Studying abroad is a dream for many students, but it can be expensive if you don’t have the money to fund this. Scholarships are one type of financial aid that could be available to you as an international student, and can help lower some of the costs of studying abroad.
In this guide, we’ll explain:
What are university scholarships?
Scholarships are financial awards provided by universities, governments, or private organizations to help you pay for university.
How much you will receive and what expenses your scholarship covers depends on the type of scholarship awarded to you. Scholarships can help cover costs like tuition fees, living expenses, travel, and study materials such as books and equipment.
Unlike student loans, scholarships don’t need to be repaid. However, it’s rare to receive a scholarship that covers 100% of your study abroad costs, so make sure to budget properly and explore other financial aid options if you need them.
Types of scholarships and factors that affect eligibility
Scholarships come in various forms, each with specific requirements. Your eligibility can depend on factors like your academic achievements, financial situation, or country of origin.
Merit-based scholarships
Awarded based on academic performance, these scholarships are typically given to students with high grades, test scores, or specialized qualifications. Strong academic performance is often crucial, as these scholarships can be highly competitive. Some universities automatically consider high-achieving applicants, while others may require a separate application.
Need-based scholarships
These scholarships are awarded based on financial need. To qualify, you may need to demonstrate your family’s income level through documentation. Financial need must be proven, but academic performance can also play a role in selection.
Program-specific scholarships
Designed to encourage enrollment in specific fields—such as STEM (science, technology, engineering and math), sports, or the arts—these scholarships may require an additional application or essay. Fields like STEM and business often have more scholarships available, making your program choice an important factor in eligibility.
Country-specific scholarships
Certain scholarships prioritize students from particular regions, especially those with fewer educational opportunities. These scholarships aim to increase diversity and are often awarded to international students or those from underrepresented or developing countries.
Government scholarships
Some governments, like the US and UK, sponsor scholarships for international students through programs like the Fulbright Program and Chevening Scholarships. These programs often prioritize applicants who meet specific academic or regional criteria.
Extracurricular activities
Involvement in sports, arts, or community service can also improve your chances, as many scholarships look for well-rounded candidates with a range of interests.
How to get a scholarship
Ready to apply for your scholarship? You’ll be automatically considered for some scholarships when you apply for your program based on your academic and financial background. However, other scholarships, especially competitive ones, may require a separate application.
The application process can look like this:
1.Research scholarships
Determine what scholarships are available to you based on your academic interests and what you’re eligible for. Gather the information you need to apply, including necessary documents and important deadlines.
Check out government or university websites, attend education fairs, or apply to university through Studee, where we can help you find scholarships that you’re eligible for and match your needs.
2.Prepare documents
Documents you’ll need to apply for a scholarship typically include:
Academic transcripts: Copies of your grades, test scores and qualifications
Personal statement: This is your chance to explain why you’re a great candidate for this scholarship and how it will impact your future. Make sure to tailor your personal statement to the scholarship you’re applying for
Letters of recommendation: People who know you well, like parents, friends, teachers and employers, can provide additional insight into who you are and what skills you have
Proof of finances: This can include bank statements, tax returns, proof of income, or financial aid documents
3.Complete and submit the application
Follow the application instructions carefully, ensuring all relevant information and documents are included. Double check for any inaccuracies or mistakes.
Be aware that scholarship deadlines may not be the same as your main university application deadlines, so always verify specific dates to avoid missing opportunities.
Frequently asked scholarship questions
Can I apply for multiple scholarships at the same time?
Applying for multiple scholarships is encouraged to increase your chances of receiving some financial support. Check each scholarship’s eligibility criteria to ensure you qualify.
Can I receive scholarships from multiple providers?
In most cases, yes, but some scholarships may have specific terms that limit combining them with other awards. Confirm this with each scholarship provider.
Do I have to pay taxes on scholarship funds?
Tax policies vary depending on the country. Some scholarships are tax-free if used for tuition, while funds for living expenses may be taxable. Check the tax regulations of the study destination for accurate information.
Are scholarships renewable?
Some scholarships are renewable for multiple years if you can continue to meet the criteria. Other scholarships are one-time awards, so make sure to clarify with each provider when you apply.
Scholarship myths debunked
Myth:
Only top students can get scholarships
Reality:
While scholarships for high academic achievement are more common, there are scholarships available for students of all academic levels, including need-based, athletic, and extra-curricular based scholarships
Myth:
Scholarships cover all my costs
Reality:
Scholarships can support some of your study abroad expenses, but it’s rare for a scholarship to cover all your tuition and living costs.
Myth:
Scholarships are only available in specific countries
Reality:
Scholarships exist worldwide and are offered by universities in almost every country. However, availability and competition can vary, so it’s a good idea to research opportunities in multiple regions
Myth:
If a university offers a large scholarship, it’s the best option
Reality:
Even if a university offers a large scholarship. It may still be more costly overall than universities with lower tuition fees and smaller scholarships. The US, for example, often offers large scholarships, but is known for having high tuition and living expenses. Always consider the total cost of attendance and be prepared to budget based on how much your scholarship can cover
How we support international students with scholarships
Studying abroad can be a big financial commitment. Scholarships can help reduce the cost, but they can also be difficult to compare because eligibility rules, deadlines, and application steps vary by university, country, and scholarship provider.
Studee helps you explore scholarship options more clearly as part of your wider study abroad planning. You can use Studee to research opportunities, understand key requirements, organize important deadlines, and discuss your options with your school counselor if your school uses Studee.
Researching scholarship options
Studee can help you find and compare scholarship information linked to your study abroad plans. This may include scholarships based on your academic profile, subject area, destination, nationality, financial situation, or chosen university.
Scholarship availability and eligibility can vary widely, so always check the official scholarship provider or university website before applying.
Understanding eligibility and requirements
Different scholarships have different rules. Some may be based on academic performance, financial need, nationality, subject area, leadership experience, or other criteria.
Studee helps you organize the key details, so you can understand which scholarships may be worth exploring further and what documents or steps may be needed.
Planning applications and deadlines
Scholarship applications may have separate deadlines from university applications. You may also need extra documents, such as essays, references, financial evidence, or proof of admission.
Studee helps you keep track of scholarship-related tasks and deadlines alongside your university applications, so it is easier to see what needs your attention next.
Working with your counselor
If your school uses Studee, your counselor can support you as you review scholarship options and prepare your wider application plan.
Your counselor may be able to help you think through which opportunities fit your academic profile, timeline, and goals. They may also help you plan school documents, references, or other materials you need to request.
Keeping scholarship planning organized
Studee helps you keep scholarship information, application tasks, documents, and deadlines in one workspace. This can make it easier to compare options, avoid missing important dates, and understand how scholarship planning fits into your wider study abroad journey.
Scholarships are competitive and are awarded by universities, governments, or other organizations. Studee cannot guarantee scholarship eligibility, selection, or funding outcomes, but it can help you manage the process with clearer information and better organization.
Now that you know all about university scholarships, it’s time to talk about student visas! Read our ultimate guide to learn more.