Navigating the Financial Maze: International Students Conquering US Tuition Challenges

Navigating the labyrinthine corridors of higher education poses substantial challenges for many, but for international scholars, financial impediments can be particularly formidable.

Confronted with escalating tuition fees, restricted access to financial aid, and the precarious nature of scholarships, numerous international students grapple to sustain their academic aspirations.

These funding quandaries can compel some to retract their college applications, as was the case for Alpha Daramy Sesay from Sierra Leone. He relinquished his aspiration of studying journalism at the University of Maryland.

“I have submitted applications to nearly three universities over the past two years, and the board members were enthusiastic about my purpose statement, approving my application unequivocally,” Sesay shared with VOA News. “However, I was unable to register due to funding constraints, and the deadlines for these offers have now passed.”

Sesay meticulously orchestrated his move to the U.S., even ceasing his scholarship search when a family member promised financial support. Yet, when he was admitted to his dream institution, the familial support disintegrated, leaving him scrambling for scholarships that did not cover all expenses.

Reflecting on his ordeal, Sesay advises future international students to seek scholarships and consult with school advisers early to avoid similar setbacks.

Talia Popovski, senior director of International Student Services at Valencia College in Orlando, Florida, suggests commencing at a community college to economize on tuition costs. “Primarily, we have international students pursuing associate degrees,” she said. “This is a significant way for them to save money compared to going directly to a university.”

Popovski emphasized the advantages of community colleges as conduits to universities, with many international students obtaining associate degrees before transferring to complete their bachelor’s degrees. She also highlighted the role of on-campus employment in alleviating financial burdens, recommending institutional work-study programs as viable options.

According to NAFSA: Association of International Educators, a nonprofit devoted to international education and exchange, international students are ineligible for federal work-study positions, necessitating discussions with advisers about employment eligibility. Popovski also mentioned that universities offer part-time jobs through their human resources departments, including paid internships, which provide additional financial support for education.

Student Secures Honor Scholarship

Guilherme Lucas Mannarino, who received his associate degree from Valencia College, declined 32 esports scholarships to study in Florida.

“I arrived in the United States [from Brazil] when I was 18 years old,” Mannarino recounted. “I turned down all the scholarships that I had acquired through esports, playing Fortnite.”

Mannarino, who majored in finance at Valencia College, exemplified proactive planning in overcoming financial challenges. Despite rejecting the esports scholarships, Mannarino secured an honor scholarship at Valencia College covering 50% of his tuition. He attributed his financial stability to foresight, academic diligence, and securing an on-campus job.

To supplement his income, he conducted workshops advising Brazilian students on esports scholarships, enabling him to cover living expenses by finding roommates through social media.

“I was able to find a roommate on social media before coming to the U.S., which is a great way to save money,” he said. “A year later, we had another roommate, which made my living costs cheaper, which is honestly the best way to save money in the U.S.”

Tips for Overcoming Financial Hurdles

Kadiatou Sow, from Conakry, Guinea, is studying at Saginaw Valley State University in University Center, Michigan.

“Managing the high cost of tuition and living expenses while studying abroad involves a strategic approach,” Sow said. “I prioritize securing scholarships and grants tailored for international students to alleviate tuition expenses and sometimes cover living costs. Supplementing this with part-time work both on campus and in the local community provides a steady income for daily necessities.”

She encourages fellow international students to balance work and studies effectively, understand visa work-hour regulations, and seek university support for financial aid options.

“Seeking guidance from university support services and staying informed about financial aid options are essential strategies for navigating these challenges successfully,” Sow said.

Three Ways International Students Can Overcome Financial Hurdles

  1. Community College Enrollment: Begin with an associate degree at a community college to significantly reduce tuition costs before transferring to a university for a bachelor’s degree.
  2. On-Campus Employment: Explore institutional work-study programs and university job boards for part-time employment opportunities that complement studies and provide financial support.
  3. Proactive Financial Planning: Save money before arriving in the U.S., seek scholarships tailored for international students, and explore paid internship opportunities to supplement income.

While financial obstacles are daunting, international students can achieve their academic aspirations through strategic planning, diligent scholarship pursuit, and leveraging on-campus resources, advisers say.

By adopting proactive financial strategies and staying resilient, they can successfully navigate the challenges of financing their education abroad, ensuring a path to academic success and personal growth.

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FAQs

  1. What are the best ways for international students to save on tuition costs?

Starting at a community college and then transferring to a university can significantly reduce tuition costs.

  1. How can international students find scholarships?

Research early, consult with school advisers, and explore scholarships tailored specifically for international students.

  1. Are international students eligible for work-study programs?

International students are generally not eligible for federal work-study programs, but they can find on-campus jobs through university job boards and human resources departments.

  1. What should international students know about visa work regulations?

Understanding the specific work-hour limitations of their visa type is crucial to avoid legal issues.

  1. How can international students manage living expenses effectively?

Finding roommates, seeking part-time work, and utilizing university support services can help manage living expenses.

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