International Students: Free Room And Board Options?

International students often face challenges when it comes to financing their education, especially in countries like the United States, where higher education can be expensive. The cost of tuition, room and board, textbooks, health insurance, student visas, and transportation can quickly add up. While international students are generally not eligible for federal financial aid in the US, there are alternative financing options available, such as scholarships, grants, and loans. Some universities in the US guarantee first-year international students accommodation on campus, which can be a convenient and affordable option. Additionally, universities may offer resources and guidance to help international students find suitable housing, whether it's on-campus dorms, off-campus apartments, or homestay arrangements. Exploring these options and seeking financial assistance from various organizations can help international students pursue their educational goals without shouldering the full financial burden.

Characteristics and Values

International students are not eligible for federal financial aid in the US

Firstly, you can look into grants and scholarships. While your US host university may not waive tuition fees, both private and public institutions may waive application fees. You can also explore international scholarships and grants from your home country. Some countries have financial aid programs for citizens studying abroad, and non-profit organisations may offer scholarships.

Secondly, you can consider taking out a loan. While you are not eligible for US federal loans, there are international student loans available from private organisations and institutions. Many of these loans require a cosigner, which can help you qualify for lower interest rates. Nomad Credit is a useful tool for finding international student loan options.

Thirdly, you can look into homestay programs, which can provide affordable accommodation and meals. Homestay companies act as a liaison between host families and international students, offering accommodation and the chance to connect with a local family. This option can also help you save on food costs, as some host families provide meals as part of a half board or full board arrangement.

Finally, you can explore campus accommodation, which often comes with meal plans included in the cost. Staying in halls of residence can be a convenient and social option, encouraging students to get involved with campus activities and groups.

It is important to be aware of potential scams when seeking accommodation as an international student. Always ensure that the business or landlord is credible and that the property is in a good area for students. Your chosen university should be able to assist with recommendations and advice on legal matters.

Grants, scholarships, and loans are available for international students

While it is uncommon for US institutions to offer financial aid to international undergraduate students, there are still grants, scholarships, and loans available for those wishing to study in the country.

Scholarships

There are scholarships available for international students in the US, but they are often reserved for graduate study and are highly competitive. Some scholarships are merit-based, granted on the basis of special skills, talents, or abilities. For example, your university may offer scholarships based on TOEFL scores, academic record, artistic ability, musical ability, or athletic ability.

There are also scholarships specifically for women. The American Association of University Women offers fellowships for non-American women pursuing a Master's or doctorate in the USA. Priority is given to women committed to the advancement of women and girls. The P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship also awards scholarships to women from other countries earning their graduate degrees in the USA.

The Civil Society Leadership Awards offer full scholarships for Master's students from specific countries dedicated to fostering social change.

The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship provides scholarships for students from select developing countries with no other source of financial help for graduate studies. The scholarship is 50% grant and 50% loan.

There are also scholarships for students from specific countries. Conacyt provides scholarships for Mexican students pursuing postgraduate studies in institutions abroad, while ColFuturo does the same for Colombian students.

The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program provides comprehensive financial coverage for students from developing countries who have supported their home country's development and are applying for a development-related Master's program.

Grants

The US Department of Labor sponsors a searchable database of scholarships, fellowships, grants, and other financial aid opportunities called Scholarship Finder.

Loans

While it is rare, there are international student loans available to individuals who meet certain criteria. Many loans require a cosigner—someone who guarantees and is responsible for payments if the borrower is unable to pay back the loan. Many private organizations and institutions provide loans to international students, often targeted at students from specific regions or countries.

MPOWER Financing offers scholarships and loans for international and DACA students.

Other Options

Some public and private universities offer financial incentives for students to attend their institution, such as waiving application fees. Shorelight universities offer discounted prices for international students on short-stay housing options.

You can also discuss available housing options with your university, as they may be able to offer on-campus accommodation or direct you to other options close to campus.

Host families can be paid to house international students

International students are not eligible for federal financial aid in the US, and minimal scholarship aid is available to them. While US institutions rarely offer discounts on tuition, there are other ways international students can save money on their education. For example, both private and public institutions may waive application fees, and grants, scholarships, and loans are also available.

There are also some financial responsibilities associated with being a host family. Host families are expected to cover the costs of room and board, which can include the cost of food if the host family offers meals. However, the student's natural parents will usually pay for travel costs, program fees, health insurance, and a monthly spending allowance for their child.

The period required to host an international student can vary, typically ranging from four to ten weeks. Some organizations, such as AYUSA, specialize in facilitating these arrangements and can provide more specific information on the financial aspects of hosting an international student.

Universities can guarantee accommodation for first-year international students

While it is not common for international students to get free room and board, universities can guarantee accommodation for first-year international students. This is usually on-campus housing, which is convenient for students as they can be close to classes and participate in the school's community. On-campus housing is usually within walking distance of the school and has access to most of the resources students need. This includes amenities such as Wi-Fi, laundry, game rooms, study lounges, gyms, and in some cases, volleyball and basketball courts.

On-campus housing can also be a great way for first-year international students to meet friends and connect with other students. Many halls of residence organize social events to bring everyone together regularly, as well as the more casual interactions that come from cooking in a communal kitchen, hanging out in shared leisure spaces, or simply bumping into people.

However, on-campus housing can be limited and is not guaranteed at all universities, so it is important for students to submit their applications early. Students can also consider off-campus housing, which gives them more freedom and less structure than a dorm. Off-campus apartments are usually further away from other aspects of university life but can be a great way to be more immersed in the city or town where the university is based.

There are a variety of options for international student accommodation, and it is common for universities to offer help and support in finding accommodation, especially for first-year students who may be living on their own for the first time.

Private renting can be difficult for international students

Secondly, international students may face challenges due to a lack of knowledge about their rights and the local rental market. They may be unsure of what to expect in terms of accommodation standards, rental prices, and their rights as tenants, leaving them vulnerable to unfair treatment or exploitation. For example, some students may worry about eviction or rent increases if they assert their rights with their landlord. This lack of knowledge can also extend to the legal requirements for renting, such as the need for a guarantor or the ability to pay rent upfront, which can put international students at a disadvantage compared to local students.

Additionally, international students often rely on employment to supplement their income and pay rent. However, finding a job can be difficult and may take several months. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated this issue, as many international students lost their jobs and received no support from the government. As a result, some students struggled to pay their rent and faced an increased risk of eviction or other negative consequences.

Furthermore, cultural and language barriers can also pose challenges for international students when privately renting. Communicating with landlords, understanding contracts, and navigating the legal system can be difficult for students who are not fluent in the local language. These barriers can make it hard for students to advocate for themselves or resolve disputes with landlords or other tenants.

To address these difficulties, it is important for education providers and governments to increase the availability of student accommodation and provide comprehensive information and support to international students regarding their housing options and rights. By doing so, international students can make more informed decisions about their living arrangements and feel more secure in their choice of accommodation.

Frequently asked questions