.
How to Apply: Apply through the seminary’s financial aid office.

13. Tyndale University Scholarships

Tyndale University offers scholarships for international students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in ministry and theology.

Eligibility: Active church involvement and admission to Tyndale University.
Benefits: Varies based on academic performance.
How to Apply: Indicate scholarship interest during the university application process.

14. The Christian Ministry Scholarship by Baylor University

Baylor University offers scholarships to international students pursuing ministry-related programs.

Eligibility: Enrollment in a ministry program at Baylor.
Benefits: Partial tuition coverage.
How to Apply: Apply through Baylor’s financial aid office with required documentation.

15. Haggai Institute Scholarships

The Haggai Institute supports Christian leaders from developing countries seeking to enhance their ministry skills.

Eligibility: Leadership potential and active ministry involvement.
Benefits: Fully funded training programs.
How to Apply: Submit an application detailing leadership experience and goals.

16. Point Foundation Christian Scholarship

This scholarship supports Christian LGBTQ+ students seeking higher education.

Eligibility: Enrollment in accredited institutions and active community service.
Benefits: Tuition and mentorship.
How to Apply: Submit essays, academic records, and community service proof.

17. The Mustard Seed Foundation Scholarship

The Mustard Seed Foundation provides grants for Christian students pursuing graduate-level theological studies.

Eligibility: Commitment to Christian ministry and admission to a theological program.
Benefits: Partial tuition grants.
How to Apply: Submit academic records, an essay, and church recommendations.

18. Cornerstone University International Scholarships

Cornerstone University offers financial assistance to Christian international students.

Eligibility: Admission to Cornerstone University and demonstrated financial need.
Benefits: Varies based on need and academic merit.
How to Apply: Indicate need for financial aid during the application process.

19. The Wheaton College International Scholarship

Wheaton College provides scholarships for Christian international students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.

Eligibility: Admission to Wheaton College and active church involvement.
Benefits: Partial tuition funding.
How to Apply: Apply through Wheaton’s scholarship portal.

20. Assemblies of God World Missions Scholarship

This scholarship supports international students affiliated with the Assemblies of God pursuing ministry-related programs.

Eligibility: Membership in the Assemblies of God church and enrollment in theological programs.
Benefits: Partial tuition and book allowances.
How to Apply: Submit an application through the Assemblies of God website.

Conclusion

These Top 20 Christian Scholarships for International Students 2025 reflect the commitment of faith-based organizations to empower Christian youth worldwide. By applying for these scholarships, students not only alleviate financial stress but also strengthen their spiritual and academic journeys. Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria and submit applications on time to increase your chances of success.

Faith and education can be powerful tools for transformation—these scholarships bridge the two for aspiring global Christian leaders.

FAQs on Top 20 Christian Scholarships for International Students 2025

1. What are Christian scholarships?

Christian scholarships are financial aid opportunities provided by faith-based organizations, churches, universities, or foundations. They are designed to support students who identify as Christians, fostering their academic and spiritual growth.

2. Who is eligible for Christian scholarships for international students?

Eligibility criteria vary by scholarship, but common requirements include:

Active involvement in a Christian church.
Enrollment in an accredited institution or program.
Financial need or academic merit.
A commitment to Christian leadership, ministry, or service.

3. Are these scholarships exclusively for theology students?

No, while many Christian scholarships focus on theology or ministry studies, others are available for diverse fields such as business, social work, education, and science. Check individual scholarship details for eligible programs.

4. Do I need to be a member of a specific denomination to qualify?

Some scholarships are denomination-specific, such as those offered by Catholic, Evangelical, or Anglican organizations. However, many are open to all Christian denominations, provided you meet the other criteria.

5. Can I apply for multiple Christian scholarships?

Yes, you can apply for as many scholarships as you are eligible for. Ensure that you tailor each application to the specific requirements of each scholarship.

6. Are there fully funded Christian scholarships?

Yes, several scholarships on the list, such as those offered by Christian Aid Mission and Haggai Institute, provide full funding, including tuition, living expenses, and travel costs. Others may partially cover expenses.

7. How do I prove my Christian faith during the application process?

Applicants are typically required to submit:

A recommendation letter from a church leader or pastor.
A personal statement or essay discussing your faith journey.
Evidence of participation in church or Christian community activities.

8. When should I start applying for 2025 scholarships?

Most scholarship applications open a year in advance. Start researching and preparing documents by early 2024, and submit applications well before the deadlines, which typically range from late 2024 to early 2025.

9. What documents are usually required for these scholarships?

The required documents vary but commonly include:

Academic transcripts.
Proof of enrollment or admission.
Recommendation letters (church or academic references).
Personal essays or statements of purpose.
Financial need documentation (if applicable).

10. Do these scholarships require IELTS/TOEFL or other English proficiency tests?

If the scholarship is tied to admission at an English-speaking institution, you may need to meet their English language requirements, which often include submitting IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent test scores.

11. Are these scholarships renewable each year?

Some scholarships are renewable for multiple years, provided the recipient maintains good academic standing and remains active in their Christian faith. Review the specific scholarship terms for renewal policies.

12. Are there age limits for these scholarships?

Most scholarships do not have strict age limits, but some may target specific groups like undergraduate students, young leaders, or early-career professionals. Check individual eligibility criteria for details.

13. Can I use these scholarships for online programs?

Some scholarships allow funding for online degrees or programs, especially those offered by faith-based institutions. Confirm the scholarship terms to see if online programs qualify.

14. Are travel expenses covered in these scholarships?

A few scholarships, like those by Christian Aid Mission, include travel expenses as part of their funding. Most, however, only cover tuition or partial costs, so plan accordingly.

15. Can non-Christian students apply for these scholarships?

These scholarships are specifically designed for Christian students. Non-Christian students may explore general scholarships or those tailored to their background or field of study.

16. How competitive are Christian scholarships?

Competition levels vary depending on the scholarship. Highly funded programs, such as those offering full coverage, are more competitive. Strengthen your application by highlighting your faith journey, leadership, and academic excellence.

17. Are these scholarships only for students from developing countries?

While some scholarships prioritize students from developing countries, others are open to international students from any region. Always verify eligibility criteria.