The cost of education for international students in the United States is significantly higher than that for domestic students, making it critically important for international students to secure scholarships and financial aid. Below are several notable scholarships for international students in the U.S.
An In-Depth Guide to Securing Scholarships in the U.S.
In order to offset the cost of an international education, students from other countries often look to secure scholarships specifically for international students. Although many scholarships are available for international students in the United States, knowing where to find them is essential. This guide will provide you with insight as to where to apply for some notable scholarships for international students in the U.S.
1. Government-Funded U.S. Scholarships for International Students
One of the key avenues for international students seeking scholarships in the U.S. is government-funded programs. A prominent example is Fulbright Foreign Student Program, which is fully funded by the U.S. government through the Department of State. This program offers scholarships to students from over 160 countries, enabling them to pursue graduate-level studies or research in the United States. Fulbright aims to increase mutual understanding between the U.S. and other countries. Interested students can apply through the U.S. Embassy or Fulbright Commission in their home country.
2. University-Provided Scholarships for International Students in the U.S.
One of the best places for international students to look for scholarship opportunities is at the university they are planning to attend. Many universities provide dedicated scholarship programs specifically for international students. At Post University, for example, we offer an On Campus International Student Scholarship that provides eligible students with up to $20,000 toward tuition. International students who are interested in this scholarship must meet specific criteria, such as living in on-campus housing for at least one year, taking at least 12 credit hours per semester, and maintaining their F-1 student visa in good standing at all times.
3. Privately-Funded U.S. Scholarships for International Students
Another powerful avenue for scholarships for international students is private organizations. There are hundreds of privately funded U.S. scholarships for international students, many of which prioritize students from specific countries or specific fields of study. One organization that compiles scholarship opportunities for international students is eduPASS.org, and some opportunities may include:
- The Open Society Foundation offers The Civil Society Leadership Awards, which are available to students seeking a master’s degree from specific countries. Students must demonstrate a commitment to fostering social change in order to secure this scholarship.
- ColFuturo is an organization that provides scholarships for graduate students from Columbia who are interested in studying in the United States.
4. Need-Based Scholarships vs. Merit-Based Scholarships in the U.S.
As international students begin to explore their scholarship opportunities, they will discover that most scholarships are divided into two categories: need-based scholarships and merit-based scholarships.
Need-based scholarships are awarded to students based on their specific financial circumstances and their need for support. Eligibility for need-based scholarships may vary based on the specific scholarship.
Merit-based scholarships, on the other hand, are awarded to students based on their academic or extracurricular achievements. Many privately funded scholarships are awarded to students based on their academic performance in secondary school or during their undergraduate program.
5. Field-Specific Scholarships Available for International Students
Both universities and private organizations offer field-specific scholarships for international students, designed to encourage students to pursue degrees in specific areas of study. For instance, at Post University, we offer an On Campus International Student Scholarship for graduate students who are pursuing a degree in Business Intelligence and Analytics or those who are pursuing an MBA degree. The Business Intelligence and Analytics Scholarship for international students offers $2,000 toward the total cost of the program, and the MBA Scholarship for international students offers $5,000 toward the total cost of the program.
6. Scholarships for Underrepresented Groups in Higher Education
Many organizations that offer scholarships for international students in the U.S. are focused on providing underrepresented students with assistance and support to help them access opportunities that they may not otherwise have access to. EduPASS states that the Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program provides comprehensive financial support to students from developing countries who have already contributed to the development of their country and who are pursuing a graduate degree that will further enhance development in their home country.
7. Tips on Finding Hidden Scholarship Opportunities in the U.S.
These are the best ways to uncover lesser-known opportunities for United States of America scholarships for international students:
- Begin your scholarship search early but continue to search for a long period of time.
- Contact your intended university to learn about niche opportunities.
- Search specifically for scholarship opportunities that may be available in your field of study or for students from your home country.
Maximizing Your Scholarship Application Success
Nearly all types of scholarships for international students in the U.S. require you to submit an application. You will want to carefully craft each application in order to improve your chances of securing the scholarship.
8. Crafting a Winning Scholarship Essay: Key Strategies
It is not uncommon for international students to have to submit an essay as part of their scholarship application. Through this essay, you can provide the granting organization with further context about your personal circumstances, experiences, and educational goals. These key strategies can help you craft a compelling essay:
- Be truthful throughout the entire essay.
- Actively work to keep your essay on topic with the prompt.
- Research the scholarship provider in advance and weave their goals into your essay.
- Always proofread and revise your essay before submitting your application.
9. Essential Documents You Need for Your Scholarship Application
The documents required for your scholarship application may vary based on the granting organization, but international students will likely need:
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of diplomas or degrees
- Standardized test scores
- Passport
- Proof of financial need
- Visa application or proof of visa status
- Letter of acceptance from intended university
10. The Importance of Letters of Recommendation and How to Get Them
Letters of recommendation are a vital component of any scholarship application, and most granting organizations will ask you to include at least one or two letters of recommendation as part of your packet. Letters of recommendation offer insight into your character and your commitment to education, and these letters also have a significant impact on whether you receive a scholarship.
You can get letters of recommendation by:
- Asking a trusted advisor or mentor to write one for you.
- Approaching a coworker or supervisor who has worked with you.
- Asking for the letter well in advance, so the writer has plenty of time to craft a personal and compelling letter.
11. Preparing for Scholarship Interviews: What to Expect
In some cases, you will have to complete a scholarship interview as part of the application process. These are some of the most common scholarship interview questions:
- What are your career goals?
- Why did you choose this school or this program?
- Why do you want to study in the United States?
- Why do you feel that you are the right candidate for this scholarship?
- What do you consider to be your greatest achievement?
Learn More About International Student Support at Post University
Post University provides scholarships for international students studying in the United States, along with various forms of financial aid and support. Students from abroad who are interested in studying in the United States will appreciate our commitment to international admissions. We offer a variety of scholarships, grants, and additional opportunities for our international students, making a Post University education feasible and attainable.
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Please note jobs and/or career outcomes highlighted in this blog do not reflect jobs or career outcomes expected from any Post program. To learn more about Post’s programs and their outcomes, please fill out a form to speak with an admissions advisor.