Approaching Universities as an International Student

If you are an international student, you will want to start approaching potential universities early. Contact several schools' international student offices, application offices, and registrar's offices. Ask for information specifically for international students. Also, contact the student financial aid office in order to find out which, if any financial aid is available to you.

You may find that you need to seek out alternative student loans rather than rely on government loans, which often not available to international students. However, you may find that you are eligible to apply for government loans in your own country. You may wish to speak to the consulate of your own country. All countries have consulates located in the United States. These offices often contain information about specific scholarships for international students and about other forms of financial aid that students can make use of.

International Student Loan Options

Most international students find that international student loans are mainly secured by private lenders. Banks, and especially financial institutions and companies are more willing to give loans to international students than the federal government. There are a number of these loan options available, including:

International Student Loan

If you attend an eligible US school and have a cosigner, then you may qualify for these private loans. These loans offer low interest rates, no hidden fees for applications, and a simple application process. Money is disbursed directly to the student.

The International Education Loan Inc (IELI)

This company is located outside the United States. They offer loans to international students who are interested in studying in the United Kingdom, New Zealand, the United States, Canada, and other Commonwealth countries. IELI prides itself are focusing on individuals rather than numbers. They offer students the ability to speak to concerned professionals who are ready to help them find their best loan option. Students can borrow up to $45,000 US from this loan source.

International student loans aren't as abundant as loans for United States citizens. When it comes to student loans, international students are without a doubt at some disadvantage. However a number of alternatives do exist. Many international students are eligible for many scholarships, grants, and private loans. In addition, some students are able to work part-time in order to add to their education funding.