What are the Documents required for Applying for International Scholarships? Update Yourself before Application and Figure Out Your Eligibility!!!

Abstract:

Do you think that can I afford abroad education? Yes certainly possible now a days. N number of supports are available in the form of scholarships. Si let us start with the basic of what's a scholarship? 

Summarily, A scholarship is an award of money that is provided for a student to support their pursuit of a college degree. 

The main difference between these funds and loans is that scholarship money does not need to be repaid. 

This means you can use scholarships to lower the cost of tuition, making college more feasible. 

But everyone is not awarded scholarship.

Some students win scholarships for their  academic performances; others are awarded based on financial need. Whatever the case, every scholarship has requirements, which are qualifications that a student must have in order to win. Before applying for scholarships, check all of the requirements for a scholarship to ensure you’re qualified. The more qualified you are for a scholarship, the better your chances of actually winning

Applying for a college or university scholarship is equally important as applying to a degree course so you should treat it with a lot of care and responsibility. 

As you already know, scholarships are only offered to students with excellent academic performance so you either prepare for a scholarship opportunity in advance or be realistic about your chances of getting one.

One of the most important things you need to consider is this: before you apply for a scholarship, even if you are 100 % sure you’re going to get it, contact an advisor from the university you wish to apply to and get more detailed information.

Keywords:

Scholarship, Documents, Applications, Process, Rules, Regulations

Learning Outcomes

After undergoing this article you will be able to understand the following 

1. Resume

2.  Letter of recommendation

3. Academic transcripts

4. Statement of purpose

5. Passport 

6. Application form

7. Test scores

8. Experience documents

9. Additional documents

10. Research proposal

11. Essay

12. Financial documentation

13. Identity card

14. Language proficiency

15. Photographs

16. Portfolio

17. Letter of motivation

18. Scholarship application form

19. English proficiency test scores

20. Certificates

21. Competetive exam scores

22. Grants and scholarships

23. Reference letters

24. Some important information for foundation scholarship

25. Brief of some universities and colleges offering scholarships to foreign students.

26. Conclusions 

27. FAQs 

Introduction 

Abroad education is not easy. Apart from monetary support, students have to cope with cultural differences, languages spoken, residential problems, friendship issues and many more things. In other words if thought positively, Abroad Studies can be a life-changing experience. If you want to study abroad, you need to be prepared for the adventure that awaits you. 

Therefore one has to know that there are so many documents and forms to fill out when applying for a study abroad . Students may forget some of the basics. Hence, with the aim of making students aware with application process with all necessary documents and copies in hand, we have provided a list of the different documents that you should have ready when applying for a study abroad program.

Some of the documents that you will have to submit for the scholarship application process are the same ones that the university will ask from you when you apply for admission in a Bachelor or a Master degree program.

Most common documents requested for scholarship application

1. Duly filled scholarship application form

Carefully check and accurately fill in all the sections of the application form correctly

2. Passport/ID

The passport must be valid for at least six months after your departure and only a copy of the main page of the passport, containing your photo and personal information is sufficient.

3. Transcripts/Diplomas

Send the transcript of records from the last school you graduated or currently attending. The transcript of records is a photocopied page of all your courses and grades and credits that you achieved for each course. This document should have an official signature and stamp from your school or faculty.

Proof of English language proficiency (or other language – the one that is used as medium of instruction for the study programme you chose)

for English it can be: IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge

Spanish: DELE

French: DELF or DALF

German: DSH, TestDaF, OSD, telc

4. Statement of purpose/Letter of motivation

This statement should contain only one page, in which you explain your reasons why you applied to the chosen degree course and how it relates to your future studies and career goals. In this statement/letter of motivation, it is important to be honest and not inflate with anything. You should also briefly present your qualities and how they would fit with the degree you selected.

5. Letter of recommendations (1 or 2 ideally 2 is better)

Usually, it’s just one, but in some cases, you may be asked to provide two letters of recommendation. The letter(s) of recommendation should only come from one of your teachers/lecturers or employer/person that supervised your work. This letter gives the scholarship provider more information about your qualities, skills, intellectual capacity and it can also reflect your desire or motivation for the degree course and/or university you chose.

6. Curriculum Vitae/Resume

Even if you don’t have any work experience at the moment you apply for a scholarship, you can simply include all your study experiences, hobbies, interests, achievements and social skills. Remember to include all the languages that you know, but be honest about your proficiency level; add computer skills, volunteering work and any other courses that you completed, especially if they are connected with your study field.

7.  Test scores of recognised qualifying examination(s)

SAT, ACT, GRE, GPA and other test scores can be an important factor when the university considers who they give the scholarship to. Most often, high scores are the ones that count first and foremost; however, the scholarship offer is rated based on a holistic approach, after taking all the relevant documents into consideration.

Additional documents you may be needed to submit 

a) An Essay about why you require scholarship 

In addition to the letter of motivation, you may be requested to write an essay and touch upon a certain subject, usually related to the scholarship. Think about what personal achievements recommend you for receiving the scholarship. Follow the guide lines of the essay as requested and make sure you don’t exceed by too much the number of words.

b) Portfolio

A portfolio is requested to students who apply for art, design and other similar degrees and it should include artistic work and projects. In the case of an art degree, a portfolio is much more or equally relevant compared to your GPA score when it comes to showing your skills.

c) Parents' financial information, tax returns etc.

d) A medical report / heath status form

Duly Signed by an authorized and competent medical clinic / hospital from your home country

If it is the case, please take note that all documents must be translated either in English or in the official language of the country of destination, but the exact requirements for the language of documents first!

The translation of documents must be done by an authorized translator and they should always accompany the original documents as well.

Final advise before you send all documents for the scholarship

1. Check your application form for spelling and grammar errors before you send it.

2. Do not exceed the word limit given for any section of the application or for any other documents you may be requested to write.

3. Submit the relevent documents only and avoid sending any unwanted documents .

4. Make a complete copy of the application before you send it.

5. Keep in mind the exact date you have to send all the requested documents and be careful not to miss the deadline.

6. Send the documents in non editable format such as PDF.

7. Check all documents for spelling and grammar errors before you send them.

8. Send all required or asked documents copies only either scanned copy or xeroxed copy.

9. NEVER send originals to any one

10. Finally cross check whether documents copies are in sequence and attached in file accordingly.

Where to Find Private Scholarships? International students may be eligible to apply for many private scholarships, depending on the eligibility requirements set forth in the application, and any donor restrictions or donor intent.

Private scholarships may be offered by nonprofit organizations, individuals, government agencies, foundations (including university foundations), and a number of other sources. 

Find more information on some of the scholarships at the following few prominent websites:

• fastweb.com
• finaid.org
• collegeboard.org
• unitedwedream.org
• scholarships.com
• immigrantsrising.org
• goldendoorscholars.org
• thedream.us
• mydocumentedlife.org
• scholarshipamerica.org/dreamaward
• hsf.net/scholarship
• latinocollegedollars.org
• lulac.org/programs/education/scholarships
• laef.org/scholarship
• esperanzafund.org
• dreamersroadmap.org
• getschooled.com

USA Government Scholarships for International Students 

 

Foreign Fulbright Student Program

The Fulbright Program are full scholarships in USA for international students who wants to pursue a Master’s or PhD degree. 

Humphrey Fellowship Program

The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program provides a year of professional enrichment in the United States for experienced professionals from designated countries throughout the world. 

US Colleges and Universities that offer Scholarships for International Students 

AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship Program

Amercan University awards scholarships to high-achieving international students who wish to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree at the University and who are dedicated to positive civic and social change. 

Amherst College Scholarships

Amherst College currently runs a need-based financial aid program that provides assistance to financially needy international students. 

Berea College Scholarships

All admitted international students receive financial aid and scholarships that cover 100% of tuition, room, board, and fees for the first year of enrollment.

Clark University Scholarships

Clark University offers the Clark Presidential Scholarships which is a prestigious award for students whose academic record and leadership potential places them at the very top of Clark’s applicant pool. 

Columbia College Scholarships

Columbia College offers scholarships and awards to outstanding international students. 

Dartmouth College Scholarships

Dartmouth College meets the demonstrated need of all admitted undergraduates, including those from other countries. 

East Tennessee State University

East Tennessee State University (ETSU) offers the International Students Academic Merit Scholarship for new international students seeking a graduate or undergraduate degree. 

Illinois Wesleyan University Scholarships

Merit-based scholarships are offered to qualified international applicants with outstanding academic achievement and test scores on the required entrance exams. 

Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme

The Aga Khan Foundation provides a limited number of scholarships each year for postgraduate studies to outstanding students from selected developing countries who have no other means of financing their studies. 

 

Conclusions 

By having all of these documents ready in advance, you will be able to streamline the application process and increase your chances of being accepted into your dream program. So, if you are planning on applying anytime soon, prepare these documents and get them in order. Lastly, you'll need to pack your bags and get ready for an amazing experience!

FAQ for study abroad 

Q.1. Why study abroad?

Ans.: There is definitely a myriad of reasons as to why you should choose to study abroad. In case you plan to get international study abroad, it will be a combination of good quality of education, new culture, better resume, expanding employment prospects and widened mindset. Want to get a clear vision, choose the Abroad consultancy in Delhi and grab hold of all the information.

Q.2. Who can study abroad?

Ans. : Anyone who is ready to take a chance and take a leap of exposure and experiences, study abroad is the best choice for you. However, it is better to get a good GPA (i.e. greater than 2.0 or higher) as suggested by the Study overseas consultants. You are likely to get a better chance of getting into the program.

Q. 3. Where can I study?

Ans.: It is certainly not an easy task to choose and pick out where you plan to study abroad. However, it all depends on either or your personal interests, the cost, career prospects you choose to. Choose the country that fulfills your study program needs along with your safety and employment prospects. All this information can be guided to you by your Abroad consultancy in Delhi.

Q. 4. When can I apply and go?

Ans.: As soon as you decide on the reason to go, you can choose to go. Depending on the various universities, the application deadlines will vary. The applications open in the early year of January and February until the mid of the year June and July. The programs usually start - off during the fall of September and October.

Q. 5. How long is the duration of study abroad programs?

It depends on the level of degree you are pursuing. If you are planning for a full-time study, an undergraduate degree takes about 3 to 4 years. For most subjects is three years, especially in the UK. While in the US, the subject is for 4 years. Whereas a master’s degree takes about 1 to 2 years. However, a Ph.D. or doctoral program takes about 3 to 4 years.

Q. 6. How much does it cost fee and living?

Ans.: In case you have enrolled in a foreign institution, you will be eligible to pay a tuition fee as well as one semester or full year fee. Apart from this, you will also be paying for your housing, food, and other essentials.

Q. 7. Will financial aid apply for tuition fees abroad?

Ans. : Yes, you can always have options to choose scholarships. You can enroll in the university with help of Study abroad consultants or university representative and seek right information in regard for the same.

Q. 8. Can language be a barrier?

Ans.: Language can be a major concern, however, if you are going to an English-speaking country - you only have to take care of it. You can improve your skills and learn the language which would be an addition to your time you stay in abroad. So learn the language of the country where you wish to study. This will add value to your selection and living.

Q. 9. What documentation shall I submit with my application for approval?

Ans.: All the documentation required during the time of approval of application are - 

Passport for identification

A statement of purpose

CV or Resume

Academic references or the letter of recommendation

Certificate of your Secondary Education

English-language proficiency proof, usually, Certificate of TOEFL or IELTS certificate. Or, any other English Test Exam can also do.

Test result admission i.e. GMAT or GRE for graduate programs.

Q.10. Why Study Abroad is better than studying in India?

Ans : The common notion is that foreign universities are expensive, although with scholarships this is an exaggerated issue. What many fail to consider are time and effort. Studying in an Indian college leads to a lower average salary than earned by our western counterparts. This salary sets the tone for all future promotions since companies often look at your previous salaries during compensation appraisals. Additionally, most senior positions tend to be scooped up by individuals who have an international outlook through global exposure. Finally, studying in a foreign country is an incredible learning experience helping students get a better academic as well as soft skill development.

Q.11. How do I choose the right University to Study Abroad?

Ans.: We get this question a lot. Many candidates know which career path they want to take, but are at a loss for how to take that journey. Understanding the job role and the industry that you want to get into is the first step to picking the right university.

Q.12. How to get scholarships to study abroad?

Ans.: Indian government provides many scholarships for students who wish to study abroad. Along with that almost all universities abroad provide scholarships for the student who excel in theior academics. Some countries provide free education as well.

Q.13. How can the Indian embassy help me during my stay abroad?

Ans.: The Indian embassy plays a crucial role during your stay abroad. Within 24 to 48 hours of your arrival in the country, you must register yourself with the ministry of internal affairs. This legalises your stay in the country. The second step is to register at the local Indian embassy. Not only is the embassy a home away from home, but people at the embassy can also help solve any problems you may face during your stay. The embassy is also a great place to connect with other Indians in the country you choose to study in.

Q.14. Which are the best countries for pursuing international education?

Ans.: Choose the country where you wish to study based on the course you are interested in. If you are looking for a technology career, the US is home to world-class ivy league universities. The UK boasts of the University of Cambridge and London School of Economics, which offer a wide range of management and economics courses. A plethora of courses and low living costs make Australia the third most sought after country after the US and UK. Germany is known for engineering and automobile courses that attract a large number of international students. For a course in fashion, there's nothing like France.

Q.15. Can I work part-time while I am studying abroad?

Ans.: It depends on the country you plan to study in and the type of visa you get. Most countries and universities allow students to work part-time off-campus from the second year onwards. Some countries may have restrictions on the number of hours a student can work. The best way to find out is to ask your programme manager or drop in an email to the embassy. You can also check with university seniors to get an idea about the part-time work scenario for students.