International Undergrad Students and Merit Scholarships in USA

As an international student aiming to do my undergrad in the USA, I'm trying to figure out what merit scholarships I could apply for. Do all universities offer them equally, or are some more generous? Any tips for researching and applying would be super helpful!

Salutations! It's great that you're looking into merit scholarships to finance your education. Essentially, merit scholarships do vary by institution. Some schools might offer a generous portfolio of scholarships while others might be limited. The challenge lies in diligent research and finding out what scholarships are available to international students specifically, and what the application process entails.

To start, make sure to check the university's financial aid and scholarship webpage. Many universities have details of their scholarship options, including those available to international students, outlined clearly. In terms of general advice, look for universities that are known for being generous towards international students. Schools like Harvard, for example, can meet 100% of shown financial needs for all admitted students, including international ones.

Researching university-specific scholarships is only one avenue, though. There are also many external scholarships open to international students. Consider looking at resources like the Appily scholarship database, or reaching out to your local U.S. embassy or consulate, as they sometimes have information about U.S.-based scholarships for international students.

In considering application tips, maintaining a strong academic profile is crucial for merit scholarships. Being involved in extracurricular activities and demonstrating leadership also strengthens your application. For some scholarships, you may need to write essays or provide references, so it's important to build your writing skills and maintain good relationships with mentors or teachers who could potentially write these for you.

I hope this provides a good start to your scholarship research! Though it can be a time-consuming process, remember, every piece of funding you secure is one step closer to making your dream of studying in the U.S. a reality. Good luck!