Sources of financial aid for International students are very limited in US institutions except for the 3 common sources which are aid from the University through teaching assistance, loan from home country and financial help from family. Today, I am going to discuss about 3 other source
1. International Organizations
2. US Government and
3. Private US organizations and sponsors
International Organizations
It is important to know most of the international organizations require you to apply for the financial aid before coming to United States i.e. from home country. If you are already in USA, you may not be eligible and therefore planning is essential. Few of the awards available but not limited are
- United Nations, the Organization of American States (OAS),
- America-Mideast educational and Training Services (AMIDEAST)
- International Maritime Organization,
- International Telecommunications Union,
- League of Red Cross Societies
- Soros Foundation
- World Health Organization
- World Council of Churches
- Fulbright scholarships
International students should also contact the following agencies to get more insights into financial opportunities
- US Consulate
- Educational Advising Center
- Bureau of Educational and Cultural affairs
- Fulbright Commission
- Agency of International Development
- Office of International Training
US Government
US Government provide student assistance for international students from specific countries and it is important to consult with the US embassy in your home country to check if you are eligible for such assistance
Private US organizations and sponsors
Check FINAID and FASTWEB site for available scholarship and tuition assistance. Please be AWARE of the fee –based scholarship matching services since most of these websites are trying to exploit international students Subscribe to blogs, and papers from specific culture or ethnic background to check if private donors respective to a particular minority groups are willing to provide educational assistance.
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