Ibrahim Gardner
International students often have to pay higher fees, and as such, many countries and institutions offer bursaries to help attract students from abroad. Canada, for example, is home to more than 500,000 international students and offers a range of scholarships, grants, and bursaries to international students. The University of Toronto, however, as a publicly funded institution, is unable to offer direct financial aid to international students. The availability of bursaries for international students varies depending on the country and institution, and each will have its own application criteria and requirements.
Can international students get bursaries?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Scholarships for international students in Canada | Offered by University Canada West (UCW) and the University of Toronto |
| Scholarship criteria | Leadership potential, academic merit, and financial need |
| Scholarship value | Varies, but typically does not cover full tuition fees |
| Bursary eligibility | Depends on the specific bursary, but some are available to international students |
| Loan options | Some lenders offer loans to international students in Canada |
| Government aid | The Canadian government offers limited financial aid to international students, and the Government of Canada requires proof of financial support before issuing a Study Permit |
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What You'll Learn
Scholarships and bursaries in your home country
Before exploring scholarship and bursary options in a foreign country, it is recommended to look for such opportunities in your home country. Scholarships are typically awarded based on academic merit or specific abilities, while bursaries are available for students who meet specific financial criteria. Organisations and companies in your home country may offer awards for students, especially international students.
Canada
Canada offers several financial aid options for international students, including scholarships and bursaries. Many schools in Canada offer scholarships for outstanding academic achievement, and some provide aid specifically for international students. You can explore scholarship and bursary options through organisations such as the International Council for Canadian Studies. Additionally, the Canadian government offers financial aid options like the Government of Canada International Scholarships and the Canada Student Loan program.
Australia
Australia has a range of scholarships, grants, and bursaries available to support international students financially during their studies. These opportunities are provided by various organisations, including the Australian Government, education providers, and other public and private organisations. The Research Training Program, for instance, provides block grants to eligible universities to support domestic and international students pursuing higher degrees by research. The Destination Australia Cheung Kong Exchange Program supports short-term mobility opportunities between Australia and select Asian countries.
United Kingdom
The UK is a popular destination for international students and offers scholarships, grants, and bursaries to support them. Universities in the UK offer scholarships and bursaries to attract international students and help with the costs of moving to another country. These may include academic, merit, and excellence scholarships, as well as music scholarships. Additionally, the UK has specific scholarships for refugees and asylum seekers, such as Equal Access or Sanctuary scholarships, which can include tuition fee reductions or maintenance awards.
United States
While international students are not eligible for funding intended for US nationals, the number of international scholarships in the US has grown. The Fulbright Foreign Student Program is a popular government-funded scholarship that supports graduate students, young professionals, and artists wishing to study in the US for one year or more. Other notable scholarships include the Hubert Humphrey Fellowship Program for experienced professionals, the #YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarship for intercultural learning, and the Civil Society Leadership Awards for master's-level students from eligible countries.
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Bursaries for financial need
International students can face challenges when financing their degrees and living costs. While scholarships are usually awarded based on academic achievement, bursaries are primarily awarded based on financial need. Here are some tips for finding and applying for bursaries as an international student:
Funding Sources
Funding for international undergraduate students can generally be split into two categories: those offered by universities themselves and those offered by third parties, such as governments or organisations in the student's home country. For example, the UK government runs a variety of scholarship programmes to financially support international students studying in the UK. The Global Wales programme also offers scholarship opportunities for international students. In Canada, Global Affairs Canada is responsible for the Canadian government's participation in international scholarship programmes.
Eligibility
Eligibility criteria for bursaries vary. While some bursaries are based purely on financial need, others may consider academic performance, the sector of study, and other factors. Some bursaries are only available to students with a particular immigration status, and eligibility often depends on this. It's important to check the eligibility criteria with the university or organisation offering the bursary.
Application Process
The application process for bursaries can be competitive, and it's beneficial to apply for multiple opportunities to increase your chances of success. Both scholarships and bursaries refer to an organisation covering your studies without having to repay the money. However, bursaries are typically awarded based on financial need, whereas scholarships are usually awarded based on academic achievement. When applying for a bursary, it's important to do your research and be aware of potential scams. Be cautious of suspicious URLs, excessive advertising, or requests for payment or personal information.
Additional Considerations
When applying for a bursary, consider what the funding covers (e.g., tuition, textbooks, accommodation, etc.) and whether there are any stipulations, such as working for the sponsor after completing your studies. Additionally, some bursary programmes may only consider applicants who are already actively studying at a particular institution.
Other Options
If you are unable to secure a bursary, there may be other options to consider. For example, some universities may waive application fees, and international students are usually allowed to work part-time to help finance their studies. Additionally, there may be opportunities for assistantships, fellowships, or merit-based scholarships that recognise special skills, talents, or abilities.
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Bursaries for academic merit
Bursaries are a great way to fund your education as an international student, and they are often awarded based on academic merit. Academic merit scholarships are usually awarded to students with a strong academic background, including those who have achieved strong grades in their school exams. Some scholarships may also be subject-specific, requiring students to showcase their interest, skills, and experience in a particular field.
In the UK, for example, there are several scholarship programmes offered by the government and universities to support international students financially. These include the GREAT Scholarships, Chevening Scholarships, and Commonwealth Scholarships. The eligibility criteria for these scholarships may vary, but they often require academic merit, such as achieving certain grades or demonstrating academic potential.
Similarly, in South Africa, bursaries are available for international students and are primarily funded by the government, private companies, and non-profit organisations. These bursaries aim to encourage diversity, build cultural exchange, and support the academic development of students. Academic excellence is a common criterion for these bursaries, and applicants may need to demonstrate high educational achievement and provide scores from specified exams.
When applying for bursaries, it is important to review the qualification requirements and the sponsoring institute's specific criteria. While some bursaries may focus solely on academic merit, others may also consider financial need, personal statements, letters of recommendation, and community service contributions. It is beneficial to showcase well-rounded achievements and a strong academic profile to increase your chances of securing a bursary.
Overall, bursaries for academic merit are a valuable opportunity for international students to pursue their educational goals and relieve financial burdens. By recognising outstanding academic performance and potential, these bursaries enable students to access quality education, enhance their credentials, and focus on their academic and personal growth.
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Bursaries for leadership potential
International students can face challenges when pursuing higher education in a new country, including the costs of immigration, accommodation, food, course materials, and tuition fees. Scholarships are the most common form of funding for international students, with bursaries and grants being less common. However, there are still bursary opportunities available for international students who demonstrate leadership potential.
The University of Winnipeg, for example, offers scholarships to international students who demonstrate exceptional leadership qualities and the potential to make a positive impact on their community and the world following their studies. Similarly, the Wu Chung Scholarships recognize the leadership potential of international students from Huadu, in the region of Guangzhou, and Hong Kong, China.
In the UK, while eligibility for scholarships, grants, and bursaries often depends on a student's immigration status, there are still opportunities for international students. For instance, music scholarships at some universities offer international students a £300 bursary for related costs like sheet music. Additionally, Equal Access or Sanctuary Scholarships are available for refugees and asylum seekers, which can include tuition fee waivers or maintenance awards.
International students from developing Commonwealth countries can also apply for Commonwealth Scholarships to study in the UK. These scholarships are typically awarded to postgraduate students and cover tuition, transport, and provide a monthly allowance. Furthermore, GREAT Scholarships offer students from certain countries scholarships towards their tuition fees for a range of one-year taught postgraduate courses.
Overall, while scholarships are more prevalent than bursaries for international students, there are still bursary opportunities available for those who demonstrate leadership potential and meet other eligibility criteria. It is important for international students to research the specific requirements and opportunities offered by their desired universities and countries of study.
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Loans for international students
International students often have to pay higher fees than domestic students, and may not be eligible for the same financial aid. However, there are some options for loans for international students.
Most loans for non-US citizens will require a US cosigner. This will improve your chances of getting approved and lower your interest rate. If a cosigner is required, they must be a US citizen or permanent resident with good credit who has lived in the US for the past 2 years. However, there are some no-cosigner loan options available for international students in the US, such as those offered by MPOWER Financing. MPOWER Financing offers fixed-rate loans from US$2,001 to US$100,000 at competitive interest rates. They also provide visa guidance support and scholarships. Ascent is another private loan provider for international students in the US. They offer credit-based loans to international undergraduate and graduate students.
The Canadian government offers some financial aid options for international students, including the Canada Student Loan program. There are also private loan options available for international students in Canada, such as MPOWER Financing. You can use a loan comparison tool to see which loans you may be eligible for and compare lenders.
Bursaries for International Students
Bursaries are available for students who meet specific financial criteria. There are bursaries available for international students in Canada, such as those offered by University Canada West (UCW). It is recommended that you also explore scholarship and bursary options offered by Canadian organisations such as the International Council for Canadian Studies.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, international students can get bursaries. Bursaries are available for students who meet specific financial criteria.
International students can find bursaries in their home country or the country they plan to study in.
The Canadian government offers financial aid options for international students, including Government of Canada International Scholarships and the Canada Student Loan program. Universities in Canada, such as University Canada West (UCW), also offer bursaries for international students.
It is recommended to start looking for bursaries early, as some may require acceptance into a higher education institution. Many bursaries require a personal statement, so it is important to prepare one in advance. It is also suggested to use online tools to search for scholarships and compare loan options.
International students at certain universities may only be entitled to receive one entrance bursary, and the value of the bursary may not cover the full cost of tuition and other expenses. Additionally, students must continue to meet certain requirements, such as maintaining good academic standing, to retain their bursaries.
