Do universities offer scholarships specifically for international students?

For an international student like me, what are the chances of finding scholarships offered specifically by universities? Are there general strategies or tips to increase my chances of receiving one?

Absolutely, a number of universities in the US do offer scholarships specifically for international students. It's important to research each individual institution, as offerings may vary. These scholarships can be need-based (financial need), merit-based (academic excellence), or a mix of both.

For instance, universities like Columbia and Harvard commit to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for all accepted students, including international students. Schools such as Illinois Wesleyan University and University of Oregon offer scholarships specifically intended for international students, typically based on merit.

To increase your chances of receiving one, these are some strategies:

1. Academic Excellence: Maintain high academic achievement. Merit-based scholarships often use factors like GPA and standardized test scores to determine eligibility.

2. Demonstrate Financial Need: If you're applying for need-based aid, make sure you submit all required financial documents accurately. Contact the financial aid office if you have any questions.

3. Leadership and Involvement: Involvement in extracurricular activities, community service, or demonstration of leadership skills can increase your chances—particularly for scholarships that consider personal characteristics in addition to or instead of academic achievement.

4. Apply Early: Some universities allocate scholarships on a rolling basis—the earlier you apply, the better your chances.

5. Tailor Your Application: When asked to provide essays or personal statements, ensure that these are tailored to reflect why you would be a great candidate for the scholarship. Refer back to the scholarship's selection criteria and make your case.

Remember, it's important to check the scholarship policies at each individual institution. Not all schools offer financial aid to international students, and at some schools, aid may be extremely competitive. It could be a smart strategy to diversify the types and selectivity levels of schools to which you're applying. Good luck!