Securing scholarships to study in the USA

As an international student, I'm looking at studying in the USA, but I'm unsure how to find scholarships to help with the costs. What resources or tips can anyone share to help me in my scholarship search?

Understand that as an international student seeking scholarships for studying in the U.S., the process can seem daunting. Don't worry – several resources and strategies can help you in your quest for financial aid.

First and foremost, start your search early. Many scholarships have application periods well before the academic year begins, and finding scholarships can take time.

Next, each university or college you're applying to is a potential source of scholarships. Check out their international students' services website or contact their financial aid office to inquire about scholarships for international students. Some schools have generous financial aid policies for international students.

In addition to universities, there are a plethora of external scholarships that are open to international students. Organizations, foundations, and even the U.S. government sometimes offer scholarships. Good places to start your search include the EducationUSA website, which is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and provides a large database of scholarships that are open to international students studying in the USA.

Also, Appily (formerly Cappex) is a good tool for finding scholarships. You can filter your search by your student status (e.g., international student) to find scholarships you're eligible for.

Then, don't forget about your own country. Sometimes, local organizations, the government, or even U.S.-based companies operating in your country offer scholarships to students seeking an education abroad.

One thing to understand is that scholarships often have specific eligibility criteria. Some could be based on your academic record, others might be for a particular field of study or other factors such as personal characteristics or background. So always ensure you fit the eligibility criteria before applying.

Finally, put effort into your scholarship applications. This could mean spending time on essays, gathering recommendation letters, and assembling a strong application.

It's certainly a process, but with diligent research, and careful preparation of your applications, you have legitimate possibilities to secure some scholarships to help offset the costs of studying in the USA. Good luck!