Scholarship Guidance

Financial concerns are often the biggest hurdle for students dreaming of an international degree. However, many are unaware that they can often apply their existing financial aid to a study abroad program. In some instances—especially for those currently paying out-of-state fees—spending a semester abroad can actually be more cost-effective than staying on campus.

A study abroad scholarship is a dedicated fund designed to cover essential costs like tuition, airfare, books, and housing. While some are highly competitive, others remain underutilized because students simply don't apply. Understanding the different categories of funding can help you secure the support you need.

Types of Study Abroad Scholarships

• Merit-Based Awards: These celebrate your achievements. They are granted based on your GPA, athletic prowess, artistic talent, or commitment to community service and extracurricular activities.
• Student-Specific Funding: These awards are tailored to your unique identity. They consider factors such as gender, religion, medical history, or family background. Minority scholarships are the most prominent in this category, helping to increase diversity in global education.
• Destination-Specific Grants: Many governments offer financial incentives to attract international talent. These are awarded by the host country to encourage you to choose them over other destinations.
• Program-Specific Scholarships: These are provided directly by the study abroad provider or the specific university you are applying to. They are usually linked to your academic record or personal milestones within that institution.
• Subject-Specific Scholarships: If you are majoring in a high-demand field like STEM, Nursing, or Green Energy, you may qualify for these. They often require you to remain enrolled in your specific major or conduct specialized research while abroad.