California Scholarships for International Students?

I'm an international student looking to study in California. What scholarships are available specifically for international students, and where should I start my search?

Many scholarships and financial aid options are available for international students in California, but they are quite competitive. You might want to first confirm that the schools you're interested in offer aid to international students. Once you have a list, check for scholarships that different schools offer specifically for international students.

For instance, the University of Southern California (USC) offers the International Freshman Academic Scholarship to admitted students demonstrating superb academic achievement. Another example is the Regents' and Chancellor's Scholarship, considered the most prestigious scholarship offered to entering undergraduates at the University of California, Berkeley. It is awarded to a selective number of international students every year.

In addition to university-specific scholarships, there are also several external scholarships you can apply for. For example, the Fulbright Foreign Student Program enables graduate students, young professionals, and artists from abroad to study and conduct research in the United States. Another option is the Davis-Putter Scholarship Fund which supports international students who are actively working for social and economic justice.

The Institute of International Education (IIE) also maintains a comprehensive database of scholarships, fellowships, and grants for international students.

Remember that scholarship applications often require essays, references, and occasionally interviews, so starting your search as early as possible will give you enough time to prepare all the necessary materials. Good luck with your college and scholarship search!