Douglas Olsen
International students face many challenges when it comes to paying for college, especially in the United States, where they are generally not eligible for federal financial aid. As a result, international students often rely on private loans, scholarships, grants, personal savings, or family support to fund their education. Private colleges, in particular, may offer more scholarships to international students, making them a more affordable option than public colleges. Additionally, international students can reduce their total cost of attendance by starting at a community college and transferring credits or by working on campus.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Federal student aid | International students are not eligible for federal student aid in the US |
| Private student loans | Offered by banks, financial organizations, and schools |
| Scholarships | Offered by private foundations, professional organizations, and businesses; some are specific to international students, while others are open to all |
| Grants | Available for graduate students |
| Assistantships and fellowships | Most institutional aid is reserved for graduate study in this form |
| On-campus employment | E.g. resident assistant (RA) |
| Transfer credits | Transfer from a two-year community college to a four-year institution |
| Health insurance | Colleges may offer health insurance plans; international students can also sign up for a private plan or an Affordable Care Act plan |
| Visa and airfare | International students may face additional costs in visa application fees and international airfare |
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What You'll Learn
Scholarships and grants
International students qualify for multiple scholarship opportunities, including specialized scholarships for international students and scholarships open to all students regardless of their citizenship. These scholarships can fund a portion of an undergraduate or graduate degree. Private foundations, professional organizations, and businesses offer scholarships to help international students pay for college. Many schools also offer scholarships to admitted international learners.
Some scholarships are merit-based, while others are need-based. For example, Howard University offers Freshman Scholarships for first-time international students, which are merit-based and expire after four years of enrollment.
Athletic scholarships are another option, though they may not cover all of your expenses. For instance, one student reported that their athletic scholarship only covered half of their costs.
You can also look at smaller scholarships, which can add up and help cover your expenses. For instance, a $200 scholarship can cover your books for a semester. However, be cautious of scholarship scams and never pay a fee to apply for a scholarship.
International students can also qualify for grants, which are another form of financial aid that does not need to be repaid. For instance, graduate students can apply for the Fulbright Foreign Student Program, which offers generous scholarships to international graduate students in the US and covers almost all expenses, including airfare. Another example is the AAUW International Fellowships, which grants scholarships to female international graduate students in the US.
To increase your chances of receiving scholarships, focus on developing your English and writing skills. Many scholarships require written submissions, such as essays, statements of purpose, or cover letters, and strong language skills can help you stand out. Spend time researching and applying for scholarships, and maintain a list of requirements, application materials, and deadlines to stay organized.
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Private student loans
International students can pay for college through various means, including scholarships, grants, assistantships, work, and loans. As international students are not eligible for federal financial aid in the US, they often rely on private student loans to fund their education.
To qualify for a private student loan, a borrower will usually need a cosigner—a joint applicant who takes responsibility for repayment if the primary borrower misses payments. This cosigner should be a US citizen or permanent resident with a good credit score. If a borrower cannot find a cosigner, there are still loan options available, but the interest rates may be higher.
Before taking out a private student loan, it is essential to carefully research different lenders and loan terms. Compare interest rates, borrowing limits, and repayment terms to make an informed decision. Additionally, consider exploring other financial aid options, such as scholarships and grants, before resorting to private loans.
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On-campus jobs
There are various on-campus job opportunities available for international students. One option is to work as a resident assistant (RA) in the student residence halls. RAs are usually upper-year students who provide support and assistance to their fellow residents. This can include organising social events, mediating conflicts, and being a resource for students who need help. RAs often receive discounted or free accommodation as part of their compensation package, which can significantly reduce living expenses.
Another on-campus job option is to work in the university's administrative offices. Departments such as admissions, student services, or the library often hire student workers for clerical or administrative tasks. These jobs can provide valuable experience in a professional office environment and may even be related to your field of study.
International students can also find employment opportunities within their academic departments. For example, they can work as research assistants for faculty members or as teaching assistants for introductory-level courses. These positions offer valuable academic experience and can sometimes include additional benefits, such as tuition waivers or stipends.
Additionally, many colleges and universities offer work-study programmes that provide part-time employment opportunities for students with financial need. International students may be eligible for these programmes, which allow them to work on-campus or with certain approved off-campus employers. It is important to note that work-study positions are often competitive, and interested students should inquire with their college's financial aid office to learn about the specific requirements and application processes.
When considering on-campus employment, international students should be mindful of their visa restrictions and regulations. While on-campus jobs can provide a steady source of income, there may be limits on the number of hours worked per week. It is essential to maintain a good balance between work and academic commitments to ensure that your studies remain the primary focus.
In addition to on-campus jobs, international students can also explore other financial aid options, such as scholarships, grants, and private loans, to help fund their college education.
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Personal savings or family funds
Personal savings, family funds, or financial support from family are a common way for international students to pay for college. International students are not eligible for federal financial aid in the US, so they often have to rely on their own finances or private loans.
Some international students may have saved up money specifically for college, while others may use their income to pay for tuition, fees, and living expenses. In some cases, parents or family members may have set up a college fund or contributed from their savings to support their child's education. This can be a significant financial burden, especially for middle-class or even upper-middle-class families.
Additionally, international students may also work part-time or on-campus jobs to supplement their income and cover their expenses. However, there may be restrictions on the number of hours they can work, and in some countries like the US, there are limitations on work authorization for international students.
It is important to note that relying solely on personal savings or family funds may not be sufficient to cover the full cost of college, especially in countries with high tuition fees and living costs, such as the United States. International students should also explore other options, such as scholarships, grants, and assistantships, which can provide additional financial support without incurring debt.
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Health insurance plans
International students face a unique set of challenges when it comes to paying for college in the United States. While it is true that international students generally cannot apply for federal financial aid, there are still a variety of options available to help fund their education. Here is a guide to health insurance plans for international students:
Health insurance is a crucial consideration for international students studying in the United States. Most U.S. colleges require students to have health insurance and offer their own health insurance plans that meet the school's specific requirements. These plans typically cover essential health services and may provide access to on-campus health centres and medical facilities. International students are usually eligible to enrol in these college-sponsored health insurance plans, which can provide comprehensive coverage for their time at the university.
Private Health Insurance Options
In addition to college-sponsored plans, international students can also explore private health insurance options. Private insurers often offer a range of plans with different coverage levels and networks of healthcare providers. When selecting a private health insurance plan, it is important for international students to ensure that the plan is recognised by their college or university. Additionally, some private insurers may offer specialised plans designed specifically for international students, taking into account their unique needs and circumstances.
Affordable Care Act Plans
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) has made it possible for many individuals, including international students, to obtain health insurance. ACA plans are available through state-based marketplaces, and some may cater specifically to students. These plans often provide essential health benefits, including coverage for hospital stays, emergency services, prescription drugs, and preventive care. International students can compare the available ACA plans and choose one that best suits their needs and budget.
Supplemental Insurance Policies
International students should be aware that U.S. health insurance plans typically do not cover vision or dental care. Therefore, it may be worthwhile to consider supplemental insurance policies specifically for vision and dental coverage. These additional policies can help ensure that international students have access to eye and dental care services without incurring high out-of-pocket expenses.
Scholarship and Grant Considerations
While not directly related to health insurance, scholarships and grants can significantly reduce the overall financial burden for international students, freeing up funds for other necessary expenses like health insurance. Many scholarships and grants are available specifically for international students, and they are encouraged to research and apply for these opportunities. Additionally, some scholarships may even provide comprehensive support that includes health insurance coverage as part of the award.
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Frequently asked questions
International students can pay for college through scholarships, grants, private student loans, or with their own money or financial support from their family.
International students can increase their chances of receiving funding by applying for scholarships that require a statement of purpose, cover letter, or other written material. They can also research and apply for multiple scholarships, grants, and other forms of "free money" to avoid taking on private debt.
International students can apply for scholarships offered by their college, private foundations, professional organizations, and businesses. They can also apply for scholarships within their home country for studying in the US.
