Navigating Academic Scholarships for International Students

I want to balance academics with financial needs as an international student. What are some academic scholarships out there, and how do I demonstrate my achievements to stand out in applications?

Navigating academic scholarships for international students can be tricky, but the good news is that many universities provide merit-based scholarships tailored to international students. Typically, these scholarships might be automatically awarded based on the strength of your application, including GPA, SAT/ACT scores, and your extracurriculars. A few examples include Boston University's Trustee Scholarship and the International Merit Scholarship at Iowa State.

The key to standing out during such applications is to spotlight your academic achievements and correspondingly, your potential to contribute greatly to the university community. Here's how you can accomplish this:

1. High Grades and Test Scores: The first thing most scholarship committees look at are your grades and standardized test scores. A high GPA, a robust course rigor with AP or IB courses, and solid SAT or ACT scores (if required by the school) are all essential.

However, keep words from the CollegeBoard in mind: as of the 2024-2025 application cycle, a number of schools, including but not limited to UC Berkeley, UC Davis, UC Irvine, UCLA, UC Merced, UC Riverside, UC San Diego, UC Santa Barbara, and UC Santa Cruz, along with CSU Bakersfield, CSU Channel Islands, CSU Chico, CSU Dominguez Hills, CSU East Bay, CSU Fullerton, CSU Long Beach, CSU Monterey Bay, CSU Northridge, CSU San Bernardino, CSU San Marcos, Cal Maritime, Cal Poly Humboldt, Cal Poly Pomona, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, Cal State LA, Fresno State, Sacramento State, San Diego State, San Francisco State, San Jose State, Sonoma State, and Stanislaus State, have become test-blind and won't look at SAT or ACT scores. Other programs like the ones at Harvard, Brown, Yale, Dartmouth and Purdue require test scores.

2. Demonstrated Excellence: To appear as a compelling candidate, you should illustrate a strong track record in your preferred academic field. Whether it's winning a national or international academic competition, publishing research, or starting a club related to your field of interest, these accomplishments underscore your academic proficiency.

3. Strong Letters of Recommendation: A strong recommendation letter from a teacher or counselor who knows you well can shed light on your academic performance and personal character, and can strongly sway the decision in your favor.

4. Well-crafted Essays: Essays are your shot to stand out as an individual. Make sure you are answering the prompt accurately while also showcasing your personality and potential. Try to bring in your academic interest and tie it back to your extracurricular involvement or future goals.

5. Involvement in Related Extracurricular Activities: Participating in clubs, competitions, or organizations related to your academic interest not only reinforces your dedication but also shows a continuing engagement with your field outside the classroom.

Remember, start your search early and make sure to check each school's application process and deadlines. Good luck with your applications!