The American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship (AU EGLS) is a scholarship program designed to empower outstanding international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to global change. For the 2025 academic year, AU invites applications from young leaders around the world who aspire to contribute meaningfully to their communities and beyond.
This article provides an extensive guide on the AU EGL Scholarship, its benefits, eligibility criteria, application process, and tips for prospective candidates.
Overview of the AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship
The AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship was created to support exceptional international students with a demonstrated passion for community service, innovation, and global leadership. The scholarship is ideal for students who wish to pursue undergraduate studies at American University in Washington, D.C.
The program not only covers significant costs associated with studying at AU but also provides a platform for scholars to engage with other leaders, participate in transformative activities, and work on projects that address global challenges.
- Host Institution(s): American University, Washington DC, USA
- Level/Field(s) of study: Any undergraduate study offered at the University
- Application Deadline: December 1st, 2024
- Scholarship value: The AU EGL scholarship covers all billable AU expenses (full tuition, room, and board). The scholarship does not cover non-billable expenses such as mandatory health insurance, books, airline tickets, and miscellaneous expenses (approximately U.S. $4,000).
- It is renewable for a total of four years of undergraduate study, based on continued satisfactory academic performance.
Benefits of the AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship
The AU EGL Scholarship is a full, merit-based award that offers:
- Comprehensive Financial Support:
- Covers full tuition fees, room, and board for the duration of the undergraduate program (four years), provided the scholar maintains satisfactory academic performance.
- Access to Leadership Development Opportunities:
- Scholars participate in workshops, conferences, and mentorship programs designed to enhance leadership skills and foster global awareness.
- Networking Opportunities:
- The scholarship connects recipients with other emerging leaders worldwide, AU faculty, and professionals in various industries.
- Global Exposure:
- Scholars study in the heart of Washington, D.C., gaining access to diverse cultural experiences, internships, and career opportunities.
Eligibility Criteria for 2025 Applicants
Applicants must meet the following criteria to be considered for the AU EGL Scholarship:
- Academic Excellence:
- Applicants must have outstanding academic records with a minimum 3.8 GPA equivalent out of 4.0 GPA (or in the top 10% of graduating class) for 9th-12th grades.
- Leadership Potential: Demonstrated leadership abilities through school, community activities, or volunteer work.
- Commitment to Social Change:
- A clear passion for making a positive impact in their home country or the global community.
- International Student Status:
- Applicants must not hold U.S. citizenship, permanent residency or dual citizens of the U.S. and another country. They should plan to return to their home country after completing their studies.
- Financial Need:
- Applicants must demonstrate financial constraints that would otherwise prevent them from attending a U.S. university.
- needs of people in their home country.
- Students with one of the following:
- 95+ TOEFL iBT (all subscores must be 20 or above)
- Sub-scores of 24+ on the paper-based TOEFL (Taken after May 31, 2017)
- 7.0+ IELTS (all subscores must be 6.0 or above)
- 33 minimum SAT Reading subscore
- 29 minimum ACT English
- 65 minimum PTE
- 125+ Duolingo (all subscores must be 115 or above)
- Cambridge Assessment English score of 185 or higher. Each sub-score must be 169 or higher.
- Students who are still enrolled in secondary/high school and graduating by June 2025.
Note: Students already enrolled or planning to transfer to AU are not eligible.
Fields of Study
The AU EGL Scholarship is available for students applying to any undergraduate program offered at American University. Popular fields of study include:
- International Relations
- Political Science
- Business Administration
- Economics
- Computer Science
- Public Health
Application Process for AU EGL Scholarship 2025
The application process for the AU EGL Scholarship is meticulous and requires close attention to detail.
To apply to the AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship, you must apply and complete the AU EGLS application. CLICK HERE to begin the application process.
Deadlines
- Scholarship Application Deadline: December 1st, 2024.
Selection Process
The selection process is highly competitive, with only one or two scholarships awarded annually. Candidates are evaluated based on the following criteria:
- Academic Performance
- Leadership Qualities
- Potential for Social Impact
- Cultural and Global Awareness
Successful applicants are notified by April 2025.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Highlight Your Achievements:
- Showcase leadership roles, community service initiatives, and any projects that reflect your commitment to social change.
- Craft a Compelling Essay:
- Your essay should tell your story, highlight your ambitions, and illustrate how the AU EGL Scholarship will help you achieve your goals.
- Provide Strong Recommendations:
- Choose recommenders who know you well and can attest to your academic and leadership qualities.
- Prepare for the Interview:
- If shortlisted, demonstrate confidence, clarity, and passion during your interview.
- Submit Early:
- Start the application process early to avoid last-minute challenges.
Impact of the AU EGL Scholarship
The AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship has transformed the lives of recipients from diverse backgrounds, empowering them to become agents of change. Past scholars have gone on to pursue impactful careers in public service, international organizations, and entrepreneurship, significantly contributing to their home countries.
The American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship 2025 offers a life-changing opportunity for ambitious and socially conscious international students. By providing financial support and a platform to grow as global leaders, the scholarship enables recipients to contribute meaningfully to society.
If you are an aspiring leader with a passion for academic excellence and global impact, this is your chance to study at one of the most prestigious universities in the United States.
For more information, visit the AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship page.