The International Student Loan Center provides international students and study abroad students with access to a range of loan products to help fund their education abroad.

There are many student loans designed for students studying outside their home country. Our US student loans are available for non-US students coming to the US as well as US students studying in a foreign country. This article contains more information about the student loan products available for international students

• Student Loan For International Students in UK
• Student Loan in USA
• Can You Get a Student Loan as an International Student?
• How Much Student Loan do International Students Get?
• Can International Students Get Sallie Mae?
• Can International Students Get Education Loan in the USA?
• MPOWER Financing
• DACA Student Loans
• International Student Loan Program
• Student Loans For International Students Without Cosigner
• DCU Student Loans For International Students
• Student Loans For International Students in Canada
• Study Abroad Loans
• Student Loan Companies List
• Private Student Loans For International Students
• Global Student Loan Corporation
• Personal Loans For International Students
• Discover Student Loans For International Students
• International Student Loan Organizations
• How Can an International Student Get a Full Scholarship?
• How do International Students Pay For College?
• When Can I Apply For Student Finance?
• Does UK Give Loans to International Students?
• Do International Students Get Stimulus Check?
• Can International Students Get FAFSA?
• How do International Students Get Financial Aid in The US?
• Which University Gives The Most Scholarship to International Students?
• Which Country Has Cheapest Education For International Students?
• Which Country Gives The Most Scholarships to International Students?
• Do Foreign Students Get Free Tuition?
• Which is The Best Bank For Student Loan?
• How Much Can a Medical Student Borrow?
• Can I Get a Loan on a Student VISA?
• Is Pell Grant For International Students?
• Can International Get Loan in Germany?
• Can International Students Get Loan in Australia?

Student Loan For International Students in UK

If you’re an international student, you can apply for a loan provided that: You’re resident in the UK; you’re enrolled in an accredited UK university; and you’re at least 18.

If you’re an EU/EEA citizen, our standard criteria apply when we review your application. And if you are a non-EU/EEA citizen, you will be asked to provide a UK guarantor.

Read Also: The 10 Best and Most Creative Ways to pay off Student Loans Faster

With some of the best universities in the world and strong employment prospects, the UK is a popular destination for students all over the globe.

But studying at a university as an international student can be seriously costly – with fees often topping £20,000 a year and living expenses on top of that, the majority of students will need financial help from somewhere in order to make it work.

Student Loan in USA

The U.S. Department of Education’s federal student loan program is the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan (Direct Loan) Program. Under this program, the U.S. Department of Education is your lender. There are four types of Direct Loans available:

• Direct Subsidized Loans are loans made to eligible undergraduate students who demonstrate financial need to help cover the costs of higher education at a college or career school.
• Direct Unsubsidized Loans are loans made to eligible undergraduate, graduate, and professional students, but eligibility is not based on financial need.
• Direct PLUS Loans are loans made to graduate or professional students and parents of dependent undergraduate students to help pay for education expenses not covered by other financial aid. Eligibility is not based on financial need, but a credit check is required. Borrowers who have an adverse credit history must meet additional requirements to qualify.
• Direct Consolidation Loans allow you to combine all of your eligible federal student loans into a single loan with a single loan servicer.

Can You Get a Student Loan as an International Student?

IEFA has partnered with the leading provider of international student loan programs to provide students around the world with financial aid options to fund their education abroad.

Students who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents and who are attending an eligible U.S. college or university.

In most cases, borrowers are required to have a credit-worthy cosigner who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. However, there are loans available at select schools that do not require a cosigner, depending on your situation as the borrower.

Students who are US citizens or permanent residents are eligible to apply for study abroad loans if they are participating in a study abroad program through an approved school in the United States. The student must receive credit at their home college or university.

If you are not sure if your school is eligible, use our loan widget to see if your school is on the list. Your school must be accredited by an agency recognized by the United States Secretary of Education and be eligible to participate in federal student aid programs.

How Much Student Loan do International Students Get?

This is going to vary greatly depending on your degree program, level and location. To give a rough estimate, though, $20,000 to $30,000 CAD per year for tuition fees plus an estimated $15,000 CAD for living expenses and other costs.

While this number may not seem to be very affordable for most, it is significantly cheaper than some other popular study destinations! You can check the total cost of attendance with your university’s financial aid office.

International students can now apply for a student loan without a cosigner if they are enrolled at select Canadian schools. International, American and Canadian students, may be eligible for a loan to cover the cost of their education including tuition, housing, food, insurance and educational supplies such as books.

With these loans, the lender will look at your academic success and career path, and not purely base their decision on your credit history or that of a cosigner. A few other factors they will consider include your home country, expected graduation date, and the school you attend.

Can International Students Get Sallie Mae?

Students getting an international education in the USA are eligible to get a loan from Sallie Mae as long as they have a cosigner. Though Sallie Mae doesn’t provide personalized interest rates until an application is completed, they do advertise discounts when borrowers choose in-school repayment and paying by auto-debit.

There are no origination or pre-payment fees, and borrowers may be able to pay only interest for the first year after graduation. 

Can International Students Get Education Loan in the USA?

International students can get loans to pay for college in the U.S. It will depend on your noncitizen status and if you have a co-signer.

Apply for federal student loans by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, known as the FAFSA. This will also qualify you for free aid such as grants, scholarships and work-study. If you plan to borrow, federal loans offer lower interest rates than private loans do, as well as income-driven repayment plan options and forgiveness programs.

How to shop for an international loan

Compare loan features. Compare private international loan offers to get the lowest interest rate you qualify for. Note whether the lender will postpone payments if you have trouble paying them — and for how long. That’s important. Find out if there are origination, prepayment or late fees, and how easily you can reach the lender by phone, email or live chat if you encounter a billing or customer service issue.

Opt for a fixed interest rate. Given the choice, a fixed interest rate that won’t increase over time is a safer bet than a variable interest rate.

Keep an eye on the bottom line. Use a student loan calculator to see what kind of payment you’ll face after borrowing for multiple years.

MPOWER Financing

MPOWER Financing offers international students who want to study in the U.S. or Canada the opportunity to do so without cosigners or credit checks. But U.S. citizens and students with creditworthy cosigners can find more affordable and flexible options with other lenders.

MPOWER Financing has student loans for international students, U.S. citizens, and Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) students. They require interest-only payments while you’re in school and for 6 months after graduation, after which you’ll have a 10-year loan term with full interest plus principal payments. Interest rates vary by loan type. 

U.S. Citizen, Permanent Resident, and DACA Undergraduate Student Loans

U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and DACA students pursuing a bachelor’s degree can qualify for undergraduate student loans. These loans are eligible for multiple loan discounts, and there is no prepayment penalty.

Loan Terms for Domestic Undergraduate Loans
Fixed Rates	9.99% (10.91% APR)
Loan Amounts	$2,001 to $25,000
Loan Terms	10 years

U.S. Citizen, Permanent Resident, and DACA Graduate Student Loans

If you’re a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or DACA student and are going to graduate school, you may be eligible for MPOWER Financing’s graduate school loans, which have the lowest interest rates of all of its loans.

Loan Terms for Domestic Graduate Loans
Fixed Rates	7.99% (8.89% APR)
Loan Amounts	$2,001 to $25,000
Loan Terms	10 years

International Student Undergraduate Loans

If you’re an international student within two years of graduating, you may be eligible for an undergraduate student loan. To qualify, you must be admitted to or already attending one of MPOWER Financing’s partner schools in the United States or Canada. It has more than 350 of them.

Loan Terms for International Undergraduate Students
Fixed Rates	13.99% (14.98% APR)
Loan Amounts	$2,001 to $25,000
Loan Terms	10 years

International Graduate School Loans

As a graduate student enrolled in a one or two-year program or within two years of graduation, you can qualify for MPOWER international graduate school loans. Like its other loans, the international graduate school loans are eligible for multiple interest rate discounts, and there is no prepayment penalty if you choose to pay off the loan early.

Loan Terms for International Graduate Students
Fixed Rates	11.99% (12.94% APR)
Loan Amounts	$2,001 to $25,000
Loan Terms	10 years

Loan Eligibility

To qualify for a loan from MPOWER Financing, you must meet the following criteria: 

• You are currently admitted to or enrolled in a school in the U.S. or Canada that MPOWER Financing supports.
• You are within two years of graduating from your program.
• You must reside in the U.S. or Canada while you are in school.
• You are not a citizen of a restricted country or subject to individual sanctions.

DACA Student Loans

The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is a relief provided by the U.S. government for children of illegal immigrants. This relief protects children from being deported out of the United States.

These people typically entered the United States when they were minors without having a say in the matter at the time. As a DACA recipient, you won’t be able to receive the typical type of financing that most American citizens do. However, MPOWER is here to help obtain student loans for DACA students with our no-cosigner loans.

As a DACA student, you aren’t eligible for federal student loans, however you have other options for student aid and DACA student loans. You may be eligible for a private loan through MPOWER. Our goal is to give you the tools and confidence you need to improve your finances. MPOWER will help you through the entire process of applying for DACA student loans.

You could be eligible if you are:

A DACA recipient

Admitted to or attending one of our 350 schools in the United States

A current or prospective undergraduate or graduate student within 2 years of graduating

All MPOWER Scholarships are open to DACA students

International Student Loan Program

Before applying for a private student loan, non-U.S. citizens should check to see if they are eligible for certain types of federal financial aid. Certain groups of people are considered “eligible noncitizens” and may qualify for federal student loans:8

• U.S. nationals (including natives of American Samoa or Swains Island)
• U.S. permanent residents with a permanent resident card, resident alien card, or alien registration receipt card, also known as a green card
• Anyone with an Arrival-Departure Record (I-94) from U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services (USCIS) showing that you’re a refugee, asylum seeker, Cuban-Haitian entrant, conditional entrant (before April 1, 1980), or parolee
• Anyone with a T non-immigrant status (T-visa) or who has a parent with a T-visa
• Anyone considered a “battered immigrant-qualified alien”

If you don’t fall into one of these categories you can check with your country’s embassy or consulate in the U.S., or with the appropriate government office in your country to see if they offer any scholarship or aid opportunities. 

You may also be eligible for financial aid from the state or college in which you’re studying. Only when you’ve exhausted those options should you look into private student loans.

Where Can You Get an International Student Loan?

Private student loans for international students are available from two types of lenders: banks and non-bank lending companies.

Student loans from banks offer international students the convenience of doing their banking and student loans all in one place. Additionally, banks like Citizens give 0.25% interest rate discounts to borrowers who bank with them. The downside is that you’ll need a co-signer to be eligible.

Non-bank lenders offer international students more flexibility. MPOWER and Prodigy Finance look at your career path and income potential to qualify you for a student loan without a co-signer or collateral. And because these companies operate completely online, they tend to have very user-friendly websites.

Student Loans For International Students Without Cosigner

Getting a loan without a cosigner may seem impossible, but there are options. Some private lenders offer no cosigner student loans.

Although a cosigner is typically required by most lenders, international students attending certain colleges and universities in the US and Canada are able to apply without one. If you’re not able to find a cosigner then this type of loan could be a good option for you.

With no-cosigner loans, instead of looking at credit history, the lender will look at your academic success and career path. A few factors they will take into consideration include your home country, graduation date and what school you attend.

Private international student loans are offered through non-government lenders. There are a number of private lenders that offer loans for international students, each with their own eligibility requirements. However, only select lenders offer loans to international students that don’t require a cosigner.

Before choosing a lender, it’s important to do your research and find a lender that will offer you a loan that meets your needs. You can use our international student loan comparison tool to get information from the student loan companies that work with international students in just a few clicks.

How To Find And Compare No-Cosigner Loans

If you’re an international student and would like to explore the option of a loan that doesn’t require a cosigner, you’re able to use our loan comparison tool to see if your school has one available. If so, you can then research the terms and conditions of the loan and apply directly through the lender. When researching a loan a few items you will want to take note of include:

• How much you can borrow
• The interest rate (including if it’s fixed or variable)
• The repayment period
• When and how your funds will be disbursed

Once your loan application has been reviewed you will receive details on your loan including your interest rate and how much you can borrow, these items will vary by lender and your situation. For example, no-cosigner loans through one of our partners have a fixed interest rate of 11.99%-13.99% and allow you to borrow up to $25,000 per academic period, or $50,000 total.

On your application, you must state how much you would like to borrow. The approved amount along with your designated interest rate will be assigned to you by the lender after your application has been reviewed. If you are approved for a loan, the funds are disbursed directly to your college or university. The entire process usually takes about 6 weeks, so you will need to plan accordingly.

DCU Student Loans For International Students

Student loans can be grouped into two main types: federal and private. Federal student loans are funded by the U.S. government, while private student loans are funded by commercial entities such as banks and credit unions.

As you consider your options, it is important to understand the full range of loan alternatives. Here are the main types of federal and private student loans you need to know about:

Federal Student Loans

Federal student loans generally have the widest range of repayment plans and easiest more lenient credit standards on most loans.

Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans

Direct subsidized and unsubsidized loans are issued to both undergraduate and graduate students by the federal government. Both offer flexible repayment plans and low-interest rates. The differences between the two types of loans are whether you pay interest while you are in school and have to qualify based on need.

Subsidized loans are need-based loans. The U.S. government “subsidizes” these loans by paying the interest while the student is enrolled in at least a half-time status, during the six-month grace period after graduation, and as well as also during periods of deferment (temporary breaks from payments allowed by the government for circumstances such as economic hardship or military service).

Unsubsidized loans are not need-based. No matter how much the student or parent makes, they can qualify for an unsubsidized student loan. Eligibility and amount awarded are determined by the student’s year in school, other financial aid received, and the student’s cost of attendance.

Unlike subsidized student loans, students are responsible for all interest that accumulates while they are in school, during the grace period, and during any temporary breaks from payments.

Students are not limited to just one type or the other. However, students may not exceed the program’s borrowing limits, either annually or per type of degree. For instance, there is a loan limit for professional degrees that is different than the limit for undergraduate borrowing.

Direct PLUS Loans

Direct PLUS Loans are available to both graduate students and parents of undergraduates. They are offered to eligible borrowers through schools that participate in the Federal Direct Student Loan Program.

Graduate students or parents of undergraduates may borrow an amount equivalent to the annual cost of attendance (as determined by the school) minus any other financial aid received. Direct PLUS Loans do require a credit check, but approval conditions are generally much less rigorous than what is generally required for private student loans.

Direct Consolidation Loans

Most students receive multiple federal student loans over the course of earning their degree. Direct Consolidation Loans enable students (and parents) to simplify the repayment process by consolidating all their loans that are in their name into one for a single monthly payment.  Consolidated loans have fixed interest rates. Borrowers can choose from a variety of payment plans including income-driven repayment options.

HRSA-Sponsored Loans

The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, sponsors loans, grants, and scholarship programs for students majoring in the health professions.  This program provides four different types of loans, all of which are need-based and competitive, meaning that students must apply for acceptance into the loan program.

• Loans for Disadvantaged Students: Qualifying students must be enrolled in a participating school of allopathic, osteopathic, podiatric, or veterinary medicine; dentistry; optometry; or pharmacy.
• Health Professions Student Loans: Qualifying students must be pursuing a degree from a participating school in dentistry, optometry, pharmacy, podiatry, or veterinary medicine.
• Primary Care Loans: Qualifying students must be pursuing a degree from a participating school in allopathic or osteopathic medicine.
• Nursing Student Loans: Qualifying students must be pursuing a degree in nursing from a participating school.

Private Student Loans

Private student loans are available to both parents and students. Students borrowing privately will generally need a co-signer, a person who has the income and credit rating required to be approved for the loan, who agrees to pay the loan if the student can’t.

The payment history is also reported on the cosigner’s credit report. Private student loans are considered an alternative to PLUS loans because of lower interest rates offered to borrowers or borrowers with cosigners with good credit. 

Student Loans For International Students in Canada

A lender is an organization or individual that allows you to borrow money with the expectation of eventual repayment of the amount borrowed plus interest. In terms of student loans, there are two main types of lenders and loans: federal and private.

A federal student loan is one provided by the government such as through the Canada Student Loan program. A private student loan is one provided by a privately-funded organization. If you are unable to obtain enough funding to pay for your education, student loans can be a primary or supplementary option.

However, we advise you to only borrow what you absolutely need as you don’t want to end up owing more than you can repay. You should only take out the amount in loans needed to pay for tuition, fees and cost of living. Student loans are not meant to be spent on luxury items.

Study Abroad Loans

Even if you benefit from low tuition fees or don’t have to pay for tuition at all, you need all the financial support you can get to pay for your monthly living costs and other expenses.

Scholarships are the most common and well-known form of financial aid, but you can also apply for other types of financial support. Let’s see which are they and how you can benefit from them.

1. Merit-based scholarships (fellowships)

The merit-based scholarships are awarded based on a number of criteria including academics, achievements, hobbies, talents, affiliations with various groups or career aspirations. These scholarships can be offered by the federal and state government, large corporations, local businesses, professional organizations or universities.

2. Specific scholarships

Most specific scholarships are given to students with a certain ethnic background or family affiliations. These scholarships are designed to benefit gender or ethnic minorities. For this reason, you will find a number of scholarships specifically dedicated to African-Americans, Asian-Americans or Hispanics.

In some countries (Belgium, France, U.S. etc.), the local government provides scholarships to students that come from certain countries. For example, Belgium offers special scholarships to applicants coming from African, South American, and Asian countries.

These programmes are also meant to help minority students pursue an education in fields in which they have been historically under-represented.

Some organizations provide scholarships to students with physical disabilities, learning disabilities and debilitating health conditions.

3. Need-based scholarships (grants)

Grants are often called “gift aid” because they are money-free; basically, they are a type of financial aid that doesn’t have to be repaid. Compared to scholarships which are usually merit-based, grants (called bursaries in some countries) are mostly need-based. Grants or bursaries are usually based on financial circumstances but may also consider other factors (e.g. physical or mental disabilities).

This form of financial support doesn’t need to be paid back and its value most times varies from 500 to 2,500 USD.

In the US, the Department of Education offers numerous federal grants to students who attend four-year colleges or universities, community colleges, and career schools.

In Germany, different types of merit-based grants are awarded. Each institution awarding the merit scholarship decides the amount and duration. For example, the University of Hamburg offers a merit grant of 720 – 1,000 EUR/month for 2 semesters (12 months). However, you can only apply for this grant if you are not eligible for the federal student loan scheme.

4. Student loans

Student loans for studying abroad are funds that you have to pay back. They function like any other loan, with a few differences. You can get a student loan from the government or a private bank; it can be a bank from your home country or a foreign bank, in the country you wish to pursue your studies.

Co-signing (along with parents or legal tutor) is very common for private student loans since most teenagers don’t have the credit history to get a loan of such a size.

However, student loans that you can get from the government tend to be more favourable, as the rates are usually lower.

Some loans are based on financial need, while others are much like any other loan and are based on your credit score.

Student Loan Companies List

The following are loan servicers for loans that the U.S Department of Education (ED) owns. To find out who your loan servicer is,

• visit your account dashboard, find the “My Aid” section, and select “View loan servicer details,” or
• call the Federal Student Aid Information Center (FSAIC) at 1-800-433-3243.

Loan Servicer	Contact
FedLoan Servicing (PHEAA)	1-800-699-2908
Granite State – GSMR	1-888-556-0022
Great Lakes Educational Loan Services, Inc.	1-800-236-4300
HESC/Edfinancial	1-855-337-6884
MOHELA	1-888-866-4352
Navient	1-800-722-1300
Nelnet	1-888-486-4722
OSLA Servicing	1-866-264-9762
ECSI	1-866-313-3797
Default Resolution Group	1-800-621-3115 (TTY: 1-877-825-9923 for the deaf or hard of hearing)

Private Student Loans For International Students

International students are typically non-U.S. citizens attending college in the United States for a specific period of time. Most non-U.S. citizens can’t take out federal student loans, though there are some exceptions. That means international students who need additional funding often turn to private student loans to help cover college costs.

Know that in general, lenders will require you to have a U.S. citizen co-signer in order to get a private loan.

In general, international students must have a U.S. citizen or permanent resident co-signer to get a private student loan. There are a few lenders that don’t require one, but funding from these lenders is limited for the 2020-21 school year, due in some cases to restricted investor activity during the coronavirus crisis.

Federal financial aid often is the better option for students. But federal student loans are limited to U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens, which include:

• U.S. nationals, including natives of American Samoa and Swains Island
• U.S. permanent residents that have a Form I-551, I-151 or I-551C, better known as a green card
• Those who carry an Arrival-Departure Record (I-94) from U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services that place them in one of the following categories: Refugee, Asylum Granted, Cuban-Haitian Entrant, Conditional Entrant (if issued before April 1, 1980), Parolee (in certain cases)
• Students who hold, or whose parent holds, T nonimmigrant status for victims of human trafficking
• Individuals determined to be a “battered immigrant-qualified alien,” as defined by the government, and their children
• Citizens of the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands or the Republic of Palau

Confirm with your college’s financial aid office whether you fall into any of these categories, and if so, submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in order to access federal financial aid.

If you can qualify for federal direct subsidized or unsubsidized student loans, their interest rates are lower and they come with a wider range of repayment protections than private loans provide. Recipients of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program can’t get federal student aid, but they may be able to get college aid from their schools or states.

Global Student Loan Corporation

The Global Student Loan® is the ONLY comprehensive education loan for international and distance-learning students that does not require a co-signer in the host country.

GSLC also offers student loans for international students that do not require a US citizen or permanent resident to co-sign the loan.

The Global Loan Corporation for Students can help make your goal of studying in the U.S. or in other selected countries a reality.

GSLC works with financial institutions and banks located around the world to provide financing for the student’s education. In many cases, principal payments may be deferred until graduation when your education will help you secure more financially rewarding career positions.

In addition, most loan repayment schedules are spread over a longer period than typical consumer loans to significantly reduce your monthly payments. Besides covering your tuition, the Global Student Loan® provides funding for other school essentials such as computers, insurance, communications, travel, and housing.

GSLC collaborates with schools and other service providers to fund these other educational expenses so that your attendance is not delayed.

GSLC will provide a Loan Certificate that may be used to demonstrate adequate funding to attend school, a requirement for securing a student Visa. The GSLC’s website includes an International Student Planner.

Personal Loans For International Students

While U.S. federal student loans are a popular option for funding higher education, they’re restricted to U.S. citizens and permanent residents. This means that international students studying in the U.S. will need to check out international student loans.

International student loans are provided by private lenders such as banks, credit unions and online lenders. You can typically use the funds to pay for tuition, fees, books, school supplies, transportation, insurance and living costs.

Lender	Current APR Range	Loan Term	Loan Amount Range	Best For
Ascent	Fixed: 5.59% – 12.94% (with autopay) Variable: 4.10% – 11.35% (with autopay)	5 to 20 years	$2,001 – $200,000 (aggregate	Flexible payment options
Citizens Bank	Fixed: 3.23% – 10.95% (with autopay) Variable: 1.03% – 10.41% (with autopay)	5 to 15 years	$1,000 – $150,000 for undergraduate and $350,000 for graduate	Low APR
College Ave	Fixed: 2.99% – 12.99% (with autopay) Variable: .99% – 11.98% (with autopay)	5 to 20 years	$1,000 – 100% total cost of attendance for undergraduate and graduate and $150,000 for dental, law, medical and MBA	Quick application process
Discover	See rates at Discover.com	15 or 20 years, depending on degree	$1,000 – 100% school-certified college costs. Aggregate loan limits apply.	Multiyear approval
MPower Financing	Fixed: Up to 13.63% (with autopay)	10 years	$2,001 – $50,000	Undergraduate students with no co-signer
Prodigy Finance	Variable: Varies	7 to 20 years	Not specified	Graduate students with no co-signer
Sallie Mae	Fixed: 3.50% – 12.60% (with autopay) Variable: 1.13% – 11.23% (with autopay)	5 to 20 years (depending on the loan)	$1,000 – 100% total cost of attendance	Building credit

Eligibility requirements for international student loans vary by lender, but you can expect a few common baselines:

• A creditworthy co-signer: Because international students may not have a Social Security number or credit profile, most lenders will require a U.S. citizen or permanent resident co-signer with good credit on international student loans.
• An eligible school: Lenders may limit which schools and/or programs the borrower may attend in order to qualify for a loan.
• A U.S. address: Borrowers typically must have a U.S. address in order to receive loan funds.

Discover Student Loans For International Students

Discover Student Loans offers private student loans for international students who are attending an eligible US college or university. International students require a creditworthy cosigner who is a US citizen or permanent resident.

• International students require a creditworthy cosigner who is a US citizen or permanent resident. International students do not need a Social Security number to apply.
• Loan eligibility varies by loan type you’re applying for.

You may need to send us a copy of your passport and one of the following documents for loan approval. We will notify you when we need them during the application process.

• F-1 Visa
• H1-B Visa
• J-1 Visa
• L-1 (L1A or L1B) Visa
• Form DS-2019
• Form I-20
• Form I-766
• Form I-797
• Form I-94
• Form I-797A

Please call us at 1-800-STUDENT if you do not have any of the documents above.

International Student Loan Organizations

Some banks, credit unions, and online lenders offer student loans for international students, but they often require you to have a co-signer who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Your co-signer will need good credit for approval and to get the most favorable rates.

You may be able to find a private lender that doesn’t require a co-signer, but you’ll pay higher interest rates as a result.

Prodigy Finance

Another international student loan company is Prodigy Finance. They have seen great success and hope to grow tremendously in the future. The downside, though, is that they have tough qualification guidelines. The list of partner universities and majors is limited.

Prodigy is focused on loans to international students who attend MBA programs. They only offer loans to students at the highest-ranked universities and even restrict the areas of study that they will cover. The loans are originated from a U.K.-based entity, and the repayments are not reported to credit bureaus in the U.S.

Sallie Mae

Sallie Mae is a publicly traded consumer bank that offers private student loans to pay for undergraduate, graduate, and specialty degrees. The company started in 1973 as a government entity that serviced federal student loans.

It went private in 2004 and has a range of student loan products. Beyond student loans, Sallie Mae Bank offers savings products and credit cards with incentives for using cashback rewards to pay back student loans.

Before You Apply

• Loan types: Undergraduate, Parent Loan, Graduate, MBA, Medical School, Dental School, Law School.
• Minimum FICO credit score: Mid 600s.
• Co-signer required: No.
• Better Business Bureau rating: A+.

Global Student Loan Corporation

There are 20 options of scholarship given in the search results of Global Student Loan Corporation. They meet different conditions of different students

Normally, there will be more than one option for the search ‘Global Student Loan Corporation’ because we collect all relevant problems around Global Student Loan Corporation. The results given to you are based on your search keyword.

How to get my scholarship money for Global Student Loan Corporation now?

That depends completely on the Global Student Loan Corporation scholarship you achieved. All the amounts of money can be sent directly to your bank card or cash or might be sent to your college or other ways. the scholarship provider will inform you before they send you via your telephone or your email, so you can free peace of mind.

CITI: The Student Loan Corporation

Citibank stopped offering student loans in 2010 when they sold their student loan division, The Student Loan Corp.

As a result of the sale, Sallie Mae took over $26 billion of Citi’s federal student loans, the Department of Education assumed $4.7 billion in federal loans, and Discover took over $4 billion in private student loans.

Citi did purchase back a small portion of their private and federal student loans (yes, it’s confusing) but they finished servicing all remaining loans in 2017.

To summarize, Citi is no longer offering student loans, and though they previously offered a refinancing option, that too has been discontinued.

Despite stopping all the student loan activity, including removing information from their website and product catalog, Citi’s student loan story doesn’t end there.

Unfortunately, for both customers and Citi alike, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) fined the lender for illegal student loan servicing practices, such as misleading borrowers and inaccurate late fees.

As a result, Citi had to pay a $2.75 million fine and return $3.75 million to affected borrowers.

State Bank of India

State Bank of India (SBI) is an Indian multinational public sector bank and financial services statutory body headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra. SBI is the 43rd largest bank in the world and ranked 221st in the Fortune Global 500 list of the world’s biggest corporations of 2020, being the only Indian bank on the list.

It is a public sector bank and the largest bank in India with a 23% market share by assets and a 25% share of the total loan and deposits market. It is also the fifth-largest employer in India with nearly 250,000 employees.

How Can an International Student Get a Full Scholarship?

Many colleges and universities around the world offer scholarships for international students as part of their financial aid packages. If you’re studying outside of your home country, you should definitely see if there are scholarships for international students available at the school you will be attending.

An international scholarship will help to offset the cost of attendance at a university abroad.

More than one million international students study at U.S. colleges and universities every year. With many more studying in other countries around the world, too.

Universities and private sponsors offer a wide array of programs with various amounts for tuition and fees. Many schools offer international student scholarships in order to attract a diverse range of students to study at their institution.

Getting a study abroad scholarship can make a huge difference if you want to study in another country. Why? Because the majority of schools often have two levels of tuition fees. One for residents of the state or country you study in, and the other for non-residents. Without additional financial aid it is difficult to afford an international education.

Full ride scholarships pay the cost of tuition in full – plus, other expenses like fees, meals and housing.

In the US alone, according to the Fulbright Commission, over 600 universities offer scholarships worth $20,000 or more to international students. Around 250 schools in the US offer ‘full ride’ scholarships.

The Rotary Peace Fellowship is one example of a full-ride scholarship for international students. This scholarship covers tuition, fees, housing and travel costs. It also covers internship and field-study expenses. It is for international graduates who want to pursue a master’s degree in areas related to peace, conflict prevention and resolution.

How do International Students Pay For College?

College costs continue to rise in the U.S. In 2019, out-of-state students, including international students, paid an average of more than $26,000 per year in tuition and fees at four-year public universities — according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Private schools charged even more in tuition and fees, which averaged nearly $32,000 per year.

How can international students pay for college?

In 2019, more than a million international students enrolled at a U.S. college. Students from around the world study at colleges in New York, California, and other states. But paying for college poses a major barrier for many international students.

International students benefit from several forms of financial aid, including grants, scholarships, and assistantships. Recipients use these forms of financial aid to pay for college. Unlike a loan, grants, scholarships, and assistantships do not require recipients to repay awards.

However, financial aid opportunities vary depending on school and degree level. In general, graduate students qualify for more funding opportunities than undergraduate students.

Research and teaching assistantships help fund international masters and doctoral students studying in the U.S. Assistantships provide financial support for graduate students. Many carry teaching or research responsibilities, including grading undergraduate work or providing research assistance for a faculty member. Typically, an assistantship includes a tuition waiver, a stipend, and health insurance, but some assistantships only provide partial aid.

The organization NAFSA: Association of International Educators (NAFSA) promotes study abroad and international education opportunities. NAFSA also connects students with financial aid for study abroad programs and for students with non-immigrant visas.

When Can I Apply For Student Finance?

You can apply online for the following academic years:

• 2021 to 2022
• 2020 to 2021

You can still apply for funding up to 9 months after the first day of the academic year for your course.

Course start date	Apply by
Between 1 August and 31 December	31 May after your course started
Between 1 January and 31 March	30 September after your course started
Between 1 April and 30 June	31 December after your course started
Between 1 July and 31 July	31 March after your course started

You do not need a confirmed place to apply.

Does UK Give Loans to International Students?

International student loans in the UK are available to aid you to pull through school. Only people who apply rightly and in time get a chance to benefit. So, read through this article to get full details on how to get international student loans in the UK and how to pay them back in 2021.

Applying for student loans to help finance their education can be difficult for international students in the UK. Mainly because they are not qualified for federal student loans, and banks often require a credit score and/or a co-signer. Yet, there are exceptional companies that have made it easy for international students to apply for student loans in the UK.

Basically, UK universities do not directly provide student loans, and the Student Loan Company only provides loans to UK and European students. This includes certain categories of people who are not UK citizens but are considered to be residing in the United Kingdom.

If you are an international student and not a resident of the United Kingdom, to my knowledge, the Student Loan Company has no way of lending you money for your studies.

Student funding generally consists of a tuition loan and a maintenance loan to cover, or at least partially help with, your college fees.

All full-time undergraduate students are eligible for student funding, provided they meet certain basic criteria:

• Residence: you are a UK citizen or have an established status, normally live in your country of origin. And have lived in the United Kingdom, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man for three years before the start of your course
• Your university or college: You are studying at a recognized public university or college. Or a private institution that is studying an approved course to receive public funds).
• Your course: You are studying a recognized full-time course, for example, a first diploma, a basic diploma, a National Higher Diploma (HND), or an initial teacher training course.
• If this is your first higher education course, you can still get funds if you have already studied an ES course, but it will be limited and you will have to fill any gaps.

Tuition and maintenance loans must be repaid once you graduate and earn above a minimum wage. Reimbursement systems vary from country to country.

You must apply for student funding for each year of your course, not just the first year. This is to ensure that you get the support you are entitled to throughout your studies.

Student funding applications can take up to six weeks to process. Be sure to submit your application in advance, even if you have a conditional offer, as you can change or cancel your application if your plans change.

Do International Students Get Stimulus Check?

No. Nonresident aliens are not eligible to receive this stimulus.

You will also not be eligible for this payment if you are:

• An individual who can be claimed as a dependent by another taxpayer
• An estate or trust
• Part of a married couple where one partner has an SSN and the other has an ITIN or no number (unless one spouse is a member of the armed forces)

Can International Students Get FAFSA?

Prospective international students researching U.S. schools may find little information about financial aid for which they are eligible. But one term students may come across often is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA. U.S. students fill out the FAFSA to apply for financial aid from U.S. federal and state governments, and the form is used by schools to determine need-based awards.

While the FAFSA is the standard financial aid application used by U.S. colleges and universities, schools may have varying requirements and forms to compute financial need, particularly for international students.

Though international students are not eligible for federal student aid, they may be eligible for institutional aid and “should check with the institution’s financial aid office regarding eligibility,” a U.S. Department of Education spokesperson says.

How do International Students Get Financial Aid in The US?

If you are like many international students interested in studying in the USA, or if you are already in the United States studying, you may be wondering how you can afford the high cost of all of these expenses as a foreign citizen. It’s not going to be easy, but with some hard work and financial aid, you can make this dream a reality.

So, what are your financial aid options to pursue your higher education in America if you don’t have the financial resources to cover all your costs up front?

Financial Aid from the US Government (and FAFSA)

The US Government provides financial assistance to US Citizens and Permanent Residents through the FAFSA* (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), but is limited in the financial support it gives international students.

Even though most foreign citizens are not eligible for federal student aid, the US Department of Education states that “Many non-U.S. citizens qualify for federal student aid. Don’t assume you can’t get aid just because you’re not a citizen.”

There are some instances in which non-citizens may be eligible for financial aid from the U.S. federal government. So all is not lost for you hopefuls. If you are on an international student visa, you may be eligible for these US government-funded programs designed for eligible noncitizens:

• Fulbright
• EducationUSA

If you are an international student, most likely you are not eligible for financial aid from the US government. Don’t lose hope, though, there are a number of other alternatives that can help you fund your education.

Financial Aid from Your Home Country

It’s always a good idea to start looking at home. There’s no question that if you have been an outstanding student, your own country may be so proud that they’re willing to send you to an American college or university. After all, many foreign governments send their best and brightest students abroad so that they can apply their newly gained skills back home.

• King Abdullah Scholarship Program (KASP) A generous scholarship for Saudi Arabian students that covers the total university cost along with material fees, and provides full medical and dental insurance, a monthly stipend, and coverage for airfare each year.
• Brazil Scientific Mobility Undergraduate Program (BSMP) This scholarship is designed for Brazilian students to study at US colleges and universities in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) for one year.
• Kuwait Cultural Office Merit Scholarship A scholarship designed for Kuwaitis studying at specific US colleges and universities to promote the needs and interests of the Kuwaiti government.
• Talk to your home country’s ministry or department of education, as well as your embassy and consulate in the US and back home, to see if there are government-backed scholarships available.

US Universities & Colleges

American universities are generally more flexible when it comes to offering financial aid for international students in the United States. You can typically find information for financial aid on your school’s website either with your Admissions Office, Financial Aid Office or International Student Services Office.

Here you can find information on budgeting, the cost of your education, and financial aid that can help you navigate the ins and outs of affording your education.

Often aid from your school will be based on financial need.

Financial Aid Through the Admissions Office

Most colleges have either need-based or merit-based financial aid packages, and this can come in many forms. For example, some schools have instituted need-blind admission policy, where you are accepted based on your merits and they do not look at your financials.

It’s important to talk with your Admissions Office or Financial Aid Office to see what financial aid you are eligible for. There may be additional items to complete during the application process and different due dates to be aware of so be sure to ask.

The consensus amongst reputable admissions counselors is that schools vary widely when it comes to international financial aid offered to students. If the school is well-endowed, looking to diversify its student population, or has special interests, it might be willing to offer their international students a more generous financial aid package.

Financial Aid Through Athletic Department

A number of international students get full scholarships through their university or college to participate on their school’s sport teams. Whether you are an excellent rugby player, tear up the field at track and field, or have a talent for another sport, this might be your ticket to a school in the United States.

There are a number of agencies that travel the world looking for students who have excelled in their sport, and will match you with a coach recruiting for their school. The coach will have the final say as to whether you get selected and whether there is a financial package to go along with that.

Financial Aid Through An Academic Department

Many schools are looking to build up a specific academic department, and have the funds to do so. Whether you excel in mathematics, business, or physics, there may be a scholarship with your name on it. You will need to contact the head of the Department to see if they would be willing to help support you.

Oftentimes, these scholarships are available in the STEM fields science, technology, engineering and mathematics. These departments are looking to put forth new research and expertise, so you will need to show your track record and that you are worth the investment.

Tuition Waivers

A tuition waiver allows students to not pay a portion or all of their tuition for one or more school year. While not all schools grant a tuition waiver for international students, there are a handful that do. The school will specify what requirements need to be met in order to be granted a tuition waiver.

It can be based on citizenship, academic performance, or part of a fellowship or grant. Do your research, look on the school’s website, and talk to your admissions counselor or an international student advisor to get more information on eligibility.

Campus Employment

There are opportunities on-campus for employment even for international students – you should check with your student adviser as the rules can vary depending on your immigration status as well as different times in the school year – such as vacations.

International Scholarships

There are many sources of international scholarships. Many organizations around the world have created scholarships and grants to help students study abroad. While these awards can be competitive, they can offer free money to students without the obligation of having to pay back the money.

There are thousands of scholarships and grants out there, but keep in mind that it’s important to put the time and effort into each application to increase the likelihood of winning the award. Keep track of due dates, have your application reviewed, and submit as many as you can.

International Student Loans

If you still need additional money, there are private loans that can cover up to the total cost of your US education, including your tuition, transportation, food and living expenses.

As long as you attend an approved school, there are a number of lenders that will work with international students. You can apply right online in most cases and get approval within days. International student loans are available for undergraduate and graduate students, and the application process is very simple. You don’t need to apply before the school year begins – with private loans you can apply at any time as there are no application deadlines.

Loans are not typically available for high school students, but are for international undergraduate students and for graduate study.

Remember, international student loans allow you to borrow money but you will need to pay back the money along with a cost of borrowing. Be sure to look over all the details and compare lenders to find the loan that’s right for you.

In many cases a cosigner is required to get an international student loan in the United States, and that cosigner must be a US Citizen or permanent resident.

The lenders that work with us at InternationalStudentLoan.com do not charge any application fees.

Remember, international student loans allow you to borrow money but you will need to pay back the money along with a cost of borrowing. Be sure to look over all the details and compare lenders to find the loan that’s right for you.

Which University Gives The Most Scholarship to International Students?

United States

Harvard University: Top 7 in World University Rankings & Top 3 in QS World University Rankings

The Harvard Committee on General Scholarships administers several programs for international students who wish to study at Harvard University’s graduate and professional schools. There are scholarships and fellowships available for students from the following countries: Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, Columbia, Croatia, Egypt, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Mexico, New Zealand, Spain, and United Kingdom. There are also additional funds which support students from the following countries and regions: Arab League Countries, Asia, Canada, China, England, France, Greece, Pacific Islands, Philippines and Poland.

California Institute of Technology: Top 4 in World University Rankings & Top 5 in QS World University Rankings

Stanford University: Top 4 in World University Rankings & Top 2 in QS World University Rankings

Massachusetts Institute of Technology: Top 5 in World University Rankings & Top 1 in QS World University Rankings

University of California, Berkeley: Top 13 in World University Rankings & Top 28 in QS World University Rankings

United Kingdom

Oxford University: Top 1 in World University Rankings & Top 4 in QS World University Rankings

There are a limited number of undergraduate scholarships available for international students at Oxford. Currently, there are about 10 scholarship programs for students from selected countries and regions. The main undergraduate scholarship program for developing country students is the Reach Oxford Scholarships.

On the other hand, there are hundreds of scholarships available to applicants for graduate study. The Clarendon Scholarships are just one example, another would be the Rhodes Scholarships. Fully funded scholarships are available for students from UK & Europe, Africa, Asia, Australasia, and North America.

University of Cambridge Top 3 in World University Rankings & Top 7 in QS World University Rankings

Imperial College London: Top 10 in World University Rankings & Top 9 in QS World University Rankings

University of Edinburgh: Top 30 in World University Rankings & Top 20 in QS World University Rankings

University College London: Top 15 in World University Rankings & Top 8 in QS World University Rankings

London School of Economics and Political Science: Top 27 in World University Rankings & Top 44 in QS World University Rankings

King’s College London: Top 36 in World University Rankings & Top 33 in QS World University Rankings

University of Manchester: Top 55 in World University Rankings & Top 27 in QS World University Rankings

University of Warwick: Top 77 in World University Rankings & Top 62 in QS World University Rankings

University of Bristol: Top 87 in World University Rankings & Top 49 in QS World University Rankings

University of Glasgow: Top 99 in World University Rankings & Top 67 in QS World University Rankings

Canada

University of Toronto: Top 18 in World University Rankings & Top 29 in QS World University Rankings

The University of Toronto offers two major admission awards: the University of Toronto Scholars Program which have a value of $7,500. and President’s Scholars of Excellence Program which includes a $10,000 entrance scholarship in the student’s first year of studies,. International secondary applicants may also be considered for the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship Program if nominated by their high school. This scholarship program is intended to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement who are recognized as leaders within their school.

For graduate programs, financial support is available to highly qualified international students from a variety of sources at the University of Toronto. These are listed at this link.

University of British Columbia: Top 34 in World University Rankings & Top 51 in QS World University Rankings

McGill University: Top 42 in World University Rankings & Top 35 in QS World University Rankings

Switzerland

ETH Zurich – Swiss Federal Institute of Technology: Top 13 in World University Rankings & Top 6 in QS World University Rankings

ETH Zurich supports outstanding students who wish to pursue Master’s degree studies by offering two scholarship programmes: the Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP) and the ETH-D Scholarship.

Under the Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP), students receive a special scholarship for the duration of their programme as well as specific supervision. The scholarship covers the full study and living costs during their Master’s degree course. Under the ETH-D Scholarship students receive a partial stipend for living and study expenses (CHF 7’500 per semester) as well as a tuition fee waiver.

Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne: Top 38 in World University Rankings & Top 18 in QS World University Rankings

Australia

University of Melbourne: Top 32 in World University Rankings & Top 38 in QS World University Rankings

The Melbourne Scholarships Program is one of the most generous and comprehensive in Australia. It recognizes outstanding academic achievement of students from Australia and around the world. The University is also committed to providing access to students who might otherwise be excluded by socio-economic, cultural, geographic and other disadvantages, and they offer a range of opportunities for those applicants.

For undergraduate studies, the main scholarship program is the Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarships which awards tuition fee remission valued at $10,000 up to approximately $138,000. For graduate studies, the University offers the Melbourne International Research Scholarships (MIRS) which covers living allowance, relocation grant, insurance, thesis allowance, and paid sick, maternity and parenting leave.

Australia National University: Top 50 in World University Rankings & Top 29 in QS World University Rankings

University of Sydney: Top 60 in World University Rankings & Top 42 in QS World University Rankings

University of Queensland: Top 66 in World University Rankings & Top 47 in QS World University Rankings

University of New South Wales: Top 71 in World University Rankings & Top 43 in QS World University Rankings

France

École Normale Supérieure – Paris Sciences et Lettres – PSL Research University Paris: Top 45 in World University Rankings & Top 53 in QS World University Rankings

Each year, the ENS organizes an international selection allowing about thirty of the most promising international students, either in Science or in Humanities, to follow a two or three-year course at the ENS. They receive a monthly stipend of approximately 1,000 Euros and benefit from an accommodation on the ENS campus.

École Polytechnique: Top 93 in World University Rankings & Top 60 in QS World University Rankings

Japan

University of Tokyo Scholarships: Top 36 in World University Rankings & Top 22 in QS World University Rankings

A variety of scholarships are available for students who wish to study at University of Tokyo. One of these is the University of Tokyo Fellowships which provides a research grant to privately financed international students with an excellent academic record. Recipients will receive a monthly research grant of ¥200,000 or ¥150,000 during the standard period of their program (up to one year for research students).

This is also program where students are able to study an undergraduate or research program at the University with a scholarship from the Japanese government, specifically the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (Monbukagakusho (MEXT)).

The University also offers externally funded scholarships (e.g. public corporations, foundations) that are available to international students.

Kyoto University: Top 65 in World University Rankings & Top 33 in QS World University Rankings

Singapore

National University of Singapore: Top 25 in World University Rankings & Top 11 in QS World University Rankings

Eligible students will be considered for the NUS administered scholarships through their application for admission to NUS. These scholarships include the ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship (AUS) (for ASEAN nationals, except Singaporeans) and Science & Technology Undergraduate Scholarship (for Asians except Singaporeans). There are also scholarships offered by external organizations available.

Nanyang Technological University: Top 48 in World University Rankings & Top 11 in QS World University Rankings

Hong Kong

The University of Hong Kong: Top 35 in World University Rankings & Top 25 in QS World University Rankings

The University offers merit-based entrance scholarships for top-ranking students who are admitted to their undergraduate programmes. The HKU entrance scholarships may go up to a value equivalent to a FULL tuition fee waiver plus accommodation and general living allowance per year, and are renewable to cover your entire undergraduate study at HKU. The scholarships are supported by generous donors, external organizations and governmental bodies in Hong Kong as well as overseas.

Hong Kong University of Science and Technology: Top 47 in World University Rankings & Top 32 in QS World University Rankings

China

Tsinghua University: Top 23 in World University Rankings & Top 16 in QS World University Rankings

Currently, Tsinghua University offers a number of scholarship programs to the international students: Chinese Government Scholarship, Beijing Government Scholarship, Tsinghua University Scholarship, and Confucius Institute Scholarship. The Chinese Government Scholarship is mostly full scholarship and open to both the degree program students (undergraduate and graduate) and the visiting/exchange students. The Beijing Government Scholarship and Tsinghua University Scholarship are tuition scholarships and open to the degree program students.

The Schwarzman Scholars Program, which has been recently introduced, aims to give the world’s best and brightest students the opportunity to develop their leadership skills and professional networks through a one-year fully-funded Master’s Degree related to Public Policy, Economic and Business, or International Studies at Tsinghua University.

Peking University: Top 24 in World University Rankings & Top 22 in QS World University Rankings

South Korea

Seoul National University: Top 64 in World University Rankings & Top 37 in QS World University Rankings

The Seoul National University offers generous scholarship programs for international students both for undergraduate and postgraduate studies. The University offers scholarships through the Global Korea Scholarships. Moreover, there are a number of major scholarship programs for graduate studies including the SNU Global Scholarships which covers tuition fee, living expenses, airfare, and housing cost.

Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology: Top 110 in World University Rankings & Top 41 in QS World University Rankings

Netherlands

Delft University of Technology Scholarships: Top 67 in World University Rankings & Top 50 in QS World University Rankings

A variety of scholarships are awarded to TU Delft admitted students with exceptional promise and outstanding academic achievement by the university, specific faculties, departments and industry partners. Consideration for these scholarships requires students to have been admitted to their MSc programme. One of these scholarships is the Justus & Louise van Effen scholarship which is open to all international students and open to any of TU Delft’s MSc programmes.

Amsterdam University: Top 62 in World University Rankings & Top 64 in QS World University Rankings

Leiden University: Top 67 in World University Rankings & Top 118 in QS World University Rankings

Utrecht University: Top 75 in World University Rankings & Top 120 in QS World University Rankings

Belgium

KU Leuven Scholarships: Top 45 in World University Rankings & Top 80 in QS World University Rankings

KU Leuven offers a number of scholarship programs for EU and non-EU international students. The scholarships are targeted to different regions and countries. KU Leuven also offers masters courses funded by VLIR-UOS Scholarships which are fully funded scholarships targeted to developing country students. The university also offers departmental scholarships such as Science@Leuven Scholarships.

Ghent University: Top 123 in World University Rankings & Top 130 in QS World University Rankings

Sweden

Lund University: Top 96 in World University Rankings & Top 92 in QS World University Rankings

The Lund University offers the Lund Global Scholarship for top students from all countries outside the EU/EEA. They also offer programme-specific scholarships. The Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals allows international students to study Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD and post-doctoral levels at Swedish Universities including Lund University.

Uppsala University: Top 102 in World University Rankings & Top 116 in QS World University Rankings

Which Country Has Cheapest Education For International Students?

Some of the best places to study abroad are also ones where tuition fees are low, or even non-existent. Read on to find out more about 10 of the cheapest countries to study abroad, in no particular order…

1. Norway

Although all of the Nordic countries are relatively affordable study destinations, Norway is our pick as it remains free for everyone, from both within and outside the EU, at public universities, with the exception of a few specialized programs. Europe’s Nordic countries are known for their high quality of life and stunning natural beauty, and Norway is no exception.

Another reason to study in Norway is the availability of English-taught programs at all study levels, plus a high number of locals proficient in English. However, as with the other Nordic countries, Norway comes with a high price tag in terms of living costs; you’ll need around NOK 139,680 (~US$17,200) per year.

2. Taiwan

Heading to Asia, Taiwan is another of the cheapest countries to study abroad. For example, at National Taiwan University – the nation’s leading university at 72^nd in the QS World University Rankings® 2019 – tuition fees for undergraduates start at TW$100,920 (~US$3,300) per year for liberal arts programs, up to TW$124,200 (~US$4,050).

The country offers more than 120 courses taught in English, at over 40 universities, and Taiwan is also a popular destination in which to learn Mandarin. Taiwan also offers a good quality of life with relatively low living costs; accommodation costs as little as TW$88,000 (~US$2,900) per year.

3. Germany

Known as ‘the land of ideas’, Germany is continuing to grow in popularity with international students, and it’s not hard to see why – it offers reputable universities, relatively low costs, and a high quality of life. There are no tuition fees charged at undergraduate and PhD level at all public universities, excluding those in Baden-Württemberg.

Master’s students who have not studied their undergraduate degree in Germany will typically pay upwards of €20,000 (~US$23,450) per year, but you may be able to find a scholarship to help. To cover living costs, you’ll need at least €10,200 (~US$11,950) per year, but possibly more, depending on your lifestyle, location and spending habits. And there are a range of English-taught courses, particularly at graduate level.

4. France

Tuition fees in France are the same for domestic and international students, and for 2019/19 are set at €170 (~US$200) per year for bachelor’s (licence) programs, €243 (~US$285) for most master’s programs, and €380 (~US$445) for doctoral programs. Fees are considerably higher at the highly selective grandes écoles and grands établissements, which set their own fees.

Living expenses will be highest in the capital, Paris, but you may find it worth the extra cost – after all, Paris was named the world’s number one student city four times in a row (and currently stands at fifth).  If you’re not yet a fluent French speaker, you can study in France in English, with the majority of English-taught programs found at postgraduate level.

5. Mexico

Full of interesting and unique culture to explore, Mexico is one of Latin America’s most-visited nations and has lots to offer international students. Tuition fees vary, with private universities charging more, and average around US$6,300 per year for international undergraduate students in the capital, Mexico City, which was named one of the world’s top 100 cities for students.

Living expenses are also reasonably low in Mexico, with all living costs adding up to around US$9,250 on a standard budget in the capital, or US$6,450 elsewhere. Although the main language of instruction is Spanish, Mexican universities are offering more English-taught courses to attract international students.

6. India

Heading back to Asia for the next of our list of the cheapest countries to study abroad, India is a fantastic option for students who want to combine affordability with cultural diversity. While Hindi is the most prominent of the 100+ languages spoken, English is often used as the language of instruction at Indian universities, especially at postgraduate level.

Living costs are incredibly affordable; a one-way trip using public transport can cost as little as the equivalent of 29 US cents. Tuition fees vary depending on your study level and university, but are typically no higher than US$7,880 a year, and you should be able to live comfortably on as little as US$4,600 a year.

7. Argentina

The second-largest country in South America, Argentina boasts stunning natural beauty, with a diverse geography that makes it ideal for students keen on outdoor adventure and exploration. Argentina is also considered one of the safest countries in the region and is known for its fun-loving culture and passionate national identity.

You can typically study for free at any state-funded (public) university, with tuition fees of around US$5,100 per year or more at private institutions. You’ll need around US$5,000 for living expenses, with rent costing as little as US$350 per month.

8. Poland

Another of the best places to study abroad on a budget is Poland, which also offers a high quality of education, along with plenty of fantastic culture and history to explore. You can study for free if you can speak Polish, and if you take the same entrance exams as Polish students and study your course in Polish.

However, there are also many English-taught programs available, costing around €2,000-3000 (~US$2,340-3,500) per year. Living costs are also on the low side, as you shouldn’t need more than €6,600 (~US$7,700) per year. The capital city, Warsaw, was ranked within the top 20 cities for affordability in the latest QS Best Student Cities index, and 53^rd overall.

9. Malaysia

Malaysia is undoubtedly one of the cheapest countries to study abroad, particularly in terms of living costs. Its capital, Kuala Lumpur, came first for affordability in the QS Best Student Cities 2016, and most students will only need about MYR 14,400 (~US$3,550) per year to live comfortably in Malaysia.

In terms of tuition fees, you’ll pay an average of US$4,000 per academic year, but some courses are even cheaper. Malaysia is also home to a number of branch campuses of international universities, such as the UK’s University of Nottingham or Australia’s Monash University, offering the opportunity to gain a degree accredited by these institutions at a lower cost.

10. South Africa

Concluding our look at some of the best places to study abroad on a budget, South Africa is renowned for its natural beauty, cultural diversity, and turbulent history. Another great choice for students with a love of the outdoors, it’s also reasonably inexpensive, with low costs of living and tuition fees.

Fees vary, but come to an average of US$6,000 for international undergraduates studying at the University of Cape Town (South Africa’s highest-ranked university in the QS World University Rankings) and the University of the Western Cape. You’ll need around R 120,000 (~US$9,150) per year to cover your living costs.

Which Country Gives The Most Scholarships to International Students?

Some countries simply believe the education of a student should not depend on the financial capacity of the parents. Countries like Germany, Norway, Finland, Austria and Iceland offer various free/low tuition schemes to international students. AfterSchoolAfrica has compiled information about these countries offering free tuition and possibly scholarships.

Germany

Interest in foreign study in Germany seems to be growing. This is largely due to the fact that there are no undergraduate tuition fees at public universities in Germany, and this applies to both German students and internationals, regardless of nationality. Gemany notably also hosts many of the online universities that are tuition free.

For both undergraduate and graduate degrees, you can study for free in public German universities. This is generally true for international students worldwide, inside, or outside the EU/EEA zone. The only fees required are called “administrative fees” that cost around 100 – 200 EUR/year and they are dedicated to student services, covering costs for bus tickets to the university, student cafeterias and more.

Every year, the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD: Deutscher Akademischer Austausch Dienst) provides financial support to over 120,000 highly qualified German and international students to live and study in Germany for free or at a more affordable cost. The scholarships to study in Germany are offered to domestic and international students of all levels, as well as academics and researchers.

Norway

According to Studyinnorway.no, students at state universities and university colleges do not pay tuition fees (private universities may have a different standard). This is true for all levels, including undergraduate studies, Masters programmes and Ph.D. programmes. However, students will have to pay a semester fee of NOK 300-600 each semester.

In order to take an exam this fee will have to be paid in full. But the fee also grants you membership in the local student welfare organization, which in turn entitles you to several benefits. These benefits may include on-campus health services, counselling, access to sports facilities and cultural activities.

Payment of the semester fee is also neccessary to get an official student card that, among other things, gives you reduced fares on most forms of public transport and lower ticket prices to various cultural events.

The majority of undergraduate programs are taught only in Norwegian, and international students need to demonstrate proof of proficiency in Norwegian in order to study at this level. At master’s and PhD level, English language programs are far more common and free tuition still applies.

Finland

Generally, Northern European nations (known as the Nordic countries), Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden all offer opportunities to study free or at low cost. For the sake of specificity, only two (2) of these countries will be mentioned in this article.

Formerly tuition fees in Finland were completely free. However, starting from autumn 2017, tuition fees which will be a minimum of €1,500 (~US$1,600) per year, are now charged to non-EU students. Only Doctoral level studies will remain free of tuition fees,  regardless of your nationality. The extent of the fee depends on the degree programme.

Austria

For Austrian students and students who have the same status as Austrians (i.e. nationals of all EU and EEA member countries) and who have not exceeded the minimum duration of their study programme plus two semesters, no fee is payable. After the two semesters of tolerance, you have to pay € 363.36 each semester.

For all other students from third countries (who are in possession of a residence permit for students) € 726.72 per semester is required. All other degree programme students from third countries (especially
those who have a residence title other than a “residence permit student”(or belong to a specific group of persons), € 363.36 per semester is usually paid after the tuition fee-free period. An exemption from paying tuition fees is possible in special cases (e.g. for participants in exchange programmes and university partnerships, students from the least developed countries).

Iceland

In Iceland, tuition fees are not paid at public universities. However, students have to pay a non-refundable ‘application fee’. The cost of the application fee is often between 250 to 650 euros.

For students who choose to study at private higher education institutions, they will need to pay both tuition and registration fees. Private higher education institutions charge tuition fees but the fees charged are low when compared to other European institutions.

The fees charged by private higher education institutions in Iceland vary but usually range between 4500 to 8000 pounds depending on the courses chosen by students.

Do Foreign Students Get Free Tuition?

While university fees continue to rise in many parts of the world, some of you might be thinking that getting a recognized degree qualification, either in your home country or abroad, is simply impossible without having a four- or five-figure budget at your disposal, or without obtaining a scholarship.

You’ll be pleased to hear that this isn’t necessarily the case. There are many countries worldwide where students are able to study abroad for free or for a very affordable amount. You just need to know where to look.

There are a number of European countries which offer affordable or free universities, without any need to sacrifice on quality. See below for more examples.

Austria

Another country where students can study in Europe for free (or at a very low cost) is Austria. EU/EEA students enjoy the same rights as Austrians when it comes to the cost of higher education, and can study for free at any degree level. After this time, students pay a fee of just €363 per semester.

International students from outside of the EU/EEA should expect slightly higher fees of around €726 (~US$803) per semester. Living costs will set all students back approximately €11,400 (~US$12,600) a year. Vienna, Austria’s capital city, was ranked 13^th in the QS Best Student Cities 2019.

Belgium

There are two main language communities in Belgium, each with their own stance on university fees. However, EU students will pay a maximum of only €906 a year. And while it’s just EU students who get the major benefits of being able to study in Europe for free, fees are still fairly affordable for non-EU international students, at around €4,175 (~US$4,620) per year.

You can live in Belgium with a budget of around €11,400 (~US$12,600) a year. Brussels, the capital city, was ranked joint 43^rd in this year’s QS Best Student Cities.

Czech Republic

Students who speak Czech are able to study abroad for free in the Czech Republic at any public university. Students who wish to study in English can also study fairly cheaply, at around €4,000-12,000 (~US$4,425-13,275) per year. Living costs are more affordable than in many countries in western Europe, at around US$9,000 per year. The Czech capital city, Prague, is ranked joint 35^th in the QS Best Student Cities.

Greece

All students from within the EU/EEA are able to study abroad for free in Greece at public universities and colleges, with the exception of some master’s programs. International students from outside of the EU are also eligible for low-cost higher education, at approximately €1,500 (~US$1,660) per year. Greece offers one of the lowest costs of living in the European Union.

Italy

Although private universities in Italy can be known to charge fairly high tuition fees, public universities in Italy are markedly cheaper, charging between €900 and €4,000 (~US$995-4,420) per year for undergraduate programs.

EU students are eligible for the same funding opportunities as Italian students, including loans, grants, scholarships and fee waivers. Milan is ranked 40^th in the most recent QS Best Student Cities, while capital city Rome is 70^th.

Spain

EU students aren’t required to pay high education fees in Spain, while international students are able to study for between €750 and €2,500 (~US$830-2,760) per year at public institutions. Fees are charged on a per-credit basis and can be higher at graduate level.

To live in Spain, you should expect to spend between €10,800 and €13,200 (~US$11,940 – 14,600) a year in living costs. Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia are all featured in the QS Best Student Cities, with Barcelona the highest ranked at 21^st.

Argentina

While Argentinian students all enjoy access to free universities, international students should expect to pay a small, nominal fee to enroll at public universities in the country. Private institutions in Argentina, on the other hand, can charge upwards US$5,000 a year. In the QS Best Student Cities 2019, Argentinian capital Buenos Aires is 31^st.

India

In India, international students will typically pay tuition fees of no higher than US$7,300 a year, though private university and graduate fees tend to be more expensive. Living costs in India are, for most students, likely to be very appealing – according to Numbeo, consumer prices are 163 percent cheaper than in the UK, while rental prices are as much as 391 percent cheaper.

Overall, you should be able to live comfortably on as little as US$4,300 a year. However, it’s worth noting that international students aren’t allowed to work in India during their studies.

Taiwan

Tuition fees in Taiwan offer great value, with its top universities offering affordable programs. For example, National Taiwan University (NTU), the location’s leading university at 69^th in the QS World University Rankings, charged undergraduate students just TW$100,920-124,200 (~US$3,200-3,965) per year in 2017/18. In the QS Best Student Cities 2019, Taipei was ranked 17^th in the world and 14^th for affordability.

Which is The Best Bank For Student Loan?

Student loans are important tools that may help students cover the costs associated with continuing their education. Student loans may cover things like tuition, class materials, and room and board. Student loan eligibility requirements, interest rates, costs, and features can vary widely and are set at the lender’s discretion. 

The best student loans offer competitive interest rates, a variety of repayment terms, and discounts for things like autopay.

Best Site for Comparing Student Loan Offers: Credible
Best Overall Lender: Ascent
Runner Up for Best Lender: Citizens Bank
Best for Graduate Students: SoFi
Best for Co-Signers: Sallie Mae
Best for Refinancing: CommonBond
Best for Flexible Repayment Options: College Ave

All of the best student loans that made our list have pros and cons to offer. Some offer competitive interest rates and others offer flexible repayment terms and structures. Still, others make it easy for a co-signer to apply for the loan.

Overall, we recommend checking out Ascent. The company offers some of the lowest interest rates in the industry and has loan products for undergraduates without needing a co-signer.

How Much Can a Medical Student Borrow?

Eight out of 10 medical school graduates borrow to earn their degree — and most take on six-figure debt with 18% borrowing $300,000 or more.

A roundup of the latest statistics shows average medical school debt now exceeds $200,000. While medical school graduates can generally expect to earn six-figure salaries, nearly half plan to apply for student loan forgiveness:

• Average medical school debt → $232,300
• Average education debt after medical school → $251,600
• Average salary with a medical school degree → $210,980
• Average time to repay medical school debt → 13 years

Can I Get a Loan on a Student VISA?

Federal student loans are popular with US students in the USA, but they are not available to international students. International Student Loans are specialized private education loans that are available for international students who are studying in the USA or Canada.

International students will have to apply with a qualified co-signer most of the time and should only apply for international student loans after exhausting all scholarships, personal funds and other options. If you’re not able to find a cosigner keep in mind that loans without a cosigner are available to students at select colleges and universities.

Lenders that require you to have a cosigner will typically give better terms for better credit history, so when you apply, find a cosigner with the best credit history to improve your rates and fees.

You can find out if you are eligible and compare lenders using our loan comparison tool on this page – it takes less than 10 seconds to find out if a lender is available for you. You can then apply right online. Approval of your loan can be as quick as a few weeks.

Students who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents and who are attending an eligible U.S. or Canadian college or university.

Borrowers are almost always required to have a creditworthy cosigner who is a U.S. citizen or a non-citizen permanent resident. We encourage you to use our loan comparison tool to see which loans you are eligible for. Loans that do not require a cosigner are increasingly available.

Is Pell Grant For International Students?

At the federal level, international students may be eligible for Pell Grants, FSEOG Grants, direct subsidized/unsubsidized student loans or Direct PLUS loans depending on their residency status. Federal financial aid comes with better benefits than private aid.

Read Also: How to Achieve Financial Freedom as a Student?

For example, Pell Grants don’t require repayment. Furthermore, loan rates and terms tend to be more favorable and may come with greater protections like student loan forgiveness and income-driven repayment (IDR) options.

Can International Get Loan in Germany?

Some key information for international students who are interested in applying for the interest-free loan include:

• All foreign students in Germany between 18 and 44-years-old and with a registered address in Germany, regardless of their nationality and the duration of their stay in Germany, can apply for the loan
• International students can apply for the loan online from June 1, 2020 until Feb. 15, 2021
• The loan can be used to fund your living expenses, regardless if you’re an undergraduate or postgraduate student studying on a part-time or full-time basis
• Programmes at distance learning universities are also possible, while semesters spent abroad are also eligible for financing as long as the student remains enrolled at a state or state-recognised tertiary institution in Germany

To apply for financial aid:

• Fill out the online application form
• Print out the contract offer and visit one of their distribution partners. Have a valid and official ID document (e.g. identity card, personal ID, passport) and your certificate of study — both must be valid on the day the financing begins
• Non-EU citizens must have a valid student visa and/or residence permit, in addition to proof of a current account (e.g. by presenting a bank card or a bank statement).
• Students will sign their documents with the distribution partner, who will then forward it to KwF together with a copy of their identification documents.
• KfW will need about two weeks for the review. Students can expect a reply by post

Can International Students Get Loan in Australia?

Australia is known for its recognized schools, colleges, and universities which grab the attention of students from all over the world. However, when it comes to living and studying in the country, students need sufficient money to pay for their expenses.

Applying for a student loan in Australia is simple today, and every student should take advantage of it.

The student loan system in Australia is called HELP (Higher Education Loan Program). It is an initiative by the Australian government that offers financial aid to students so that they can fund their education. Unfortunately, international students are not eligible for HELP, but there are other sources through which they can get student loans. Here are two of them:

• Universities 
• Private Banks

Keep in mind that you not only have to cover tuition fees but also other expenses, including, boarding, housing, insurance and general living expenses. So, be wise and spend some time evaluating your financial needs before getting to a loan.

Eligibility Criteria for Getting a University Loan 

• You must have an Australian Visa.
• You should not be in the final or first semester.
• You should be a regular and full-time student at the university. You will not be eligible for a loan if you take up a distance education course. 
• You should have a strong academic record. You need to get at least 18 credit points in one semester or 36 credit points in one academic year. 
• You should have a part-time job. 
• You need to prove your financial background and clear all your previous dues before applying for the loan. 
• You need to get good grades, and you must be capable of completing your course in time. 

If anything regarding obtaining or repaying a student loan in Australia is not clear to you and you have doubts, you should consult your financial advisor or the faculty of your university. You can even take guidance from previous graduates of your university who had taken a loan.