Building and maintaining a strong credit score for international students is crucial for accessing financial opportunities during and after your studies in the United States. Unlike many countries, the U.S. has a credit score system that plays a significant role in lending decisions for housing, cars, credit cards and other money matters.
Unfortunately, your financial history from your home country doesn’t usually transfer to the U.S. – making it essential to establish a credit history as soon as possible. Keep reading to learn how to build and maintain a strong credit score for international students.
Your credit score is a numerical representation of your financial health. It helps lenders evaluate how likely you are to repay the money you borrow. The higher the credit score, the more confident lenders are that you’ll make timely payments on loans, credit cards and other financial obligations.
The most widely used credit scoring model in the U.S. is the FICO score. FICO scores range from 300 to 850, with higher scores indicating better creditworthiness. Several factors from your credit history reports are used to determine your overall credit score, including:
Having a good credit score for international students means greater financial freedom. It can help secure rental housing and car loans. In addition, it can also open the door to better terms for financial products like credit cards and personal loans. Ultimately, a strong credit score can help give you the ability to build long-term financial security in the U.S.
Building credit in the U.S. can be challenging for international students. The key is to start early and take intentional steps to not only establish but maintain a good credit score. Here are some smart ways to build a good credit score for international students:
We understand building a credit score for international students comes with many hurdles. That’s why MPOWER Financing offers features like automatic payments (includes a 0.25% interest rate discount) to help you stay on top of your student loan payments, in addition to our free career support training and tools for internship and job search.
Home to some of the most prestigious educational institutions in the world, one of the strongest state economies in the U.S., and a vibrant culture, it’s no wonder so many international students choose to study abroad on a budget in Massachusetts.
Budgeting for your international study program in Massachusetts requires some planning. Most students require a combination of financial aid, savings and student loans for studying abroad. Read on to discover how an MPOWER international student loan without a cosigner or collateral can help turn your dream of studying in Massachusetts into a reality.
According to the 2024 Open Doors Report, Massachusetts is the fourth most popular U.S. state for international students studying abroad on a budget. Here are some of the reasons Massachusetts is such an appealing option for students across the globe:
With the abundance of competitive colleges and universities in Massachusetts, it can be hard to determine which school is the right fit for you. Luckily, MPOWER’s list of 500+ eligible schools can help. MPOWER evaluates every school based on factors like graduation rate and alumni employment, ensuring that every MPOWER-eligible university offers the best education outcomes possible.
Here are three top MPOWER-eligible Massachusetts universities* and their most commonly selected majors.
A large, private research university located in the heart of Boston, BU offers its students a wealth of real-world learning opportunities. Popular postgraduate programs include:
Located in the student-friendly college town of Amherst, UMass Amherst is known for its commitment to public service, social justice and sustainability. The affordability of Amherst makes UMass an excellent choice for students studying abroad on a budget. Popular postgraduate programs include:
No list of Massachusetts schools would be complete without Harvard, a leading academic and research institution worldwide. Some of Harvard’s most renowned postgraduate programs include:
To see which Massachusetts postgraduate programs can be funded by an MPOWER international student loan without a cosigner, check out MPOWER’s list of eligible schools. The list is always expanding to reflect the best international study programs possible.
*Schools mentioned in this post do not endorse MPOWER’s loans and MPOWER is not affiliated with the schools noted in this message.
After you’ve decided which MPOWER-eligible Massachusetts university to attend, it’s time to organize your study abroad budget. An international education in the U.S. can be pricey, so it’s important to explore all your funding options:
International students, though ineligible for federal or state financial aid, can cover some of their university expenses through merit scholarships, work study, fellowships and assistantships.
Resources such as EducationUSA, College Board and FastWeb provide robust scholarship databases for international students hoping to study in the U.S. MPOWER also offers a number of graduate student scholarships.
Scholarships, however, tend to be highly competitive. Students should also explore the financial aid options offered through their chosen university or department. UMass Amherst and Harvard, for instance, offer aid in the form of department-specific assistantships, whereas international master’s students at BU can apply for the Wheelock general scholarships.
For help planning your student abroad budget, check out this database, which compiles the international student aid provided at various educational institutions across Massachusetts.
For most international students studying abroad on a budget, financial aid and personal savings only cover part of their study abroad expenses. That’s where MPOWER comes in. MPOWER Financing provides international student loans without requiring a cosigner or collateral. Unlike other loan providers, MPOWER offers a flexible, accessible and streamlined loan application process.
Through its Path2Success program, MPOWER also provides holistic support throughout your study abroad journey. From providing you with a free visa prep course to securing you a prequalified U.S. bank account, MPOWER makes your international education as smooth as possible.
Check your eligibility today to borrow up to US$100,000 from MPOWER.
MPOWER-eligible Massachusetts universities offer an unparalleled education for students studying abroad on a budget. If your funds can’t quite cover your Massachusetts postgraduate experience, an MPOWER international student loan without a cosigner can get you there. It takes less than a minute: Get started today.
With the rise of tuition costs, loans have become necessary for most students studying in the U.S. If you’ve decided to pursue an international study program and need an education lender, it’s important to familiarize yourself with your options, find loan terms that work for you and borrow from a provider you trust.
So what criteria should you look for when choosing an education lender? Here are some important things to know before taking out a student loan for study abroad in 2025 and how a no-cosigner international student loan from MPOWER compares to other loan options.
Choosing a student loan for studying abroad is a personal decision; the loan type and terms that work for somebody else might not be right for you. Before picking an education lender in 2025, Here are three things to consider:
Most U.S. citizens start the loan application process by applying for public federal loans. However, public loans are not available to international students studying in the U.S. Luckily, select private lenders like MPOWER offer student loans for studying abroad to international students.
U.S. applicants tend to prefer public loans because they don’t require a credit check. MPOWER differs from other private loan providers because MPOWER does not require its applicants to have a U.S. credit history or credit score. MPOWER grants loans based on your future earning potential rather than your financial history.
Every loan will have different terms. It’s best to prequalify with multiple lenders, compare their terms, and select the best option for you. Some factors to consider are:
You’ll be entering a financial relationship with your lender for the next decade or more, so choosing a lender with a good reputation is important.
Several publications, including NerdWallet, have voted MPOWER the best education lender for international students. Drawn to MPOWER’s competitive interest rates and flexible application process, students across the globe choose study abroad loans from MPOWER, borrowing up to US$100,000 to cover the costs at any of MPOWER’s 500+ eligible schools in the U.S. and Canada.
MPOWER aims to provide its customers with the best education and career outcomes possible. That’s why MPOWER provides visa and career support through its Path2Success program.
To understand why so many students across the globe trust MPOWER, explore loan options today.
The most important thing to remember before taking out a study abroad loan is to borrow responsibly. You should never borrow unnecessary funds, because your loan will compound with interest over time. Make sure to:
Student loans for studying abroad can make your dream of studying in the U.S. a reality. By considering all your options and making an informed decision, you set yourself up for a lifetime of academic and financial success.
When choosing an education lender in 2025, consider a no-cosigner international student loan from MPOWER endorsed by thousands of positive Trustpilot reviews. Find out why many consider it the best loan option for international students studying in the U.S.
Master’s program loans are an essential resource for international students looking to finance their education in the United States because International students don’t generally have access to federal financial aid. While scholarships and personal savings can help, international student loans are often a necessary and reliable way to cover the cost of a master’s degree and living expenses in the U.S.
With the right resources and understanding of available master’s program loans, you can streamline your efforts to pay for your international education.
The cost of a master’s program in the U.S. varies significantly depending on the school, location, and field of study. International students can expect to pay anywhere from about US$44,640 to US$71,140 per year in tuition and fees alone, according to the Education Data Initiative. However, this amount doesn’t include living expenses, such as housing, transportation, food and health insurance. The total cost of a master’s degree in the U.S. can be upwards of US$100,000 for a two-year program.
It’s important to factor in these additional costs when budgeting for your education as they can significantly affect your overall financial plan. Master’s program loans can help make these high costs more manageable by spreading payments over time after graduation.
Since there are limited options for financial aid for international students pursuing a master’s, most students turn to loans to fill the financial gap. Here are some of the most common loan options:
Applying for an MPOWER international student loan is fast and easy. To get started:
The right master’s program loan can make all the difference when figuring out how to fund your postgraduate studies in the U.S.
MPOWER helps to ease the financial and logistical burden for students from all over the world. No-cosigner student loans can help cover the cost of attendance with fewer barriers than traditional private loans. Competitive, fixed-rate loans are available from US$2,001 to US$100,000, helping international students to fully finance their tuition and living expenses while in the U.S.
With flexible repayment terms and support throughout the application and visa process, MPOWER ensures international students can achieve their education dreams.
Ontario is a sought-after destination for international students studying abroad on a budget. Diverse and student-friendly cities like Toronto and Ottawa offer some of the country’s best universities, and the cost of living in Canada is lower than in other English-speaking countries like the U.S.
However, tuition fees and living expenses can still add up. If you’re considering pursuing your postgraduate education in Ontario but aren’t sure how to fund it, MPOWER offers international student loans without cosigners or collateral.
Here are the benefits of studying abroad in Ontario and how MPOWER can make it possible.
More immigrants settle in Ontario than in any other Canadian province, drawn to its welcoming atmosphere, bustling cultural centers and high quality of life.
Ontario’s two biggest cities, Ottawa and Toronto, are home not only to several high-quality academic institutions, including University of Toronto and Queen’s University, but also to lively arts scenes and great job opportunities. Canada’s capital and financial center, respectively, international students studying abroad on a budget in Ottawa and Toronto will enjoy great opportunities for professional development.
MPOWER-eligible schools offer some of the best learning outcomes in Ontario. MPOWER’s proprietary algorithm evaluates higher-learning institutions based on factors like alumni employment rate and earnings so that all MPOWER customers can receive the best education and career development possible.
Here are three top MPOWER-eligible Ontario schools* and their most commonly selected majors:
With a student population of approximately 100,000 and ranked the best university in Canada, the University of Toronto has a broad range of rigorous postgraduate study options. In particular, it’s a leader in computer science, biology and physics research. Popular postgraduate programs include:
For a more intimate university experience, international students studying abroad on a budget should consider Queen’s University. Located in the lakeside city of Kingston, Queen’s University is known for its tight-knit student body and strong academics. Popular postgraduate programs include:
McMaster University is known for its research in the health sciences and its problem-based learning methods. It offers postgraduate programs across six areas of study, including:
By studying at an MPOWER-eligible school, you can benefit not only from MPOWER’s international student loans without a cosigner, but also from MPOWER’s visa, financial and career support through the Path2Success program.
To find the program that best suits your academic and professional goals, check out MPOWER’s list of 500+ eligible schools.
*Schools mentioned in this post do not endorse MPOWER’s loans and MPOWER is not affiliated with the schools noted in this message.
Canada may be a more affordable study-abroad option among English-speaking nations, but an international postgraduate education is still a major expense. Canadian postgraduate degrees can cost as much as CA$40,000 per year. Be sure to consider all your available funding options, from financial aid to student loans for studying abroad.
International students studying in Ontario can browse scholarship opportunities through EduCanada. Eligibility for different scholarships varies. Students can also explore financial aid offerings from their chosen academic institutions. At the University of Toronto, Queen’s University and McMaster University, international students are automatically considered for entrance awards and scholarships upon admission, but the available funds are limited and competitive. In addition, students can work on campus to subsidize their tuition.
For most international students, Canadian financial aid packages and personal savings are insufficient to cover their total educational expenses. An MPOWER international student loan with no cosigner or collateral can make up the difference.
With MPOWER, you can borrow up to US$100,000 to fund your study abroad tuition and university-invoiced expenses. MPOWER loans have fixed interest rates and no prepayment penalty, making your repayment plan as simple as possible.
MPOWER students studying in Ontario also benefit from immigrant support through MPOWER’s Path2Success program and partnership with BorderPass. From visa support before you arrive to career services after you graduate, MPOWER will be with you every step of the way.
Ontario’s friendly cities, low cost of living and elite academic options make it a magnet for international students studying abroad on a budget. To finance your Ontario education with an international student loan that doesn’t require a cosigner or collateral, consider MPOWER. It takes less than a minute to get started.
Thinking about studying in Canada but unsure about the study permit process? Join our discussion with expert immigration guests to learn about study permits, visas, and essential documents. We’ll answer common questions about the application process, financial requirements, permit extensions, and post-graduation options.
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Comfortable, affordable and convenient housing can make or break your study abroad experience in Canada. Navigating the housing market in big cities like Toronto and Vancouver can feel especially challenging. But here’s the good news: With the right tools and preparation, you can secure a place that fits your budget and your living preferences!
This might sound obvious, but the sooner you can start your housing search the better. Canada is one of the most popular countries for international students, which means student housing in big cities can fill up quickly – particularly near colleges and universities. A great place to start your search is with your school. In most cases, Canadian schools will have dedicated housing resources for students, including housing boards with on- and off-campus rental listings.
When you start your search for housing in Canada, you need to know how much you can afford to pay every month. It’s a good idea to keep this amount a little lower than what you can actually afford since rent doesn’t typically include utilities and internet – unless you’re living on-campus, of course. It’s also smart to open a Canadian banking account as you’re preparing to move abroad. This will help you set aside money for your rent each month without incurring potentially high foreign exchange and transfer fees. You can learn more about student banking in Canada with TD Bank.*
Living on-campus can be the most affordable option for international students, and the cost often includes utilities, internet and meal plans. Plus, when you live on campus, you avoid excessive transportation costs since you won’t have to commute to your classes. Living on-campus is also a great way to meet other students. But remember, on-campus housing is often limited. Apply early to secure an on-campus option such as a dorm room or shared apartment.
Off-campus housing, especially if you have roommates, can be just as affordable as on-campus housing – although it doesn’t usually offer the same convenience. But where on-campus housing offers convenience, off-campus housing offers a more full experience of Canadian culture since you’ll be living like a true local. To start your off-campus search, determine your monthly budget and your location preferences. Then, explore the variety of reputable Canadian housing websites like RentBoard, Casita and other platforms specific to your city.
Sharing a house or apartment with other students is one of the most cost-effective ways to live in major Canadian cities like Toronto or Vancouver where rent prices can be high. Websites like Kijiji, Facebook Marketplace and Roomster can help you find roommates. Remember to always meet potential roommates and visit the space before committing to anything. If a deal is too good to be true, or if someone is demanding money upfront, it might be a sign of a potential scam.
In major cities, the downtown neighborhoods are often the most expensive. The solution? Expand your search to just a few miles outside of downtown to find lower prices. You might be able to research which neighborhoods are popular for students since many take this approach. But keep in mind that the further away from campus you live, the more you’ll have to pay in transportation costs.
Finding affordable housing in a major Canadian city might take some extra effort and planning – but as long as you start early, know your budget, and consider all your options, you’ll be able to find options that fit your preferences and your budget. If you’re having trouble finding a place before your academic period starts, look into short-term rentals (Airbnb, VRBO, etc.). While these options are less affordable, they can help you get settled in your new city while continuing your search for longer-term housing. Happy apartment hunting!
*MPOWER has referral agreements with TD Bank and may earn referral fees from this relationship.
Budgeting while studying abroad in Canada is an essential step in managing your money effectively so that you can build financial independence. But for international students, budgeting comes with an additional factor to consider – fluctuating international exchange rates. These changing rates can affect everything from tuition fees to daily expenses like groceries and coffee.
So let’s talk about exchange rates – what they are, why they matter, and some tips for budgeting while keeping them in mind.
Exchange rates represent the value of one country’s currency when converted to another. In your case, exchange rates determine how much your home country’s currency will be worth once it’s converted to Canadian dollars (CAD). These rates fluctuate due to factors like global economic trends, political events and market demand.
So, why do they matter for international students? The fluctuation of exchange rates can have a big impact on your student finances. A slight change in your home currency’s value could mean your tuition costs more (or less) than expected. It’s important to be aware of changes to the exchange rate so you can budget as effectively as possible.
This might seem obvious, but it’s worth stating clearly: Monitor the exchange rate between your country and Canada frequently. It’s a good idea to make it part of your regular budgeting process. Check with your bank to see if you can set up exchange rate alerts or use online tools like XE.com to track rate changes.
By staying up to date on the current rates, you’ll start to get an idea of typical fluctuations, and you’ll be able to make more informed decisions with your money – like transferring it when the exchange rates are more favorable.
One way to stay on top of any potential unexpected rate changes is to add a buffer amount to your budget. This means you’ll be covered in case the rates worsen. Start by adding a 5%-10% buffer to your estimated expenses – over time, as you get a better idea of how much rates tend to fluctuate, you can adjust this percentage if needed.
One of the best ways to avoid consistently dealing with the exchange rate is to keep most of your money in a Canadian bank account. With an in-country bank account, you can minimize the amount of money you need to convert into CAD and limit conversions when rates are unfavorable. You’ll also be able to avoid foreign transaction fees with an in-country bank account.
Not sure where to start? Check out the Student Banking package offered by our partners at TD Bank.*
While exchange rates can seem daunting and unpredictable, these tips will help you manage rate fluctuations with confidence while studying abroad in Canada. That confidence will help you achieve financial independence for years to come! Just remember: monitor the rates, buffer your budget, and use an in-country bank.
*MPOWER has referral agreements with TD Bank and may earn referral fees from this relationship.
Canada is one of the safest countries in the world with a safety index of 8.3 out of 10 from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). But as an international student who’s unfamiliar with the culture and your surroundings, it’s a good idea to take some precautions to stay safe while you’re abroad. As the saying goes, it’s better to be safe than sorry! Whether you’re preparing to go abroad or already living in Canada, these tips will give you the confidence you need to fully – and safely – enjoy your time overseas.
Let’s start with the basics – the most important information you need to know in case of emergencies when studying abroad. In Canada, dial 911 for medical emergencies or other high-risk situations that might need the involvement of the police or fire department. Many schools in Canada have their security resources, so be sure to research your school’s emergency contact number in addition to 911.
This might sound obvious, but always make sure to keep a close eye on your items like laptops, cell phones, wallets, etc. This is especially important for students studying abroad in major Canadian cities where cafes, libraries and public transportation are more congested with people.
It’s also smart to get to know your local neighborhood as quickly as you can when you arrive abroad. Familiarize yourself with street names, train/bus stops, local police stations and businesses so you can feel more comfortable navigating in stressful or emergency moments.
One of the most exciting parts of studying abroad is traveling in your new country and learning more about the culture. About 78% of Canadians say they feel safe walking alone at night, more than the OECD average of 74%. But remember – as you explore, it’s important to be smart and stay cautious. If you use public transportation late at night, for example, try to go with a friend so you’re not alone. Rideshare options, like Lyft and Uber, can be a smart alternative to public transportation if it’s late at night. You should also make sure to research the transportation options in a new area before you go so you don’t get stuck in an unknown neighborhood.
A great way to stay safe is to stay updated on local news and weather forecasts. This is especially important during the winter months since ice, snow and cold temperatures can be hazardous. Check a weather app on your phone, tune in to local news or radio stations, or check with your school to see if they provide weather alerts.
As with any country, it’s generally best not to walk around with a wallet full of cash. While carrying some cash is a good idea in case of emergencies, keeping the majority of your money in a Canadian bank account is both smart and safe. Connect with a financial advisor at TD Bank* to open a bank account for international students in Canada.
Canada is a great place to live and study, and while it’s generally a very safe country, it’s also smart to take basic precautions to ensure your study abroad experience is as fun, safe and enriching as possible. And remember: If a situation or person feels unsafe while you’re abroad, trust your gut. It’s okay to walk away, change your route, or ask for help at any time.
*MPOWER has referral agreements with TD Bank and may earn referral fees from this relationship.
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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