The need for young leaders who are not only well qualified academics but also fervently dedicated to social impact is more than ever in the current global environment. In order to address this need, the American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship (AU EGLS) provides fully supported undergraduate education to deserving overseas students who exhibit a strong commitment to civic leadership and community service.
This esteemed fellowship, which is offered by American University in Washington, D.C., is more than just financial assistance; it is an investment in future changemakers who hope to return home and promote significant progress. Talented students from a variety of circumstances can now afford a top-notch education thanks to the AU EGLS, which covers all tuition, lodging, and board.
All of the information you want regarding the American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship is contained in this article, including:
- A summary of the scholarship’s benefits
- Qualifications and application standards
- Important due dates and necessary paperwork
- The screening procedure and the qualities of a strong applicant
- Realistic advice to improve your application
Whether you’re a student hoping to study in the United States or a teacher mentoring the next generation of leaders, this guide will help you make the most of this transformative opportunity.
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Scholarship Overview
A competitive and fully funded fellowship, the American University Emerging Global Leader Fellowship (AU EGLS) is intended to assist international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership potential, and a strong commitment to constructive social change. Students who aim to return home after graduation and use their degree to better neglected and under-resourced areas are the target audience for the program, which is run by American University (AU) in Washington, D.C.
What the Scholarship Covers
- Full tuition: all four years of undergraduate education are covered by the tuition.
- Room and board: The food plan and on-campus lodging are completely subsidized.
- Renewability: Subject to good academic standing, the scholarship is renewed every year.
What the Scholarship Does Not Cover
- Non-billable expenses such as:
- Books and supplies
- Mandatory health insurance
- Personal expenses
- Travel costs (airfare to/from the U.S.)
As part of the application process, applicants must show that they can afford the nearly $4,000 in non-covered expenses that they incur annually.
Goal of the Scholarship
The AU EGLS aims to build a global network of ethical leaders who will use their education to bring about lasting change in their home countries. It reflects AU’s mission to promote global understanding, community engagement, and socially responsible leadership.
Eligibility Criteria
International students who excel academically and have a strong desire for social change, leadership, and service are the target audience for the American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship. The main eligibility conditions that candidates must fulfill are listed below:
Citizenship Requirements
- Applicant must be an international student who is neither a U.S. citizen nor a permanent resident of the country.
- Candidates who are now enrolled in U.S. educational programs or who possess dual U.S. citizenship are not eligible.
Academic Excellence
- Must have a strong academic record, typically:
- A minimum GPA of 3.8 out of 4.0 (or equivalent), or
- Ranked in the top 10% of their graduating class for grades 9–12.
- Must have completed a rigorous course load in secondary school, including honors, AP, IB, or equivalent coursework where available.
English Language Proficiency
Applicants must submit valid scores from one of the following tests, meeting or exceeding the minimum scores:
- TOEFL iBT: 95+ (minimum subscores of 20)
- IELTS: 7.0+ (minimum subscores of 6.0)
- Duolingo English Test: 125+ (minimum subscores of 115)
- PTE Academic: 65+
- Cambridge Assessment: 185+ (minimum subscores of 169)
Commitment to Leadership and Service
- Proven participation in volunteer work, leadership positions, or community-based projects;
- A strong desire to improve civic and social conditions in the applicant’s own country.
Other Requirements
- High school graduation must be anticipated before June 2025 (for Fall 2025 intake).
- Must be eligible to begin classes at American University in August 2025 (only for the autumn semester).
- The Financial necessity must be proven, along with the capacity to pay for uncovered expenses of about $4,000 annually.
Application Process
The American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship (AU EGLS) application process necessitates meticulous paperwork, rigorous deadline observance, and cautious planning. The method is intended to assess not only academic merit but also financial need, social commitment, and leadership potential.
• Step-by-Step Application Guide
• Submit the Common or Coalition Application
- Deadline: December 1, 2024
- Include all required supporting documents (transcripts, recommendation letters, essays, etc.).
- Select a major of interest; note that AU EGLS is only for undergraduate studies.
• Create Your Future Eagle Portal
- After submitting your initial application, you’ll receive access to AU’s Future Eagle Portal to track and complete the next steps.
• Complete the AU EGLS Application Form
- Available via the Future Eagle Portal.
- Includes detailed essay prompts that focus on your leadership, community service, and goals for social change.
• Submit English Language Proficiency Scores
- Official test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.) must be submitted directly from the testing agency.
- Deadline: December 1, 2024
• Submit Financial Documentation
- Upload a bank letter or bank statement showing access to at least $4,000 USD.
- Complete and upload the AU Certification of Finances (AU CFIS) form.
• Additional Documents (if applicable)
- Passport copy
- Academic or merit certificates
- Additional recommendation letters (optional but helpful)
Application Portal
The American University website serves as the official application platform for the American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship (AU EGLS). Prospective overseas students need to fulfill two essential steps in order to apply:
- Submit the Common or Coalition Application: Applicants must first complete and submit either the Common Application or the Coalition Application, along with all required supporting documents, by the specified deadline.
- Complete the AU EGLS Application: After submitting the initial application, applicants will receive access to the Future Eagle Portal. Through this portal, they must complete the AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship application and submit the required essays by the designated deadline.
It’s important to note that applicants should apply for Regular Decision for the fall semester and adhere strictly to the application deadlines, as late submissions will not be considered.
For detailed information and to begin the application process, please visit the official AU EGLS application portal: American University
Important Notes
- Applications that are incomplete or submitted after the deadline will not be taken into consideration;
- There is no additional application fee needed for the AU EGLS.
- Only fall admissions are eligible for the award; spring and summer admissions are not.
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Selection Criteria
The American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship (AU EGLS) is given to students who exhibit a unique combination of moral leadership, academic distinction, and a clear vision for constructive community change. Because the selection process is so competitive, candidates are evaluated from a variety of angles.
1. Academic Performance
- Strong high school grades and class rank (top 10% of class or equivalent).
- Challenging coursework, such as Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), or national honors programs.
- Evidence of intellectual curiosity and consistency in academic achievement.
2. Demonstrated Leadership
- Active involvement in student government, clubs, or community organizations.
- Experience leading projects or initiatives with a measurable impact.
- A clear ability to inspire, organize, and empower others.
3. Commitment to Civic and Social Engagement
- Proven dedication to volunteering, advocacy, or community development.
- A clear track record of giving back to underserved or marginalized groups.
- A thoughtful understanding of social issues and a desire to address them through constructive action.
4. Vision for Social Change
- A well-articulated plan for how the applicant will use their education at American University to address key challenges in their home country.
- Specific, realistic goals that reflect long-term commitment to making a difference.
5. Financial Need
- Candidates must demonstrate financial limitations that make study in the U.S. otherwise inaccessible.
- Must show the ability to cover approximately $4,000 per year in uncovered costs.
How Can an Applicant Stand Out?
The applicants who:
- Go above and beyond the classroom and demonstrate practical leadership are the most effective.
- Already show initiative in their local areas.
- Have an inspiring, genuine life story and future goals.
Complement the scholarship’s objective of promoting equity and global change.
Number and Types of Awards
The American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship is one of the country’s most prestigious undergraduate scholarships. Not only is it intended to honor academic success, but it also aims to empower a select group of exceptional students who could significantly improve their home nations.
Full Scholarships
- Only one to two full AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarships are awarded each year.
- These cover:
- Full tuition
- Room and board
- Renewable for up to four years of undergraduate study, contingent on satisfactory academic performance
Partial Merit Scholarships
- American University provides up to eight partial merit-based scholarships for international students annually in addition to the full AU EGL Scholarship.
- Depending on the level of the applicant’s academic and extracurricular record, partial scholarships can total up to $40,000 per academic year.
- Students must show that they can afford the remaining fees; these grants do not cover full tuition.
Important Distinction
- Students who aim to return home to make an effect are the target audience for the AU EGLS; those who are looking to obtain permanent status in the US are not.
- Candidates with a particular focus on social change are not the only ones eligible for partial scholarships, which are given out more widely.
Tips for Applicants
Competition is fierce for the American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship. Only one or two full scholarships are given out annually, therefore it’s critical to be exceptional in both your academic performance and personal goals. Key pointers for creating an application that is both competitive and compelling are provided below.
1. Start Early and Stay Organized
- Mark all important deadlines (especially December 1 for applications).
- Gather documents (transcripts, recommendation letters, test scores) well in advance.
- Allocate enough time for drafting and refining your essays.
2. Tell a Powerful Personal Story
- Use the application essays to communicate your journey—challenges you’ve overcome, communities you’ve impacted, and the change you hope to lead.
- Be authentic. Passion and purpose resonate more than polished perfection.
3. Highlight Your Leadership Experience
- Provide clear examples of how you’ve led teams, started initiatives, or improved your school or community.
- Leadership doesn’t have to be formal; even small-scale efforts that created impact count.
4. Emphasize Social Commitment
- Demonstrate a long-term commitment to service—not just one-time volunteer activities.
- Share how your experiences have shaped your worldview and your goals for improving your home country.
5. Show Academic Consistency and Excellence
- Maintain a strong GPA throughout high school.
- If available, take challenging coursework (e.g., AP, IB, A-levels).
- Aim for strong performance on English proficiency exams.
6. Prepare Strong Recommendations
- Choose teachers, mentors, or community leaders who know you well and can speak to both your academic ability and your character.
- Give your recommenders plenty of time and provide context about the scholarship’s mission.
7. Demonstrate Financial Responsibility
- Clearly document your financial need and your plan to cover the ~$4,000 in uncovered expenses.
- Present your situation honestly and transparently.
8. Use the Future Eagle Portal Wisely
- Double-check uploads and documents.
- Track the status of your application and respond promptly to any updates or requests.
Conclusion
For international students who are prepared to spearhead change, the American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship offers a life-changing opportunity beyond monetary compensation. AU EGLS equips young leaders with the information and skills they need to return home and create more resilient, egalitarian communities by providing complete tuition and housing funding as well as a platform for academic and social growth.
This scholarship is an effective way to move forward, whether you’re a parent helping a child with a global perspective, a teacher mentoring ambitious students, or a student passionate about social impact. Although the procedure is demanding, individuals who are dedicated can access top-notch education, networks that last a lifetime, and the opportunity to genuinely change the world.
Take the plunge if you fit the requirements and agree with the scholarship’s mission. Prepare now, use purpose when telling your narrative, and submit your application by the December deadline.
