A grant refers to a financial award that does not need to be repaid, which is provided by organizations or institutions to help cover the costs of tuition, fees, living expenses, or other educational expenses.
For international students including Nepali students, grants can be especially important, as they may not be eligible for certain types of financial aid or loans that are available to US citizens or permanent residents. In addition, the cost of studying in the US can be prohibitively expensive, particularly for students from developing countries like Nepal and India or those with limited financial resources.
There are a variety of organizations and institutions that offer grants for international students studying in the US, including universities, government agencies, private foundations, and non-profit organizations. Some grants are awarded based on academic merit, while others may take into account financial need or other factors such as field of study, country of origin, or demographic characteristics.
Hence, grants for international students can play a significant role in making higher education more accessible and affordable, and can help to support a diverse and inclusive student body in the US.
Types of Grants Available for International Students in the US
There are several types of grants available for international students studying in the US, including:
1. Need-based grants
Need-based grants are financial awards that are given to students based on their financial need. The amount of the grant is determined by the student’s demonstrated need, as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or other financial aid application. Here are some examples of need-based grants:
- The Pell Grant: This federal grant is awarded to undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional financial need, as determined by the FAFSA. The maximum award for the 2022-2023 academic year is $6,495.
- The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG): This federal grant is awarded to undergraduate students with exceptional financial need, as determined by the FAFSA. The amount of the award ranges from $100 to $4,000 per year, depending on the student’s financial need and the availability of funds at their school.
- College-specific need-based grants: Many colleges and universities offer need-based grants to students who demonstrate financial need. These grants may be awarded in addition to federal or state grants, and the amount of the grant can vary depending on the student’s financial need and the availability of funds at the institution.
- State need-based grants: Some states offer need-based grants to students who demonstrate financial need and are residents of the state. The eligibility requirements and amount of the grant can vary depending on the state and the availability of funds.
In short, need-based grants can be a helpful source of financial aid for international students who demonstrate financial need and meet other eligibility requirements.
2. Merit-based grants
Merit-based grants are awarded to students based on their academic, athletic, artistic, or other achievements, rather than their financial need. These grants are typically highly competitive, and recipients are selected based on a rigorous application process that evaluates their achievements and potential for future success.
The criteria for awarding merit-based grants can vary widely depending on the specific grant program. For academic merit-based grants, criteria may include GPA, standardized test scores, academic honors, and research experience. For athletic or artistic merit-based grants, criteria may include demonstrated talent, awards or recognition, and performance or audition evaluations. Other factors that may be considered include leadership potential, community involvement, and diversity.
Here are some examples of merit-based grants:
- The National Merit Scholarship Program: This program awards scholarships to high-achieving high school students based on their performance on the PSAT/NMSQT. Recipients of the scholarship can receive up to full tuition coverage.
- The Rhodes Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to outstanding students from around the world to pursue graduate studies at the University of Oxford. Selection is based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and commitment to public service.
- The Fulbright Program: This program offers grants to international students, scholars, and professionals to study, teach, or conduct research in the United States. Selection is based on academic and professional achievement, as well as potential for future success in their field.
Merit-based grants can be a great way for international students to fund their education if they have outstanding achievements in academics, athletics, arts, or other areas. It is important to research and carefully evaluate the eligibility criteria and application process for each grant program to determine if it is a good fit for your qualifications and goals.
3. College-specific grants
College-specific grants are grants and scholarships offered by individual universities to international students. These grants may be need-based or merit-based, and may be based on factors such as academic performance, community service, or specific areas of study. Unlike federal grants, which are available to students at any institution, college-specific grants are only available to students enrolled at the particular university offering the grant.
The eligibility criteria and application process for college-specific grants can vary widely between universities. Some universities may automatically consider all international students for certain grants, while others may require students to submit additional materials, such as essays or recommendation letters, to be considered for certain grants. It is important to research the specific requirements for each grant and ensure that you meet all eligibility criteria before applying.
Here are some examples of universities that offer college-specific grants to international students:
- Yale University: Yale offers need-based financial aid to all admitted international students, regardless of citizenship or immigration status. The university also offers several merit-based scholarships, such as the Yale International Student Scholarship and the Yale College Undergraduate Scholarship.
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT): MIT offers need-based financial aid to all admitted international students who apply for aid. The university also offers several merit-based scholarships, such as the MIT Excellence Award and the MIT International Science and Technology Initiatives (MISTI) Global Seed Funds.
- University of Chicago: The University of Chicago offers several need-based and merit-based scholarships to international students, including the Odyssey Scholarship, which provides full tuition coverage to students from families with incomes below $90,000 per year.
- University of Pennsylvania: Penn offers need-based financial aid to international undergraduate students, including grants and scholarships that cover tuition, fees, and other expenses.
- Dartmouth College: Dartmouth offers need-based financial aid to international students, including grants that cover tuition, room and board, and other expenses.
- Stanford University: Stanford offers need-based financial aid to international undergraduate and graduate students, including grants that cover tuition, fees, and other expenses.
To find college-specific grants, visit the financial aid or international student pages of the college or university’s website. Look for information about grants and scholarships that are specifically available to international students. You can also contact the college or university’s financial aid office directly to inquire about available funding opportunities.
The application process for college-specific grants will vary by institution. Typically, you will need to submit an application for admission to the college or university and complete any financial aid applications required by the institution. Be sure to carefully review the application instructions and deadlines for each grant or scholarship you are interested in and submit all required materials on time.
4. Federal grants
Federal grants are financial awards that do not need to be repaid, and they are typically awarded based on financial need. However, most federal grants are only available to US citizens or eligible non-citizens, which generally excludes international students. To be eligible for federal grants as an international student, you must typically meet the same eligibility requirements as US citizens or eligible non-citizens. This includes being enrolled or accepted for enrollment in an eligible program at a participating institution, having a high school diploma or equivalent, and meeting certain citizenship and residency requirements.
Two federal grants that may be available to some international students are the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) and the Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant. However, eligibility for these grants is limited and varies by program. The FSEOG is only available to US citizens or eligible non-citizens who demonstrate exceptional financial need, while the TEACH Grant is only available to US citizens or eligible non-citizens who are enrolled in a TEACH-Grant-eligible program and agree to serve as a full-time teacher in a high-need field in a low-income area after graduation. It is important for international students to research and understand the eligibility requirements for federal grants before applying.
In short, international students may need to explore a variety of grant options in order to find the best fit for their individual needs and circumstances. It’s essential to carefully research eligibility requirements, deadlines, and application procedures for each grant, and to be proactive in seeking out financial aid opportunities.
Eligibility Requirements for International Students
The eligibility requirements for international students to receive grants in the US may vary depending on the specific grant program. Here are some common eligibility requirements:
- Citizenship and residency requirements: Many grants require applicants to be US citizens or permanent residents. However, some grants may be open to non-US citizens or international students with a valid visa. It’s important to carefully review the eligibility requirements for each grant program to determine if international students are eligible to apply.
- Academic requirements: Many grants are awarded based on academic achievement, such as GPA, standardized test scores, or other academic accomplishments. Some grants may also require applicants to be enrolled in a specific field of study or degree program.
- Financial need requirements: Some grants are need-based, meaning they are awarded based on financial need as determined by the FAFSA or other financial aid application. International students may need to provide additional documentation of their financial need, such as bank statements or proof of income.
- Other eligibility criteria: Some grants may have additional eligibility requirements, such as a minimum age or citizenship from a specific country. Some grants may also be restricted to students from certain backgrounds or underrepresented groups.
It’s important for international students to carefully review the eligibility requirements for each grant program they are interested in, as well as any application deadlines or other requirements. Some grants may require additional materials such as essays, letters of recommendation, or transcripts, so students should plan ahead and give themselves plenty of time to complete their applications.
How to Apply for US Grants For Students
If you’re an international student interested in applying for grants in the US, here are some steps you can take to navigate the application process:
- Research available grants: Start by researching the different types of grants available to international students, including need-based grants, merit-based grants, and college-specific grants. You can look for grant opportunities through scholarship search engines, university websites, or international student organizations. Pay close attention to the eligibility requirements and application deadlines for each grant.
- Understand the application process: Once you’ve identified grant programs you’re interested in, take time to carefully review the application instructions and requirements. Make note of any materials you’ll need to submit, such as transcripts, essays, or letters of recommendation, and make sure you have everything you need before starting your application. It’s also a good idea to double-check any eligibility requirements to ensure you meet all the criteria.
- Tips for writing a strong grant application: When applying for grants, it’s important to put together a strong application that showcases your qualifications and demonstrates why you’re a good fit for the grant program. Here are some tips to help you write a strong grant application: Be clear and concise, emphasize your strengths, Tailor your application to the grant program, and Get feedback.
Applying for grants as an international student can be a competitive process, but with careful research, attention to detail, and a strong application, you may be able to secure financial support to help fund your education in the US.
Examples of Some Popular Grants for International Students in the US (Eligible to Nepali Citizens)
Here are some examples of grants that are available for international students studying in the US:
- Fulbright Foreign Student Program: This program offers grants to international graduate students, young professionals, and artists to study and conduct research in the US for one academic year. The program covers tuition, airfare, a living stipend, and other expenses.
- Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program: This fellowship is designed for mid-career professionals from developing countries who want to enhance their professional skills and knowledge. The program covers tuition, travel, living expenses, and other costs for a 10-month period of study and practical work experience in the US.
- Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program: This program offers scholarships to students from developing countries who are pursuing a master’s degree in development-related fields. The scholarship covers tuition, a living allowance, round-trip airfare, and other expenses.
- American Association of University Women International Fellowships: This fellowship is open to women from around the world who are pursuing graduate studies in the US. The program covers tuition, living expenses, and other costs for one academic year of study.
- Rotary Peace Fellowship: This fellowship is designed for students who are interested in pursuing careers related to peace and conflict resolution. The program covers tuition, fees, and living expenses for up to two years of study at one of six participating universities in the US and abroad.
These are just a few examples of the many grants and fellowships that are available for international students studying in the US. It’s important to research different opportunities and carefully review the eligibility requirements and application process for each program.
Frequently Asked Question About US Grants for International Students
Our FAQ section is designed to provide answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about grants for international students in the US. If you are an international student looking for funding opportunities to pursue your studies in the United States, you may have a lot of questions about the grant application process, eligibility requirements, and other important details. Our FAQ section aims to address some of these questions and provide you with helpful information to guide you in your search for financial assistance. Whether you are looking for need-based grants, merit-based grants, or college-specific grants, we hope to provide you with some clarity and guidance as you navigate the world of US grants for international students.
What is the difference between a grant and a scholarship?
While both grants and scholarships provide financial aid to students that does not need to be repaid, there are some differences between the two. Grants are typically need-based and may be awarded by the government or other organizations to students who demonstrate financial need. Scholarships, on the other hand, are often merit-based and may be awarded for academic, athletic, or artistic achievement, as well as for other criteria.
Can international students receive grants from the US government?
Most federal grants are only available to US citizens or eligible non-citizens, which generally excludes international students. However, some federal grants may be available to international students who meet certain eligibility requirements, such as the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) and the Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant.
Do I need to have a high GPA to be eligible for a grant?
The GPA requirements for grants can vary depending on the specific grant program. Some grants may require a minimum GPA, while others may not. In general, however, having a high GPA can improve your chances of receiving a grant.
Are grants for international students competitive?
Yes, grants for international students can be highly competitive, as there are typically many qualified applicants for a limited number of awards. It is important to carefully research and apply for grants that match your qualifications and interests, and to submit a strong application.
How can I increase my chances of receiving a grant as an international student?
To increase your chances of receiving a grant as an international student, it is important to research and apply for grants that match your qualifications and interests, and to submit a strong application. This may involve maintaining a high GPA, demonstrating financial need, and highlighting your achievements and potential for future success.
Can I receive multiple grants at the same time?
It is possible to receive multiple grants at the same time, depending on the specific grant programs and their eligibility requirements. However, it is important to carefully review the terms and conditions of each grant to ensure that receiving multiple awards does not violate any rules or regulations.
What should I do if I am not eligible for a grant?
If you are not eligible for a grant, there may be other forms of financial aid available to you, such as scholarships, loans, or work-study programs. It is important to explore all of your options and to work with your school’s financial aid office to identify the best opportunities for you.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this article provided an overview of grants available to international students studying in the United States. We discussed the different types of grants, including need-based, merit-based, and college-specific grants, as well as federal grants that may be available to some international students who meet certain eligibility requirements. We also answered frequently asked questions to provide a better understanding of the grant application process. It is important for international students to consider applying for grants, as they can greatly reduce the financial burden of studying in the United States. We encourage all eligible international students to explore the various grant options available to them and to submit applications for those they qualify for.
