Tuition Waivers for International Students

If you have the grades and are looking to keep costs low while studying in the US, consider seeking out universities that offer tuition waivers for international students. In most cases, being awarded a tuition waiver will mean that you will be allowed to pay the resident rate as opposed to the non-resident rate. Or, you could receive a discount on the non-resident rate. Not all universities offer this option, but you could have luck if you are willing to be creative in your search.

Tuition waivers offer high-achieving international students the chance to keep costs low while studying in the US. They should not be viewed as a source of need-based financial aid; you will have to prove your ability to cover your costs otherwise. Factors for determining allocation of funds include grade point average, the number of applicants meeting the requirements, and sometimes, the number of students that normally attend the university that are currently studying abroad. To be eligible, you might also need to meet the TOEFL requirements for the university you are applying to.

When you are conducting your search for schools that offer tuition waivers for international students, keep in mind that you might have better luck depending on where you are from and where you are looking to study. For example, New Mexico State offers priority to students from Mexico while other universities might give priority to students from China, Scandinavia, or Egypt.

The important thing to remember is this: studying in the US does not have to be as expensive as you might think. Keep an open mind and remember that each place you travel to has value as it takes you out of your comfort zone and into a different culture. When you research your college or university, check to see if they offer tuition waivers for international students and then see where your studies will take you.

Posted in International Financial Aid News