I'm an international student planning to apply for undergraduate studies in the USA. Can anyone share tips on finding scholarships that are open to international students? Are there specific schools or funding organizations I should target?
One of the best ways to find scholarships as an international student is to start at the university or college level. Some colleges are more generous toward international students than others. Universities such as Duke University, Amherst College, Dartmouth College, and University of Southern California, for instance, are known for offering substantial financial aid packages to international students.
In addition to school-specific scholarships, completing a profiles on scholarship search platforms (like Appily) can be beneficial. They curate a database of scholarships and can help match you with those applicable as an international student.
There might also be organizations in your own home country that offer scholarships for students studying in the U.S. These could be administered by the government, local businesses, or non-profit entities. It'll be a good idea to research these and contact any relevant organization to inquire about eligibility and application process.
Lastly, check out the Institute of International Education's Funding for US Study website. It features an extensive database of scholarships, fellowships, and grants for international students.
Remember, scholarships can be competitive, so apply to as many as you qualify for and ensure your application stands out by paying attention to the requirements and guidelines of each scholarship.
For example, if an application requires an essay, take the time to craft a thoughtful, well-written response. Many scholarships are looking not just for students with good academic records, but also students who can contribute to their community or have demonstrated leadership skills. If you've held leadership roles or done any volunteer work, be sure to mention those in your applications. Having examples will make your application stronger and more memorable.
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