University of San Diego Scholarships for International Students?

Hey guys, I'm considering applying to the University of San Diego as an international student. Does anyone know what scholarships they offer to international students, and what I should focus on during the application process?

Hello! Applying to colleges as an international student can certainly bring up many questions, and finding scholarship opportunities is a crucial part of the process.

Let's first talk about the scholarships. At the University of San Diego, international students are eligible to apply for several merit scholarships. Two key ones are the Alcalá Scholarship and the Presidential Scholarship. Academics are considered the primary factor for these scholarships, so a robust academic background is preferred.

The Alcalá Scholarship, a merit-based award, covers a portion of tuition fees and is renewable for up to four years given that you maintain good academic standing. The Presidential Scholarship is quite competitive and covers full tuition. It requires a separate application, and winners are chosen based on their academic achievement, leadership ability, and community involvement.

Make sure to spend time on your application to highlight your academic prowess, leadership experiences, and any other strengths that make you a well-rounded applicant.

Secondly, as for application strategies, focus on differentiating yourself. You're not just a student; you bring diverse cultural and personal experiences to the table—be sure to articulate that well in your essays. And remember, it's not just about your achievements; it's also about your journey, resilience, determination, and future aspirations.

Lastly, consider reaching out to the admissions office to express your interest and get any specific tips. Demonstrating your interest in the university could also be beneficial, especially since USD is one of the few selective universities that consider demonstrated interest in their application process.

Good luck with your application process! You're taking a big step and it's great that you're seeking guidance. With some focused effort, I'm sure you'll do great!