International student success story: From Nigeria to George Washington University

Many international students are familiar with the financial challenges of studying abroad. Ibrahim, a student from Nigeria at George Washington University, faced a daunting reality: his scholarship didn’t cover all his needs. This unexpected financial gap threatened his plans to study in the U.S., but he was able to find a solution with MPOWER Financing.

From challenge to the solution

Ibrahim was thrilled when he received his admission to George Washington University. However, he quickly realized his scholarship offer didn’t cover all his expenses. This issue of partial funding is common among international students eager to study abroad, yet full funding is often hard to secure. In his search for a solution, Ibrahim turned to his friends for advice. They introduced him to MPOWER Financing. He was particularly impressed with MPOWER’s no-cosigner and no-collateral loan, a significant advantage since he had no substantial assets to offer as collateral.

Securing the future 

The straightforward terms of MPOWER’s loans provided Ibrahim immediate relief. With fixed monthly payments, he could plan his finances with certainty. This predictability proved invaluable, especially when securing an on-campus job proved difficult during his first semester. The loan covered not only his tuition fees but also his living expenses, ensuring he could continue his studies without financial worry.

Cultural perspectives on credit

Ibrahim says that back in Africa, there’s widespread apprehension about borrowing. Many fear the repercussions of debt, often worrying about repayment. Ibrahim was no exception. MPOWER’s straightforward approach and absence of requirements such as a cosigner, makes funding more accessible for international students.
“Many people don’t really know that a loan can go a long way to assist you in whatever you’re doing,” Ibrahim says.

Advice from Ibrahim on student loans in Nigeria

Reflecting on his experience, Ibrahim now sees MPOWER as an important resource for international students in the U.S. and Canada. He appreciates how MPOWER’s student-friendly policies ease the transition for those new to a foreign land. He has already recommended MPOWER to three close friends, praising its role in helping students concentrate on what truly matters.

“To avoid all those troubles, take a loan, make your life easier. So that you can focus on what really matters, which is graduating with a good grade and getting a job,” he says.

Final thoughts

Ibrahim’s journey from financial uncertainty to stability illustrates the critical role of financing solutions like MPOWER’s student loan. For those facing similar challenges, MPOWER Financing offers a way to overcome challenges and achieve educational aspirations without compromising on academic focus. If you’re ready to take the next step in your educational journey, discover how MPOWER Financing can help you meet your goals. 

 

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How to monitor your credit report while studying abroad in the U.S.

Building a positive credit history in the U.S. can make life a lot easier, especially if you’re planning to stay in the U.S. after you graduate. Without good credit, it can be tough to open a credit card, buy a car, rent an apartment or qualify for low-interest loans. 

Fortunately, there are steps you can take while you study abroad to establish your credit in the U.S., such as obtaining a credit card and paying your student loans on time. Along the way, you can monitor your credit report and score to make sure your efforts are paying off. 

Learn more about how to monitor your credit as an international student, so you can improve your financial health and set yourself up for future success. 

What’s a credit report? 

Your credit report sums up your financial history in the U.S. There are three main credit bureaus that collect information on your personal credit history to generate your credit report — Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. 

Your creditors, such as credit card companies and student loan providers, send information to the credit bureaus about your accounts and payment history. Future lenders review your credit report to assess whether you’re a responsible borrower. 

The information in your credit report can impact your ability to qualify for a loan, rent an apartment and buy insurance. Some companies also check out your credit report when considering whether to hire you for a job. 

What’s a credit score? 

A credit score is a number between 300 and 850 that represents the information on your credit report. Lenders and credit card companies also consider your credit score when you apply for a new account. 

The higher your score, the easier it will be to qualify for loans and access affordable rates and terms. There are several types of credit scoring companies out there, but the one that lenders rely on the most is your FICO score. 

Your FICO score is calculated based on the following categories: 

• • Payment history (35%): Your payment history has the biggest influence on your score. On-time payments on debts will improve your score, while late payments will drag it down. 
  • Amounts owed (30%): If you’re using a lot of the credit available to you, your credit score could go down. It’s generally a good idea to keep your credit utilization below 30%.
  • Length of credit history (15%): It usually takes six months or so of financial activity in the U.S. to generate a FICO score. Having a longer history can help improve your score. You’re not necessarily late to the game as an international student, though, as many domestic students don’t start building credit until college or after. 
  • Credit mix (10%): Having a mix of different types of accounts, such as a credit card and a student loan, can improve your score, as it shows creditors you’re able to handle different kinds of credit. 
  • New credit (10%): Opening a bunch of accounts in a short time can hurt your score, as it can indicate that you may be overextending yourself with borrowing money.

4 ways to monitor your credit in the U.S. 

It takes time to build good credit, but you can monitor your progress along the way. Here are four ways to stay on top of your credit in the U.S. 

1. Review your credit report for free 

You can request a free copy of your credit report on a weekly basis from each of the three credit bureaus at AnnualCreditReport.com. On your credit reports, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of your various accounts, such as student loans or credit cards. However, your credit report does not show your credit score. 

Review all the information on your report to make sure it’s accurate. Creditors get things wrong sometimes, so it’s possible you could see an error on your report. If you spot a mistake, try disputing it with the credit bureau. You can also call your creditor about the issue. 

Mistakes or unusual accounts on your credit report can also be a sign of identity theft. If you find mysterious accounts in your name. It could be a sign someone has stolen your personal information. In that case, you’ll want to freeze your credit and file a report with the Federal Trade Commission. 

2. Use a free credit monitoring service 

Although your credit report won’t show your credit score, you can find your score elsewhere. For instance, there are several free credit monitoring services you can use to check your scores and monitor them over time. 

Some free credit monitoring services include: 

• • CreditKarma
  • CreditWise from Capital One
  • myFICO (the free plan) 
  • Credit Sesame 
  • Experian’s free credit monitoring

Note that some of these services show your VantageScore, rather than your FICO score. Although the scores will likely be similar, it’s the FICO score that most lenders look at when you apply for a loan or credit card. 

3. Check your scores through your credit card company 

If you have a credit card in the U.S., you may get a free credit score when you sign into your credit card account online or via their mobile app. Many credit card companies will provide your credit score for free and can notify you if they detect changes to your score. 

4. Pay for a credit monitoring plan 

Paying for a credit monitoring plan is also an option if you’re looking for robust identity theft monitoring. However, it’s probably not necessary unless you’re particularly worried about identity theft or have been a victim of it in the past. You can find paid plans from various companies, including: 

• • Experian Identity Works 
  • myFICO Advanced and Premier plans 
  • Identity Guard
  • ID Watchdog
  • Privacy Guard  

Tips for building credit as an international student 

As you monitor your credit in the U.S., here are some steps you can take to improve it over time. 

• • Make on-time payments on your loans: Paying your bills on time is key to building a positive credit history and score. If you borrowed student loans from MPOWER Financing, MPOWER will report your payments to the credit bureaus. On-time payments will generally result in higher credit scores. 
  • Apply for a credit card: Having a credit card can also help you establish credit in the U.S., but try to pay off your balance in full every month. Otherwise, you could end up having to pay hefty interest charges. You may need a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to apply for a credit card in the U.S. If you can’t qualify for an unsecured credit card, you might have an easier time with a secured credit card, which requires a deposit of funds upfront. 
  • Become an authorized user: If you have a friend or family member in the U.S. with a credit card, consider asking them to add you as an authorized user. You don’t necessarily have to use the card, but their payments can help you establish credit in the U.S. Make sure the cardholder manages credit responsibly, however, or their financial habits could have the opposite effect and harm your credit. 
  • Report your rent and utility payments: Rent and utilities aren’t typically reported to the credit bureaus, but you could sign up for a service to have yours reported. Some services that can help with this include Self, Piñata and Rental Kharma. Experian’s service, Experian Boost, will also take utility bills into account, such as phone, internet, gas and electricity. If you go this route, make sure to pay all your bills on time to avoid damaging your credit.

It usually takes several months to establish a credit score and even longer to build good credit. By paying back your loans on time and managing your finances carefully, you can establish positive credit in the U.S. Review free copies of your credit report on a regular basis and use a credit monitoring service to track your progress and watch your credit score improve over time.

 

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How to budget effectively while studying abroad in Canada

What’s the best way to budget? It’s an age-old question, and the truth is there’s not necessarily one right answer. While approaches to budgeting vary from person to person, no one can argue about its necessity – especially for international students. 

We collected our best budgeting recommendations for students in Canada, so you can make the most of your time abroad and maybe even start saving for future goals along the way!

Understand income and expenses

The first step in creating a budget is knowing how much money you’re making. As an international student, your primary income is probably coming from a combination of family support, personal funds, student loans, scholarships and/or part-time jobs. List them all out! Next, list all of your fixed and variable expenses. A fixed expense stays the same and is paid on a regular basis, something like rent or your internet service payment. A variable expense might also be recurring, but the amount could vary. Think things like transportation, groceries, etc.

Once you understand how much money is coming in versus how much is going out, your budget will start to take shape. 

Set financial goals

Next, you’ll want to identify any financial goals you have. Goals can help you stay motivated during the day-to-day reality of following a budget. Some ideas might be saving up for a new computer, saving to pay off your student loans after graduation, or creating an emergency fund. 

As an international student, it’s easy to feel like you don’t make enough money to set goals – but that’s not true! Contributing as little as CA$10 a month toward a goal can add up in big ways over the long term. 

Pick a budgeting strategy

As you’ll likely find out, it’s easy to have a budget written down on paper, but things are trickier in real life. Being abroad – in a beautiful place like Canada, no less! – is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you don’t want to miss out on. It might feel like a budget is holding you back, but the reality is your budget can give you more freedom to relax and enjoy your surroundings with the knowledge you’re still financially on track. 

So, let’s review some of the popular budgeting options that can help you stay on track: 

• 50/30/20 rule: Allocate 50% of your income to needs (rent, groceries), 30% to wants (entertainment, dining out) and 20% to savings, goals or debt repayment.
• Zero-based budgeting: Every dollar you earn is assigned a job. It doesn’t mean you have to spend all the money you earn. Instead, you have to allocate every penny of your paycheck to a specific bucket, whether it’s paying bills, saving or spending on entertainment.
• International students in Canada can file a Canadian income tax return. Most foreign students are eligible for benefits and tax credits. 

Once you know what strategy fits your lifestyle best, stick with it and track your progress.

Manage your money

Once you know your income, expenses, goals and budgeting strategy, it’s time to make use of the many resources available to international students in Canada to help manage your money. First things first, getting a Canadian bank account is an essential way to track your spending and manage your money while you’re abroad. It can also help you save money by minimizing foreign transaction fees from your home country bank. We recommend checking out TD Bank Canada’s* International Student Package if you need help finding a trusted bank that caters to the needs of international students.

Next, take advantage of financial resources available to you from your school. Many schools in Canada offer financial workshops to help students manage their money better – plus, these events can be a great way to meet like-minded friends committed to being smart with their money. 

Finally, make use of technology! Whether it’s a simple budget tracker spreadsheet or a more comprehensive budgeting app, there are plenty of money management apps available on your computer or smartphone. 

 

Learn more

 

You’re on your way to becoming a budgeting pro!

Budgeting isn’t rocket science if you take the time to understand your income, set goals and use available resources to help. Remember, your budget is never going to be perfect. Things will vary from month to month, and that’s okay. The important thing is that you try your best to stick to your plan, even a little effort goes a long way when it comes to budgeting! 

*MPOWER has referral agreements with TD Bank and may earn referral fees from this relationship.

Networking in Canada: tips for building professional relationships as a student

Having a strong professional network is one of the most helpful tools in finding the career you want after graduation – in addition to your grades, of course. It’s never too soon to start building your network. If you’re on campus in Canada, you’re ready to start networking! Here are our tips for building your professional community as an international student in Canada: 

Start on campus

You don’t have to look far to start networking while you’re abroad. Your university or college is the perfect place to begin building connections for your career. Make sure to attend events like career fairs, workshops or even speaker series. And bring along some cards with your contact information so the people you meet can easily stay in touch with you. A lot of schools also have clubs or associations where you can meet students and alumni in your desired field or with your same cultural background. You might also consider developing relationships with professors you particularly admire and who work in your future field. Professors in particular can act as great references for you when looking for a postgraduation job.

Use LinkedIn to your advantage

LinkedIn isn’t just another social media site – it’s a powerful tool for building your professional presence and network. So make sure your profile includes a professional headshot (your school’s career office can help you with this), updated academic and job information, and contact information. You’ll also want to write a thoughtful bio for your LinkedIn page that introduces you to people and lets them know about your career aspirations. 

Not sure where to start on LinkedIn? Try searching for classmates and professors first. Then you can look to join relevant LinkedIn groups related to your major or industry or follow companies you might want to work at someday. That way, you can stay updated on company news, events or potential hiring opportunities. 

Attend industry events and conferences

If you’re attending school in a Canadian city or large town, you can attend local industry networking events or conferences. Some events and conferences may offer student discounts, so keep an eye out for that. It might be helpful to attend an event like this with a friend in your same major so you don’t feel intimidated. 

Schedule informational interviews

An informational interview is a conversation with a professional in your field who helps you learn more about their career path and the industry in general. Remember – an informational interview is not about asking for a job! It’s about gaining insight and advice and adding someone new to your professional network. Reach out to alumni or industry professionals on LinkedIn politely asking if they’d be willing to chat with you about their careers. This is one of the best ways to expand your network and gain valuable career guidance.

Tip: Always send a thank you note after an informational interview! 

You’re ready to network!

Networking can sometimes feel like an intimidating process, especially for international students in a new culture. Remember, it’s nothing more than connecting with people who share your same academic interests or career aspirations. The best connections are authentic ones, whether you make them on campus, online or in your school’s community. 

One more thing

If you’re in the process of looking for a job as an international student, you’ll want to make sure you have an in-country bank account set up prior to accepting any roles. This will make it easier for your employer to pay you, and it’ll make it easier for you to manage your money. Not sure where to start? Check out TD Bank Canada’s* International Student Package for exclusive benefits tailored to your needs.

Learn more

*MPOWER has referral agreements with TD Bank and may earn referral fees from this relationship.

Act Now! MPOWER’s fall 2025 early planner promotion

MPOWER’s early planner promotion ended January 31, 2025. To learn more about our current interest-rates please visit our get a loan page.

Getting ready for the fall 2025 semester? MPOWER Financing has a special promotion just for you! Submit your student loan application for the fall 2025 semester before January 31, 2025, and enjoy interest rates starting as low as 9.99% (11.16% APR)*. This limited-time deal is perfect for early planners who enjoy being rewarded for thinking ahead! 

Apply now with MPOWER’s lightning speed application process to secure a loan with our current special rates starting as low as 9.99% (11.16% APR)*.

 

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Why MPOWER Financing

MPOWER is committed to empowering students worldwide, offering unique visa support, as well as career and financial service benefits that make us a preferred choice. Our loans come with fixed rates allowing you to borrow from US$2,001 to US$100,000 without a cosigner or collateral. This means you have the freedom to take out a loan in your name alone. With a list of over 500 eligible universities across the U.S. and Canada, MPOWER opens doors to world-class education. 

To qualify for an MPOWER loan, you must be admitted to or attending one of our eligible schools, be expected to graduate within two years of the loan start date or within 2 years of graduation. Our goal is to make education accessible and reduce financial stress, so you can focus on what truly matters – your academic success!

MPOWER’s Path2Success program

Beyond our special promotion, MPOWER offers visa & career services to guide students throughout their entire journey.

MPOWER’s exclusive services for all loan recipients include:

Visa support

We help students understand and navigate elements of the F-1 visa process, including their visa interview.

Our visa support services include:

• • A free visa support letter
  • A free Visa Essentials preparation course from our trusted partner, Catalyst GEM

Career services

We recognize the significance of securing a professional career in the United States. Students are not alone in this journey – MPOWER Financing is here to support you every step of the way.
We’ve partnered with F1 Hire to offer exclusive career services, including:

• • A guided internship and job search for OPT and H-1B visa-sponsored roles
  • A resume builder to match targeted job requirements
  • Job application support with profile and skill set match
  • A directory of F-1 eligible job roles for STEM and non-STEM degrees

MPOWER’s early planner promotion 

The early planner promotion is available exclusively for fall 2025 applicants. Remember, applications must be submitted by January 31, 2025 to qualify for this promotion.

If you meet the criteria and are ready to apply, simply click below to begin!

 

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

Internships in Canada: Legal FAQs for international students

Internships are a fantastic way to jumpstart your career and begin building your professional network while you’re studying abroad in Canada. But before you start applying to or accepting internship offers, you’ll want to make sure you know about Canadian internship laws and requirements and how they specifically apply to your unique needs as an international student. 

Here are some common questions you might want answers to before you start seeking an internship: 

Can international students participate in internship or co-op programs while abroad?

The short answer is yes – but it depends on your academic program. In Canada, working while studying abroad requires both a co-op work permit and a study permit. According to the government of Canada, in order to get a work permit, you must prove that the work experience is essential to completing your academic program. Some schools, for example, may require the completion of an internship or co-op program to be eligible for graduation. You must also prove that your internship program totals 50% or less of your study program. To ensure full legal compliance, consult with your school or an immigration specialist for any specific questions related to your study permit in Canada.

You can learn more about Canadian co-op work permits.

What legal protections exist for international students regarding unpaid internships?

In general, Canadian law prohibits unpaid internships. But there’s one big exception to this rule – student internships. So, if you’re currently enrolled in an academic program and looking for an internship, you’ll likely come across both paid and unpaid positions. Make sure you choose the right internship for your financial needs. And remember, both paid and unpaid internships in Canada are eligible for things like breaks during the workday. Before accepting an unpaid internship, it’s a good idea to look up the specific regulations in the province of your school. 

What about paid internships?

In general, paid student interns in Canada are subject to the same provincial labor laws and rights as other workers. This includes rights surrounding minimum wage, overtime pay and workplace safety. Again, it’s a good idea to look up specific labor laws regarding internships in the province of your school. 

For students seeking out or currently working a paid internship, it’s a good idea to open a Canadian bank account so you can be paid via direct deposit (which is the norm for most employers) and manage the money you make. Some banks, like TD Bank Canada*, even offer specific programs and incentives for international students. 

 

Learn more

 

Keep up to date with legal requirements

Knowing your legal rights and requirements as an international student is key to finding and succeeding at your next internship or co-op. So make sure you have the right permits, and brush up on your provincial laws if you have any questions regarding a paid or unpaid role. Remember, internships are an incredible opportunity to gain experience and connections in your academic field. So your efforts will be worth it, paid or not. Happy interning! 

*MPOWER has referral agreements with TD Bank and may earn referral fees from this relationship.

Canadian workplace culture: A guide for international students

Whether you plan to work in Canada while you’re attending classes, after you graduate, or both, at some point you’ll need to know what to expect from Canadian workplace culture! Just like the cultural differences you’ve likely noticed in other areas of life while abroad, there might be cultural differences between professional expectations in Canada and your home country. 

But don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with a guide on Canadian workplace culture – from basic expectations and communications to management styles. 

The basics

It won’t be surprising to hear that the foundation of Canadian professional culture is respect. So whether you’re interviewing or showing up for day one of your new job, be sure to speak to colleagues and superiors in a respectful, friendly tone. Speak to them as you would a professor or another person who you admire. 

When meeting new colleagues, a handshake is often expected. But that should be the only form of physical contact required in your workplace. Canadians also value punctuality – so make sure to be on time to the office every day and/or to your meetings. Make this your new mantra: if you’re not five minutes early, you’re late! 

While dress code varies in different industries, being overdressed is never a bad thing. Most Canadian workplaces expect their employees to show up in clean, modest, business casual attire. Some types of businesses, like creative agencies or startups, may be okay with more casual or artistic attire. But make sure you know for sure what’s appropriate and allowed before you start pushing any fashion boundaries at work! 

In Canada, like in many other Western countries, you’ll generally be paid biweekly – which means every two weeks. During your onboarding, you’ll likely need to provide a voided check and bank account details to ensure your new employer can pay you via direct deposit (your salary or wages go directly into your bank account every payment cycle). Because of this, it’s a good idea to open a Canadian bank account before you start work. Our partner TD Bank Canada* offers checking and savings accounts designed for international students. 

 

Learn more

 

Communications

Your Canadian colleagues will likely value politeness and directness in their communications with you. Canada’s culture in general is highly courteous, so be sure to express your thanks whenever you can and be kind to your colleagues by asking thoughtful questions. Remember, to be kind and polite you don’t need to cross personal boundaries. Asking people about their weekend plans (or similar types of questions) is a great way to politely show curiosity without asking for too much detail about their personal lives. 

Canadians also tend to be very direct communicators. They will tell you in straightforward terms what you’re doing well and what still needs improvement. This is a good approach for you to take in your work communications, too. Ask direct questions and state your perspective in clear terms. But remember, directness shouldn’t come at the expense of politeness. 

Collaboration is another key value of many Canadian workplaces. This means that the expectation is to work together to solve problems and to seek input from other teams when needed. Just like in a school group project, you’ll need to work with different types of people and know how to communicate with all of them to be successful! 

Management styles

Management style refers to how a company is managed and supported by its leadership team. In Canada, most employers (though not all) tend to favor flat or collaborative organizational management. This means rather than working in a hierarchical structure with a clear chain of command, you’ll likely be collaborating often with company leaders and speaking directly with them. While they’re still your superiors and you report to them, this structure encourages staff at all levels to share ideas, brainstorm and work together to achieve common organizational goals. 

This means you’ll need to show up to work ready to collaborate, share your ideas, and take initiative over projects. Of course, your Canadian co-workers will be more than happy to support you along the way with their characteristic politeness. 

Be curious and pay attention to onboarding materials

Keep in mind that company culture is highly unique and varies from company to company in Canada. You can still prepare! The tips in this article will help you succeed no matter what job you land. During your company’s onboarding, they’ll share more details with you about their specific culture and expectations, so our final tip is to pay attention during your first few days so you don’t miss anything important!

*MPOWER has referral agreements with TD Bank and may earn referral fees from this relationship.

International student success story: From Colombia to Indiana University

Colombian student Juan Ballen is fulfilling his study abroad dream by pursuing his MBA at Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business. His journey has been marked by determination, new experiences and invaluable support from MPOWER Financing. Explore Juan’s story, his motivation for studying in the U.S. and the financial challenges he faced on his journey.

 

Motivation behind coming to the U.S. 

Before coming to the U.S., Juan was building a career in data analytics in Colombia, but he felt the need to grow professionally and academically beyond his country’s borders. He thought a MBA degree in a foreign country, with concentration in business analytics could be a great boost for his career. 

Juan chose the U.S. because he wanted to immerse himself in an environment rich with new opportunities. “I wanted to impact my professional career in an international environment where there is more diversity and professionalism. I felt that it was a great opportunity to undertake and impact my professional career,” he says.

Studying in the U.S. offered Juan the chance to experience a different culture, expand his network and gain perspectives that would contribute significantly to his career growth.

Financial challenges on the way to Indiana University

Like many international students, Juan faced financial challenges when it came to funding his education and living expenses in the U.S. For him, education abroad seemed unachievable until he discovered MPOWER Financing.

“One of the most important moments was knowing how I was going to be able to pay for my studies and be able to follow my dreams,” Juan says. “In my case, it was a great opportunity to have a really important investment toward my MBA. I required a lot of money, and it was not so easy to get ways to be able to pay it.”

MPOWER Financing made it possible for Juan to overcome financial hurdles and pursue his academic goals abroad.

Juan’s story with MPOWER Financing 

Juan learned about MPOWER Financing at a conference for international students in the U.S. and Canada. The competitive interest rates and no-cosigner student loans offered by MPOWER particularly appealed to him, given the limited options available in Colombia.

“I found that one of the greatest advantages that MPOWER had was its easy process,” he adds. Having guaranteed funding from a reputable U.S. lender satisfies the school’s requirement to issue an I-20. 

Juan remembers how he felt when his loan was approved:
“When I received the acceptance, it was an immense emotion for me. And I knew it was going to open many doors for my future.”

Managing MPOWER loan payments

Juan recognizes the importance of effectively managing his MPOWER loan payments and created a budget to include his recurring payments.

To cover monthly in-school payments, Juan relies on a combination of funding sources. “Part of the payment comes from the savings I had previously. Additionally, I’m applying to be a teaching assistant or an assistant to a department,” he says. This strategic approach provides him with financial stability and helps him manage his interest payments.

By leveraging resources like MPOWER and taking on part-time jobs, Juan can cover his loan payments and successfully build credit in the U.S. through timely repayment. “These opportunities allow me to have some additional income and be a little more financially stable to make the payments of my interest,” he notes.

Advice for fellow international students 

Juan believes financial challenges shouldn’t deter you from achieving your aspirations. Instead, he encourages leveraging funding like student loans from MPOWER Financing to make education abroad accessible.

Moreover, Juan emphasizes embracing new experiences and being open to the diverse perspectives you’ll encounter. “Cultural change teaches you to see many new things,” he says. By managing your finances wisely and staying adaptable, you can make the most of your educational journey in the U.S.

Need help financing your education abroad? Start an application and check your eligibility in less than a minute.

 

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International study programs: Nursing

Nursing is a popular postgraduate degree among international study programs for students enrolling in a U.S. school.

If you’ve decided to pursue an advanced nursing degree, here’s what to expect from a nursing program, the demand for this field of study, and the types of jobs a nursing degree offers.

About nursing programs

If you currently have a bachelor’s degree and are exploring advanced nursing for international students, a popular postgraduate path toward a clinically based advanced practice registered nursing (APRN) program is a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).

Coursework under an MSN program varies by school but generally focuses on advanced competency in the nursing and medical field, and the opportunity to acquire a deeper understanding of your chosen concentration or specialty. Studying toward an MSN can also position you as an expert in a particular specialty, like nursing administration, public health, or health care quality and patient safety.

If studying toward an MSN full time, it can take up to 24 months to complete the program. During this time, you’ll gain advanced knowledge about patient care and safety, unit efficiency, how to effectively service various communities and work within clinical teams.

In addition to completing required courses, like health informatics and health policy, you’re generally required to complete practicum hours at an approved worksite as part of your program.

After completing the program requirements, you must take a licensure test to work as a clinical nurse specialist, certified registered nurse anesthetist, certified nurse midwife, or nurse practitioner.

Other graduate-level options are a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and a Ph.D. program. DNP is an alternate APRN route that emphasizes integrating research into clinical practice at a systems level. A Ph.D. in nursing is ideal for nurses who want to step back from direct bedside care and focus on a more research-based education. A nursing Ph.D. lets you discover and explore new nursing processes and ideologies on a deeper level.

Demand for nursing degrees 

As more of the world’s population ages, the need for skilled healthcare professionals, like nurses with advanced degrees, becomes more critical. However, Data USA reports that 262,974 nursing degrees were conferred in 2022, a 1.38% decline from the previous year. 

The 2023 State of Nursing Report by Nurse.org also reveals that 79% of nursing survey respondents say their units are understaffed. Ninety-one percent say the staffing shortage is getting worse.

The U.S. Bureaus of Labor Statistics says demand for advanced practice registered nursing roles will grow 38% from 2022 to 2032. It projects approximately 29,200 job openings each year to replace workers exiting the workforce.

If you need career services support after earning your graduate degree in nursing, MPOWER Financing’s Path2Success Program can help. MPOWER-funded international students have support starting with the visa application process and beyond school with internship and job search assistance, resume builder tools and a dedicated job directory for F-1 eligible STEM work opportunities.

5 jobs you can explore with a nursing degree 

An advanced practice registered nursing degree can unlock lucrative career paths for international students. Below are a few jobs to consider, based on your selected specialty, and their average salary in the U.S. according to Glassdoor. 

1. Nurse anesthetist 

Nurse anesthetists, also known as certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs), are responsible for preventing patients from feeling pain during medical treatment through the use of anesthesia. They develop and record a treatment plan, establish dosages, administer treatment and manage anesthesia levels that are appropriate and effective, based on the patient’s medical history and needs.

CRNAs are among the highest-earning specialists in the nursing field. Glassdoor data says the national median salary for CRNAs is US$372,000 per year.

2. Nurse educator 

Nurse educators leverage their clinical backgrounds to teach new nurses advanced clinical curriculums. To stay informed on the latest developments in the nursing sector, nurse educators regularly perform research, keep abreast of practice environment challenges, and regularly sharpen pedagogical methods. 

The median salary for nurse educators, based on Glassdoor data, is US$111,000 per year with the highest-paid nurse educators earning US$143,000.

3. Nursing informaticists 

Nursing informatics is a subspecialty that combines science, technology and communication in one career. As a nursing informaticist, your work blends your clinical nursing knowledge within patient care and information science. You’re responsible for developing data and communication systems related to patient care in a way that’s efficient and cost-effective for the organization. 

Nursing informaticists can expect to earn a medical pay of US$146,000, annually. Professionals paid at the high-end of the salary range for this job earn as much as US$189,000.

4. Nurse midwife 

Certified nurse midwives support the reproductive and childbirth needs of women. They provide patient care across all reproductive stages, including performing preventative health screenings and tests, offering prenatal and postpartum care, and providing gynecological care using natural techniques and methods.  

Nurse midwives earn an annual median salary of US$130,000 per year, with top-range earners making US$161,000.

5. Nurse practitioner 

A nurse practitioner performs some of the basic responsibilities of a physician, like carrying out physician exams, requesting and analyzing diagnostic tests or imaging orders, diagnosing and treating certain health conditions, writing prescriptions, and documenting patients’ symptoms and care plans. 

A nurse practitioner earns a median pay of US$151,000 annually with the highest-earning professionals earning US$181,000 per year. 

Final thoughts: Earning a graduate nursing degree in the U.S. 

Entering a graduate nursing program can be a challenging and rewarding area of study. There are plenty of specialties to pursue that offer competitive salaries after completing your program and securing the appropriate practice licenses. 

However, before you can reap the advantages of an advanced practice nursing career, you’ll need to have enough funds to pay for your graduate program. When scholarship and grant funding isn’t enough, an MPOWER Financing international student loan could help you bridge the financial gap.

International study programs: Data Science

If you’ve chosen data science as your postgraduate international study program you can look forward to a multidisciplinary area of study that blends core concepts of computer science and statistics, among others.

Learn more about postgraduate data science programs, the popularity of this area of study, and the kind of careers and salaries an advanced degree in data science can unlock for you.

About data science programs 

An M.S. in data science (MSDS) is a good option if you already have an undergraduate degree in a related field or are pivoting into a data science career. It typically takes about two years to complete and 30 curriculum credits, depending on your program’s requirements. You’ll develop a foundational knowledge of programming approaches, data structures and algorithms.

Advanced math and statistics courses are also generally required to understand concepts like regression-based modeling and predictive modeling. Since programming languages are an integral part of this area of study, you’ll build on your existing understanding of programming languages, like Python and SQL, and database languages. Depending on your program, you might also be required to take a course in data mining, deep learning or machine learning. 

Toward the end of your program, you might have a required capstone project or thesis component to demonstrate your competency in the subject, which is necessary to earn your MSDS degree.

Data science might also be an attractive international study program among students, because it qualifies for the 24-month STEM OPT extension after earning your master’s degree. 

If you still need assistance with your visa application for graduate school, MPOWER Financing’s Path2Success Program for students with approved loans offers F-1 guidance, including visa interview preparation. It also provides internship and job search support specifically for STEM OPT students who are looking for H-1B visa-sponsored job opportunities. 

Demand for data science degrees

Among graduate-level international students, pursuing a math and computer science field of study, like data science, is increasingly popular. The Institute of International Education’s latest 2023 Open Doors Report says that 240,230 (22.7%) international students enrolled in a math and computer science-related study program in 2022-23. That’s nearly a 20% increase in enrollment compared to the previous academic year.  

Demand for data science skills is also growing in the employment market. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects rapid growth among data-related professions between 2021-31, with data scientists leading at 35% of data-related job growth.

Five schools with data science master’s programs from our list of over 500+ eligible schools:

• • Michigan Technological University
  • University of Maryland 
  • University at Buffalo
  • University of Oklahoma
  • University of the Pacific

5 jobs you can secure with a data science degree 

Thanks to the multidisciplinary nature of MSDS programs, your job options outside of school are flexible. You can find many of the roles below throughout various industries, from health care, business, public policy and education.

1. Data scientist 

Data scientists gather, organize and analyze data. You’ll be responsible for leveraging programs and statistical techniques to identify meaningful patterns and deliver impactful insights to key stakeholders in an organization. Although a master’s degree isn’t always required in this role, some employers require a master’s degree which typically leads to higher pay.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median annual salary for data scientists in May 2023 was US$108,020. Data scientists working in scientific research and development earned the highest median wage at US$126,430, annually.

2. Data analytics manager 

As a data analytics manager, you’ll oversee a team of specialists, like data scientists, statisticians and business analysts. In addition to organizing and leading your direct reports to work cooperatively toward the organization’s overarching goals, you’re responsible for managing critical projects and communicating findings, in layman’s terms, to stakeholders. 

Data analytics managers fall under the broad category of operations research analysts which, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, earned a median wage of US$83,640 in 2023. Specifically, those in roles within mathematical science occupations saw higher median wages at US$101,460.

3. Enterprise architect 

Enterprise architects create a roadmap between the business objectives of large organizations and the software architecture needed to support their goals. Their main focus is on IT strategy and ensuring existing processes and systems support the organization’s objectives; if there’s misalignment, an enterprise architect develops solutions to address this disconnect.

Glassdoor data shows the median total salary of an enterprise architect at US$210,000 per year with US$262,000 at the high-end of the pay range for this profession. 

4. Statistician 

Using mathematical theories and statistical applications, statisticians leverage data to solve business problems. Like data scientists, they’re responsible for gathering data using surveys, polls or other collection methods. They interpret and analyze the data and communicate their findings to stakeholders within the organization. Typically, this role requires an advanced degree, like an MSDS.

In May 2023, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that statisticians earned a median annual wage of US$104,100. Statisticians who worked in computer systems design or related industry had the highest median annual earnings at US$140,850.

5. Machine learning engineer 

If you’re fascinated with artificial intelligence (AI) models, working as a machine learning engineer might offer a professional challenge you’re looking for. You’ll research and develop machine learning algorithms, perform systems tests and conduct analysis of their performance. You’ll also collaborate with other data science specialists and stakeholders to support projects that serve the organization’s greater goals.

A machine learning engineer earns a median total salary of US$165,000 per year, based on Glassdoor data. The most competitive wages for this role is a median salary of US$211,000.

 

Final thoughts: Earning a data science degree in the U.S.

There’s a lot of opportunity with a master’s of science program in data science. It’s an in-demand area of study that can open six-figure career opportunities after earning your postgraduate degree. To access this competitive and lucrative profession, however, you’ll need to pay your way through your postgraduate degree first. 

Securing scholarships and grants is the best way to pay for your international study program, but these aid sources don’t always cover all of your expenses. Some international student loan lenders recognize the long-term value that STEM degrees offer students. MPOWER Financing is here to support you throughout every step of your postgraduate journey, including international student loans if you need additional financing. See what MPOWER Financing student loans can offer.