For international students aspiring to study in the United States, finding adequate funding can be a significant challenge. Fortunately, numerous scholarships are available to help offset the costs of a U.S. education. This guide highlights key scholarship databases and resources specifically designed for international students.

International Education Financial Aid (IEFA)

Website: https://www.iefa.org/

Key features:

• Comprehensive database of scholarships, grants, and loans
• Searchable by degree level, subject area, and nationality
• Includes financial aid information and resources

International Scholarships (IScholarships)

Website: https://www.internationalscholarships.com/

Key features:

• Extensive list of scholarships for international students
• Filters for degree level, field of study, and country of origin
• Provides application tips and deadline reminders

Fulbright Foreign Student Program

Website: https://foreign.fulbrightonline.org/

Key features:

• Prestigious scholarships for graduate-level studies
• Covers tuition, living expenses, and travel
• Available for students from over 160 countries

EducationUSA

Website: https://educationusa.state.gov/

Key features:

• Official U.S. government source for study information
• Provides scholarship information and financial aid resources
• Offers advising services in countries worldwide

Institute of International Education (IIE)

Website: https://www.iie.org/Programs/Funding-for-Study-in-the-US

Key features:

• Manages several scholarship programs for international students
• Includes the prestigious Fulbright Program
• Offers region-specific scholarship opportunities

Scholar4Dev

Website: https://www.scholars4dev.com/

Key features:

• Lists scholarships for developing country students
• Includes full and partial scholarships
• Covers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs

College Board's BigFuture

Website: https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/scholarship-search

Key features:

• Comprehensive scholarship search tool
• Includes some scholarships open to international students
• Offers college planning resources

American Association of University Women (AAUW)

Website: https://www.aauw.org/resources/programs/fellowships-grants/

Key features:

• Fellowships and grants for women in graduate and post-graduate studies
• Some awards specifically for international women students

Rotary International

Website: https://www.rotary.org/en/our-programs/scholarships

Key features:

• Offers various scholarships through local Rotary clubs
• Focuses on promoting international understanding and peace

ProFellow

Website: https://www.profellow.com/

Key features:

• Database of fellowships, including many for international students
• Searchable by field of study and degree level
• Provides application tips and success stories

Tips for Using Scholarship Databases:

Start your search early, ideally 12-18 months before your intended start date

Pay attention to eligibility requirements and application deadlines

Create a system to track scholarship opportunities and their requirements

Tailor your applications to each scholarship's specific criteria

Be prepared to provide academic transcripts, test scores, and financial information

Consider smaller, less competitive scholarships in addition to well-known ones

Check if your home country offers any scholarships for studying abroad

Additional Resources:

• U.S. Department of State's EducationUSA: https://educationusa.state.gov/financial-aid
• NAFSA: Association of International Educators: https://www.nafsa.org/about/about-international-education/financial-aid-international-students
• Open Society Foundations: https://www.opensocietyfoundations.org/grants

Disclaimer: The information presented in this article is intended for academic and marketing purposes only and should not be construed as financial or legal advice. It is essential to consult with qualified educational advisors, financial aid offices at your target institutions, or legal experts for accurate and up-to-date counsel specific to your individual circumstances. Scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application processes are subject to change, and professional guidance is crucial to ensure compliance and informed decision-making.

OpenSphere is a technology company and does not hold itself out as a financial aid or educational consulting firm. It operates independently and is not affiliated with or endorsed by any educational institution, scholarship provider, or government entity. OpenSphere, its authors, and agents do not warrant the accuracy or real-world applicability of the information herein, nor are they liable for any damages arising from reliance on this information.