Are international students eligible for financial aid? How does their tuition compare to what American citizens are charged?
Yes, international students are eligible for financial aid, though options are more limited compared to U.S. citizens. They are typically not eligible for federal aid like the FAFSA, but they can apply for other forms of assistance:
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University Scholarships and Grants: Many U.S. institutions offer merit-based or need-based scholarships specifically for international students. For instance, schools like Princeton University provide need-based financial aid to international students, while other universities like the University of Oregon offer grants, work-study programs, and scholarships tailored for international students
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Private Scholarships: There are numerous scholarships offered by non-profit organizations and foundations. For example, the MPOWER Women in STEM Scholarship awards funds to women pursuing studies in STEM fields, and organizations like IvyPanda and Lifeasapa also provide scholarships for international students
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Student Loans: While international students aren’t eligible for U.S. federal loans, they can often obtain private loans. Some institutions also partner with lenders to provide student loans specifically for international students(
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Country-Specific Aid: Many governments offer scholarships or grants to students studying abroad. For example, students from Japan, Colombia, or the UAE may have access to government-backed scholarships
Regarding tuition, international students generally pay higher tuition rates compared to U.S. citizens. For public universities, tuition ranges between $25,000 and $35,000 per year, while at private institutions, it can range from $30,000 to $75,000 annually(
While international students face higher costs, exploring financial aid options early can help make education in the U.S. more affordable.