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International scholarships for master’s

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Scholarships can significantly reduce costs for international students pursuing master’s degrees in the U.S. or Canada. These awards help cover tuition and living expenses, making graduate studies more accessible. This article outlines various scholarship opportunities for international students, focusing on master’s programs. We’ll explore different types of scholarships, their requirements and how to effectively find and apply for them.

Types of international scholarships for master's programs

Government-funded scholarships

Government-funded scholarships are an essential component of your master’s degree funding strategy as they are typically generous and designed to foster international education and cultural exchange. These scholarships can often cover a substantial portion of tuition and living expenses, making them a key target for your applications. Government scholarships can also provide a level of prestige and recognition that may enhance your academic and professional opportunities.

University-specific scholarships

Universities often offer scholarships for master’s programs to attract talented international students. These scholarships can be merit-based, need-based or specific to certain fields of study (such as STEM scholarships). Including university-specific scholarships in your funding strategy is important because they typically align with the university’s academic strengths and resources. They may also offer additional benefits, such as networking opportunities and access to exclusive academic events.

Private and nonprofit organization scholarships

Scholarships from private foundations and nonprofit organizations are another valuable resource. These scholarships often focus on specific fields, leadership potential or community impact, making them a perfect match if your background matches the scholarship’s goals. Incorporating these scholarships into your funding plan can provide additional financial support and recognition from respected organizations in your field.

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How to find and apply for international master's scholarships

1. Get a head start

Scholarship deadlines can be as early as a year before your program begins. Plan to start your search well in advance. Use online scholarship databases, university websites and government resources to identify potential scholarships.

2. Focus on your strengths

Tailor your scholarship applications to highlight your unique strengths, whether they’re academic achievements, leadership qualities or community involvement. Make sure your personal statement aligns with the goals of the scholarship.

3. Prepare strong application materials

Gather all necessary documents well in advance of the application deadline. This typically includes transcripts, letters of recommendation, a resume or CV, and a personal statement. Ensure your materials are polished and present a straightforward narrative of your academic and professional journey.

3 tips to increase your chances of winning a scholarship

1. Apply to multiple scholarships

Don’t limit yourself to one or two scholarship applications. Apply to as many relevant scholarships as possible to increase your chances of securing funding.

2. Seek guidance from mentors

Academic advisors, professors and mentors can provide valuable insights and feedback on your scholarship applications. They can also write strong letters of recommendation highlighting your qualifications.

3. Customize each application

Avoid using generic application materials. Tailor each application to the specific scholarship, addressing the selection criteria directly and demonstrating how you align with the scholarship’s objectives.

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How MPOWER Financing can help

MPOWER Financing is dedicated to providing private graduate student loan options and also actively supports international students through international scholarships and comprehensive educational financing solutions.

Here’s how MPOWER empowers students globally:

  • Diverse scholarship opportunities: MPOWER offers monthly scholarships, giving international students regular opportunities to secure funding. Special initiatives like the Women in STEM scholarship encourage gender diversity in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, while the Global Citizen Scholarship rewards students demonstrating leadership and a commitment to global impact.
  • Flexible financing options: MPOWER Financing provides no-collateral, no-cosigner student loans to international students studying in the U.S. and Canada. With fixed-rate student loans ranging from US$2,001 to US$100,000 and a 0.25% interest rate discount for auto pay users, MPOWER’s financing is designed for flexibility. These loans are also accessible even to those with other financial commitments.
  • Streamlined loan process: MPOWER’s digital loan application process simplifies every step, from approval to disbursement.
  • Focus on future potential: Prioritizing international students’ future potential over their past financial history, MPOWER’s approach to loans – requiring no cosigner or collateral – enables a broader set of students to access funding. In addition, MPOWER’s U.S.-based funding helps students build a U.S. credit history with timely payments.
  • Benefits beyond funding: MPOWER Financing believes funding your education is only the first step to success – not the last. That’s why every MPOWER student gains access to exclusive career, visa and financial resources through its Path2Success program.

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FAQs

What’s the difference between government-funded and university-specific scholarships?

Government-funded scholarships are provided by a country’s government to support international students, often as part of cultural exchange programs. University-specific scholarships are offered directly by universities to attract talented international students to their programs.

Can I apply for multiple scholarships at the same time?

Yes, you can and should apply for multiple scholarships simultaneously. This increases your chances of securing as much funding as possible to cover your tuition and living expenses.

Are there scholarships specifically for women pursuing master’s degrees?

Yes, there are scholarships specifically for women, such as the AAUW International Fellowships, which support women pursuing graduate studies in the U.S. Some loan providers like MPOWER Financing also offer their own scholarships for qualifying students such as MPOWER’s Women in STEM Scholarship. These scholarships often aim to increase diversity and support women in underrepresented fields.

How can I improve my chances of winning a scholarship?

Start your search early, apply to multiple scholarships, and tailor each application to the specific scholarship’s criteria. Strong letters of recommendation and a compelling personal statement are also crucial for success.

*Rates as low as 9.99% (10.89% APR). This interest rate and APR includes a 0.25% discount for automatic recurring payments.

DISCLAIMER – Subject to credit approval, loans are made by Bank of Lake Mills or MPOWER Financing, PBC. Bank of Lake Mills does not have an ownership interest in MPOWER Financing. Neither MPOWER Financing nor Bank of Lake Mills is affiliated with the school you attended or are attending. Bank of Lake Mills is Member FDIC. None of the information contained in this website constitutes a recommendation, solicitation or offer by MPOWER Financing or its affiliates to buy or sell any securities or other financial instruments or other assets or provide any investment advice or service.

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