Scholarships for international students: What to know
Studying abroad is a life-changing opportunity, but it often comes with a high financial cost. Tuition fees, accommodation, travel, and living expenses can add up quickly — especially for international students. Fortunately, a wide range of scholarships are available to help reduce the burden.
Whether you’re applying to study in the UK, USA, Canada, or Australia, this guide will help you understand what types of scholarships exist, how to find them, and what makes an application stand out.
What Are Scholarships — and Why Do They Matter?
A scholarship is a financial award given to a student to help cover the cost of their education. Unlike loans, scholarships do not need to be repaid.
Scholarships can cover:
- Full or partial tuition fees
- Accommodation or living expenses
- Travel and visa costs (in rare cases)
- A combination of the above
Types of Scholarships for International Students
1. University-Specific Scholarships
Most universities set aside funding to attract talented international students. These awards are based on:
- Academic excellence
- Financial need
- Leadership qualities
- Country of origin
Examples:
- University of Bristol Think Big Scholarship (UK)
- NYU Global Pathways Scholarship (USA)
- University of Toronto International Scholar Award (Canada)
- University of Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship (Australia)
2. Government Scholarships
Government-funded awards are often generous and prestigious.
- UK: Chevening Scholarships, Commonwealth Scholarships
- USA: Fulbright Program, Hubert Humphrey Fellowship
- Canada: Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships, Canada-ASEAN Scholarships
- Australia: Australia Awards, Destination Australia
3. Private/Third-Party Scholarships
Many NGOs, charities, and corporations offer scholarships to support global education.
Examples:
- Rotary Foundation Scholarships
- The British Council’s GREAT Scholarships
- Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
- Local government or embassy-sponsored awards in your home country
When Should You Start Applying?
Start early. Many international scholarships have deadlines 6–12 months before the course begins. Some are open even before university applications.
Typical timelines:
- UK: Sep–Jan for most undergraduate/master’s awards
- US: Nov–Feb for Fall intake
- Canada: Varies by province and university
- Australia: Rolling, but often 3–6 months ahead of intake
Top Tip: Don’t wait to receive an offer letter — many scholarships require simultaneous applications.
What Makes a Strong Scholarship Application?
Success isn’t just about grades. Here’s what selection committees look for:
Strong Personal Statement
Clearly explain why you’re applying, your goals, and how the scholarship will help. Make it personal, focused, and well-structured.
Evidence of Achievement
Academic records, test scores (e.g. IELTS, SAT), or academic awards can boost your case.
Community Impact & Leadership
Show involvement in volunteering, mentoring, clubs, or initiatives that reflect leadership and commitment.
Professional Presentation
Submit all required documents in the correct format, meet deadlines, and follow instructions precisely.
Common Scholarship Myths — Debunked
Myth 1: “You need perfect grades to get a scholarship.”
Not always. Many scholarships consider extracurriculars, leadership, or financial need.
Myth 2: “Only postgraduate students are eligible.”
No — undergraduates can apply for many scholarships too.
Myth 3: “It’s not worth applying — the chances are too low.”
Many students miss out because they simply don’t apply.
Country-Specific Highlights
UK
- Focus on academic merit and global citizenship
- Chevening is one of the most competitive awards but fully funds master’s study
- Some universities offer automatic fee discounts
USA
- Financial aid and scholarships often awarded by individual institutions
- Need-aware and need-blind schools differ in their aid policies
- External scholarships are widely available
Canada
- Excellent funding for graduate students
- Undergraduate funding is competitive but growing
- Opportunities for PR after study add long-term value
Australia
- Strong support from the government and institutions
- Research-heavy programs often come with funding
- Good options for regional and rural scholarships
Final Thoughts: Be Strategic and Proactive
Applying for scholarships takes effort — but the rewards are well worth it. Don’t limit yourself to one or two options. Cast a wide net, meet deadlines, and ask for support where needed.
Need Help with Your Scholarship Applications?
At Rise Education Group, we help students:
- Find the most relevant scholarships
- Prepare strong personal statements
- Review applications for maximum impact