International Students: Free Ride To Us Universities

International students hoping to attend a US university often face high costs, with tuition fees and living expenses to cover. While the US government generally does not provide funding for international students, there are other ways to attend a US university for free. International students can apply for financial aid, which can come in the form of need-based or merit-based awards. Need-based financial aid is awarded according to the financial situation of the student, while merit-based scholarships are often academically focused.

Merit-based scholarships

While the US government generally does not provide funding for international students, there are other ways to attend a US university for free. One way is to apply for merit-based scholarships offered by universities, non-governmental organisations, or the US government.

• Colby-Sawyer College offers merit-based financial aid to international students, with the scholarship value increasing based on academic ability (measured in GPA) of up to $8,000 per year.
• Concordia College offers International Student Merit Scholarships based on academic ability and family need, ranging from $11,000 to $17,000 per year.
• Emory College offers partial to full merit-based scholarships through the Emory University Scholars Program.
• Illinois Wesleyan University offers merit-based scholarships to international applicants with outstanding academic achievement and test scores. These awards range from $16,000 to $30,000 per year and are renewable for up to four years.
• Iowa State University offers International Merit Scholarships to incoming international students based on a holistic review of SAT or ACT scores and high school marks/grades. The awards range from $2,000 to $10,000 per year and are renewable.
• New York University Wagner Scholarships are merit-based scholarships offered to a limited number of admitted students, including international students. The scholarships are partial to full-tuition scholarships ranging from $25,000 to $47,000.
• Oregon University awards more than $2.5 million in financial aid and scholarships to international students at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Their ICSP Scholarship awards tuition-waiver scholarships ranging from partial to full tuition for up to 15 credits per term each year, based on financial need, academic merit, and presentation skills.
• Wesleyan University offers the Freeman Asian Scholars Program, providing full-tuition scholarships for a four-year course of study toward a bachelor's degree for 11 exceptionally able Asian students.
• University of the West offers scholarships to new international students who achieve high academic standards and demonstrate financial need. For incoming students, the scholarship ranges from $6,000 to $10,000 per year.
• The University of Arizona Tucson offers the Wildcat Award, a merit-based scholarship for on-campus, online, and hybrid mode of learning students.
• Arizona State University offers the New American University (NAMU) Scholarship to undergraduate students with high academic excellence.
• Virginia Commonwealth University offers merit-based scholarships during the fall semester that cover in-state costs only.
• Colorado State University offers merit-based scholarships for international freshmen seeking admission for the spring or fall semester.
• San Jose State University offers the Global Spartan Scholarship to applicants with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher.
• California Baptist University offers the Ambassador's Scholarship to incoming freshmen with a GPA of 3.5 or higher.
• Kent State University offers college-wise scholarships available for international students.
• Lipscomb University provides scholarships for first-time freshmen or transfer students with high academic excellence.
• Western Washington University offers merit-based scholarships for international freshmen and transfer students.
• Many other universities in the US offer merit-based scholarships for international students, so be sure to check the specific universities you are interested in for more information.

Need-based financial aid

International students are not eligible to complete the FAFSA form (a form used to apply for federal loans) but they are eligible to apply to universities' financial aid programs or they can fill out an ISAFA form, which many universities use to determine how much financial aid a student is entitled to.

Harvard University, Massachusetts

Harvard College has awarded almost $2.9 billion in financial aid to its students since 2005. Families with annual incomes of $85,000 or less are not required to contribute anything towards the cost of a Harvard education. Students usually pay an average of $13,000 per year towards their degree, once they have received their financial aid. International students can receive the same amount of financial aid as US students.

Yale University, Connecticut

Yale offers financial aid based on demonstrated financial need. Families with a total gross income of less than $75,000 are not expected to contribute financially to their child's education. The average need-based scholarship for the 2021-22 academic year was $60,820. On average, students pay approximately $13,000 towards their degree. Financial aid is offered to students regardless of their citizenship.

Princeton University, New Jersey

Princeton offers financial aid for all students, including international students. The average grant varies based on gross family income. For example, for families with incomes of less than $65,000, the average grant is $77,240, covering full tuition, room, and board. As the income bracket increases, the average grant amount adjusts accordingly, with higher-income families receiving a smaller percentage of aid.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Massachusetts

MIT offers financial aid for undergraduate and postgraduate students. Students with a family income under $140,000 can apply for financial aid from the university, with the aim of covering the full price of an MIT education.

Dartmouth College, New Hampshire

Dartmouth has no income cut-off point when calculating financial aid for prospective students. Families with a total annual income below $65,000 will have a zero-parent contribution expectation. Additionally, starting with the class of 2026, families making under $125,000 will receive scholarships covering at least the cost of tuition. Dartmouth provides scholarships to 50% of its students.

Amherst College, Massachusetts

Amherst offers financial aid for international and domestic students. The college provides expanded eligibility for application fee waivers, including options for all first-generation applicants and applicants from families with household incomes below $65,000. Students can use the financial aid calculators to get an idea of what their financial aid award may look like.

Carleton College, Minnesota

Carleton offers a comprehensive financial aid program to support students from various socioeconomic backgrounds. The average financial aid package awarded in 2022 was $53,000 per year. 52% of students received need-based grants and scholarships in 2022. Financial aid covers most student expenses, including tuition, housing, food, student activity fees, and other college-related costs.

Rice University, Texas

Rice offers a financial aid package to incoming first-year students. The average financial aid package in 2023 was $57,000. The average cost of attending Rice University per year is $78,278. Health insurance coverage is also mandatory for all enrolled students, and international students will be charged $395 for Undergraduate International Orientation.

University of Miami, Florida

The University of Miami calculates financial aid individually for each student based on their household financial situation. The average financial aid package is $46,000 per year. Students can estimate their costs with the net price calculator. The university aims to provide financial aid to all international students that are accepted.

Washington and Lee University, Virginia

Washington and Lee work to meet 100% of every admitted student's proven financial need through grants, scholarships, and campus work opportunities, so students don't need to apply for student loans. The average financial aid award in 2022 was $59,949. The estimated cost of attendance for the 2022-23 academic year, without taking financial aid into account, totals $82,990.

Student visas

To study in the US as an international student, you must obtain a student visa. There are three primary types of student visas: F, J, and M. Each visa type has specific requirements and is suited to different educational purposes.

F-1 Student Visa

The F-1 Visa is for full-time international students pursuing academic studies at an accredited US college or university. To be eligible for this visa, you must be enrolled in an "academic" educational program, a language-training program, or a vocational program. Your school must be approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), and you must be enrolled as a full-time student. Additionally, you must be proficient in English or be taking courses to improve your English language skills. Furthermore, you must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself financially throughout your studies and maintain a residence abroad with no intention of giving up.

J-1 Exchange Visa

The J-1 Exchange Visa is designed for foreign nationals participating in exchange programs, including high school and university studies. This visa is suitable for visiting scholars, camp counselors, au pairs, and research assistants. To obtain a J-1 visa, you must be approved to take part in work-and-study-based exchange programs.

M-1 Student Visa

The M-1 Visa is for international students pursuing non-academic or vocational studies in the US. Similar to the F-1 visa, students with an M-1 visa must be enrolled in a program approved by the SEVP and be enrolled full-time.

It is important to note that while having a student visa allows you to maintain student status in the US, separate work authorization is required if you intend to work during your studies. F-1 visa holders may be eligible for on-campus employment and, after their first academic year, certain types of off-campus employment. M-1 visa holders can engage in practical training only after they have completed their studies. J-1 visa holders must contact their responsible officer to determine their eligibility for work outside their program of study.

Cost of living

The cost of living in the US for international students is estimated to be around USD 10,000 to USD 25,000 per year, which averages out to USD 1,000 to USD 2,000 per month. This amount will vary depending on the state and city in which the student resides, with big cities like New York, Boston, and San Francisco being significantly more expensive than smaller, suburban cities.

The cost of living includes a range of expenses such as accommodation, food, travel, textbooks, clothing, and entertainment. Here is a breakdown of some of these costs:

• Accommodation: On-campus accommodation costs around USD 250 per month, while off-campus accommodation can range from USD 400 to USD 600 per month. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in rural states is about USD 500 per month, while the same in urban states can be as high as USD 3,500 per month.
• Utilities: Utilities, including electricity, water, trash, and sewer, can cost between USD 400 and USD 800 per month.
• Food: Food expenses per month can range from USD 150 to USD 200. Dining out at restaurants can cost between USD 15 and USD 50 per meal.
• Transportation: Public transportation is a cost-effective way to get around. Alternatively, students can obtain a driving license and use their own vehicle. Gasoline costs vary but are necessary to consider for those driving.
• Health Insurance: Health insurance for international students can range from USD 500 to over USD 2,000 per year.
• Internet: The cost of internet access will depend on the connection type, speed, location, and provider.
• Entertainment: Social activities, sports, and nightlife are all part of the student experience and can cost around USD 100 per month.

It is important to note that these costs are estimates and can vary depending on an individual's lifestyle and spending habits. Additionally, students should anticipate an increase in living costs due to inflation and other external factors.

To help manage the cost of living, international students can consider part-time work or apply for scholarships. However, it is essential to prioritize budgeting and financial planning to ensure a comfortable and stress-free student life in the US.

University preparation

If you are an international student preparing to attend a US university, there are several steps you can take to ensure a smooth transition. Here is a guide to help you navigate the process:

Research and Choose Your University

The first step is to thoroughly research US universities to find the ones that best meet your academic, financial, and personal needs. Consider factors such as the availability of your desired program, tuition fees, scholarship opportunities, location, and campus culture. Make a list of your top choices and gather all the necessary information about their admission requirements and application processes.

Understand the Financial Aspects

US universities can be expensive, and as an international student, you need to be aware of the financial responsibilities involved. Research the tuition fees, living expenses, and any other associated costs for each of your chosen universities. Understand the different types of financial aid available, such as need-based and merit-based scholarships, and explore whether you are eligible for any of them. Some universities, like Harvard, offer financial aid to international students, and it is worth investigating these options early in your preparation process.

Prepare for the Application Process

US universities often have rigorous application processes, and you should allow yourself enough time to gather all the required documents and complete the necessary forms. You may need to provide academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal essays, and proof of English language proficiency, depending on the university and program you are applying to. Additionally, you may need to take standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT, and English language tests like the TOEFL or IELTS.

Obtain a Student Visa

As an international student planning to study in the US, you will need to obtain a student visa. Research the different types of student visas available and determine which one is most suitable for your situation. The process of obtaining a student visa can be complex and time-consuming, so it is important to start this process well in advance. Familiarize yourself with the requirements, gather the necessary documents, and carefully follow the application instructions provided by the US embassy or consulate in your country.

Plan Your Travel and Accommodation

Before your departure, make sure you have confirmed your travel arrangements and secured suitable accommodation near your university. Research the local area, including public transportation options, to help you navigate your new surroundings upon arrival. Additionally, ensure that you have comprehensive health insurance that will cover you during your stay in the US.

Adapt to the Cultural and Academic Differences

US universities may have a different academic culture and teaching style than what you are used to. Be prepared to adapt to new ways of learning and engaging with your peers and professors. Embrace the opportunity to immerse yourself in a new cultural environment and take advantage of the support services and social activities offered by your university to help you settle in.

Remember to stay organized and start your preparations as early as possible. Each university and program may have unique requirements, so be sure to tailor your application and preparations accordingly. Good luck with your journey towards studying in the US!

Frequently asked questions