The benefits of an award for graduate study include roundtrip travel, a monthly maintenance stipend ranging from approximately $950 to $1,300 depending on the geographic location of the U.S. institution attended, full or partial tuition, medical insurance coverage and various incidental allowances. For non-degree study, the above benefits are the same, except that tuition payments are not normally authorized. In principle, these benefits should be adequate to cover most of the essential costs incurred by an unmarried international student in the U.S. When tuition or living costs are unusually high, however, some personal funds will be needed to supplement the award. Moreover, as expenses incurred for family members are not covered by the award, a married student must have sufficient personal funds to cover the expenses of any accompanying family members.

In arranging placements for successful candidates, at KAEC's request, IIE routinely seeks financial support from U.S. host institutions. When available, this support is considered cost-sharing and KAEC award benefits may be reduced as appropriate although the benefits (including the cost-sharing) will remain at least the same as those provided under a full award.