College Funding for International Students

Essential Tips for International Students Funding Their Studies in the USA

Every year, over 1 million international students embark on their academic journeys in the United States. If you’re a prospective student, you might be wondering how so many manage to afford the steep costs associated with U.S. colleges. While scholarships can ease the financial burden, not everyone is fortunate enough to receive a full ride. In fact, even a small shortfall in funding can jeopardize your F1 visa application, as many institutions require proof of financial resources before issuing an I-20 form. So, how can you boost your chances of securing significant scholarships and affording your stay in the U.S.? Here are a few essential strategies:

1.Start Preparing Early

If you’re thinking about attending college in the U.S., don’t wait until you receive your national exam results or your grad school acceptance letter to begin preparing. The earlier you start building your profile, the better your chances of standing out among a pool of equally bright candidates. Engage in extracurricular activities that enrich your personal story and showcase your interests beyond academics. For example, if you’re an undergraduate student in Africa aiming for a STEM master’s program, consider taking advanced courses related to your desired field, even if they’re outside your major. One colleague took engineering classes while majoring in finance, ultimately securing admission to both Stanford Graduate School of Business and its Engineering School for a joint degree.
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2.Save, Save, Save

Begin saving at least 24 months prior to your enrollment. This preparation can help you manage the incidental expenses associated with applying to U.S. universities, such as test preparation costs, academic credential verification, and other fees that can add up quickly. If you’re coming from a country with lower average wages, these expenses can pose significant hurdles.

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‍3.Network, Network, Network

Connect with current and former international students at your prospective colleges. They can provide invaluable insights about the university experience that you won’t find on official websites. Learn about job opportunities on campus, faculty members to approach, and potential scholarships. Don’t limit your networking to international students—engaging with U.S. citizens can also offer helpful perspectives on campus culture and life in the U.S. This early networking can help you determine if a particular college is the right fit for you.
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4. Explore Funding Opportunities

Beyond scholarships, many organizations can help finance your education in the U.S. As you build your network, keep an ear out for these resources. Remember, information is your greatest asset when navigating funding options.

A common question I receive from prospective international students is about finding scholarships. Unlike in some European countries where scholarships may be secured prior to admission, U.S. universities often award scholarships after you’ve been accepted. Once you’re in, you can access various scholarship resources, and some schools even offer their own student loan programs.
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Ultimately, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to funding your studies as an international student.

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Conclusion

No matter what, maintain the networks you build during this process. They will be invaluable not only in helping you navigate life in the U.S. as a student but also in building your career after your studies.
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About the Author‍

Tav graduated from a Boston-area business school and has a passion for helping international students navigate their academic journeys in the U.S. This article is a reflection of his personal experiences and insights and should not be considered professional advice.

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