I'm an international student looking to study in the US and I'm curious about grant opportunities. Are there any specific grants that I should be aware of? Any guidance would be appreciated!
The prospects of winning grants (which, similar to scholarships, don't need to be repaid under most circumstances) for international students studying in the U.S. can be somewhat limited because quite a few assistance programs and aid offered by the federal and state governments are restricted to U.S. citizens or permanent residents. However, opportunities still exist.
One notable option is the Fulbright Foreign Student Program, administered by binational Fulbright Commissions/Foundations or U.S. Embassies around the world. The program provides grants for international students for a range of postgraduate study fields (though note that every country/region has different eligibility requirements and program specifications).
Another option is the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme, which provides scholarships and loans to postgraduate students from developing countries who have no other means of financing their education.
Private colleges and universities often offer merit-based scholarships, which international students are eligible for. For example, Columbia University’s Global Centers Fellowship provides funding for projects in several disciplines.
There are also specific grants for students from certain regions. For instance, students from Australia might consider the Australian Federation of University Women (AFUW) Fellowships and Grants or the Flinders International Postgraduate Research Scholarships.
While grant opportunities can be challenging to find and secure, it’s important to explore all possible resources, including financial aid from the institutions themselves, resources in your home country, and international non-governmental organizations. Remember to apply early since many of these grant programs can be competitive and have deadlines.
In addition, some prospective international students overlook the possibility of attending a community college first and then transferring to a four-year school. This route can provide more affordable access to high-quality education in the U.S.
Remember that while grants and scholarships can significantly aid in financing your education, you should also consider work-study opportunities, part-time jobs, and potentially taking out loans, depending on your circumstances. Always discuss financial aid and funding opportunities with your school’s financial aid office or a trusted counselor.
Good luck with your search!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.