Do US universities give full scholarships to international students?

Seeking Advise
1

Hi everyone. I’m an international student looking to apply to US universities for a CS major, and I’m trying to understand if full scholarships are realistic. My family income is below $30K, which is considered average in my country, so I’d need a full scholarship to study abroad. I’ve done a lot of research, but the answers I find are either too optimistic or overly discouraging.

EDIT: I’m not aiming for top 20 universities—maybe not even top 30. I plan to take a gap year and start at a college in my country while applying to the US. This is my best option given my situation.

2

Full scholarships for international students exist but are very competitive. Many colleges are need-aware for international students, meaning your financial need can affect your chances of being admitted. State schools like UCs usually don’t offer full scholarships to international students.

3

@Peyton
What about need-based scholarships? Are they common?

4

Tal said:
@Peyton
What about need-based scholarships? Are they common?

Need-based aid exists, but it’s tough to get. Most US schools prioritize domestic students for financial aid. The budget for international students is usually smaller.

5

@Keir
Domestic and international aid budgets are separate, but yes, international funding is much smaller.

6

Blakely said:
@Keir
Domestic and international aid budgets are separate, but yes, international funding is much smaller.

That makes sense. Thanks for clarifying.

7

Tal said:
@Peyton
What about need-based scholarships? Are they common?

It’s common for scholarships to not fully cover your expenses, especially at schools that are need-aware.

8

Merritt said:

Tal said:
@Peyton
What about need-based scholarships? Are they common?

It’s common for scholarships to not fully cover your expenses, especially at schools that are need-aware.

So, not enough financial aid?

9

@Tal
Exactly. You might get some aid, but not enough to make college affordable.

10

Some US universities do give full scholarships to international students, but it’s rare. Need-blind schools usually have a cap on how many international students they accept. Need-aware schools might admit fewer high-need international students.

11

@Zya
Can you explain what ‘need-aware’ means?

12

There are colleges that meet full need for international students, but they are very selective. Many schools are need-aware and limit how many high-need internationals they accept.

13

Shawn said:
There are colleges that meet full need for international students, but they are very selective. Many schools are need-aware and limit how many high-need internationals they accept.

That’s good to know! I’m aiming for schools with decent CS programs, not necessarily top-ranked ones. Maybe I’ll try transferring to a top 20 later.

14

@Tal
Transferring to a top 20 school is incredibly difficult, especially for international students seeking aid.

15

Cypress said:
@Tal
Transferring to a top 20 school is incredibly difficult, especially for international students seeking aid.

Don’t some schools have higher transfer acceptance rates? Performing well in your first year might help.

16

Full scholarships for international students are rare. Liberal arts colleges in less popular areas may offer good aid to attract geographic diversity. Check out schools from the Colleges That Change Lives list.

17

@Brett
What are liberal arts colleges? I’m not familiar with that term.

18

Tal said:
@Brett
What are liberal arts colleges? I’m not familiar with that term.

Liberal arts colleges are smaller schools focused on undergrad education, with fewer grad programs. They often prioritize personal attention and have strong academics.

19

I got into Pomona College with full aid. If you need help with applications, let me know.

20

Ray said:
I got into Pomona College with full aid. If you need help with applications, let me know.

That’s amazing! I’d love to ask for your advice. Thank you!