How to find the best scholarships for international students?

As an international student planning to study abroad, I'm trying to find the best scholarships offered by universities. It can be overwhelming with all the options out there. Can anyone recommend where to start or specific scholarships to look into?

Finding the best scholarships can indeed be a bit of a task, especially as an international student. The good news is there are many resources and options available that you can explore.

First and foremost, many universities and colleges in the U.S. offer scholarships specifically for international students. Check out the financial aid sections of the websites of the schools you're interested in. Some schools may award merit scholarships, where your academic or extracurricular achievements are considered. Others might offer need-based scholarships that take into account your financial situation.

Furthermore, do a thorough search on scholarship databases and websites. Appily, for instance, lists scholarships from various organizations and could be a good starting point. Also, Scholarship.com or International Student are some of the other sources where scholarships for international students are posted. Make sure you pay attention to the eligibility criteria. Some scholarships are available for all international students, while others might be specific to students from certain countries or those pursuing particular fields of study.

Next, don't forget to look into government-funded scholarships in both your home country and the country you're planning to study in. For instance, the U.S. government offers the Fulbright Foreign Student Program, which provides scholarships for international graduate students, young professionals, and artists to study, conduct research, or exercise their talents in the U.S.

Finally, consider scholarships offered by private organizations or companies. These can range from small, local businesses to multinational corporations. They may be based on a variety of factors, not just academics, such as community service, leadership, or personal essays.

Remember, applying for scholarships can be competitive, so it's crucial to start early and apply to as many as you meet the qualifications for. Make sure your application materials, like your essays and letters of recommendation, are in top shape to stand out. Best of luck!