International students – financing college
Being an international student adds another dimension to the process of applying for financial aid, as the avenues through which an international student will pursue and receive aid are often different than those domestic students use–and the competition for international aid is often greater.
Many colleges and universities are actively seeking to establish and/or maintain a significant international student presence on campus. As a result of their desire to improve or maintain a favorable demographic, these schools will offer international students better financial aid and scholarships in order to draw them to their school. The packages that schools offer to international students and domestic students are similarly constructed; many scholarships and grants are earmarked for specific categories of students. Perhaps surprisingly, competition for such aid and scholarships is fierce, as it is only available in a limited quantity. As an international student, applying for aid and scholarships early is one of the best ways to secure as much funding as possible.
The most deserving of the college applicants usually receive the largest financial packages. This often equates to the highest-achieving individuals among all applicants, meaning those students with the highest test and exam scores. The best academic record is the most important parameter in determining which international students receive the most aid.
As an international student, the best places to find funding for your college education are often at home. Many students rely on family and friends for a large percentage of support. Outside sources, such as corporations, government agencies, special foundations, or local businesses, often offer some type of funding or scholarships for students who want to study abroad.
Specific organizations also offer scholarships to international students in an effort to promote international education and cultural exchange. These organizations include the League of Red Cross Societies, the World Health Organization, the World Council of Churches, and the United Nations.
In the United States, federal financial aid is only available for U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens. This kind of aid generally includes federal grants and loans (such as Stafford, Perkins and PLUS). Eligible non-citizens include U.S. nationals, U.S. permanent residents with a Permanent Resident Card, or people with an Arrival-Departure Card from USCIS with one of the following designations:
- Refugee
- Asylum granted
- Cuban-Haitian Entrant, Status Pending
- Conditional Entrant, issued before 4/1/80
- Victim of human trafficking
- Parolee (with specific guidelines)
- People with a Notice of Approval to Apply for Permanent Residence, with student visas, or with exchange visitor visas are not eligible for federal student financial aid in the United States.
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