Pursuing Full Scholarships at U.S. Universities?

Are there full scholarships available for international students at universities in the USA? I'm hoping to study computer science or engineering. Any tips on where to apply or success stories would be super helpful!

There are indeed full scholarships available for international students at universities within the United States. Many universities offer scholarships specifically for international students, and some schools are known for their generous financial aid to international students.

Universities such as MIT, Stanford, and Harvard are known to provide need-blind admission to international students, which means your ability to pay does not affect their admission decision. If you're accepted, these schools will provide you with a financial aid package that meets 100% of your demonstrated need.

Similarly, many other universities are need-aware for international students, meaning the ability to pay could factor into their admissions decision, but they will meet 100% of demonstrated need if admitted. This includes schools like Cornell University, Dartmouth College, and Duke University.

There is also the option of merit-based scholarships. These are often given to students with outstanding academic records, leadership potential, or other special talents. Schools like the University of Southern California (USC) and Vanderbilt University offer full-tuition scholarships to a small number of highly accomplished students.

Remember, though, competition for these awards can be fierce, so it's beneficial to start the process early and submit impeccable applications. Strong grades, high standardized test scores (where required), compelling essays, and positive letters of recommendation can greatly aid your chances.

While applying, make sure to also explore external scholarship options that aren't tied to a specific university. Websites such as Appily allow students to search and apply for scholarships based on their specific circumstances, including for international students.

Lastly, for applying to scholarships successfully, one way is to showcase your unique strength or "spike"—a highly developed specialty. Say, for example, if you have a passion for AI and have won at a recognized coding competition or published a research paper in the field, those can significantly strengthen your application. Also, communicate how you will contribute to the university's community and mission—colleges are often looking to build a diverse student body and appreciate students who can bring unique experiences or perspectives.

Congrats on taking this step towards your academic goals!