Studying abroad can be a life-changing experience, offering unique opportunities for personal and intellectual growth. However, the costs associated with such an endeavor can often be a barrier for many students. Luckily, scholarships offer a solution, making dreams of studying abroad become a reality.
In this detailed guide, we will discuss the steps to securing scholarships for studying abroad the easy way, outlining a strategic approach that will maximize your chances of success.
Types of Scholarships for Studying Abroad
There are several types of scholarships available for students looking to study abroad. Knowing your options can help you better target your application efforts.
1. Merit-Based Scholarships
These scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, athletic or artistic achievements, or outstanding leadership and community service.
Examples:
- The Fulbright Program: Open for students, scholars, and professionals from all academic fields, this program focuses on merit and aims to strengthen cultural ties between countries.
- The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship: Designed for undergraduate students of limited financial means who aim to study or intern abroad, this scholarship is based on academic achievement and leadership potential.
- Endowed Scholarships: Colleges and universities around the world usually have endowed scholarships that are funded by donors. They’re offered to students based on various factors including academic achievement, community work, leadership skills, and field of study.
- The Gates Scholarship: The Gates Scholarship1 is a highly selective, full scholarship for exceptional, Pell-eligible, minority, high school seniors. To be eligible, students must have a cumulative weighted GPA of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent) and plan to enroll in a four-year college.
- National Merit Scholarship Program: The National Merit Scholarship Program awards scholarships to academically talented high school students who qualify through their performance on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT).
- Coca-Cola Scholars Program: The Coca-Cola Scholars Program is an achievement-based scholarship awarded to graduating high school seniors. The scholars are selected based on their capacity to lead and commitment to making a significant impact on their schools and communities.
- Buick Achievers Scholarship Program: The Buick Achievers Scholarship Program5, funded by the GM Foundation, awards scholarships to students who excel in the classroom and give back to their communities. Special consideration is given to those pursuing a career in the automotive industry.
2. Need-Based Scholarships
Focusing on financial need, these scholarships take into account factors such as income, assets, and family circumstances.
Examples:
- The Fund for Education Abroad (FEA) Scholarships: These scholarships, ranging from $1,250 to $10,000, are awarded to exceptional students with demonstrated financial need who plan to study abroad for at least four weeks.
3. Program-Specific Scholarships
Offered by specific study abroad programs or institutions, these scholarships target students enrolled in the particular program or attending the sponsoring institution.
Examples:
- The CIEE Scholarships: Scholarships from the Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE) target students participating in CIEE programs globally, offering both merit and need-based scholarships.
4. Field-Specific Scholarships
These scholarships focus on students studying in specific academic or professional fields and can help subsidize the cost of specialized study abroad programs.
Examples:
- Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) Program: This program offers scholarships for students studying less commonly taught languages essential for America’s engagement with the world.
Strategies for Securing a Study Abroad Scholarship
Now that we have explored the types of scholarships, let’s discuss effective strategies for securing them.
1. Start Researching Early
Scholarships often have strict deadlines, and application processes can be time-consuming. Begin your research early and set a timeline for working on each aspect of your application.
2. Focus on Your Strengths
Highlight your academic achievements, leadership experience, and community involvement when applying for merit-based scholarships. For need-based scholarships, be honest about your financial situation and explain how studying abroad will benefit your career and personal growth.
3. Explore Multiple Sources of Funding
Don’t limit yourself to just one scholarship. Apply for as many scholarships as possible to increase your chances of success. Search national, regional, and local resources, including government agencies, foundations, and non-profit organizations.
4. Write a Compelling Essay
Your essay provides an opportunity to showcase your motivation, passion, and unique perspective. Craft a compelling narrative that demonstrates your dedication to your field of study, your reasons for wanting to study abroad, and the impact studying abroad will have on your future goals.
5. Obtain Strong Letters of Recommendation
Letters of recommendation should come from individuals familiar with your academic or professional accomplishments, character, and potential. Choose recommenders who can provide specific examples of your achievements and skills relevant to studying abroad.
6. Pay Attention to Details
Application reviewers are often looking for reasons to disqualify applicants. Double-check your application materials for errors and ensure you meet all eligibility requirements, including submission deadlines.
Wrapping Up
Studying abroad can be life-changing and enriching, but it can also be expensive. Scholarships are a great way to make your dream of international education a reality. With a bit of effort and some strategic planning, you can track down scholarships to cover a portion of or even all of your study abroad expenses.