I'm an international student trying to figure out my funding options for studying in the USA. Can someone break down the different types of scholarships that might be available for international students? Any advice on where I should start?
When it comes to scholarships for international students in the US, there are generally four categories:
1. Need-based scholarships: Some schools offer need-based scholarships specifically for international students, based on the financial need of the student's family.
2. Merit-based scholarships: These are awarded based on a student's academic or extracurricular achievements. Some universities have general merit scholarships that international students are eligible for, while others have specific scholarships aimed at international students.
3. Subject-specific scholarships: These are awarded to students who plan to study in a particular field. These could be offered by the university's specific departments or external companies and organizations interested in supporting students in that discipline.
4. Country-specific scholarships: Some scholarships are specifically designated for students from certain countries. This could be because of strategic alliances, cultural exchange programs, or historical ties between certain countries and the United States.
Remember, many scholarships can be very competitive, so you will want to prepare a strong application. This usually involves highlighting your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and any notable experiences that might make you stand out from other applicants.
You will want to start your scholarship search by looking at the financial aid pages of the universities you're applying to, where you'll often find information about what scholarships are available and how to apply. Then expand your search to external scholarship databases like Fastweb or Appily.
Keep an eye out for the deadlines - scholarship applications can often be due before you would normally apply to the university. Lastly, be wary of scams. Legitimate scholarships never require you to pay a fee to apply.
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