As an international student, studying abroad can be a wonderful experience, but it can also be expensive. Scholarships can help offset some of the costs, but finding scholarships that no one applies for can increase your chances of receiving funding. Here are some tips to help you find those hidden scholarships:
Start Early
Start your search for scholarships at least one year before you plan to study abroad. Many scholarships have early application deadlines, and starting early gives you more time to research and apply for scholarships.
Use Scholarship Search Enginess
Scholarship search engines like Fastweb, Scholarships.com, and Cappex can help you find scholarships that match your qualifications. Create a profile and receive notifications when new scholarships become available.
Check with Your University
Your university may offer scholarships specifically for students who study abroad. Check with your university’s study abroad office or financial aid office to see if there are any scholarships available. You can also check with the department of your major, as some departments offer scholarships for students studying abroad in their field.
Look for Niche Scholarships
Niche scholarships are scholarships that are available to a specific group of students, such as students with a certain major, ethnicity, or background. These scholarships often have fewer applicants because they are only available to a specific group of students. You can search for niche scholarships on scholarship search engines or by doing a Google search for “niche scholarships for [your major/ethnicity/etc.]”.
Check with Professional Organizations
Professional organizations related to your major or career goals often offer scholarships to students studying in their field. Check with these organizations to see if they offer any scholarships. You can also check with organizations related to your hobbies or interests, as they may offer scholarships to students who share their interests.
Apply for Local Scholarships
Local scholarships are scholarships that are available to students in a specific area or community. Check with your local community organizations, such as the chamber of commerce or rotary club, to see if they offer any scholarships. You can also check with your high school or local library, as they may have information on local scholarships.
Network with Alumni
Networking with alumni can be a great way to find scholarships that no one applies for. Reach out to alumni from your university who have studied abroad and ask if they know of any scholarships or funding opportunities. You can also join alumni groups on social media or attend alumni events to network with other alumni.
Conclusion
Finding scholarships that no one applies for requires some effort and research, but it can be a great way to fund your study abroad journey. By starting early, using scholarship search engines, checking with your university and professional organizations, looking for niche scholarships, applying for local scholarships, and networking with alumni, you can increase your chances of receiving funding. Remember to read the scholarship requirements carefully and apply for as many scholarships as possible to increase your chances of receiving funding.
