Study Abroad Scholarship Tips

Studying abroad has become the norm among college undergraduates. Being immersed in another culture gives you the opportunity to turn your traditional education on its side. Many students miss out on the opportunity to go, because they think it’s too expensive. It’s definitely not a cheap endeavor, but studying abroad is not as out of reach as many think. Understanding the types of scholarships available, knowing where to look, and making yourself stand out can all make studying abroad possible.

Types of Scholarships

Merit-Based: These scholarships are awarded based on abilities such as academic, athletic, and artistic. Sometimes those in charge of the money will take extracurricular activities and community service into account as well.

Student-Specific: Though minority scholarships are the most common of this kind, student-specific scholarships all deal with factors like gender, race, religion, family, and medical history.

Destination-Specific: As the title implies, these scholarships are offered by the country where the student plans to study.  Government supported websites of these countries are an excellent resource for listings and insight on what they may be looking to give away.

Program-Specific: Individual programs or schools offer these to students and they based on both personal and academic performance. The qualifications will vary based on programs and locations.

Subject-Specific: These scholarships have to do with the student’s field(s) of study or majors. Students may be required to enroll in certain courses or perform research/duties while abroad to use the money.

Where to Look

The best place to start your scholarship hunt is college or university through which you are planning to study abroad. Many offer their own scholarships and resources. For outside funding, check out sites of public organizations that donate funding. Good opportunities may also be found via sites and blogs that write about various scholarships and grants.

Tips For Applying 

• Use your college or university and all of the resources they provide for searching and applying for scholarships.
• Read the guidelines of each scholarship carefully to make sure you qualify.
• Submit all of the materials requested on each scholarship application.
• Treat any essay requirement like a school assignment.  Have a trusted professor or mentor proofread and offer suggestions on revisions. 
• Apply for as many scholarships as you can. Every dollar is one less that you’ll have to pay.

About the Author. Dana Viktor is the senior researcher and writer for duedatecalculator.org. Her most recent accomplishments include graduating from Ohio State University with a degree in communications and sociology. Her current focus for the site involves the chinesepregnancy calendar.