Going to university or college will be a significant investment. For some students, this will be the first time they are handling their financial responsibilities. We want to make sure students are successful in meeting the financial demands of their post-secondary education, and the first step is to investigate your options and to do your research on what scholarships are available. This blog will provide a brief overview of the different types of funding available and some handy pointers on the application process.
Funding can come in different formats including, merit or need-based scholarships, athletic scholarships, grants, loans, bursaries, government assistance, non-profit organizations, and more.
Here are some tips and resources to provide your students when considering looking at financing options:
- Consider the overall costs of education. This includes tuition, books, accommodation, food, and personal expenses. Having realistic expectations can lead to better preparation and budget planning
- Inquire directly with the institution on what scholarships they have available. Every institution is unique and may offer various types of funding, including entrance scholarships and scholarships for current students
- Check for eligibility requirements, and most importantly, application deadlines! Scholarship deadlines can vary from institution to institution. My best advice is to investigate scholarship opportunities at the beginning of the school cycle for your institution of interest
- Apply for as many scholarships as you can. The biggest misconception from students is that they’re too competitive or unattainable
- Looking at academics is only one part of the story. Some applications will ask you to highlight your interests and leadership skills. Whether that's organizing your school donation drive, to creating your own YouTube channel, be authentic in what makes YOU unique
- Have strong references! Seek out people that can speak to your experiences and skills; this could be your school principal, teacher, guidance counselor, and/or employer
- Read and stick to the guidelines. Whether its word or page count, examples or style font - not following the rules may lead to disqualification
- Proofread. A strong application is thought out and written carefully. Spelling errors and bad grammar can be one determining factor in why a student may not receive a scholarship
- Explore what your home country government and host school government has to offer
- Submit early!!!
- Admitted students can further bring down their finances by working on campus, enrolling in co-operative education, and seeking out internship opportunities, many of which are paid positions
As educators, we want to ensure that students are well supported and to make education as accessible as possible. Scholarships are a great way to not only gain financial freedom but also to have student’s efforts recognized, as well (bonus) finesse their reading, writing, and interviewing skills!
Below you will find some helpful resources to assist in this process.
No matter the outcome, trust that when nothing is certain, anything is possible, and there are many opportunities for those who seek it. Ultimately the focus is on student success and delivering our promise on the exciting experience that university and colleges have to offer.
Sources
- Study in Canada Scholarships: https://www.educanada.ca/scholarships-bourses/can/institutions/study-in-canada-etudes-au-canada.aspx?lang=eng and https://www.scholarshipscanada.com/
- IECA Global Committee Merit Scholarship Resource: https://tinyurl.com/IECA-GC-IntlScholarships
- Study in Germany: https://www.study-in-germany.de/en/
- Study in Lativa: http://www.studyinlatvia.lv/tuition_fees
- Study in Hungry Scholarships: http://studyinhungary.hu/study-in-hungary/menu/studying-in-hungary/tuition-fees-and-funding-options.html