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Scholarships for
international students

Although student loans often cover the bulk of the financial support international students need, scholarships are a great way to lower the financial burden. The best part about international student scholarships is they do not need to be repaid like student loans since they are direct payments or grants to the student.

Common types of scholarships for international students

Student scholarships come in different forms, each with its own purpose. Here’s a quick overview:

Merit-based scholarships:
Do you shine in academics, arts or sports? Merit-based scholarships reward your hard work and talent. So, if you’ve got excellent grades or special skills, these scholarships can help fund your international study.

Need-based scholarships (also known as financial aid scholarships):
Some students have the talent and determination but lack the financial means. Need-based scholarships are there to bridge the gap between your dreams and your financial situation.

Country-specific or study abroad scholarships:
These scholarships are for students from specific countries. They promote cultural exchange and diversity. It’s worth it to search for scholarships for students in your country.

Subject-specific scholarships:
Passionate about a particular subject? There could be a scholarship for that! These scholarships support students studying specific subjects. They’re often sponsored by organizations interested in that field.

If you’re planning on studying abroad in the U.S. or Canada, it’s very likely the schools you’re looking at offer some of these international student scholarships.

MPOWER Financing Student Scholarships

International student scholarships are designed with your needs in mind.

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MPOWER Financing scholarships for international students

MPOWER Financing is dedicated to empowering students. Understanding the challenge of finding the right scholarship, MPOWER developed a variety of scholarship programs. Here are some of the student scholarships MPOWER offers:

Monthly Scholarship Series:
Each month brings a new topic for the scholarship series. If you’re enrolled in a full-time degree program at an MPOWER-eligible school, you can apply. The awards range from US$1,000 to US$2,000.

MPOWER Global Citizen Scholarship:
This scholarship is for students enrolled in a full-time degree program at an MPOWER-eligible school. The awards range from US$2,000 to US$10,000.

Women in STEM Scholarship:
If you’re a woman studying in a STEM field and enrolled in a full-time degree program at an MPOWER-eligible school, this scholarship is for you. The awards range from US$1,000 to US$6,000.

MPOWER MBA Scholarship:
This scholarship is for MBA students enrolled in a full-time degree program at an MPOWER-eligible school. The awards range from US$2,000 to US$10,000.

MPOWER Refugee Scholarship:
This scholarship is for students fleeing harsh conditions and seeking a better future in the U.S. or Canada. The awards range from US$1,000 to US$3,000.

MPOWER 追梦永不息 Scholarship:
This scholarship is for Chinese international graduate students enrolled in a full-time degree program at an MPOWER-eligible school. The awards range from US$500 to US$5,000.

The MPOWER team is here to offer support on how to get a scholarship and to help you every step of the way in funding your international education.

Common challenges with scholarships for international students

Finding a scholarship can be tricky. Here are some common challenges and how to navigate them.

Limited international scholarship information: Some scholarships have very little information on what they are and how to apply. If you have questions about a specific scholarship, contact the institution or organization offering it to get more information.

High competition: Scholarships can be very competitive. It’s always a good idea to apply to several different scholarships with varying amounts. Oftentimes, smaller scholarships receive fewer applicants, and remember that receiving a few small scholarships can often add up to be just as significant as one with a higher award!

Eligibility criteria: Not sure if you qualify? Some scholarship information can be frustratingly vague about their requirements. Always check to see if specific eligibility criteria are listed. These scholarship requirements will often be connected to your area of study, nationality, extracurricular activities or other distinguishing factors. If you can’t see anything that disqualifies you, don’t hesitate to apply.

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Funding your education with MPOWER

MPOWER Financing extends beyond being a loan provider; it embodies a mission-driven approach that emphasizes the transformative power of education, offering student loans and scholarships for international students.

Differing from traditional lenders, a cosigner or collateral isn’t required. The services have been tailored to address the unique challenges international students encounter, enabling access to education financing for all, no matter the nationality or immigration status.

The MPOWER team’s commitment goes beyond just loans. Career strategy services are available to assist in planning career growth, and collaborations with universities are in place to provide scholarships and financial education. The objective is to empower students not merely financially, but also with the requisite knowledge and skills for success.

Opting for MPOWER translates to selecting a partner invested in your future.

MPOWER Financing Student Loan

A loan based on your future earnings

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FAQs

How can international students get scholarships?

International students should look for scholarships that accept international applicants. Most scholarships require an application process. Some may require an essay, proof of community involvement or examples of leadership skills. Some also require proof of language proficiency or other test scores.

What are some scholarships for international students from specific countries?

There are scholarships specifically for students from certain countries. For example, the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship provides scholarships to students from select developing countries. Conacyt provides scholarships for Mexican students pursuing post-graduate studies abroad. ColFuturo provides scholarships for Colombian students pursuing post-graduate studies abroad.

Are there resources to help international students find scholarships?

Yes, there are several resources available to help international students find more scholarship information. Websites like International Student, College Board, and Fastweb provide comprehensive and searchable databases of grants, scholarships, loan programs and other information for international students.

What types of scholarships does MPOWER Financing offer?

MPOWER Financing offers scholarships for international and DACA students. It offers a variety of student scholarships, including Women in STEM scholarships, MBA scholarships and global citizen scholarships.

How can I apply for an MPOWER scholarship?

You can apply for an MPOWER Financing scholarship on the MPOWER website! Just find the scholarship you think you’re eligible for and follow the simple instructions to complete your application.

*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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