Are international students eligible for university scholarships and stipends?

I'm an international student trying to figure out my college finance options. Can international students apply for scholarships and stipends at U.S. universities, or are we often left out of those opportunities?

Yes, international students can definitely apply for scholarships and stipends at U.S. universities. However, the available opportunities may vary depending on the university and the specifics of each scholarship or stipend program.

In general, many universities offer scholarships that are specifically for international students. These scholarships can be merit-based, demonstrating strong academic or extracurricular achievements, or need-based, proving financial hardship.

However, some scholarships might only be available for U.S. citizens or permanent residents, so you'll want to carefully review the eligibility criteria for any scholarships you're considering. More specifically, federal student aid (such as Pell Grants and direct loans) are generally only available to U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens (which does not typically include international students on F-1, J-1, or M-1 visas). But don't be discouraged, as there are quite a few universities and organizations that offer scholarships targeted specifically at international students.

Stipends, which are usually associated with research or teaching assistantships, are also generally available to international students, especially at the graduate level. However, work-study programs, which provide part-time jobs to students with financial need, are usually not available to international students since they are federally funded.

The key is to start your search early, be thorough, and apply to as many scholarships as you're eligible for. Don't be afraid to reach out to the financial aid offices at the universities you're applying to for more information. They can help guide you to applicable scholarships or other types of financial aid. Also, remember to consider options outside of the universities themselves. There are numerous organizations that offer scholarships for international students studying in the U.S. Good luck in your search!