American University's merit awards for international students are partial, not full, scholarships. They are based on outstanding academic achievement, leadership and community service. No need-based financial aid is available to international students (non U.S. citizens). Merit award consideration is highly competitive and the number of awards available is limited.

For the fall 2009 academic year, merit awards for first-year students ranged from approximately U.S.$5,000 to U.S.$32,000 per academic year (up to 60 percent of the overall cost of attendance). These funds are renewable for all four years of study based on successful continued academic performance. Similar scholarship amounts are predicted for 2010-2011.

Important for first-year applicants who wish to be considered for AU's partial scholarships:

Apply for the fall (August) semester, not spring (January). Fall application deadline is January 15.
All applicants who require a student visa must complete the AU Certification of Finances for International Students (CFIS) form together with the application packet. All documents must be received by January 15, 2010, for fall (August) 2010 semester, or September 1 for spring (January) 2011 semester. Application packets without the CFIS form will be considered incomplete and will not be reviewed.
International applicants who wish to be considered for AU merit awards (partial scholarships) must also submit the CFIS form or bank letter by the appropriate deadlines.
Costs for the 2009-2010 academic year are estimated at U.S.$51,243. This includes tuition, mandatory fees, room, board, insurance and personal expenses. For all subsequent years, expect a 6 percent increase per year.
You do not have to submit a separate application for AU merit awards. All qualified first-year applicants who submit complete application packets by January 15 are automatically considered for eligibility for our partial scholarships. First-year applicants will be notified of any merit awards with their admission letter that is sent in the spring.
AU merit awards are offered only at the time of admission. There are no further opportunities to apply for AU partial scholarships once you have begun your studies.
No increases in scholarship amounts are available from year to year. The initial amount of your AU merit award remains constant for all four years of study.

Tip: To be considered for admissions and merit awards, please make sure to submit a complete application packet with all supporting documents, including proof of financial support as stated above, by the application deadline. Incomplete or late applications will lower your chances of being admitted as well as disqualify you from merit scholarship consideration.