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Next Steps
Watch the EducationUSA Webinar on Financing Undergraduate Study »
Review EducationUSA’s Overview of Financing Your Studies Information »
Download a Handout on Undergraduate Scholarships for UK Students »
I wanted more than just straight graphic design, and here, I can take a kickboxing class and have it count towards my degree! Plus you can't get school spirit in the UK like you do here!...
Meet Erica Leishman
at University of Oregon
(2011 - 2015)
Funding
Many students make the mistake of applying for admission first and then considering how to fund their studies. Do not be one of them. To avoid the disappointment of gaining admission but not having sufficient funding to take up your place, consider funding as you choose a university and explore funding options as you complete your applications in the autumn / winter.
Sources of Funding
Generally speaking, there are four types of funding for study in the US:
- Personal / family savings- no matter how large or small! Even if you receive significant funding, you may have to pay for your visa or airfare before you receive a scholarship cheque.
- Loans from a US or UK lender
- Scholarships from US universities
- Scholarships from external funding bodies
- Sports scholarships
As the cost of higher education increases in both the US and UK, it is important for parents and students to know what costs to expect and to develop a plan to cover these. Finding funding for undergraduate study in the US is a challenge for both American and international students alike. The key is starting early; choosing universities appropriately and putting in the necessary time and effort to seek out and apply for scholarships. Also keep in mind you will need to demonstrate access to funding for the first year of study in order to apply for a visa.
The good news is that each year international students receive significant amounts of financial assistance toward their studies in the U.S. In fact, 1 in 3 international students reported a scholarship as their primary source of funding. The most recent report produced by NAFSA: The Association of International Educators estimates that $7.223 billion was received by over 690,000 international students studying in the US in 2009-10.
For More Information
For additional information, sign-up for our monthly e-newsletter which includes scholarship information and deadlines. You may also wish to download our handout on scholarships for undergraduate study and watch this video on Exploring Undergraduate Financial Aid Opportunities.