Types of Financial Aid
Understanding the different types of funding available to international students.
Merit-Based Scholarships
Up to 100% tuition
Awarded based on academic excellence, standardized test scores, and outstanding achievements.
Eligibility:
- High GPA (3.5+)
- Leadership activities
- Strong test scores
- Special talents
Need-Based Financial Aid
Varies by institution
Granted based on demonstrated financial need to make education accessible.
Eligibility:
- CSS Profile submission
- Financial documentation
- FAFSA for eligible students
- Family income assessment
Graduate Assistantships
$15,000 - $35,000/year + tuition
Work as teaching or research assistant in exchange for tuition waiver and living stipend.
Eligibility:
- Graduate students only
- Research experience
- Strong academic record
- Faculty recommendation
Country-Specific Scholarships
Varies widely
Funding programs for students from specific countries or regions
Eligibility:
- Country of citizenship
- Bilateral agreements
- Government sponsorship
- Return home commitment
Major Scholarship Programs
Prestigious scholarship programs for international students.
Sponsor: US Department of State
Full funding
Deadline: Varies by country
Sponsor: US Government
Full funding for 1 year
Deadline: Country-specific
Universities with Full Financial Aid
These universities meet 100% of demonstrated financial need for international students.
MIT
MIT International Students Financial Aid
100% need-met
Harvard
Harvard Financial Aid Program
100% need-met
Yale
Yale International Financial Aid
100% need-met
Princeton
Princeton International Aid
100% need-met
Stanford
Stanford Need-Based Aid
100% need-met
Columbia
Columbia International Aid
100% need-met
Scholarship Application Tips
Maximize your chances of securing funding with these proven strategies.
- Start searching for scholarships at least 18 months before your intended start date
- Apply to multiple scholarships—don't put all eggs in one basket
- Tailor your essays to each scholarship's specific mission and values
- Keep track of all deadlines in a spreadsheet or calendar
- Ask professors and mentors for strong recommendation letters early
- Highlight unique experiences and achievements in your applications
- Check if universities offer automatic merit scholarships for international students
- Look for departmental scholarships and assistantships after admission
Need Help Finding Scholarships?
Our team can help you identify scholarship opportunities that match your profile.