Barry PhilipsThe International Education Financial Aid (IEFA) platform—a trusted global resource that connects students with scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities. In 2025, IEFA continues to spotlight one of its most impactful offerings: the Go Global MBA Scholarship, a merit-based award designed to support international students pursuing MBA programs abroad, including in the United States.
This article explores the full scope of the IEFA Global MBA Scholarships approved for 2025, including eligibility criteria, application tips, and how this funding can help you achieve your academic and professional goals.
What Is IEFA?
The International Education Financial Aid (IEFA) platform is a comprehensive online resource that helps international students find scholarships, grants, and loan programs to fund their education abroad. Established in partnership with leading universities, scholarship providers, and financial institutions, IEFA serves students from over 180 countries.
IEFA’s mission is simple: to make international education accessible and affordable. Whether you’re pursuing undergraduate, graduate, or professional degrees, IEFA offers curated listings of financial aid opportunities tailored to your background, goals, and destination.
The Go Global MBA Scholarship: A Flagship Opportunity
Among IEFA’s most prominent offerings is the Go Global MBA Scholarship, sponsored by educations.com. This award is specifically designed for students who plan to pursue an MBA outside their home country, with a strong emphasis on global leadership and cross-cultural impact.
Scholarship Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | educations.com |
| Platform | IEFA |
| Award Amount | Up to $7,000 USD |
| Deadline | April 25, 2025 |
| Eligible Degrees | MBA (Master of Business Administration) |
| Eligible Countries | All nationalities |
| Host Countries | Any country where the applicant is not a citizen or resident |
| Study Mode | On-campus or online MBA programs |
| Number of Awards | 1 |
This scholarship is open to students from any country and can be used to fund MBA programs in the United States or other international destinations.
Why the U.S. Is a Top Destination for MBA Students
The United States is home to some of the world’s most prestigious business schools, including Harvard, Stanford, Wharton, MIT Sloan, and Columbia. But beyond the Ivy League, hundreds of accredited institutions offer high-quality MBA programs with concentrations in finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, data analytics, and more.
Benefits of Studying in the U.S.
- Global Reputation: U.S. MBAs are recognized and respected worldwide.
- Diverse Specializations: Choose from dozens of concentrations tailored to your career goals.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with alumni, recruiters, and industry leaders.
- Career Services: Access internships, job placements, and professional development resources.
- Cultural Exposure: Experience life in a multicultural environment that fosters innovation and inclusion.
With the IEFA Go Global MBA Scholarship, international students can offset the high cost of tuition and make their U.S. MBA dream a reality.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Go Global MBA Scholarship, applicants must:
- Have applied (or plan to apply) for an MBA program starting in Fall 2025
- Hold a valid undergraduate degree (Bachelor’s)
- Have no more than 5 years of professional work experience
- Meet the language requirements of the MBA program
- Be studying in a country where they are not a citizen or permanent resident
- Be eligible for a study visa (if applicable)
- Be pursuing an MBA either on-campus or via distance learning from a foreign institution
This scholarship is inclusive and designed to support students from diverse backgrounds, industries, and regions.
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Applying for the Go Global MBA Scholarship is simple and entirely online. Here’s how to do it:
1. Create an Account on educations.com
You’ll need to register to access the scholarship application form.
2. Complete the Online Application
Provide details about your academic background, career goals, and MBA program.
3. Submit a Short Essay
Write a compelling essay (typically 500–700 words) explaining:
- Why you chose your MBA program
- How the scholarship will help you achieve your goals
- Your vision for global impact through business leadership
4. Upload Supporting Documents
Include transcripts, proof of admission (if available), and a resume or CV.
5. Submit Before the Deadline
All applications must be submitted by April 25, 2025.
Tips for a Winning Application
To stand out among global applicants:
1. Be Authentic and Specific
Share your personal story and explain how your MBA will create impact. Avoid generic statements—focus on your unique journey.
2. Highlight Leadership and Innovation
The scholarship favors applicants who demonstrate initiative, creativity, and a commitment to solving global challenges.
3. Show Global Perspective
Discuss your cross-cultural experiences, international collaborations, or plans to work in global markets.
4. Proofread Carefully
A polished application reflects professionalism and attention to detail. Ask a mentor or advisor to review your essay before submission.
Other MBA Scholarships in the U.S. for 2025
In addition to the IEFA Go Global MBA Scholarship, many U.S. business schools offer full or partial funding to international students. Here are some notable programs:
Top MBA Scholarships
| University | Scholarship Name | Funding Type |
|---|---|---|
| Harvard Business School | HBS Fellowships | Need-based, full or partial tuition |
| Stanford GSB | Knight-Hennessy Scholars | Full tuition + living stipend |
| Wharton School (UPenn) | Wharton Fellowship Program | Merit-based, partial to full tuition |
| MIT Sloan | Forté Fellowships, Sloan Fellowships | Merit-based, full or partial tuition |
| Chicago Booth | Global Innovator Fellowships | Full tuition + leadership development |
| Kellogg (Northwestern) | Kellogg Scholarships | Full tuition for top applicants |
| Columbia Business School | Columbia Fellowships | Need and merit-based awards |
| Duke Fuqua | International Merit Scholarships | Partial to full tuition |
| Cornell Johnson | Park Leadership Fellowships | Full tuition + leadership training |
These programs often combine academic merit, leadership potential, and diversity goals to award generous funding packages.
MBA Funding Beyond Scholarships
While scholarships are a critical source of funding, international students can also explore:
- Graduate Assistantships: Paid research or teaching roles that include tuition waivers.
- Corporate Sponsorships: Some employers fund MBA studies in exchange for post-graduation service.
- Education Loans: IEFA lists lenders that offer loans to international students with or without a U.S. co-signer.
- Crowdfunding Platforms: Students can raise funds through GoFundMe, Prodigy Finance, or similar platforms.
- Government Grants: Some countries offer outbound scholarships for citizens studying abroad.
Combining multiple sources of funding can help students cover tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.
Final Thoughts
The IEFA Go Global MBA Scholarship is more than financial aid—it’s a recognition of your potential to lead, innovate, and make a global impact. For international students seeking to study in the United States in 2025, this award offers a meaningful boost toward achieving your MBA goals.
Combined with other funding options from top U.S. business schools, the path to a fully funded MBA is more accessible than ever. So, start preparing your application,