Is it hard to get a scholarship in the US for international students?

I'm planning to study in the U.S. as an international student, but I'm unsure how competitive scholarships are. Are there any specific scholarships I should know about, or strategies for improving my chances?

There's no denying that securing a scholarship as an international student can be challenging, but it's certainly not impossible. There are quite a few scholarships available specifically for international students, such as the Fulbright Foreign Student Program and the Hubert H Humphrey Fellowship Program, which provide funding for students from all over the world.

Here are some strategies that could potentially enhance your chances:

1. Highlight your unique perspective: As an international student, you bring a unique perspective that can enrich the campus diversity. Make sure to highlight these unique experiences in your application or essay.

2. Show outstanding academic performance: Many scholarships require strong academic performance, so ensure your transcripts and standardized test scores are as high as possible.

3. Get involved in extracurricular activities: Participating in meaningful extracurricular activities can show colleges that you're not just academically diligent but also well-rounded. Ideally, these activities should be in line with your intended field of study or career to demonstrate your passion.

4. Write a compelling essay: Most scholarship applications require an essay. This is your chance to make yourself memorable. Stay away from cliché topics and strive to tell your unique story compellingly.

5. Start your research early: Scholarships can have varying deadlines, some quite early, and many require extensive application processes. The sooner you start searching, the less likely you'll miss a potentially perfect opportunity.

6. Apply for as many scholarships as you qualify for: This increases your chances of receiving at least one! Be careful, though, to avoid spreading yourself too thin and compromising the quality of your applications.

Remember, each scholarship has its own eligibility criteria and application process, so it's crucial to read the fine print and tailor your application accordingly.