How to Apply for a Scholarship to Study Abroad

Studying abroad is the experience of a lifetime. It can be a great opportunity for you to grow and discover a different culture. But, studying abroad can come with a heavy price tag. Luckily, there are thousands of scholarships available to help students make their study abroad dreams come true. Every student should have the chance to study abroad without the problem of high tuition costs.

Here are some great ways for how to apply for a scholarship to study abroad

Ask your school

The first place you can check for a study abroad scholarship is right at your very own school. Talk with your school’s study abroad office, the financial aid office, your academic advisors and even your professors. These people will be able to help you find study abroad scholarships. It is possible that your school even offers study abroad programs with scholarships that you can apply to. It is best that you meet with your professors, academic advisors and the study abroad office in person and not only talk through emails. Face to face conversations are much more memorable and show that you are serious.

Do your own research

You should continue to do your own research even if you are getting help from your academic advisors and school’s study a broad office. A quick google search will give you thousands of scholarships for studying abroad. If you aren’t sure how legitimate a scholarship is, don’t be shy to call and ask some questions.

Scholarships for your major

You may find study abroad scholarships which are specific to your major. It is best that you check with your major’s department at your school to learn about different scholarship opportunities.

Federal financial aid

If you already receive FAFSA financial aid, you can check with them to see if you are able to use the money also to study abroad.

Keep applying

Applying to scholarships does take a lot of time, but the more scholarships you apply to, the higher the chance you have to win money. Be sure to apply to small scholarships too, as every little bit counts.

Check with the country you want to study in

If you know already where you want to study abroad, check with that country’s government to see if they offer scholarships to students who want to come from abroad. Many countries want to encourage students to come study at their school so they provide students with scholarships. Also, if you have already found a specific university, check with the university itself. Many higher education institutions around the world offer students from abroad different scholarships.

Check with local and national organizations

Research different non-profit organizations that give scholarships to students if they are part of a minority group. For example, students may be able to get a scholarship because of their gender, race, religion, disabilities, or sexual orientation. You can find these opportunities in your own community or online.

Show your passion

Most study abroad scholarships ask you to write a personal essay. It is important that you express your passion for studying abroad and show them who you are. Make sure that you explain how receiving this scholarship will allow you to live your dreams and why you deserve it.

There are other ways to get money for studying abroad besides scholarships. Working in a part-time job such as babysitting or waitressing can be a great way to save money to study abroad. Think about how you want to spend your money and what can help you save some money. Is it not going out to eat as much? Or only shopping for things you need? If you are willing to put in the time and the effort, you will be able to save money, win some scholarships and make your study abroad dreams come true.