How to secure a scholarship for studying in the USA?

I'm really interested in studying in the USA but need a scholarship to make it feasible. What are some effective strategies for securing a scholarship? Are there specific ones that are highly recommended?

Getting a scholarship to study in the USA can be a competitive process, but with a strategic approach, you can increase your chances. Here are a few steps to consider:

1. Start Early: Scholarships often have deadlines that may be a year or more prior to the start date of your study. It's never too early to start looking for scholarships that fit your needs and preparing your application.

2. Research Thoroughly: Spend time researching the types of scholarships available. These may be merit-based scholarships, which are based on academic achievements; need-based scholarships, which are offered to students who demonstrate financial need; or scholarships for specific fields of study or groups of students, such as international students or students of a certain ethnic background. Resources like Appily and the U.S. Department of Labor's Scholarship Finder can help in your research.

3. Choose the Right School: Some universities in the U.S. are known for being generous with scholarships for international students. Make sure to check the financial aid page of the universities you're interested in to see what kinds of scholarships they offer and what the eligibility criteria are.

4. Excel Academically: Merit-based scholarships are often very competitive, so you'll need to have strong grades and, in some cases, standardized test scores. It’s also helpful to have strong extracurricular activities - quality, not quantity is key, especially if they can demonstrate a "spike", or an area where you excel. Look for scholarships that align with your strengths.

5. Excellent Application Materials: Your scholarship application should be well-written and free of grammatical errors. Focus on your unique qualities, experiences, and goals. A well-crafted personal statement can make a world of difference.

6. Apply to Many Scholarships: The more scholarships you apply for, the greater your chances of winning one. Just make sure you meet the eligibility requirements and can tailor your application to each scholarship.

7. Consult with a counselor: Whether it’s a college counselor at your school or a private counselor, these individuals come equipped with requisite experience and knowledge to guide you through the scholarship application process.

One highly recommended scholarship for international students is the Fulbright Foreign Student Program, but keep in mind it's strictly for postgraduate studies. This program provides grants for international students who want to pursue a Master's or Ph.D. degree in the United States. Note that the application process, requirements, and deadlines depend on your country of origin.

Good luck! With patience, perseverance and a well-planned strategy, obtaining a scholarship is indeed feasible.