Introduction to study abroad scholarships

Types of study abroad scholarships

If you’re seeking international study programs in the U.S. or Canada, several types of scholarships and financial aid options are available. These can significantly reduce the financial burden of your studies.

Merit-based scholarships:
These scholarships are awarded based on a student’s academic, artistic, athletic or other abilities and often factor in an applicant’s extracurricular activities and community service record.

Need-based scholarships:
These scholarships are awarded based on the student’s financial need. They often require applicants to provide information about their family’s income.

Student-specific scholarships:
These are scholarships for students who qualify based on factors such as gender, race, religion, family and medical history, or many other student-specific factors.

Destination-specific scholarships:
These are scholarships offered by a country to students planning to pursue a study program in that particular country. They are awarded as an incentive for students to study in that country instead of elsewhere. For example, some schools offer specific scholarships for African students to study in the U.S.

Program-specific scholarships:
These are scholarships offered by individual study programs to attract students to that program. They are often awarded based on academic and personal achievements.

Subject-specific scholarships:
These are scholarships offered by study programs or institutions to students based on their particular major or field of study. They require the student to enroll in subject-specific courses while abroad. These can include stem scholarships and international MBA scholarships.

Remember, each international student scholarship has its own eligibility requirements and application process, so it’s important to read the guidelines carefully. Also, start your search early and apply to as many relevant scholarships as possible to increase your chances of receiving financial aid.