As international students seeking financial aid to study in their respective schools, it is important to note that financial aid available for international students takes two forms. It can be need-based, merit-based or even both.
This article explores the various opportunities and resources available to help you realize your dreams and achieve academic success.
5 Best Financial Aid For International Students
Grants and Fellowships
Various organizations, including non-profit organizations, government agencies, and academic institutions, offer grants and fellowships to students based on their merit, research proposals, or field of study. Receiving this financial aid can not only alleviate financial stress but also provide opportunities for networking, skill enhancement, and research collaboration. However, fellowships and grants are two different types of financial aid. Fellowships are merit-based awards while grants are need-based awards. For instance, Ohio University, the Fulbright program, Aga Khan Foundation etc, offer grants to international students.
Students Loan
This has been a great viable financial option for international students to pursue their education abroad. Several financial institutions and government bodies have taken it upon themselves to offer student loans with strict terms and conditions and repayment plans to international students wishing to further their academic abroad. The application process for student loan are as follow:
- Fill out the Free Application For Federal Students Aid-FASFA form and follow the instructions to complete the application process on their website. It is crucial to read the instructions thoroughly to avoid complications.
- Also, you can apply for private loans but it carries higher interest rates than government loans.
Related Post: No-Essay scholarship for international students
Scholarships
Scholarships are one of the most popular financial aid available for international students to further their education abroad. The award is based on academic achievements, talents and other specific criteria. Numerous governmental organizations, private foundations and educational institutions offer scholarships mainly for international students. Examples of educational institutions that offer scholarships for international students are Arizona State University, Colorado State University, University of Alabama, etc.
These scholarships are known to cover partial or full tuition fees, textbooks, and accommodation and even provide a stipend for living expenses. To find opportunities that match your unique skills, background and academic aspirations, you simply need to research and identify them.
Internship/Work-Study Programs
Many institutions offer programs that provide practical experience to students in their area of study, which complements their academic coursework. These programs are widely available in various industries, such as finance, business, health, and technology. Availing this opportunity allows students to acquire real-world experience while still pursuing their education, which can significantly benefit their future career prospects.
University of Alberta, Princeton University, and so on offer internship programs for international students. What is required from you is to visit their website to get more information.
Tuition Waivers
Tuition waiver is a situation whereby all or a portion of the student’s tuition is not paid. It is issued only for the period in which the student is currently enrolled in the program. Waivers come in two forms. They are merit-based tuition waivers and need-based tuition waivers. This waiver can be processed through the Office of Students Financial Services and it is applied to your student account after you submit a completed waiver form, that requires your signature and that of your academic advisor.
One of the greatest benefits of tuition waiver to international students is that they can pursue their academic goals with peace of mind.
Conclusively
Financial aid for international students has become easily accessible therefore alleviating the barriers that have once hindered international students from pursuing their academics abroad. Student loans, scholarships, grants and internships have become the pillars of support in making students achieve their educational dreams and turn them into reality.
