Financial aid for studying in the U.S.: What should I know?

I'm planning to study in the United States and need info about financial aid options. Are there specific grants or scholarships targeted at international students, or should I focus on general financial aid packages?

Financial aid for international students studying in the U.S. can sometimes be limited, but there are still numerous options to help minimize the cost of your education.

Let's start with Scholarships: There are indeed scholarships specifically dedicated to international students. Examples of these include the Rotary International Scholarships and the Fullbright Foreign Student Program. Many of these scholarships are merit-based, which means they reward students who have excelled academically, athletically, or in some other capacity.

Grants: Grants are typically need-based and they don't need to be repaid. A good example is the International Student Financial Aid Application (ISFAA) which some colleges use, so it's worth checking with your prospective college if they have this option.

Also, check whether your prospective school is need-blind for international students. Need-blind schools make admission decisions without considering the applicant's financial need. Only a handful of schools like MIT and Harvard offer need-blind admissions for international students.

Work-Study Programs: These allow students to work in campus jobs as part of their financial aid package. However, do check on work restrictions your student visa has because it can limit your employment options.

Fellowships & Assistantships: These are most common at the graduate level where students can either research or teach for a stipend.

Don't forget to use financial aid calculators to get a rough estimate of what you might be expected to pay before applying.

Remember, securing financial aid can be competitive, so applying early can increase your chances of receiving aid. It's always a good idea to apply for aid from multiple sources to maximize your chances.