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STEM scholarships for international students

STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) scholarships play a big role in supporting the educational aspirations of international students. This guide explores STEM scholarships, their importance for you as an international student and how you can maximize your chances of securing a STEM scholarship.

Understanding STEM scholarships for international students

You should always pursue STEM scholarships, an essential component of financial aid for international students, before turning to loans, as scholarships do not have to be repaid. Loans can fill a gap between available funds and needed funds. Here are the advantages of international scholarships:

  • Reduce reliance on loans: Relying only on educational loan financing can lead to increased long-term debt. Scholarships mitigate this risk by providing non-repayable financial support. This is especially beneficial in STEM education, where additional expenses for materials, fieldwork or specialized equipment can add up. Scholarships for international students can supplement the total amount that needs to be borrowed, lessening the financial burden post-graduation.
  • Expand educational choices: With financial support from scholarships, you may have more freedom in educational choices. This can include opting for institutions or programs that might have been financially out of reach otherwise.
  • Scholarships as a strategic financial tool: Scholarships allow you to allocate funds more effectively and potentially invest in other aspects of your education, such as research projects or international experiences.
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Understanding the application process for STEM Scholarships

Here are some tips for the application process to enhance your chances of receiving a scholarship:

  • Start early: Begin your search for scholarships well ahead of application deadlines. This gives you ample time to gather necessary documents and tailor your applications to specific scholarships.
  • Research thoroughly: Look for scholarships offered directly by your intended university, as well as external funding from companies, nonprofit and government agencies that support STEM education for international students. Make use of scholarship databases and resources provided by educational advisors.
  • Understand requirements: Each scholarship has its own set of requirements. Make sure you fully understand what’s expected in terms of academic achievements, extracurricular involvement and other criteria.
  • Craft compelling applications: Your application and personal statement should clearly articulate your passion for STEM, your academic and career goals and how the scholarship will help you achieve these goals. Highlight any unique experiences or challenges you’ve overcome.
  • Secure strong recommendations: Choose people who know you well and can speak to your strengths and potential in STEM fields. Provide them with enough time to write a thoughtful recommendation.
  • Prepare for interviews: Some scholarships may require an interview as part of the selection process. Prepare by practicing your responses to common questions and articulating your passion for your chosen field of study.
  • Stay organized: Keep track of deadlines, requirements and submission guidelines for each scholarship application. Create a checklist or use a digital tool to manage your applications effectively.
  • Seek feedback: Before submitting your applications, seek feedback from teachers, mentors or peers. Fresh eyes can catch errors and offer suggestions for improvement.

Benefits of STEM scholarships for international students

Scholarships are particularly beneficial for international students for several reasons:

  • Financial relief: They provide essential financial support, covering tuition and, in some cases, living expenses. Once you’re past the student loan application process, you’ll have a better idea of the financial gap that may remain, and this can often be filled by seeking out scholarships.
  • Career opportunities: STEM scholarships often come with networking opportunities, internships or connections to industry, which can be invaluable for career development.
  • Cultural exchange and global perspective: Being part of an international scholarship program
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Working with MPOWER Financing

MPOWER Financing’s primary mission is to tackle the diverse challenges international students encounter when studying abroad, offering exceptional options for international STEM scholarships and international student loans:

STEM scholarship opportunities: MPOWER is committed to supporting you in pursuing STEM disciplines by providing a range of scholarships alongside its student loan offerings. These scholarships cater to various needs, enabling you to excel in your field of study. Here are some of MPOWER’s STEM specific scholarships:

Sallie Mae® STEM Award: This monthly essay scholarship is specifically designed to support students in STEM fields and offers US$1,000 to deserving STEM students enrolled in a full-time degree program at an MPOWER-eligible U.S. or Canadian school.

Women in STEM Scholarship: The MPOWER Women in STEM Scholarhip aims to empower international women in STEM who are pursuing degrees and acknowledges the need for greater gender diversity in these fields. The Women in STEM Scholarship is open for applications annually and offers first, second and third-place prizes.

In addition to these two STEM scholarships, MPOWER offers other scholarship options to support all international students. To get more information on how to apply for scholarships explore MPOWER’s scholarship opportunities here.

Flexible financial solutions: MPOWER offers student loans ranging from US$2,001 to US$100,000, featuring fixed interest rates. Moreover, those who opt for automatic payments can enjoy a 0.25% interest rate reduction. Even if applicants already hold loans from other lenders, they’re encouraged to apply for an MPOWER loan to complement their STEM scholarships.

No need for cosigners or collateral: MPOWER firmly believes in your future potential and doesn’t require cosigners or collateral for any loans. The aim is to simplify the educational financing process. Additionally, you can establish your credit history through timely loan payments, without any prepayment penalties.

Streamlined application process: MPOWER’s digital loan application process ensures accessibility from anywhere in the world. With rapid approval and seamless disbursement, you can check your eligibility in just 30 seconds. 

Sustained assistance: 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.

Whether it’s benefits beyond funding, STEM scholarships or loan assistance, MPOWER is poised to guide applicants every step of the way.

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FAQs

What makes STEM scholarships unique for international students?

STEM scholarships often focus on fields critical to global innovation and development, providing not only financial support but also opportunities for research and career advancement.

How can international students maximize their chances of receiving a STEM scholarship?

Maintain strong academic performance, gain relevant experience and tailor applications to each scholarship’s requirements to significantly enhance the likelihood of receiving a scholarship.

Are there STEM scholarships specifically for women or underrepresented groups?

Yes, there are numerous scholarships aimed at promoting diversity in STEM, including those specifically for women and other underrepresented groups in these fields.

Can STEM scholarships cover living expenses in addition to tuition?

Some STEM scholarships can cover living expenses, but this varies by the scholarship provider and program.

*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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