Studying abroad is a great opportunity for students to gain international experience and a quality education. However, the cost of studying abroad can be an obstacle for many students, today we are going to talk about this topic.
Fortunately, scholarship facilities are available to overcome this financial hurdle for the students. In this article, we will learn about the different types of scholarships, how to find and apply for them. Also we will discuss about scholarship scams and how to avoid them.
Types of Scholarships for International Students
There are different types of scholarships for international students depending on the eligibility criteria and benefits. Let us know about them.
Merit-Based Scholarship: These scholarships are given to the students on the basis of their academic achievements. Such as their grade point average (GPA), standardized test scores, or other achievements. These scholarships are highly competitive, as they are based on student’s’ academic performance rather than financial need.
Need-Based Scholarship: This scholarship is given to the students on the basis of their financial need, which depends on their family income, assets and other factors. Such scholarships are designed to provide assistance to such students so that they can get higher education.
Fully-Funded Scholarships: These types of scholarships are fully funded which cover all the expenses associated with studying abroad, including tuition fees, living expenses, travel expenses and health insurance. There is a lot of competition in these kinds of scholarships as well. For this, students need good educational records and a perfect scholarship application.
Partial Scholarships: These scholarships cover only a portion of the expenses associated with studying abroad, such as tuition fees or living expenses. These are more common than fully funded scholarships and may be easier to obtain depending on the scholarship provider and the merit of the applicant.
Scholarships for Specific Fields of Study: These scholarships are designed to assist students who wish to pursue a specific field of study such as science, engineering, business or arts etc.
Scholarship for Graduate and PhD Students: This scholarship is specifically for graduate and PhD students, which can be provided by scholarship providers and educational institutions according to different eligibility criteria.
Finding and Applying for Scholarships
Finding and applying for the right scholarship can both be a time-consuming process, but for students who want to pursue their dream of studying abroad, it’s important to know about how to find and apply for a scholarship. Here are a few suggestions:
Research Scholarships: The first step in finding a scholarship is to know about the options available. Many universities, governments, and private organizations offer scholarships for international students, so check their websites and scholarship databases for information. Furthermore, there are many scholarship search engines that allow students to filter scholarships by eligibility criteria, field of study, and other factors.
Check Eligibility Criteria: Before applying for a scholarship, make sure that you meet the eligibility criteria, such as minimum GPA, language proficiency, or other specific qualifications. Some scholarships may also have age limits or other restrictions.
Prepare Application Documents: Most scholarship applications require students to submit a variety of documents, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, essays, and financial statements. Keep these documents ready beforehand.
Write a good application: A good scholarship application can strengthen your case by describing your academic achievements, extra-curricular activities, leadership skills and personal qualities. Additionally, it should demonstrate that studying abroad is worth your while, how doing it will benefit you and your community and align with your future goals and aspirations.
Apply early: Many scholarships have a deadline for applications, so it is important to start your research and preparation well in advance. Applying early gives you a reasonable amount of time to revise your application and make any necessary corrections.
Alternative Ways to Fund for Studying Abroad
Money is not the only way to get a scholarship. Here are some alternative ways to finance your education abroad:
Student Loans: Many financial institutions offer student loans specifically for international students. These loans may include higher interest rates and stricter repayment terms than other loans, so read the terms and conditions carefully.
Part-time Jobs: Many countries allow international students to work part-time while studying, which can help cover some of the costs associated with studying abroad.
Crowdfunding: Crowdfunding platforms, such as GoFundMe and Kickstarter, can help students raise money for an education abroad by sharing their story and goals with their social networks. However, crowdfunding campaigns need an impactful narrative and a strong online presence in order to be successful.
Internships: Some companies and organizations offer paid internships for international students, which can help cover some of the expenses associated with studying abroad. Get the visa done before applying for the internship.
Also Read:
National Scholarship Portal Registration Online
NSP Renewal – National Scholarship Portal Renewal Process
National Scholarship Portal (NSP) – Scheme, Eligibility
Avoiding Scholarship Scams
Although scholarships are a great way to raise money to study abroad, students should be aware of scholarship scams. Here are some common scholarship scams and how to avoid them:
Application Fee: There is no need to pay any kind of fee to apply for a valid scholarship. If someone asks you to pay a fee to apply for a scholarship, don’t do it
Guaranteed Scholarship: There is a lot of competition to get a legitimate scholarship and there is no guarantee for any applicant. If a scholarship provider guarantees you a scholarship in exchange for a fee or personal information, it is likely a scam.
Unsolicited Offers: Legitimate scholarship providers do not send unsolicited emails or messages to potential applicants. If you receive an unsolicited scholarship offer, verify the legitimacy of the scholarship provider before sharing any personal information or paying any fees.
Phishing scams: Some scholarship scams use phishing tactics to steal personal information, such as passwords or social security numbers. Be sure to verify the legitimacy of the scholarship provider and use a secure online platform to submit your application.
Conclusion
Studying abroad can be a life-changing experience that enhances your skills and opens up new opportunities. However, the cost of studying abroad can be a significant deterrent for many students.
The scholarship helps students to overcome financial constraints and fulfill their dreams of studying abroad.
By understanding the different types of scholarships, researching and applying for scholarships, exploring alternative ways to study abroad, and avoiding scholarship scams, students can increase their chances of receiving a scholarship and make their study abroad dream come true.