Myths Behind Study Abroad Scholarships

1. International Scholarships

International Scholarships and financial aid play a crucial role in supporting over 65% of students who plan to pursue their higher education overseas. Study abroad scholarships are financial assistance provided by colleges and universities to help students cover the costs of their education. Unlike student loans, scholarships do not need to be paid back. The funds may be given directly to the student in the form of a check or sent to the university on their behalf. Scholarships for studying abroad can be categorized into three main types:

• Need-based Scholarships
• Merit-based Scholarships
• Special Scholarships

2. Debunking some Myths about Study Abroad Scholarships

This is a significant concern as it can negatively impact the plans of many aspiring students who wish to study abroad. Here, we will address the most common myths surrounding scholarships and financial aid that are completely untrue and will give you the complete truth about study abroad scholarships.

Myth 1: Study abroad Scholarships are only meant for Class Toppers.

Fact: Scholarships consider various factors, not just academic scores. Extracurricular achievements and financial needs are also weighed.

While it is commonly believed that scholarships are only awarded to students with excellent grades, this is only partially true. While students with better academic scores have a higher chance of receiving a scholarship, not all scholarships are based solely on academic performance. Scholarships and awards can be based on various factors, including financial need and extracurricular achievements. So even if a student may not excel academically, their other accomplishments can still be considered for scholarship opportunities.

Myth 2: Most study abroad scholarships are reserved for minority students.

Fact: While some scholarships promote diversity, not all are reserved for minority students. Efforts continue to level the field.

This is done to promote diversity and equal opportunity in major universities worldwide. These scholarships provide a chance for students from minority backgrounds to pursue education at top universities, which may have otherwise been inaccessible to them. Despite efforts to level the playing field, it is important to note that only 29% of students from minority backgrounds receive higher education scholarships.

Myth 3: Applying for study abroad scholarships is a very difficult process.

Fact: The process requires effort, but utilizing available scholarship databases simplifies the search.

Many students give up on applying for scholarships because they assume the process is long and tedious. Winning scholarships is not easy and requires effort from the candidate. Unfortunately, many students waste time by not utilizing the available scholarship database and thinking it is too difficult to earn a scholarship.

Myth 4: All study abroad scholarships require you to write an essay.

Fact: While essays are common, not all scholarships demand them. GPA, test scores, activities, and needs also matter.

When it comes to scholarships, essays are often a necessary part of the application process. Many universities want to understand why you are applying for a scholarship and learn about your story to determine if you deserve financial assistance. However, not all scholarships require an essay. Some scholarships solely consider factors such as your GPA, test scores, extracurricular activities, or financial need. If you feel like an essay is preventing you from applying, look for scholarships that do not have this requirement.

Myth 5: Applying for one study abroad scholarship is sufficient.

Fact: Multiple scholarships are often necessary to cover costs. Relying on a single major scholarship is rare.

Wouldn't it be amazing if this were true? Many students think they can apply for a single major scholarship that will cover all their college expenses. However, this is only the case for a few lucky individuals, not the majority of students. In reality, you will often need to depend on multiple scholarships to greatly reduce the costs of college. And if scholarships alone don't cover all your expenses, you might have to seek additional financial assistance such as grants or even student loans.

Myth 6: You need recommendation letters from popular academics.

Fact: If you don't know that person personally, those letters will be useless to you. It's better to request from professors or teachers who taught you than from a popular academic who barely knows you.

Many students become engrossed in the competition to obtain recommendation letters from individuals they believe are important and will enhance their application. However, it is important to realize that if you do not have a personal connection with that person, those letters will hold no value for you. Students should take note of this crucial aspect. A recommendation letter is not simply a collection of words put together to form a statement. It should reflect your personality, interests, and qualities. Someone who knows you will be able to convey your true character through their words. It is preferable to request recommendation letters from professors or teachers who have taught you rather than from a well-known academic who barely knows you.

Myth 7: You still have to spend a lot of money on an international scholarship

Fact:  Study abroad scholarships aim to offer financial assistance to potential students from other countries.

This is a straightforward decision. International scholarships aim to offer financial assistance to students from other countries who wish to study abroad. The amount of financial aid provided differs for each scholarship. Some scholarships cover only a portion of the expenses, while others fully cover the costs and may even provide a monthly stipend of up to €1,500. Advanced programs like a Ph.D. are often generously funded by sponsors.

3. Conclusion

We hope you now feel more equipped to plan your finances for university with the study abroad scholarships. However, it is important to conduct extensive research and rely on trustworthy websites or consult with professionals you trust for advice. It's important to avoid falling for misleading myths and instead seek information that is easily understandable for the general population.

4. Who are we?

At Career Clinic, we guide your study abroad journey with accurate information and expert advice. Our mission is to assist you in securing the best education opportunities while debunking myths and providing genuine guidance. Connect with us today for the upcoming intake of 2024.