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The cost of studying in the US can be one of the biggest concerns for students and parents planning an overseas degree. In fact, tuition is only one part of the budget. Accommodation, food, health insurance, books, travel and personal expenses can add up quickly.
For students finishing high school and exploring an undergraduate degree, the key is to look at scholarships at the same time as university options. As a result, this helps you build a realistic budget before you apply.
Can International Students Get Scholarships in the USA?
Yes. International Students can apply for scholarships and other forms of financial assistance at some US universities.
However, funding for International Students works differently from federal financial aid for US citizens and eligible permanent residents. Many scholarships are offered directly by universities, while others come from private organisations, foundations or government-related programmes.
The amount of funding also varies. Some awards reduce tuition by a set amount, while others can cover a larger part of the total cost of attendance.
Therefore, students should not assume that a university is affordable simply because it offers scholarships. Instead, check:
- Whether International Students are eligible
- Whether the scholarship is automatic or requires an application
- How much it covers
- Whether it can be renewed
- What costs remain after the award
Therefore, it is recommended to research university choices and funding well before the intended start date.
What Types of Scholarships Are Available for International Students in the USA?
In fact, there is no single type of scholarship. The most common options include university awards, merit scholarships and need-based financial assistance.
| Scholarship type | Usually based on | What it may cover |
|---|---|---|
| Merit scholarship | Academic performance or achievements | Part of tuition or a larger award |
| Need-based aid | Demonstrated financial need | Tuition and/or other education costs |
| University scholarship | University-specific criteria | Varies by institution |
| Talent-based scholarship | Arts, music or other talents | Varies |
| Athletic scholarship | Sporting achievement | Tuition and potentially other costs |
| External scholarship | Criteria set by an organisation | Varies |
Merit scholarships
Merit scholarships for International Students USA are often linked to academic results, achievements or particular skills. Some universities may also consider leadership, community involvement, artistic ability or sporting achievements.
For example, EducationUSA lists undergraduate scholarships where incoming International Students can receive renewable awards based on GPA and academic background.
Need-based financial aid
Financial aid for International Students USA can also be based on demonstrated financial need. This is different from a merit scholarship, which generally focuses on achievement.
However, not every university offers need-based aid to International Students. Therefore, students should check the university’s specific eligibility requirements before assuming they qualify.
University scholarships
University scholarships for International Students USA can be particularly important for undergraduate applicants. Indeed, universities set their own criteria, deadlines and award amounts.
For example, some awards are considered automatically when a student submits an admission application. In contrast, others require a separate scholarship application.
What Are Undergraduate Scholarships for International Students in USA Like?
Typically, students applying directly from high school will be looking for undergraduate scholarships USA for International Students.
Indeed, these can take several forms. For example, a university might offer an academic award to strong applicants, while another may have separate funding for International Students with particular talents or achievements.
Some scholarships are renewable, so students can continue receiving the award in later years if they meet specific conditions, such as maintaining a minimum academic performance.
It is also important to understand the difference between full tuition and full cost funding.
Therefore, always check the award details instead of relying on labels such as ‘full scholarship’.
How Much Can Scholarships in USA for International Students Cover?
Overall, there is no standard scholarship amount for International Students.
Some awards may provide a relatively small reduction in tuition, while others can provide substantial financial support. EducationUSA’s current financial-aid database includes a range of opportunities, from international merit awards to scholarships offering significant annual funding.
Therefore, when comparing scholarships, calculate the remaining annual cost rather than looking only at the scholarship value.
Consider:
- Tuition and mandatory fees
- Accommodation
- Food and meals
- Health insurance
- Books and supplies
- Student fees
- Flights and travel
- Personal expenses
For example, a $10,000 scholarship may sound substantial. However, its impact depends on the university’s total cost and what the award actually covers.
In addition, NAFSA recommends looking at the full cost of attendance, which can include tuition, fees, housing, food, books, travel and other living costs.
What Do You Need to Qualify for US Scholarships?
However, requirements depend on the scholarship.
For US scholarships for International Students, universities may consider:
- Academic results
- GPA or equivalent qualifications
- Leadership experience
- Extracurricular activities
- Community involvement
- Sports achievements
- Artistic or musical ability
- Personal statements
- Recommendation letters
- Financial circumstances
- English-language requirements, where applicable
Importantly, there is no single GPA that guarantees a scholarship.
Some awards focus heavily on academic performance, while others consider a broader student profile. So, read the eligibility requirements carefully before spending time on an application.
Where Can You Find Scholarships to Study in USA for International Students?
The best place to begin is often the university itself.
Check university websites
Look for sections such as:
- International admissions
- Scholarships
- Financial aid
- Undergraduate admissions
- International student funding
You should also check whether international applicants are automatically considered for an award or need to submit another application.
Search scholarship databases
EducationUSA provides a searchable database of financial-aid opportunities for International Students. For example, its listings include scholarships from universities and other organisations.
Look beyond the university
Private organisations, foundations, international agencies and some government bodies may also provide scholarships or grants. In addition, NAFSA identifies these as potential sources of funding for International Students.
Contact the university directly
Finally, if the information online is unclear, contact the university’s admissions or financial-aid office. NAFSA specifically recommends that International Students ask universities about available financial aid and applications.
How to Apply for Scholarships to Study in USA
Once you have shortlisted universities, work through the funding process alongside your university applications.
Research universities early.
Look at course options, entry requirements, total costs and available funding.
Check international eligibility.
Do not assume that a scholarship listed on a university website is open to non-US students.
Check the deadlines.
Typically, some scholarships have the same deadline as the university application. However, others have separate deadlines.
Prepare your documents.
For example, you may need academic transcripts, recommendations, essays and evidence of achievements.
Check automatic consideration.
Some universities assess students for certain scholarships using their admission application. In contrast, others require a separate form.
Compare the final cost.
Finally, work out how much you would still need to pay after the scholarship.
Overall, starting early matters. It is recommended to begin US university research around 12 to 18 months before the intended academic year.
How Can You Improve Your Chances of Receiving a Scholarship?
There is no guaranteed approach, but students can make their applications more competitive.
Build a strong academic profile
First, good academic results can help with merit-based awards. Keep your grades consistent and understand the academic requirements for your chosen universities.
Develop your wider profile
Some scholarships consider leadership, community involvement, sports, creative activities or other achievements. Instead, keep a record of meaningful activities rather than focusing only on collecting certificates.
Apply to a range of universities
Because scholarship policies vary widely, looking at several universities gives you more opportunities to find funding that matches your profile and budget.
Start early
In fact, scholarship deadlines can arrive before you expect. Starting early also gives you more time to prepare essays, recommendations and supporting documents.
Check the fine print
Finally, find out whether an award is renewable, what grades you need to maintain and which costs it covers.
Scholarship vs Financial Aid: What’s the Difference?
The terms are sometimes used interchangeably, but they can refer to different forms of funding.
| Scholarship | Financial aid | |
|---|---|---|
| Main purpose | Reduce education costs | Help meet education costs |
| Common basis | Merit, talent or achievement | Often financial need, depending on the programme |
| Repayment | Generally not required | Depends on the type |
| International eligibility | Depends on the award | Depends heavily on the university and programme |
However, for International Students, it is important to check exactly what a university means by ‘financial aid’. Funding available to US citizens may not be available to students studying on a nonimmigrant Visa.
What Should You Check Before Accepting a Scholarship?
However, receiving a scholarship is only the first step. Before accepting an offer, check the conditions attached to it.
Ask:
- Is the scholarship renewable?
- Do you need to maintain a particular GPA?
- Does it cover tuition only?
- Does it include accommodation or meals?
- Does it cover health insurance?
- Can it be combined with other awards?
- Does the amount remain the same each year?
- Does it continue if you change your course?
- Are there separate requirements for International Students?
Plan Your USA University Applications With AUG
Finding scholarships for International Students in the USA is only one part of planning an overseas degree. You also need to compare universities, courses, entry requirements, total costs and available funding.
Indeed, doing all of this alone can quickly become overwhelming, especially when every university has different requirements and deadlines.
AUG Student Services can help students explore US university options, understand available scholarships and plan their applications at no cost to students. From comparing options to preparing your application, getting support can save you the hassle of working through every requirement on your own.
If you are considering studying in the US, start by understanding which universities and funding options fit your academic profile, goals and budget. Contact AUG Student Services to get started.
