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Education scholarships  for international students

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As an international student, studying in the U.S. and Canada can be a life-changing opportunity – if you’re able to finance the cost of a degree. When your personal savings and family contribution won’t cover the entire cost of tuition, housing and other expenses, an education scholarship can be a great way to ease the financial burden of studying abroad. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different types of scholarships and how to apply for them.

Types of scholarships available to international students

International students in the U.S. and Canada have access to a wide range of education scholarships. Here are some of the most common types:

  • Merit-based scholarships: These scholarships reward students for their academic achievements, leadership skills or extracurricular involvement. If you have a strong academic record or have excelled in leadership roles, these could be a great fit. Many universities and private organizations look for students who not only perform well in school but also contribute to their communities.
  • Need-based scholarships: Designed for students who demonstrate financial need, these scholarships help make education accessible to those who might otherwise struggle to afford it. Many universities and non-profits offer need-based scholarships to ensure deserving students can pursue their studies without financial stress.
  • Subject-based scholarships: Some scholarships are awarded to students studying specific subjects. For example, if you’re working toward a degree in a field like science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM), there are numerous scholarships designed to support you. These fields drive innovation and many organizations want to encourage students to enter them. Some STEM scholarships even include internship and research opportunities to give you hands-on experience in your chosen fields.
  • Diversity and regional scholarships: Many institutions and organizations offer scholarships to students from underrepresented backgrounds or specific regions. These scholarships aim to make higher education more inclusive.
  • Government-funded scholarships: Many governments offer scholarships to support young citizens who want to study abroad. Some of these scholarships come with conditions, such as a requirement for recipients to return to their home country after graduation to contribute to national development.
  • University-based scholarships: These scholarships are offered directly by the university a student plans to attend. They’re often based on academic merit, but some schools may also consider factors like community service, leadership and other personal qualities.
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What are education scholarships?

Scholarships are financial awards given to students to help cover tuition, fees and other education-related costs. Unlike student loans, scholarships don’t need to be repaid, which makes them an ideal way to fund your education. International postgraduate scholarships are available from universities, private organizations and government agencies. Beyond helping to pay for your postgraduate degree, many scholarships also open doors to mentorship, networking and recognition – key elements that can help you thrive academically and professionally.

How to apply for an education scholarship

Applying for scholarships may seem overwhelming, but breaking it down into manageable steps can help. Here are a few tips on how to apply for scholarships to study abroad.

  1. Do your research: Start by looking for scholarships that match your background, field of study and financial needs. University financial aid offices, online scholarship databases and international student organizations are great places to start.
  1. Check the requirements: Every scholarship has specific eligibility criteria, such as academic performance, nationality or intended area of study. Be sure to read through these details carefully to ensure you qualify.
  1. Gather your documents: Most scholarships require academic transcripts, recommendation letters, a statement of purpose and sometimes proof of financial need. Having these documents ready ahead of time will make the process smoother.
  1. Write a compelling essay: Your essay is your chance to stand out from other applicants. Use it to highlight your achievements, goals and why you deserve the scholarship. Tailoring each application to the specific scholarship can improve your chances.
  1. Submit your application on time: Deadlines are strict, so make sure you submit your application well before the cutoff date. A late submission usually means you won’t be considered.
  1. Apply to multiple scholarships: Don’t pin all your hopes on one scholarship. Applying for several increases your chances of receiving financial aid. Be sure to tailor your applications to the requirements of each one.
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Education scholarships  and loans from MPOWER Financing

MPOWER is a mission-driven organization committed to making education more accessible for international students through scholarships and loans. Founded in 2014 by two international students, MPOWER offers a range of education scholarships with annual and monthly deadlines.

  • Global Citizen Scholarship: This scholarship recognizes the potential of students poised to take on the world’s most pressing problems in science, technology, business and public policy at an MPOWER-eligible school.
  • Women in STEM Scholarship: This scholarship is designed to support female students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields at an MPOWER-eligible school.
  • MBA Scholarship: Tailored for students pursuing a Master of Business Administration, this scholarship supports future business leaders enrolled in or accepted to a full-time MBA program at an MPOWER-eligible school.
  • Monthly Scholarship Series: Every month, MPOWER offers different scholarship opportunities based on varying themes and student backgrounds. These recurring scholarships give students multiple chances to secure funding at an MPOWER-eligible school.
  • Refugee Scholarship: This scholarship is dedicated to students who’ve fled harsh conditions in their home countries and are seeking to rebuild their lives through education at an MPOWER-eligible school in the U.S. or Canada.
  • 追梦永不息 Scholarship: Specifically for Chinese international graduate students, this scholarship supports those pursuing their educational dreams in the U.S. or Canada at an MPOWER-eligible school.

Other services offered by MPOWER:

  • International student loans: MPOWER offers flexible, no-cosigner/no-collateral loans from US$2,001 to US$100,000 to help international students finance their education.
  • Career support: From free resume workshops to job search assistance, MPOWER helps F-1 students navigate the professional world.
  • Visa support: MPOWER provides free visa support services, including a visa support letter and a visa prep class from experts.

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FAQs

Can international students get full scholarships for postgraduate degrees in the U.S. and Canada? 

Some universities and organizations offer fully-funded scholarships that cover tuition, living expenses and other costs. Canadian and U.S. postgraduate scholarships for international students are highly competitive, but they can significantly reduce the financial burden of studying abroad.

How can I find master’s scholarships for international students? 

To find scholarships for a master’s abroad, start by checking university websites, online scholarship databases and government-funded programs.  In addition, check websites including internationalscholarship.com, IEFA.com and EduPass.org.

What factors do scholarship committees consider when reviewing applications? 

Most scholarship committees evaluate applications based on academic performance, leadership experience, extracurricular involvement and the quality of the personal essay. Some scholarships may also prioritize financial need or community impact.

Can I apply for multiple scholarships at the same time? 

Applying for multiple scholarships is highly recommended. Since scholarships are competitive, submitting several applications increases your chances of receiving financial aid.

What other sources of funding are available for graduate study abroad in the U.S. or Canada?

In addition to scholarships for master’s degrees or doctoral degrees, students can seek grants, assistantships, fellowships, work-study opportunities and private loans.


*Rates as low as 9.99% (11.16% APR). This interest rate and APR includes a 0.25% discount for automatic recurring payments.

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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