Scholarships for international students
The American college experience is famous around the world. American colleges offer an outstanding education and a great social experience. It’s no wonder that students all over the world flock to the United States to complete their degree.
But, international students face a major dilemma. The price tag is much higher than what students find in their home country.
While the $45,000 cost of Harvard and other such universities is deterring, it isn’t a reason to give up on your dream.
But how in the world are you supposed to cover the cost? The answer of course is by winning scholarships. Scholarships help lower some of the high expenses of college. Best of all, it is money that you don't need to pay back.
We are going to show you the ins and outs of scholarships for international students. We want to help you pay as little as possible and get the best education and college experience.
How to Get a Scholarship as an International Student
There are many scholarships for international students that you may apply to.
These scholarships are not a walk in the park to win. Scholarships for international students are very competitive. Winning scholarship money takes hard work, time, and dedication.
Scholarship applications may also differ from one to the next. Common requirements include letters of recommendation, a minimum GPA, minimum SAT or ACT scores, and a scholarship personal statement.
You might also need to submit your IELTS or TOEFL score.
Tips For International Students on How to Apply to Scholarships
It can take weeks to put together a great scholarship application. Do not wait for the last minute to get started. Give yourself ample time to complete the application. Stay organized and always have family members check over your work.
Scholarship committees judge students on their ability to follow instructions. If something isn’t clear, inquire with the scholarship committee.
Before you start working on your application, get to know the scholarship provider. What is their mission? Your application should be in line with their goals and objectives.
In addition, it’s important to understand the mission and voice of the scholarship provider. But, it’s also important to maintain your own voice.
Don’t tell them what they want to hear. Be your authentic self and stand out from other applicants.
Finally, spend time applying only to scholarships which you qualify for. There is a reason why some scholarships ask for a minimum GPA or why some invite Hispanic students to apply. The scholarship provider will not accept applicants that don’t fit the correct profile.
Which Universities Give the Most Scholarships to International Students?
Colleges and universities want to diversify their student body. What does this mean for you as an international student? Scholarship money.
To encourage international students to study abroad, many colleges offer scholarships. Some are more generous than others.
The University of Oregon offers international students more than five different scholarships. Students can win up to $27,000 per year.
American University offers merit scholarships to first-year students. Scholarship amounts range from $6,000 to $25,000.
Other generous schools include Harvard, Emory, Illinois State University and Dartmouth.
Can International Students Get a Full Scholarship
There is only one thing better than scholarships, and that’s full scholarships. International students can in fact get full scholarships.
Columbia College awards 10 international students with full-ride scholarships. Applicants must be first-year students.
Many of the full-ride scholarships are for graduate students. There are also many full-ride scholarships for students from developing countries.
International students at the graduate level can apply to Fullbright. This grant program provides full tuition, airfare and a living stipend.
A great program for women is the International Fellowship program. It awards full scholarships to international women for their graduate studies in the U.S.
Students from developing countries can apply to the Civil Society Leadership Awards. This full-ride scholarship program awards international master's degree students. There is a list of accepted countries including Egypt and Cambodia.
Asian students completing their bachelor’s degree can apply to the Wesleyan Freeman Asian Scholarship. This is a four-year full-ride scholarship for students from eligible countries.
What is the Cheapest University for International Students?
If you aren’t so successful at winning scholarships, all hope still isn’t lost. Not all colleges and universities in the U.S. carry such a high price tag. Some are actually much more affordable than you’d think.
The University of Central Arkansas offers low tuition to international students. Tuition for undergraduate students is around $10,000 and $9,000 for graduate students.
De Anza College in the Silicon Valley is $7,488 for international students. Santa Monica College offers a tuition for $8,880. These are good opportunities for international students looking to transfer to UC schools.
Tuition at the University of Minnesota- Crookston is the same for all students. For both in-state and international students it's around $5,000 per year.
Which University is Best for International Students?
Just like every student is different, every university is different! There isn’t one university that is right for all students. It depends on your qualifications, your desires, and your financial situation.
Some universities have a very strong Greek life. This can be a great way for students to make friends, especially for those who are more shy.
You also will want to consider your course of study. There are some majors which are more popular and some which are less popular at certain schools. If you already know what you want to study, consider finding a school which has a good program in that field.
Final Thoughts
Studying abroad in the United States is an incredible experience. You will receive a world-renowned education and have the experience of a lifetime.
If you have your mind set on studying in the United States, expensive tuition and fees don’t have to prevent you. Invest time in applying to many scholarships. Also, apply to schools that offer attractive financial aid packages and tuition.