Advice on seeking international scholarships as a student?

I'm actively seeking international scholarships to help fund my studies. What are some effective strategies for searching and applying for scholarships that accept international students? I'd love any insight from those who've been through the process.

Searching and applying for international scholarships can be a laborious yet promising pursuit. Here are some strategies that you could adopt:

1. Start Early: The earlier you begin your scholarship search, the better. Many scholarships have deadlines far in advance of university attendance, and the application process can be lengthy, requiring essays, recommendations, and sometimes interviews. By starting early, you give yourself time to thoroughly research your options, gather all necessary documents, and present your best self in your applications.

2. Utilize Online Scholarship Platforms: There are various comprehensive online databases you could use to look for scholarships, such as Appily and the International Scholarship Search. These databases often allow you to filter scholarships by eligibility, discipline, degree level, etc. Be sure to create an account if needed and regularly check these platforms to get timely updates.

3. Check University Financial Aid Pages: Many universities offer scholarships specifically for international students, so be sure to check the respective university's scholarship page. Universities may have a range of scholarship opportunities that you won't find on national databases.

4. Understand Each Scholarship Requirements: Each scholarship will have its own set of criteria and application process. Some require a certain academic achievement level, while others may prioritize extracurricular involvement or require specific essays on given topics. Make sure you fit the criteria before spending your time applying.

5. Exhaust All Your Options: Don't limit yourself to scholarships for international students only. If you're eligible for a 'local' scholarship, apply for it. The more scholarships you apply to, the higher your chances of winning one.

6. Craft a compelling application: Scholarship applications often require a personal essay. This is your chance to stand out - tell your unique story, and elaborate on your future goals and how the scholarship will make a difference in achieving them. Don't forget to have your essays proofread before submission.

Remember, scholarship applications often come with many rejections, but don't let that discourage you! It’s part of the process. Good luck in your search!