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Financial aid for international students

Financial aid is a core part of what makes international education possible for many students. This article offers insights for you, including information about no-cosigner student loans, the MPOWER Financing student loan application process and various options for student loans.

Exploring financial aid options for international students

As an international student, you have a variety of funding options available to you, each with unique features and requirements.

Private student loans

Private student loans are a primary source of funding for many international students because they’re not eligible for federal student loans, which are often restricted to citizens and permanent residents of the host country.

Private loans can be used to cover your tuition, living expenses and other education-related costs in the U.S. Student loan providers typically offer two types of interest rates: fixed, where the rate remains constant over the loan term, and variable, where the rate fluctuates based on market conditions.

Private lenders can offer larger loan amounts, sometimes covering the entire cost of education. They may also offer additional benefits like grace periods and flexible repayment options. However, it’s essential to carefully review the terms and conditions, including interest rates, repayment schedules and any potential fees. You should also be aware of currency exchange rates as they could impact the overall cost of a loan.

Scholarships and grants

Financial aid for international students can also come from scholarships and grants. Both are highly sought after as they don’t require repayment, although they may have other conditions that must be met.

International scholarships can be merit-based, need-based or focused on specific fields or demographics. Grants are typically need-based and may be offered by governments, educational institutions or private organizations.

Scholarships and grants can significantly reduce the financial burden of higher education. They can also add to your resume, reflecting academic or extracurricular excellence. Finding scholarships and grants requires research. Websites, educational consultants and the financial aid offices of universities are valuable resources for identifying these opportunities.

Work-study programs

Some countries allow international students to work part time while studying. These programs provide a way for you to earn money and gain work experience simultaneously. It’s important to understand the legal restrictions on work hours and types of employment permissible under a student visa. While work-study programs offer professional benefits and a way to supplement financial aid for international students, it’s important to balance work commitments with academic responsibilities.

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Common challenges in financial aid for international students

If you’re looking for financial aid for international students and are considering getting a student loan, research and planning can help. Here are some factors to consider:

  • Loan options: It’s important to understand the differences between loan types like fixed-rate, variable-rate, collateralized and uncollateralized loans. You also need to be aware of the specific rules and options in a student’s home country.
  • Sufficient coverage: Financial aid can cover not just tuition, but also living expenses, making the assessment of total costs important.
  • Legal and visa regulations: Complying with the legal and visa-related stipulations of the host country is essential.

Managing finances for international students

Alongside financial aid, you should prioritize building your financial literacy.

  • Budget and save: Develop a realistic budget that encompasses all potential expenses, from tuition fees to living costs, and stick to it. Make sure to prioritize essential over nonessential expenses and save a portion of any income for emergencies.
  • Learn about credit and banking: Familiarize yourself with the credit system and banking practices in your host country. Opening a local bank account (where laws permit) can be a great way of doing this.
  • Know your financial plan: Keep informed about the terms of any financial aid, scholarship, or loans and have a plan. Also, actively seek ways to reduce educational costs through second-hand materials, scholarships and student discounts.
  • Adapt to currency changes: Monitor currency exchange rates to manage and plan your expenses more effectively, considering the impact of fluctuating rates on your budget.
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Why MPOWER Financing?

When it comes to securing financial aid for international students, MPOWER Financing is a mission-driven fintech firm committed to dismantling the financial barriers that often hinder higher education for students from around the world.

Guidance beyond loans:

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, immigration and financial resources through its Path2Success program. MPOWER also offers scholarships options.

Tailored support:

With a founding team of former international students, MPOWER possesses a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by those pursuing education abroad. This firsthand knowledge is used to assist you at every step of your educational journey.

Financial flexibility:

MPOWER student loans offer flexibility, enabling you to allocate funds for a wide array of expenses, including international health insurance, textbooks, meal plans and housing, if you’re a student in the U.S. This adaptability ensures you have the financial resources to address all aspects of your study abroad education.

No-cosigner or collateral needed:

What truly sets MPOWER apart from many private student loan lenders is its forward-looking approach to loan decisions. Rather than focusing on your past financial history, MPOWER prioritizes your future potential. This is why no-collateral loans are offered and a cosigner is not required, making the application process significantly more accessible and less burdensome for aspiring scholars seeking international financial aid.

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FAQs

What financial aid options are available for international students?

Financial aid for international students includes private student loans, international scholarships, grants and work-study programs. Private loans, often flexible in terms of amount and repayment, can cover a significant portion of education costs. Scholarships and grants, though competitive, provide funding that doesn’t need to be repaid, as long as certain stipulations are met, and are available based on merit, need or specific criteria. Work-study programs, where available, offer a practical way to earn money and gain experience while studying.

How can international students apply for student loans without a cosigner?

As an international student, you should look for lenders that offer student loans without a cosigner, focusing on those that consider factors beyond credit history or collateral, like academic potential and future earning prospects. The application typically involves submitting academic records, admission details and proof of financial need.

What should students consider when applying for an education loan in the U.S.?

When choosing between loan types, you should consider interest rates (fixed or variable), repayment terms and any requirements like cosigners or credit history. Fixed-rate student loans offer stability with consistent payments, while variable-rate loans may start lower but can fluctuate over time.

Can international students get financial aid to cover living expenses?

Financial aid for international students is usually achieved through a combination of private student loans and scholarships. Typically, these can cover living expenses along with tuition. It’s important for you to check the specifics of each loan to understand what’s included and plan accordingly.

*Rates as low as 9.99% (10.89% APR) available only for the fall 2025 semester and you must submit your application by December 31, 2024. This interest rate and APR includes a 0.25% discount for automatic recurring payments and a 0.75% discount from our limited-time early planner promotion.

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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