IEFA Round Up: 8 2020

September 2nd, 2020 by IEFA

We don’t need to tell you that despite COVID-19 impacting in-person classes, exams and plans for just about everyone around the world, International Education doesn’t stand still for long. We’re excited about the start of the Fall Semester 2020.

IEFA Round Up: 8 2020

Here’s our roundup of some of the news in International Education that caught our attention August:

PEO International Peace Scholarship Awarded

Paramita Choudhury, a second-year doctoral student at the University of Arkansas, has received the P.E.O International Peace Scholarship. P.E.O. is a philanthropic organization with the mission to help women support their educational goals through loans, grants and scholarships. One of the goals of the P.E.O International Peace Scholarship is to foster a better understanding among the peoples of the world. Paramita will receive $6,000 for tuition and expenses related to her research in dental anthropology.

Read more.

Texas Student Recieves Department of State Scholarship to Study Hindi

Josh Mysore, a senior at the St. Mark’s School in Plano, Texas, has been awarded a National Security Language Initiative for Youth Virtual Summer Intensive full scholarship to study the Hindi language this summer.

Josh is one of 500 students selected from roughly 3000 applicants from across the United States who will study a foreign language this summer as part of a virtual exchange.

Read more.

Nigerian ballet dancer inspires youth

Daniel Owoseni was told that as an African he was not eligible for an international scholarship. Despite this setback, he taught himself ballet through YouTube, and 3 years ago set up his very own dance academy.

This story should inspire you not to give up, even when things are hard!

Read more.


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Read about How to find international or study abroad scholarships for 2021 or Studying in the United States vs. Canada


If you need additional funding for your international education, a loan may be the perfect solution:


How to find international or study abroad scholarships for 2021

August 27th, 2020 by IEFA

Who Provides Study Abroad Scholarships?

Scholarships can come from many different sources and you’re typically eligible to receive more than one form of financial support. Review the guidelines for each scholarship or award to see what opportunities you qualify for.

There are various sources of funding for the financial aid, such as:

  • Schools and Universities
  • Governments
  • Organizations
  • Businesses and Foundations
  • Private donors

Sponsoring institutions may be run or influenced by people who have studied abroad themselves and because of that they truly understand the value of experiencing an international education.

The availability of scholarships for international students will vary from country to country. Whichever scholarships you apply for, remember to be patient and persistent – as the application process and decision-making can take time. That being said, scholarships are an excellent way to help you finance your study abroad dreams.

What Can a Study Abroad Scholarship Cover?

Depending on which of the many scholarships you decide to apply for and who is sponsoring it, the terms of the scholarship, and what it can be used to pay for (and what it can’t be used for) can vary greatly.

Most scholarships are supposed to cover your basic cost of studying. This might include the cost of tuition, registration fees, books, and other school-related costs. With some scholarships, a portion of living costs may also be covered, such as the cost of food and accommodation (sometimes referred to as “room and board”.

Some international scholarships are much less strict. They will award you a sum of money which you can put towards your studies however you feel is appropriate depending on your circumstances. Of course that doesn’t mean you can just spend the money on whatever you like, it should all be used to fund your education – not for social activities or any other purpose. The difference is that you’re more in control of your own budget and can use the financial aid as you see fit.

It’s important to think about when the study abroad scholarship money will be released to you. Funds are most commonly paid out in a lump sum before the start of the fall semester, but in some cases, may be paid out in instalments over the course of the year. In the case of a study abroad scholarship that is paid out in instalments, in order to keep receiving the payments you may be required to maintain a certain level of academic merit.

Scholarships can be either paid to finance office of the school or to the student directly. Your school or the sponsoring organization will have their own procedures for when scholarship funds will be awarded. You should ask in advance so that you’re able to work out your budget effectively.

Scholarships for Undergraduate Students and Graduate Students

Whether you’re an undergraduate or graduate student, there may be different funding options for you, so remember to explore all the options.

How to Find Scholarships to Study Abroad in 2021

For huge numbers of students, the idea of studying abroad is incredibly exciting and interesting. They want to experience a different culture first-hand, work on their communication skills in a foreign language, or just explore the world as an international student.

Depending on the destination you choose and the type of program you enrol in, it can either be really expensive or could even save you money. But finding a study abroad scholarship to study abroad can reduce the overall cost, otherwise for some, the dream of studying at a school overseas may be out of reach.

To find scholarships to study abroad, first think about the destinations and courses that you are interested in. Contact the schools that you would like to attend to see what aid is available for international students, and use the IEFA.org scholarship search for the latest list of available scholarships.

Related Content

Studying in the United States vs. Canada

Financial Aid For International Students in the US: Explained

10 things you need to know about international student loans

Scholarships in medical fields

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Studying in the United States vs. Canada

July 24th, 2020 by IEFA

In this post we’re comparing studying as a foreign student in the USA with studying in Canada – if you’re interested in studying in either country then you’re in the right spot-as we will discuss some of the big advantages of studying in each.

Now let’s dive straight in!

Why you should think about studying in Canada

Studying in the United States vs. Canada

High quality educational services

A degree in Canada is just as good as a degree from the U.S., Australia, or the UK.

Canadian universities are doing well in international rankings and Canadian universities rate among the world’s top 50 universities.

There’s no question that a Canadian education is a world-class education, whether you’re attending a university, college, or technical school.

Relatively Affordable

The most important obstacle for most students seeking to study abroad is the cost.

And while international students pay higher tuition fees at Canadian universities than domestic students, the average annual tuition for a Canadian undergraduate degree for a foreign student is considerably lower than in the United States , Australia, or the United Kingdom.

Foreign students must also find housing and support their everyday lives. The cost of living in Canada is quite affordable compared with many other top destinations for foreign students. And when you consider the average annual cost of living to be lower than other countries with also lower average annual tuition fees, Canada tends to be a really good opportunity, indeed.

It is possible to get an International Student Loan to study in Canada, too.

You can also search our database of scholarships for international students.

Employment

While Canada is a relatively affordable option globally, studying abroad is undeniably expensive.

International students in Canada are allowed to work up to 20 hours a week during school term and full time (30 hours a week) during scheduled breaks, such as holidays. Most students don’t have to get a work permit to work when studying.

Security

Another big reason many students choose to come to Canada is personal safety. Studying abroad can be frightening, because you are leaving your family and friends – your safety net – at home. The Institute for Economics & Peace ranked Canada 8th most peaceful nation in the world. The location and relative isolation of Canada geographically provides a bit of a shield against most international disputes.

Canada has a freely elected government, and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms of Canada guarantees the fundamental rights and freedoms of those living in Canada. Canada’s worldwide reputation is as an inclusive and non-discriminatory society. Immigrants make up 20 percent of Canada’s entire population and Canadian regulations ensure that all citizens are protected from prejudice whatever their circumstances may be.

Immigration Opportunities

You typically get temporary status as a foreign student in the country where you are studying. You need to get back home when you graduate.

However, contrary to other countries, Canada has a variety of programmes that enable foreign students to be moved to permanent resident status after their studies. Options like the Post-Graduation Work Permit encourage students to live and work on an unrestricted work permit after graduation, which lets them gain some Canadian work experience. Most provinces in Canada have Provincial Nominee systems for applicants with studying or working experience in the province, and the point-based immigration scheme rewards Canadian job and education experience. Approximately half of all foreign students consider applying for permanent residency in Canada after completing their studies.

Economics

Canada is one of the world’s largest economies, and students are given plenty of opportunities to work. You have the chance to communicate with stakeholders of your chosen sector and network with them. And while you study, or after graduation, you could gain valuable experience working for industry-leading Canadian companies.

Your Canadian education and improved language skills in either English or French may provide global opportunities should you want to return to your home country or move abroad.

Canadian employers seem to prefer Canadian work experience over foreign work experience, so if you do chose to live in Canada your experience could make you stand out from other applicants!

Why you should think about studying in the United States

Flexibility in choosing your major field of study

It is estimated that 48 of the top 100 universities worldwide are in the USA. Flexibility in academic fields is one of the biggest factors which distinguishes US colleges from other universities around the world.

Usually, you are not required to specify your major until after your second year of study. Most students take advantage of these two years to explore different academic goals before deciding on a major. Students are expected in most other nations to determine their field of study before even applying.

A relatively diverse curriculum

Many U.S. colleges mandate that you take general or “core” education classes.

They provide you with the opportunity to learn about a wide range of academic topics – not just your major or concentrated research area. These classes, often entitled “liberal arts”, cover many subjects from writing to sciences and philosophy.

Internship opportunities & job prospects

With an internship, you will get a head start on your career – opportunities are provided by most US colleges. You will gain hands-on experience and exposure to your profession in the real world, plus the possibility of better-paid jobs after graduation because you already have some experience in the job.

Read about working in the US

Activities on campus

Colleges in the U.S. offer a wide array of sports , clubs, societies and events outside the classroom, so whatever you are interested in – you will find it right there on campus!

Cultural Diversity

Students studying in the US come from all over the world. You’ll be able to meet new people from various backgrounds every day , learn new languages, make friends and learn about other cultures – and share your own!

Professional assistance

Most schools have a dedicated office devoted solely to assisting their international students with any needs. They can help you develop your English, or deal with visa problems, financial support, and even help you adapt to cultural differences which can be quite a big deal in a new country.

When studying in the US one important thing to remember is that it can be very costly – far more costly than many other countries in the world. Through this article you will find out more about how to finance your education in the USA:::Link::

Then you can find out whether you qualify for a loan to study in the US:

You can also search our database of scholarships for international students.


And there you have it! Lots of great reasons why you would want to study in the United States or Canada! Let us know where you want to go in the comments below!


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Financial aid for international students in the U.S. explained

June 24th, 2020 by IEFA

In this video we break down all the Financial Aid Opportunities for International Students in the US.

If you’re specifically looking for a loan, then you can use the tool on our site to see if you are eligible.

If you’re looking for a scholarship, then you can search through our database on our Scholarships Page.

The United States is the world’s top destination for international students.

It’s also the most expensive. International students have to pay for tuition, room & board, transportation, health insurance, books, and supplies – and international graduate students may not have all that money saved in advance.

So how can international students pay all these expenses? It’s not easy, but you can realise the dream of studying in the US with hard work and some financial aid.

Getting Financial Aid from the US Government

The U.S. federal government gives international students limited financial support. But while most foreign citizens are not eligible for federal aid or government student support or federal loans, the U.S. Department of Education states that:

“Many non-U.S. Citizens qualify for federal student assistance. Don’t assume you can’t get help because you’re not a citizen.”

Under certain circumstances, non-citizens may be eligible for U.S. federal student aid funding. If you are applying for an international student visa, you may be eligible for the U.S. government-funded programmes:

Fulbright
EducationUSA

However, as an international student, you are most likely not eligible for US government financial aid.

But there are other alternatives that can help fund your education.

Getting Financial Aid from Your Homeland

Always start looking at home. If you’re an outstanding student with great potential, your own home country’s government may be willing to send you to an American college or university to learn at some of the best institutions, and then return home to apply your newly acquired skills.

To give you some examples of these programs:

  • King Abdullah Scholarship Program (KASP) — A generous scholarship for Saudi Arabian students that covers the total university cost along with material fees, and provides full medical and dental insurance, a monthly stipend, and coverage for airfare each year.
  • Brazil Scientific Mobility Undergraduate Program (BSMP) — This scholarship is designed for Brazilian students to study at US colleges and universities in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) for one year.
  • Kuwait Cultural Office Merit Scholarship — A scholarship designed for Kuwaitis studying at specific US colleges and universities to promote the needs and interests of the Kuwaiti government.

You should talk to the education department of your home country for government aid and your US embassy or consulate to see if such aid or government-funded programs are available.

Funding Direct from US Universities & Colleges

Universities are often flexible in offering financial aid options and support to international students. You can usually find plenty of international student financial aid information on the website of your school or by talking to your Admissions Office or International Student Services Office, or the Financial Aid Office.

You can find information on budgeting, the cost of your education, student financial aid application, resources and any financial support you can access.

Financial Aid Through the Admissions Office

For their students, most colleges have either need- or merit-based, financial assistance and aid packages, which can come in various forms.

Some schools have introduced a “need-blind” admissions policy, meaning you’re accepted based on your academic merits and don’t look at your financials.

It’s important to talk to your admissions office about what financial aid you ‘re eligible for. You may be aware of additional completion forms and deadlines.

Schools differ greatly in the international financial aid offered to students. If the school is well-funded, wants to diversify its student population, or has special interests in certain fields of graduate study, it may be willing to offer a generous financial aid package to attract international students.

Financial Aid Through the Athletic Department

International students can get up to a full scholarship to participate on their school’s sport teams. If you’re a talented athlete, this could be your ticket to a US school.

There are agencies travelling the world searching for students who have excelled in their sport and will match you with a coach recruiting for their school. The coach will have the final say as to whether you get selected — and whether there is a financial package to go along with that.

Financial Aid Through An Academic Department

Many schools are looking and have the funds to build a specific academic department. Whether you excel in math, business, or physics, there may be a scholarship for you. You’ll need to contact the Department Head to see if they’re willing to help you. These scholarships are often available in STEM fields — science , technology , engineering, and mathematics. These departments are seeking new research and expertise, so you need to show your track record and make the investment worthwhile.

Tuition Waivers

A tuition waiver allows students not to pay a portion of their tuition. While not all schools grant international students a tuition waiver, a handful to do. The school will specify the requirements to be met before international students qualify for a waiver of tuition. It can be based on citizenship, academic performance, or part of a fellowship or grant. Do your research, look at the school’s website, and talk to your admissions counsellor or an international student advisor to find out more about eligibility.

Private Scholarships, Grants and Fellowships

Many organisations worldwide have created scholarships and grants to offer aid to help students study abroad. But these awards can be competitive. There are thousands of scholarships and grants out there, but remember to put the time and effort into each application to increase the likelihood of winning the award. Have your application reviewed and submit as many as you can. You can search for international education scholarships on IEFA.org.

Optional Practical Training (OPT) & Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

Working in the U.S. to supplement your financial support is difficult for international students. F-1 students may work part-time on campus if they are in good academic standing or have completed their academic programme. For OPT or CPT approval, your work must be directly related to your major. Check with your International Student Advisor if you can work during your studies.

International Financial Aid from World Organizations

If you pursue higher education degrees, some international organizations can help you study in the U.S., including the United Nations and the World Health Organization, to name a few. Again, these international scholarships are extremely competitive, but they can be amazing if you have the qualifications and skills to do so.

International Student Loans

If you still need funds, there are international student loans that can cover your U.S. education’s total cost, including your tuition, transportation, some living expenses and food expenses. As long as you attend an accredited school, several lenders will work with international students. In most cases, you can apply online and get approval within days. Remember, international student loans allow you to borrow money, but you’ll need to pay back the money with additional borrowing costs. Check all the details and compare lenders to find the right international student loan.

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Why Apply for a CHESTER Entrepreneur Scholarship?

November 19th, 2019 by IEFA

Business start-ups are highly regarded and promote a productive and profitable economy in many different fields or niches of businesses.

The CHESTER Entrepreneurship Scholarship is one of the leading solutions to overcome many entrepreneurship-related problems.

Successfully building your own business needs money, which may be in quite short supply following graduation if you’ve been saddled with a large student loan repayment.

That’s why ambitious administrators want to support their college education through money-saving scholarships, and different financial aid opportunities.

Why get a scholarship?

A monetary donation or any means of supporting one’s educational expenses is what we call scholarship. It is granted to qualified students who have completed all the necessary requirements.

They are usually limited in number and are typically awarded to students with academic excellence and also based on household status.

After obtaining or being chosen as one of the recipients of a scholarship, a scholar student will be required to meet all the standards set by the sponsor.

It can be either maintaining a grade throughout the range of the school year you are a scholar to them. Or maybe you need to join some seminars that they had organized.

What is the CHESTER Entrepreneurship Scholarship?

The CHESTER Entrepreneurship Scholarship was established to support business-minded individuals to generate business while studying.

It gives assistance to students who are keen to learn things about entrepreneurship and more about setting up a business.

The CHESTER Entrepreneurship Scholarship is one of the most regarded scholarships that has helped many business-minded young individuals.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

If you are an undergraduate of any course and love to learn about entrepreneurship, then you might be considered for this scholarship.

This scholarship is open to anyone as long as you can meet the requirements and the deadline of application. You will be required to prepare an essay comprised of 500-1000 words that showcases all your skills and your desire to have this scholarship.

Please elaborate on all the things that motivate the entrepreneur in you. All the requirements must be submitted before or on April 30, 2020, and September 30, 2020.

Awarding of CHESTER Scholarship

CHESTER will grant one $2,500 scholarship to each chosen scholar decided by the selected judges. This scholarship will award four lucky recipients.

The recipients should contact the sponsor once they received a letter that confirmed that they are one of the hopeful scholars of CHESTER.

Find out more and apply here: Chester Scholarship

Search all Scholarships

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10 things you need to know about international student loans

November 2nd, 2019 by IEFA

If you’ve researched all the available funding options for you as an international student in the US, and you are still in need of additional financing, your next place to look is an international student loan.

If, like many international students, you didn’t realize that loans were even available for international students, here’s a roundup of 10 things you need to know about international student loans and how to apply for them. We will also point you in the direction of additional useful resources and the loan comparison tool which you can find here.

10 things you need to know about international student loans

1) What are international student loans?

International Student Loans are specialized private education loans that are available for international students who are studying in the USA or Canada at approved colleges and universities. US students in the USA are able to apply for Federal student loans (provided by the US Government), but these are not available to international students.

In many cases, international students in the US have to apply with a qualified cosigner and should only apply for international student loans after exhausting all scholarships, personal funds, and other options. At select schools in the US and Canada there are loans without a cosigner available for select students to apply for.

2) Who is eligible to apply for international student loans

Students who are not US citizens or non-citizen permanent residents and who are attending an eligible US college or university. Loans are also available to international students in Canada (including US students) at select universities.

In most cases in the US, borrowers are required to have a credit-worthy cosigner who is a US citizen or permanent resident. However, there are loans available at select schools that do not require a cosigner, depending on your situation as the borrower.

Students who are not US citizens or permanent residents and who are attending schools outside the US/Canada are not currently eligible for an international student loan.

3) What are the types of loans available

Lenders only work with specific colleges and universities, and not every lender works with international students. This can make it difficult at times to find the right option for your situation.

International Student Loan has a helpful comparison tool which will show the options that are available to you depending on your circumstances – taking into account your course of study, duration of study, field of study and if you’re studying at an approved US or Canadian college or university.

There are loans for students who have a US cosigner, and loans that do not require a co-signer that are available to students in select instances.

4) What international student loans can be used for

International student loans, like all private education loans, can be used for education-related expenses.

The main categories/items that an international student loan can cover are:

  • tuition
  • mandatory fees (costs specific to a school or university)
  • books and educational supplies/equipment
  • insurance
  • transportation (including airfare)
  • room and board
  • and other school-related expenses – can include food, personal expenses, leisure and communication

5) What is the maximum loan amount?

The maximum amount that you are able to take out in the form of an international student loan is the total cost of your education minus any other aid (like scholarships, grants, etc) received.

The total cost of your education will vary based on your school and the program’s cost of attendance. After you apply and receive credit approval your school must certify the amount of the loan.

Some lenders offer international student loans of up to US$100,000.

6) What about loans for non-US citizens or non-US-permanent residents studying outside the US?

Most international student loan options are only for non-US citizens studying inside the United States. However, we now have loan options at a few select universities for those who want to study in Canada!

7) What about cosigners?

A cosigner is required for many international student loan programs, but not all. If a cosigner is required they must be a US citizen or a US permanent resident, with good credit, who has lived in the US for the past two years. Non-US citizens or non-US permanent residents cannot act as a cosigner.

Although we are not able to assist with finding a cosigner, it is common to ask close friends or family members. If you do not have a cosigner you will want to explore lenders that do not require a cosigner.

8) How to apply for an international student loan

Before applying for a private student loan, you should know exactly how much you need to borrow. To do this, review the financial aid award letter sent to you by your school. Next, find a loan that meets your needs. You can use our Loan Comparison Tool to help you find a loan that suits you.

You will need to submit your application to the lender. Most international students studying in the United States are required to have a US co-signer. After you have completed your part of the student loan application, your co-signer will need to complete their part of the application.

After submission you will be sent documents relating to your loan application. Follow any instructions carefully, and ensure that you (and your cosigner) sign and return the documents in a timely manner.

When your lender has received and approved all of the documents the money is transferred directly to your school/university, and you will receive your loan proceeds from them once they have been applied to your student account.

9) How can you repay your international student loan?

The interest rate and repayment terms will depend on the loan option and lender you select. When selecting a lender you will need to review the terms or contact the lender directly with any specific questions. If you go with a lender that requires a cosigner the interest rate is calculated based on factors including your cosigner’s creditworthiness.

If a lender does not require a cosigner the interest and repayment rates are established in a different way. For example, with MPOWER, the interest and repayment is determined based on other factors. While they do not require a credit score, they do need to review a detailed credit report to verify payment history and good standing.

10) What if I’m applying for an international student loan before being accepted?

It is possible to begin the loan application process prior to being accepted to your school, however, you will need to be accepted with your student visa to finalize the loan. The first step is to find a lender; see if one is available at your college or university.

We hope you’ve found these 10 things you need to know about international student loans useful for your plans to study in the U.S so you know how to pay for your studies.

For more information check out our posts on 5 international student loan terms you need to know and Student loan repayment explained.

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STEM and Computer Science Students Eligible to Get $1,000 Scholarship Fund

October 10th, 2019 by IEFA

The world we are currently living in is a society that thrives and depends heavily on computers and technology so this 2019-2020.

Gone are the days when we can function at our best without all the needed technological complexities. Now, we not only need the right equipment and computers but also the right minds to work on today’s tech-driven world.

That’s where Indeema comes in.

Indeema is a software company that develops business solutions for its clients using the latest tech. Aside from that, they also believe that having their own contribution to the industry can be best defined by offering scholarships.

Well, that’s just what they did as our friends at Indeema offers a scholarship program worth $1,000 for computer science students and to those who are studying STEM-related courses.

Indeema believes that investing in bright minds and aspiring talents, as well as sharing their resources and knowledge to the right people is one of the best things they can do for the upliftment of society.

Who is eligible for the STEM and Computer Science Scholarship?

To assist high school seniors or freshmen students in the USA, Indeema is offering the $1,000 Scholarship Program for enrolling at a university/ college for:

  • Computer science (CS)
  • Computer engineering (CE)
  • Related science, technology, engineering, math (STEM) programs.

The company believes that it is in supporting students who are following a path towards computer and tech literacy is the future. Thus, those who are interested in enrolling in computer science, computer engineering, as well as other STEM-related programs, specifically in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, are eligible to apply for of this scholarship fund.

What about Indeema?

Indeema is driven by their passion to not only cater quality tech business solutions to their clients but also positively contribute to the overall welfare of the industry. This is why the company’s mission is driving progress with tech skills and science.

The company also lead educational courses and collaborate with research institutions in Lviv and Austria. Furthermore, Indeema also believes that it is important for them to facilitate the development of fresh minds in the IT industry so that it will progress for the betterment of everyone.

Because of this, they decided to finally grant educational scholarships to students in the US who are interested in pursuing careers in computer science and other STEM courses. This is also a strategic move for the company as it is where their main office is located.

Indeema knows that starting can be hard. That’s why they want to create a stepping stone and encourage IT enthusiasts to build their career in this innovative landscape.

Not only will this create brighter minds in the tech industry, but this will also make it easier for them to leverage on their careers, and in the process, help Indeema and the entire tech sector improve.

Any wonderful product or disruptive innovation is done by people like you or like Indeema — passionate dream chasers.

Study hard and work smart, and there will be nothing you can’t achieve!

Who is eligible for the $1,000-STEM and Computer Science Scholarship?

High School Graduates

High school graduates who graduated from a public school are eligible. However, those who have graduated from a private school are also welcome as long as the school they’ve graduated in is accredited.

STEM Course

Students who are going to pursue a degree and career in computer science, computer engineering, and other STEM-related courses are eligible to apply for the scholarship.

Enrolled College Students

Students who are already enrolled or have been accepted for enrollment for a four-year course at any accredited college and university in the US are eligible for the scholarship.

High SAT Rating

Students who have a high SAT score are eligible. Specifically speaking, only those who have SAT scores of 1350/1600 and above. Also, those that have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 as well as a 27 or higher composite ACT score are eligible for the scholarship.

Interested and Passionate

If you are deeply passionate and interested in computer science, computer engineering, and technology, then you’re a great fit for the scholarship.

If you are interested you can find out more below. You must apply for the $1,000 Scholarship Program by March 1st.

Find out more.

Read more from our blog.

This award is brought to you by IEFA.org and all responsibility for the program lies with the provider – in this case, Indeema. For more information see the listing on IEFA.org and contact the provider directly.


Global Citizen Scholarship and Women in STEM Scholarship: Application Deadlines approaching!

June 12th, 2019 by IEFA

We believe that everyone deserves the right to get a proper education as it creates a better world for all of us. What better way to turn that philosophy into reality by offering scholarships in the U.S. and Canada.

Knowing that these two countries are some of the best places to study and get a college degree because of their high educational standards, it’s best that deserving students get the chance to experience premium education.

This is why we, at International Education Financial Aid (IEFA), are proud to showcase two scholarships for international students in the U.S. and Canada. There are two scholarship types. These are the Global Citizen Scholarship and the Women in STEM Scholarship.

Although the deadlines have passed and the students have been carefully chosen, there’s still a chance that another round of free scholarships will be given soon.

Find out more about these scholarships and stay up to date with another possible round by reading on.

The Global Citizen Scholarship

Global Citizen Schoalrships for International students in the USA and Canada

Provided by: MPOWER

Application Deadline: July 15th

About this scholarship:

The Global Citizen Scholarship is geared towards international students who are looking to study either in the U.S.A. or in Canada. The two countries are considered as the top places to get premium education because of its first-world and high-standard educational experience.

To qualify you must be enrolled full-time at a US or Canadian school that MPOWER supports, and you must be an international student allowed to legally study in the U.S. or Canada. U.S. citizens wishing to study in the U.S. and Canadian citizens wishing to study in Canada are not eligible for this scholarship.

This scholarship is not restricted to a field of study – students from all fields can apply.

And although the application deadline has passed, the chances of MPOWER offering another batch of scholarships for international students is very high.

What is the Global Citizen Scholarship about?

This scholarship has been created and specifically designed to cater to international students who wanted to study in the U.S.A. and Canada. Its aim is to encourage a diverse community of students for the long-term goal of improving the productivity and prosperity of both the two countries and the individual lives of its scholars. In simpler terms, foreign students get the chance to experience American and Canadian college and university-level education at its finest.

What are the Global Citizen Scholarship requirements?

Scholarship applicants, should, however, be qualified. Some of the qualifications needed are full-time students who are currently enrolled at a school located in the U.S. or in Canada. And that school should be directly supported by MPOWER.

Furthermore, applicants should be confirmed as official international students who are allowed to legally study either in the U.S. or Canada or in both the two countries.

Students who are U.S. citizens looking forward to studying in the U.S. are exempted and not eligible for the scholarship. The same goes for Canadian citizens who are looking to study in Canada. The aforementioned scenarios are not eligible to get the scholarship.

However, it’s worth noting that the scholarship isn’t restricted to a specific field of study or degree. This means that successful scholars from any field of degree can apply for the scholarship.

Find out more.

The Women in STEM Scholarship

Women in STEM Schoalrships for International students in the USA and Canada

Provided by: MPOWER

Application Deadline: July 15th

About this scholarship:

The Women in STEM Scholarship is geared towards female international students who want to study college-level education in the U.S.A. or in Canada.

The last applications were also submitted last July 15. But the chances of having another batch of STEM scholars is very high because of MPOWER’s continuous support towards the cause.

What is the Women in STEM Scholarship about?

It is a scholarship fund aimed at women who are geared towards using their STEM degree for the greater good and benefit of society. Those who have the potential to serve as inspirational role models and as advocates for women’s rights are the main target of this scholarship.

What are the qualifications for the Women in STEM Scholarship?

Students coming from different countries, except for the U.S. and Canada, are eligible for the scholarship. They should also be currently enrolled in a STEM degree program in any U.S. or Canadian school that is directly supported by MPOWER. Only females and those who are full-time students can apply for this scholarship.

Applicants must also submit a clear and detailed essay describing their academic and professional accomplishments in the STEM program. They should also share their thoughts about their future goals and how they intend to achieve those goals if ever they successfully qualify for the STEM scholarship.

What is STEM?

STEM is a description of programs that feature subjects in any field of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, hence STEM.

Find out more.

Further Resources:

International Scholarships

International Student Loans without a Cosigner

International Student Loan Center

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Loans That Do Not Require a Cosigner in the U.S. and Canada

May 31st, 2019 by IEFA

Loans Without a Cosigner for International Students in the U.S.

If you are already, or are going to be an international student in the US, it will usually be required of you to have a cosigner while applying for a loan.

If you do require a cosigner, the cosigner must be a US citizen or permanent resident, and they must have lived in the US for more than 2 years. They should likewise have good credit history. Non-US natives and non-US permanent residents are not allowed to be a cosigner for international student loans.

No-cosigner Loans are a Growing Trend

Despite of the fact that most international student loan applications require a cosigner, students attending a growing number of schools and colleges in the US and Canada can apply for a loan without one.

If you do not have a cosigner, there is guidance on how to find one in the International Student Loan Resources, but looking for a “no cosigner loan” could be the best choice for you.

Since most international students in the US don’t have any financial history there, a cosigner joins the loan application process. Approval for the loan and the interest rate applicable are then based upon the perceived reliability of the cosigner.

Knowing the No-cosigner Deal Technicalities

The cosigner is lawfully bound to repay the loan if the borrower does not make the payments.

Don’t have a cosigner? If research doesn’t help you find one, see if a loan that doesn’t require a cosigner is available for you.

With loans that do not require a cosigner, rather than using the applicant’s own credit score and history, lenders assess your education and career path, in addition to other factors when making a decision on approval for a loan. These might include your nation of origin, graduation date, and what school you are attending.

The majority of student loans available for international students are solely for non-US natives who will be in the United States. However, a new option helps students apply for loans at a number of colleges in Canada as well!

Student Loan Without Cosigner Canada

International Students in Canada may now apply for an international student loan without a cosigner!

International Student Loan has partnered with a lender that can offer student loans without them to students from over 190 countries, including the US, who are attending select schools in Canada. Up to this point it has been hard for international students to finance university education in Canada, but thanks to our partner lenders and International Student Loan, there are now various schools in Canada where no-cosigner loans are available.

Loan Application is Now Available

International students at eligible schools can apply for a loan to fund the expense of your education including the cost of tuition, lodging, sustenance, insurance, and supplies. As referenced previously, with this sort of private loan though, rather than focusing on your or your cosigner’s financial record, the loan specialists take into account different factors.

Considerations for Loan Approval

For private student loans for example, your education and future career, your nation of origin, your expected graduation date and what school you will be studying at will be considered. Students who are not US natives or permanent residents, and who are going to schools outside the US/Canada are not presently qualified for international student loans.

Students who are not US natives or permanent residents, and who are going to schools outside the US/Canada are not presently qualified for international student loans.

Finding and Comparing No-Cosigner Loans

International students should use the loan comparison tool to see whether they can apply for a loan without a cosigner and if their chosen school is available. Provided that this is the case, they should then be able to review the terms and conditions of the credit agreement and apply online.

While inquiring about a no-cosigner loan, here are a couple of things you should consider:

  • The amount you can borrow
  • The interest rate (and whether it’s fixed or variable)
  • Repayment terms
  • How the loan is disbursed

When your application has been assessed you will get further information about your loan and the terms and conditions. These will cover the financing cost and the total amount you can obtain. These will differ by loan specialist and depend on your circumstances.

No-cosigner Loan Amount and Tenure

No-cosigner advances through our partner have a fixed rate of interest and enable you to access up to $50,000 in a 2 year period. You should state the amount you might want to borrow on your application.

Once the student loan borrowers are approved for the loan, the funds are disbursed directly to your school or college.

The whole process takes around about a month and a half, so you should plan ahead and ensure that you make your application in time.

To check whether there are no-cosigner loans at the private lenders in your school, start with the loan comparison tool.

Find out more about International Student Loans.

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€5000 Scholarship to Study a Master’s in Europe

April 26th, 2019 by IEFA

Europe - €5000 Scholarship to Study a Master's in Europe

Sponsored by educations.com
Deadline: April 2020

Educations.com believe that students who study abroad become the next generation of globally-minded leaders – and they want more of you to do it!

They’re offering a scholarship of up to €5000 to help cover your tuition fees and get you one step closer to your next great adventure.

What is the €5000 Masters Scholarship in Europe about?

The scholarship will be awarded for the fall/autumn semester and is open to students from any country who will be studying a master’s degree abroad at a European university or school.

Eligibility for the Masters Scholarship in Europe

To apply for this scholarship, you must:

Have applied (or will apply) to a university or school within Europe

The applicant should have already gone through the whole process of application to be accepted as a regular student in any European school. If not, then applicants should have serious intent to study in any European school.

Have applied (or will apply) for a master’s-level degree starting in the Fall/Autumn semester

The applicant must have already applied for entry to any school that is based in Europe as one of their regular students. If this isn’t the case, then the hopeful applicant should show serious intent to study in any European college or university.

Be studying the degree program in Europe specifically (not online or in another country)

The applicant must be currently studying any degree program that is offered by the European college or university. Online courses attended from another country aren’t considered.

Meet necessary requirements

In order to benefit from the masters scholarship study fund, applicants should have graduated and finished a bachelor’s (undergraduate) degree. They should also meet the program’s language requirements, especially that Europe is a multilingual continent.

Spanish, French, and German are some of the top languages needed to be learned, depending on location, alongside the universal language, English. The applicant should also be eligible to apply for any study visa that is relevant to his or her desired master’s degree.

Be a foreign student

The applicant should also have experienced studying abroad. The country where the education took place should also not be the place the applicant was born in. Furthermore, he or she shouldn’t also be a regular resident of the country he or she currently studies in.

What is the ideal candidate to become a masters scholar in Europe?

Globally-minded and interested in other cultures

The applicant should show an interest in other cultures. This is very important, especially that Europe is a continent where people from different countries and cultures live.

The applicant should understand that the world he’s living in is a globalized world where people from different walks of life and from different corners of the globe live together and in harmony. Showing a positive attitude towards the people around him or her are good signs of becoming a scholar.

Motivated and inspired to positively change the world

The applicant should have a set goal in mind, one where he or she is aimed at contributing something productive and positive to the world through the education that they are likely to get. Showing passion and eagerness to improve their skillset and acquire more knowledge for the betterment of society are good signs of a carefully handpicked scholar.

High academic achiever with consistently outstanding grades to prove it

The applicant should be intellectually superior, both academically and in extracurricular activities as well. Those that are academic achievers are given priority as they are the ones who are most likely to excel.

Furthermore, applicants should show a willingness to improve their grades and do the best of what they can to strive for perfection, despite the fact that all are imperfect in one way or another.

Involved in extra-curricular groups and activities

Those who are active and engaged in participating in extracurricular groups and activities are given priority as they show a positive attitude towards their peers. Academic excellence isn’t the only thing considered but social skills as well.

Excited to begin your adventure and share your story with the world

The applicant should show eagerness in starting a new journey of his or her life, knowing that their are endless possibilities around him or her. They should also be excited in sharing their experiences and story with the world, specifically to their families, friends, and peers from their homeplace.

Get more details on the €5000 Scholarship to Study a Master’s in Europe and how to apply.

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