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4 ways international women can pay for studying abroad

Studying abroad opens endless possibilities, especially for international women in STEM and other specialized fields. Many women face significant challenges in their home countries, including limited access to higher education, societal pressures and underrepresentation in key industries. However, funding an international education remains a major hurdle for many women dreaming of studying abroad in the United States and Canada.

Why do international students want to study abroad? 

Studying abroad offers the chance to gain a world-class education while experiencing new cultures and building a global professional network. It can be a transformative experience for women from countries where access to higher education or specialized fields is limited. Beyond academics, studying abroad fosters personal growth, independence and confidence – making it a powerful stepping stone for women striving to become leaders in their communities and industries.

According to the Institute of International Education’s 2024 Open Doors Report, roughly 1.1 million international students from more than 210 places of origin studied at U.S. higher education institutions for the 2023-24 academic year. The majority of these international students pursued STEM fields, followed by business and management.

Thanks to targeted initiatives encouraging female participation in these traditionally male-dominated areas, women have increased access to academic programs and funding opportunities to help make their dream of studying abroad a reality.

Encouragingly, the National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics (NCSES) report found that women earned nearly half of all science and engineering degrees in 2020, including 50% of bachelor’s, 49% of associate’s, 46% of master’s and 41% of doctoral degrees.  Here are a few ways that international women are funding their study abroad journey.

Funding options for international women studying abroad 

Paying for an international education isn’t cheap. But several options are available to help international women achieve their goals. Here are the most common funding sources for international women in STEM and other popular programs:

Personal and family savings 

Most international students rely on family funds as their primary source of funding. However, this isn’t feasible for everyone, especially long-term programs in high-cost countries.

Fellowships and scholarships for women 

Many universities and organizations offer fellowships or scholarships for international women in STEM fields, business, and other high-demand areas. Here are a few to research:


Note that MPOWER also offers a variety of international student scholarships, including unique monthly scholarship opportunities.

Research and teaching assistantships 

Graduate assistantships are a highly sought-after position. They can be a great way to receive a tuition waiver or stipend (or both). However, teaching and research assistantships are awarded by department. So, interested students should make contact with their program and become friendly with faculty members to increase odds of selection.

Study abroad student loans 

Unfortunately, most international students aren’t eligible for federal financial aid, such as federal student loans. It can also be hard to secure private financing if you don’t have a cosigner who’s a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Fortunately, some private lenders, like MPOWER Financing, offer international graduate student loans without a cosigner or collateral.

MPOWER provides competitive fixed-rate loans from US$2,001 to US$100,000 to cover up to 100% of education expenses, including room and board. Additionally, MPOWER provides visa support and career services to round out a student’s study abroad experience.

 

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Start planning for study abroad education 

Studying abroad can be a life-changing experience. But it requires careful planning when it comes to funding. With the right financial tools and resources, international women can make a lasting impact in their chosen fields.

That’s where MPOWER Financing can be an invaluable resource. From study abroad student loans to career support, we’re dedicated to empowering international students to achieve their educational dreams.

Boaz Leleina: From Kenya to Silicon Valley

Boaz Leleina comes from a small village  in Samburu, Kenya. Life there is traditional, with little exposure to technology. Things changed for Boaz at Ndururumo High School where he first used a computer. This sparked his love for technology and set him on a life-changing path.

Opportunity through MPOWER Financing and International Scholars Program

Boaz studied computer science at KCA University in Kenya but knew he wanted to take his education further. His postgraduate educational journey overseas became possible with the help of funding from MPOWER Financing and support through the International Scholars Program, an education financing platform assisting top postgrad students seeking to study abroad. These resources provided the support he needed to enroll in a master’s program at William Jessup University in Silicon Valley. Boaz accessed resources that helped him transition smoothly into his new academic life abroad.

MPOWER Financing is the leading fintech company empowering international students like Boaz to attend universities in the U.S. and Canada through loans, scholarships and its Path2Success program providing free access to exclusive career, visa and financial resources. Former international students founded MPOWER to help promising students from around the world study abroad.

 

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Boaz’s study abroad journey in the U.S. 

In Silicon Valley, Boaz is pursuing a Master of Science in Computer Science, focusing on artificial intelligence and machine learning. He aims to develop smart solutions to tackle issues in Kenya such as agricultural efficiency and climate change. This education is not just about personal advancement; it’s about equipping himself with the skills to make a positive impact on his community.

Impact on his family back home in Kenya 

Boaz’s success is celebrated by his family and community in Kenya. They see his achievements as a beacon of hope and a testament to what determination and opportunity can achieve. The community supports his efforts, recognizing that his progress can inspire others, pave the way for more educational opportunities, and even improve the lives of his relatives at home.

Boaz Leleina’s journey from a small village to a thriving tech hub demonstrates how education, coupled with the right support, can change lives. He’s an inspiration to other young people to pursue their dreams, too. 

Considering studying in the U.S.? MPOWER Financing might be the key to helping your study abroad goals become a reality.

 

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International study programs: Finance

A finance degree can be parlayed into a lucrative career in just about any industry, making it a popular study abroad choice for international students. Discover the benefits of an international education in finance, as well as popular places to study abroad and potential careers after graduation.

What’s an international study program in finance like?

An international study program in finance teaches students how to turn economic theory into actionable solutions in investment and banking. Finance majors learn how markets function, how organizations direct funds and how to create financial plans.

Your study abroad program in finance may include courses such as:

Why is finance a good study abroad major for international students?

In 2023, business and management programs like finance attracted nearly 160,000 international students from across the globe. Here are some of the reasons international study programs in finance are so popular:

  1. Job security: The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts employment in finance occupations will grow faster than the average over the next decade, with certain careers, like personal financial advising, growing as much as 17%. 
  2. Global perspective: International study programs in finance give students a sense of how markets and businesses function outside of their home countries, helping them develop insight into our increasingly globalized economy.
  3. Strong return on investment (ROI): According to the Education Data Initiative, a recent finance graduate will likely earn back what they spent on their degree after only five years in the workforce and may earn a lifelong total of over US$10,000,000.

Place to study abroad: What country is best for an international education in finance?

The U.S., home to many of the world’s top business schools, most powerful investment firms, and largest banks, is the best destination for an international study program in finance. 

MPOWER loans are eligible at all of the U.S.’s most prestigious business schools, from Harvard University to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. To start your education in the finance capital of the world, check out MPOWER’s network of 500+ eligible schools.

How MPOWER helps finance your international study program

The upfront cost of an international education in finance can be daunting. With an MPOWER international student loan, customers can borrow up to US$100,000 without a cosigner or collateral to cover education costs.

MPOWER customers also benefit from MPOWER’s Path2Success Program. From visa support before your education begins to career support after your education ends, MPOWER is with you every step of your study abroad journey.

Want to know if you qualify for an MPOWER loan? Check your eligibility today.

 

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Five MPOWER-eligible international study programs in finance

It can be hard to decide where to study abroad, but MPOWER’s eligible schools list can help. Evaluated for strong graduation rates and alumni earnings, all MPOWER-eligible schools offer plentiful resources and strong student outcomes.

Here are some of the best places to study finance abroad:*

  1. Boston College
  2. The University of Massachusetts Amherst
  3. Michigan State University
  4. University of Texas at Dallas
  5. Hult International Business School

*Schools mentioned in this post do not endorse MPOWER’s loans and MPOWER is not affiliated with the schools noted in this message. 

Which U.S. universities give the most financial aid to international students?

MPOWER loans are accepted at the 20 U.S. schools offering the most international student aid. Some of these schools, like Stanford, also have prestigious finance programs in the world.

Three jobs you can secure after an international study program in finance

1. Financial analyst

Annual base pay: US$63,000-US$99,000

Financial analysts help businesses and individuals manage their funds. They assess economic trends and recommend investment portfolios. They must have strong data analysis skills and understand how regulations and policies can affect investments.

2. Loan officer

Annual base pay: US$67,000-US$122,000

Your international study program in finance will prepare you for a career overseeing the loan approval process. Working for a bank or independent lender, loan officers evaluate loan applications and determine which products may be a good fit.

3. Branch manager

Annual base pay: US$60,000-US$95,000

Branch managers run all the operations of a bank branch, from onboarding staff to overseeing the approval of loans. They also make plans to ensure the branch meets its financial targets.

Final thoughts: International study programs in finance

If you want to provide the keen financial insight that determines the success of a company, then an international study program in finance may be right for you.

To make this study abroad dream a reality, MPOWER has you covered. Learn what MPOWER Financing student loans can do for you.

Graduate studies in Canada: Choosing the right program for you

Every year, Canada ranks as one of the top destinations for international students. Students are drawn to Canada’s world-class academic institutions, diverse cultural offerings and vibrant student life.

If you’re looking to pursue an international graduate program in Canada, an MPOWER student loan for Canada can open the door to an enriching educational experience. Read on to learn the best study programs and universities you can explore with a Canada student loan.

Why study internationally in Canada?

In 2023, over 1 million international students chose to study in Canada. Here are some of the reasons studying abroad in Canada is so popular: 

  1. High-quality academics: Canada boasts one of the best education systems in the world, with over 200 universities to choose from and a diversity of degree programs.
  2. English-speaking country: With more affordable tuition rates and living expenses than the U.S., U.K. and Australia, Canada is a great option for those who want to improve their English on a budget.
  3. Friendly work policies: International students can work up to 24 hours per week without a work permit during their studies, as long as they meet certain criteria.

Best graduate study programs to pursue with a Canadian student loan

1. Computer science

Computer science is a great study abroad program for creative problem solvers interested in developing cutting-edge technologies. As a country with a growing economy and many multinational corporations, computer science graduates are in high demand.

2. Business

Business and administration is by far the most popular degree program for international students in Canada. With one of the fastest-growing economies globally and a strong financial sector, Canada is an excellent place to start your career in business.

3. Engineering 

Canadian loans for international students can fund your study abroad program in engineering, which will give you the skills to lead innovation and improve your society. Large Canadian employers of engineering graduates include PCL Constructions, Pratt & Whitney Canada, and Salesforce.

How can I study internationally with a Canadian student loan from MPOWER?

Despite Canada’s relative affordability, earning a graduate degree in Canada is still a major expense. MPOWER can reduce the financial burden of your international education with one of its student loans for Canada.

How much does it cost to study internationally in Canada?

On average, a Canadian postgraduate degree costs CA$16,000-CA$30,000 per year and can run as high as CA$40,000 per year. Prices vary depending on the study program and region. For instance, tuition tends to be cheaper in Alberta.

How MPOWER helps international students with Canadian student loans

If you don’t have a credit history or an available cosigner, it can be hard to secure the funding for your international education. Luckily, MPOWER cares more about your future potential than your financial circumstances.

You can borrow up to US$100,000 from MPOWER without needing a cosigner or collateral. MPOWER’s Canadian loans for international students have fixed, competitive interest rates, 10-year repayment plans and no prepayment penalty, so you can worry less about your finances and focus more on your academic success.

Because MPOWER wants to see you succeed, all MPOWER customers gain access to MPOWER’s Path2Success program, which will guide you through the Canadian study permit process with a loan acceptance letter and a visa prep course. MPOWER can even connect you with Canadian immigration experts through BorderPass, ensuring your study abroad journey starts off without a hitch.

To get started and gain access to all the financial, travel and professional support MPOWER has to offer, check your loan eligibility today.

Using your Canadian student loan: Five affordable, MPOWER-eligible Canadian universities* for international students

MPOWER student loans for Canada are accepted at almost all of Canada’s top 20 universities, as well as all of the following affordable universities:

1. University of Calgary

Graduate tuition for international students: CA$8,081.04

2. University of Alberta

Graduate tuition for international students: CA$10,017.84 

3. University of Saskatchewan

Graduate tuition for international students: CA$11,650.50 

4. University of New Brunswick

Tuition varies by program. A master’s in computer science, for example, costs CA$3,020 per course, and requires a total of 10 courses.

5. University of Waterloo

Tuition varies by program. A master’s in electrical and chemical engineering, for example, costs CA$7,696 per term and requires  a total of four to eight terms.

*Schools mentioned in this post do not endorse MPOWER’s loans and MPOWER is not affiliated with the schools noted in this message. University pricing was collected in January 2025.

Final thoughts: Studying abroad with a Canadian student loan

Canada’s welcoming academic and professional environments make it a magnet for international students. Its affordable universities and generous work policies make the dream of studying in Canada financially feasible, but if you need extra funds to make that dream a reality, a Canadian loan for international students from MPOWER can take you the rest of the way there.

Receive a quick, conditional offer from MPOWER for up to US$100,000 to cover costs at your dream Canadian university. Getting started takes less than a minute.

Budget management for new semester: A guide for international students

One of the most important (and overwhelming) parts of starting a new semester in the United States or Canada is coming up with a smart study abroad budgeting plan. Creating a solid budget in advance can ensure a smoother transition for international students, allowing for a more enjoyable study abroad experience.

How much should I budget for study abroad? 

Study abroad costs for international students vary significantly depending on the university and city you’ll be studying and living in. Therefore, student budgeting should account for all potential expenses, including:


Use your university’s cost of attendance as a starting point for calculating your study abroad budgeting needs. Keep in mind that colleges tend to underestimate true costs. So, it’s best practice to overestimate your expenses to ensure ample funds are available throughout the year.

How do students afford to study abroad? 

According to the Institute of International Education’s 2024 Open Doors Report, over 54% of international students primarily rely on personal and family funds to pay for higher education in the U.S. Fortunately, there are many ways to help ease the burden, including applying for international scholarships and finding a research or teaching assistantship with your university. As an F-1 student, you can supplement your income with a part-time on-campus job or look into international internship opportunities that meet work visa requirements.

An international student loan can also help fund your study abroad education. MPOWER Financing offers funding for up to 100% of education expenses, including living expenses, for eligible schools in North America.

 

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Study abroad budgeting tips for new international students 

Here are some practical budgeting tips for students new to the U.S. or Canada.

  1. Make smart housing choices. Compare on-campus and off-campus housing options. On-campus housing often comes with the benefit of included utilities. Plus, it’ll be cheaper to get to class. But you might find lower rent off campus. Just be sure to factor in expenses like electricity, internet and commuting costs.
  2. Use public transportation or buy a bike. If you’re studying in a major U.S. city, like New York City or Vancouver, you likely have access to reliable and affordable transit systems. However, if public transit isn’t readily available, investing in a bike (and lock) can be a budget-friendly option for short commutes.
  3. Track food spending. Dining out is almost a way of life in North America. Your food budget can quickly spiral out of control between tipping customs and the sheer availability of fast food items. To save money, cook meals at home or use the university meal plan if you’re already paying for it. Be sure to check out local international grocery stores, which often offer pantry staples at a lower price.
  4. Take advantage of free activities. Most universities host free events, from movie nights to cultural festivals. Join a club or check your school’s events calendar regularly to stay in the loop. You can also search for free entry for students to museums and other entertainment venues in your local area.
  5. Use university resources. Most schools offer free or discounted services for students, such as access to gyms, pools, medical services, mental health counseling and professional workshops. So, always look within your university before assuming you’ll need to pay for services elsewhere.

Budgeting tips for students returning to school in the U.S. or Canada 

As a returning international student, you’ve likely settled in and can now reflect on previous semesters. Use this information to identify where you overspent or underestimated costs to refine your study abroad budgeting plan. Additionally, you’ll want to think about: 

  1. Planning for visitors. Friends and family might want to visit to explore your new home. Be prepared for higher spending during their stay, such as dining out and sightseeing costs. Look for opportunities to save money by choosing low-cost activities, like hiking or visiting public museums.
  2. Creating a safety net. You probably planned for essentials when you first arrived. But life is unpredictable, so setting aside funds for emergencies is necessary. Whether replacing a stolen laptop, dealing with unexpected medical expenses or simply overspending on your study abroad adventure, having an intentional financial buffer can reduce stress overall.
  3. Using student discounts. This is one of the most overlooked budgeting tips for students. Your student ID can unlock discounts with many retailers, transit systems and entertainment venues. So, always carry your student ID and ask if a student discount is available before paying for anything.

The importance of budgeting for college students 

A little time and effort spent study-abroad-budgeting now could save you big time throughout your international education. By planning for key expenses and seeking out funding opportunities – such as international scholarships and study abroad student loans – you can focus on enjoying your time abroad. And remember, your budget is meant to be a tool, not a source of stress. It will take time to adjust and figure out what you do and don’t need when starting a new semester in the U.S. or Canada.

Maximizing your F-1 visa: A guide to CPT and OPT opportunities

Figuring out how to navigate U.S. student visa and work restrictions is essential to making the most of your study abroad experience. As an F-1 visa holder, you can work on campus part time during the academic year and full time during holidays and breaks. After your first academic year, you can access two off-campus work authorization options: Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT). A 24-month extension – called the STEM OPT Extension – is also available to international students who receive science, technology, engineering and mathematics degrees. Keep reading to learn how to maximize CPT and OPT opportunities while staying compliant with student visa work restrictions.

CPT vs. OPT: Understanding the basics for student visa work restrictions 

CPT and OPT offer opportunities for international students to gain valuable work experience. However, they differ in purpose, eligibility and restrictions. 

Curricular Practical Training is designed to gain practical training through internships or cooperative education. CPT for international students is available after your first academic year – unless you’re a graduate student whose program requires a certain type of experience. To be eligible, the CPT opportunity must be:


Optional Practical Training also enables international students to work in the real world in relation to their field of study. However, OPT has a work authorization of up to 12 months and the opportunity for 24 months with a STEM OPT extension. Here’s a couple of key details:


This is not a complete list of CPT and OPT requirements and restrictions. However, understanding these basic nuances can help international students make informed decisions about how to use CPT and OPT strategically.

Can international students do CPT and OPT? 

You can use both CPT and OPT as an F-1 visa holder, but careful planning is necessary. For example, if you accumulate 12 months or more of full-time CPT, you’ll lose eligibility for OPT. Additionally, although there’s no CPT limit for part-time employment, excessive CPT usage can increase the likelihood of additional scrutiny when applying for OPT, visa renewals and other Department of Homeland Security (DHS) benefits.

Can CPT and OPT overlap? 

CPT and OPT are separate, distinct work authorizations. Therefore, they can’t overlap. CPT must be completed before graduation as part of your academic curriculum. However, OPT can be used both pre- and postgraduation.

To ensure compliance with international student visa regulations, consult your Designated School Official (DSO) when planning for CPT or OPT employment.

How to maximize your F-1 visa with CPT 

CPT for international students opens the door to start building a professional network. Since CPT is tied directly to your major or course of study, it’s best to speak with your DSO as soon as possible to identify CPT opportunities that fit your academic and career goals. It’s best to stick with part-time CPT employment to ensure you don’t jeopardize future OPT eligibility. But if you need to work full-time hours, ensure you don’t exceed the 12-month threshold.

Using OPT to your advantage: Pre- vs. post-graduation options 

OPT provides international students with up to 12 months of work authorization that can be split between pre- and postgraduation periods. Some F-1 students choose to use OPT in tandem with their studies. However, any time spent on pre-completion OPT reduces available postgraduation OPT.

Therefore, most choose to reserve the majority of their OPT for postgraduation as this is when the most impactful career opportunities typically arise. In fact, the Institute of International Education’s 2024 Open Doors Report found that a record-high number (242,782) of international students stayed in the United States to gain work experience through OPT this past academic year.

To maximize your OPT:


Note that OPT must relate to your course of study, but it doesn’t have to be a program requirement like CPT.

How to get a 24-month STEM OPT extension 

If you’re an F-1 student in a STEM field, you might qualify for a 24-month OPT extension. Here’s what you need to know:


Note you can submit required documents, including Form I-765, up to 90 days before your current OPT employment authorization expires.

Get help navigating international student visa and work conditions

Understanding how to effectively leverage CPT and OPT opportunities at the right time in your study abroad journey can accelerate your academic and career goals. Whether you’re planning your first internship or strategizing a STEM OPT extension, MPOWER Financing is here to support you every step of the way. From funding your international education to navigating student visa support tips, we offer resources to help you succeed!

Study abroad advice: Tips for using AI as an international student

Whether it’s through a search engine or social media algorithm, most of us interact with artificial intelligence (AI) daily and know how useful it can be. AI can be a powerful educational tool for international students studying abroad, but it also raises questions around academic ethics.

No matter your international study program, you should understand how AI is changing the landscape of higher education. Here’s how to take advantage of AI as a learning resource without compromising your academic integrity or critical thinking.

Study abroad advice: How are students using AI at university?

Many study abroad students interact with AI through large language models (LLMs). LLMs, like ChatGPT, can answer questions, summarize texts, synthesize data and more.

Here are some of the ways students studying in the U.S. use AI to enhance their learning:

  1. Studying: AI can clarify difficult concepts, create action plans for studying and generate flashcards and quizzes.
  2. Language support: AI can help study abroad students improve their English language skills. AI chatbots can have conversations with you in English, quiz you on vocabulary, and review your written work for errors.
  3. Research: AI can help you find articles relevant to your research and summarize dense texts.
  4. Data analysis: AI can analyze large datasets, present the information in graphs and explain the key findings.

Study abroad advice: Five tips for using AI responsibly in university

In a world where LLMs can write essays, solve math problems and even code, you might feel tempted to let AI do your learning for you. Doing so, however, diminishes the value of your study abroad education and compromises your academic integrity. 

So, how can you use AI responsibly? Here are five tips for using AI:

1. Understand your school’s AI usage protocols

Every university will have a different policy on AI, and every professor will have different rules for AI usage in the classroom. Be sure to abide by the integrity standards of your study abroad program.

2. Check for accuracy

LLMs can output incomplete, biased and outdated information. They even occasionally produce entirely fabricated data in a phenomenon called “hallucination.” This means that a generative AI process may respond to prompts with content that appears real and valid but isn’t. With tools like ChatGPT, instances of partially or completely incorrect responses are widely recognized and can be easily replicated.  Make sure to fact-check all AI output.

3. Protect your privacy

AI systems store and study the data we input. Students studying in the U.S. should never input personally identifiable information such as their real name or email address.

4. Never plagiarize

While AI can help you generate ideas and proofread your work, everything you submit to your professors should be representative of your own insights and creativity. Submitting plagiarized material can have severe academic consequences. 

5. Use AI to supplement, not replace, your learning

Our most important piece of study abroad advice is to continue to engage actively with your education. To graduate with subject mastery, rather than superficial knowledge, AI should only ever assist your learning, not replace it. 

Study abroad advice: Can universities detect the usage of AI?

Tools like AssignmentGPT and TraceGPT differentiate between AI-generated and human-generated content with increasing accuracy. Though there is no foolproof way to detect AI usage, don’t underestimate how easy it is for a plagiarism detector, or even your professor, to spot signs of AI-generated content. Never risk your academic standing by submitting AI-generated material.

Study abroad advice: Borrow responsibly with MPOWER

MPOWER wants you to get the most out of your study abroad experience – whether it’s by using AI appropriately, creating a study abroad budget or searching for internship opportunities, MPOWER is here to support you at every step of your international education.

If you plan on studying in the U.S. and need extra funds, you can apply for a no-cosigner, no-collateral loan from MPOWER. MPOWER students can borrow up to US$100,000 to study at any of MPOWER’s 500+ eligible universities. Students benefit from fixed interest rates, no prepayment penalty, and the extensive student services offered through MPOWER’s Path2Success Program like free Visa support services and job search tools specific to F-1 student visa holders. 

It takes less than a minute to check your eligibility.

Final thoughts: How to use AI responsibly while studying abroad

To some, AI may seem like a shortcut to an easy A. Used wisely, however, AI can strengthen your critical thinking skills and help you develop the expertise you’ll need to succeed after graduation.

MPOWER knows the mark of academic success is not the ease with which students move through university, but what they make of their education after graduating. That’s why MPOWER offers loans based on your future potential, not just your credit history. 

Realize your potential with an international student loan from MPOWER.

 

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Tips for managing your finances as an international student in Canada

Managing your finances while studying abroad in Canada can feel daunting at first. But the good news is that by budgeting and following smart strategies for saving money, you can take control of your finances and feel good about enjoying some adventures along the way. Here are our top five tips for managing your finances as an international student in Canada. 

1. Create a realistic budget

A budget is your best tool to keep track of your spending and avoid running out of funds. Start by listing all your expenses, including rent, utilities, groceries, transportation, phone bills and any school related costs. Next, track your income sources, like personal funds, scholarships, part-time job earnings or help from family.

Once you have an idea of how much money you spend versus how much you earn, you can create a budget for yourself with spending guidelines across all areas of your life. You can even set savings goals or set aside some money for fun. Technology is a huge help when it comes to budgeting, so be sure to check out budgeting apps that can sync up with your bank account. 

2. Sign up for a Canadian bank account

Speaking of your bank account, it’s a great idea for international students to set up an in-country bank account while studying abroad. This will help you save on costly foreign transaction fees, plus some banks, like our partners at TD Bank,* offer exclusive packages for students.

 

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3. Take advantage of student discounts

Canadian businesses are usually quite generous with student discounts. From transportation to restaurants, tech and entertainment, student discounts can help you save big. So whether you’re going out to a movie with friends, visiting a museum, or buying a new laptop, always ask if a student discount is available. Just be sure to carry your student ID to prove you qualify!

4. Explore campus resources 

Many schools offer different workshops on money management, budgeting, saving, and investing through the financial aid office or even through the business school. It’s a good idea to stay up to date on campus activities and join these events whenever you can! 

5. Find part-time work

Many international students want to earn an income while they’re studying abroad so they have extra spending money and/or money for unexpected expenses. As an international student, you’re eligible to work part-time jobs on and off campus, though requirements vary based on your specific study permit. Not only will part-time work help you manage expenses, but it’s also a fantastic way to meet friends, gain professional experience, build your resume, and expand your network in Canada.

Managing your finances doesn’t have to be stressful

By setting a budget, getting a Canadian bank account, taking advantage of student discounts and campus resources; and considering a part-time job, you’ll be ready to manage your money like a pro in no time. And the best part is, with a solid plan in place for your finances, you’ll be able to more fully enjoy your time abroad without worrying about overspending. Here’s to making great financial decisions!

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

How to fund your studies in Canada: Loans, grants and scholarships

One of the most common obstacles international students face when they think about studying abroad is cost. Canada tends to be a more affordable option for study abroad than the U.S., but it can still feel like a financially daunting decision. The good news is, many options exist to help international students fund their academic programs and achieve their dreams abroad. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between student loans, grants and scholarships in Canada so you can decide which options are best for your needs. 

Student loans

Student loans allow students to borrow money to cover tuition and other expenses while in school. With loans, you’re borrowing the money you need to pay for your education – which means you’ll need to pay it back, with interest, after you graduate. Still, student loans are one of the most popular ways to fund a study abroad program because of the flexibility they provide.

As with any funding option, you’ll want to do your research before you start applying for student loans. Here are some key terms to know: 


At MPOWER Financing, we help international students fund their education with loans designed for your unique needs. We never require a cosigner or collateral, and our loans always have fixed interest rates. Learn more about our student loans.

One more quick tip: Paying back your student loans is even easier when you have a Canadian bank account. Check out TD Bank’s offers for international students.* 

 

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Grants

Now, let’s talk about grants. You might sometimes hear the words “grant” and “scholarship” used interchangeably. But there’s one key difference you need to know: grants are awarded to students based on financial need, whereas scholarships are awarded based on merit or some other identifying criteria. Unlike a loan, you won’t have to pay back a grant or scholarship, though you may be required to meet and maintain certain academic performance criteria.

The Canadian government makes some financial aid grants available to international students, though the options are limited compared to what’s available for Canadian citizens. Still, it’s worth checking for eligibility before ruling out this option. 

Scholarships

And lastly, let’s discuss scholarships – another of the most popular methods of financing. As we mentioned above, scholarships don’t need to be repaid and are awarded based on any number of characteristics. Some examples include academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, leadership in your community, national identity, degree program and more. 

There are many scholarship options available, even for international students, so the chances are high you’ll be able to find some matching your background. But don’t count on scholarships to fund your education! Because they don’t need to be repaid, scholarships can be extremely competitive to secure.

Not sure where to start when looking for a scholarship? Check out MPOWER scholarships for international students and see if you’re eligible.

Finding the right funding for you

Now that you know the differences between loans, grants and scholarships for international students in Canada, you’re ready to start your search for funding. Remember you don’t have to rely on only one funding option. You can apply for and use a combination of student loans, grants and scholarships to fund your studies.

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

International student guide to scholarships in Canada

Scholarships are a great way to fund your education abroad, whether in part or in full. And while scholarships tend to be relatively competitive, the good news is many options exist for international students planning to or currently studying abroad in Canada. 

All about scholarships 

Before we dive into where to look for an international student scholarship, let’s review the differences between scholarships and loans. The first and most apparent difference is that loans need to be repaid, while scholarships don’t. Loans, however, are typically easier to acquire – especially if you work with a lender that specializes in international student loans. Because scholarships never require repayment, they’re much more competitive than loans. 

Another difference is that scholarships are usually merit-based, meaning they’re awarded based on exceptional academic achievement or extracurricular involvement. That might sound intimidating, but there are many different types of scholarships – from STEM-focused awards to those based on your home country or future career aspirations. 

There are two scholarship categories: partial and full. A partial scholarship only covers part of the cost of your tuition, while a full scholarship covers the full cost. Depending on the scholarship, the funds will either be sent directly to your school or sent to you to use toward your tuition payment. In the latter case, it’s helpful to have a Canadian bank account at the ready to make paying your school’s tuition easy and free of international transfer fees. Learn more about student banking in Canada from our partners at TD Bank.* 

 

Learn more

 

Where to find and apply for scholarships

There are many places to look for scholarships, from your school’s financial aid office to online databases. At MPOWER Financing, we offer a handful of scholarship opportunities specifically for international students, including: 


You can learn more about our scholarship award amounts, deadlines and eligibility requirements here. 

Another reliable place to look for international student scholarships is on the EduCanada website, a government resource hub for Canadian and non-Canandian students. Their scholarship search tool can help you find and apply for verified scholarships tailored to your needs. 

Other resources to find scholarships include your school’s financial aid office and other online databases like InternationalScholarships.com.

Happy scholarship searching! 

Now that you know the main differences between scholarships and loans, what to expect from the award process, and where to find the right scholarships for you, you’re ready to begin your search. Just remember to consider other funding options alongside scholarships so you have all the funds you need to cover your tuition.

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


*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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