RICE University, located in the heart of Houston, Texas, has an academic environment that leaves you wanting more: the grandeur 6:1 student-faculty ratio. Headed by one of the best research universities in the U.S., RICE University USA unabashedly pursues creative breakthroughs, astonishing teaching, and global influence. The university is uniquely placed to nurture a living, vibrant community that provokes ideas and inspires innovations in the shaping of pioneering leaders across all fields. The culture at RICE is guided by its foundational principles: Responsibility Integrity Community Excellence (RICE). This has become so much more than catchphrases its notarized decisions about the campus, policies thus influence an environment that fosters students of all molds to thrive.
RICE believes equally in accessibility, and does everything to ensure that financial constraints do not act as hurdles to top-notch education. All socio-economic background students are accepted, and the university offers intense financial aid to those who qualify. 100% of demonstrated financial need is met through institutional grants for international students [RICE Investment program for in-state residents is not available]. One of the highest-achieving colleges in the nation and maintaining an elite admissions standard, RICE University ranking reflects its strong academic standing. RICE still attracts the best while remaining faithful to its founding mission of academic excellence and inclusivity. Its highly selective RICE University acceptance rate highlights the university’s commitment to enrolling exceptional students. It’s not a university — It’s ambition and opportunity meeting.
Founded on October 13, 1885, the Georgia School of Technology welcomed its first 84 students in October 1888. Its establishment marked the onset of the South’s transition from agrarian to industrial economy. Over 50 years, Tech evolved from a specialized trade school to a respected technological university. Renamed the Georgia Institute of Technology in 1948 to mirror its emphasis on advanced research, it admitted women in 1952 and became the first Deep South university to enroll African-American students without a court order in 1961. The Georgia Institute of Technology, established by the state of Georgia in Atlanta, is a public research university. Dedicated to cultivating leaders who drive technological advancements and enhance the human condition, Georgia Tech embodies a commitment to innovation and societal progress.
Thanks to the generosity of Georgia Tech alumni and supporters, there are scholarships available for international students. However, those on post-completion OPT while enrolled in courses are ineligible for funding from private donors. These scholarships primarily target students facing unforeseen financial challenges, with applications opening at the beginning of the academic year or when funds become available. The application process is ongoing until recipients are selected and funds are depleted. To apply, submit the “International Student Emergency Funding & Scholarships” e-form on istart.gatech.edu under Programs and Events. If you don’t find eligible funding, you can still request a review by submitting an e-form to the office. For more information, please visit this page.
Emory University was founded in 1836 in Atlanta, Georgia. The University’s core purpose revolves around thinking beyond oneself, a responsibility embraced by students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Living in Atlanta offers an exciting urban experience, with abundant opportunities for internships, cultural enrichment, and entertainment. Named the best place to live in the US by Money in 2022, Atlanta boasts a vibrant college town atmosphere, with 56 universities in the area contributing to its dynamic energy and diverse cultural scene. Whether working, teaching, learning, or connecting, Emory fosters a community where the greater good aligns with individual interests, making it a place of impactful collective action. Emory University’s mission is to cultivate, safeguard, impart, and utilize knowledge for the betterment of humanity. This commitment entails fostering education from undergraduate to advanced levels and conducting scholarship from fundamental research to its practical application in public service.
As a comprehensive research institution, Emory offers diverse academic programs encompassing arts and sciences, business, law, theology, and health professions. Interdisciplinary initiatives and a dedication to liberal learning weave these fields together, reinforcing the university’s overarching mission. Emory University’s undergraduate student body is globally diverse, welcoming students from various countries. Annually, a specific number of international students receive need-based financial aid packages. To qualify for this aid, applicants should apply via our Regular Decision plan. Additionally, international students have the opportunity to apply for merit-based scholarships through the Emory University Scholar programs. To apply for admission, international students must complete all the application requirements for first-year admission. Additionally, they must demonstrate English proficiency and provide financial certification. For more information, please visit this page.
The University of North Carolina, chartered by the North Carolina General Assembly on December 11, 1789, had its cornerstone laid on October 12, 1793, in Chapel Hill. This location was selected for its central position within the state, establishing a foundation for accessible education in North Carolina. Connect. Collaborate. Make the world spin. Global relationships create a smaller, smarter, more caring world. The University of North Carolina, the nation’s first public university, is at the forefront of innovation. With a focus on diversity, it prepares students to be leaders and innovators in North Carolina and worldwide. Our mission is to foster research, scholarship, and creativity while educating a diverse community of students to be future leaders. With the dedication of our faculty and staff, and support from North Carolina’s citizens, we invest in enhancing access to learning and promoting the success of each generation. We also extend our resources to improve the quality of life for all people in the state.
International students at our university are allowed to work on-campus as per their immigration status. However, for off-campus employment, they must apply and receive authorization. Authorization types vary based on employment purpose and the student’s immigration status. Only Permanent Residents or citizens of the United States are eligible for federal and institutional funds. International students are expected to be self-funded and able to cover their educational costs for the entirety of their studies.
Carnegie Mellon University, located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a prestigious private research institution founded in 1900 by Andrew Carnegie as the Carnegie Technical Schools. Initially offering technical education, it transitioned to granting four-year degrees in 1912, evolving into the Carnegie Institute of Technology. Carnegie Mellon University aims to revolutionize society through innovation in education, research, creativity, and entrepreneurship. By fostering a culture of exploration, CMU endeavors to push the boundaries of knowledge for impactful global change. Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) is dedicated to cultivating a sense of belonging for all community members, ensuring every voice is heard in an inclusive environment. This commitment underscores our efforts to create a space where diversity is valued and respected.
The diverse perspectives and backgrounds of international students play a crucial role in making Carnegie Mellon University the innovative and collaborative environment it is known for. With international undergraduates comprising 23% of the student body in 2022-2023, CMU consistently ranks among the top five national universities in terms of international student representation, highlighting its global appeal and inclusive atmosphere. Carnegie Mellon University does not provide financial aid to international students, necessitating that prospective international students and their families plan to cover the entire cost of attendance independently.
Washington University was founded in 1853 in St. Louis, Missouri. Washington University has a noble mission indeed. By focusing on the formation of leaders, the pursuit of knowledge, and the advancement of healthcare, they’re striving to make a meaningful impact not only locally but also globally. It’s inspiring to see institutions dedicated to both academic excellence and societal betterment. Washington University’s area of focus is on Medical research, Environmental and energy research, Innovation and entrepreneurial research, and Plant science research. With 1,888 university-employed physicians across 77 specialties, Washington University School of Medicine operates one of the largest academic clinical practices in the nation. Serving over 60 clinical sites, their dedicated physicians provide high-quality care through Washington University Physicians, impacting healthcare on a significant scale.
Washington University aspires to foster a diverse community deeply rooted in principles of equity, fairness, and inclusive excellence. Embracing these values across research, learning, clinical, and administrative realms, we aim to harness the wealth of perspectives and contributions from individuals of all backgrounds, enriching our collective experience and advancing our shared goals. Washington University acknowledges the financial concerns of students and families, with scholarships typically granted upon admission. Post-enrollment financial assistance is rare, except in cases of significant family financial changes. Students experiencing such circumstances can reach out to Student Financial Services for guidance on the application process.
Established on 23 January, 1789. It is the nation’s oldest Catholic and Jesuit university. Georgetown has evolved into a prominent global research institution comprising nine schools, an affiliated hospital, and numerous top-ranked academic programs. Presently, the university accommodates over 22,000 undergraduate and graduate students across five distinct locations: Main Campus, Medical Center, Law Center, School of Continuing Studies, and the Georgetown Qatar campus. Our mission at Georgetown University is to enable every accepted applicant to afford attendance, thereby ensuring the recruitment, retention, and graduation of a diverse and talented learning community.
Financial aid opportunities for international students at Georgetown are notably limited. To be eligible for these awards, you must express your interest during the undergraduate admission process and complete the CSS PROFILE. If you don’t secure a scholarship in your first year, future opportunities are unlikely, so financial planning is crucial. For those who receive aid initially, annual reapplication is necessary, with evaluations based on updated financial information. Private education loans may be an option, typically requiring a creditworthy U.S. Citizen or Eligible Non-Citizen co-signer. It’s important to note that receiving financial aid may subject you to U.S. taxation. For guidance on tax procedures and additional support for international students, visit the Office of Global Services.
Caltech was founded on 23 September, 1891. Caltech stands as a globally renowned hub for science and engineering, drawing upon the expertise of exceptional minds and cutting-edge technologies to unravel fundamental scientific mysteries and address urgent societal issues. The Institute oversees JPL for NASA, spearheading missions to explore our solar system’s planets and monitor changes on Earth. Additionally, Caltech operates prominent research facilities like the Seismological Laboratory and a network of astronomical observatories, including the Palomar and W. M. Keck Observatories. It is also a key collaborator in managing LIGO.
Situated in Pasadena, California, Caltech is an independent institution, supported by private funds, occupying a 124-acre campus. 987 undergraduate students, 1,410 graduate students, 3:1 student-faculty ratio, 46 Nobel Prizes. Students at Caltech hail from across the globe, bringing with them diverse backgrounds, viewpoints, and interests. United by an insatiable curiosity and exceptional prowess in science, engineering, and mathematics, they thrive in an environment known for its academic rigor.
Caltech offers a plethora of learning avenues, hands-on research opportunities, and close collaborations with faculty. This environment empowers students to conceive groundbreaking ideas and drive transformative innovations with global impact. For international students seeking financial aid at Caltech, applications must be submitted during the first year of enrollment. Failure to apply for aid during this period, or if deemed ineligible, precludes future aid applications. Financial assistance isn’t available for international transfer or 3/2 applicants. When applying for aid as an international student, it’s imperative to indicate intent to seek financial assistance on the admissions application.
While many financial aid policies apply similarly to both domestic and international students at Caltech, there are distinctions in the application requirements for international applicants. Therefore, while much of the information on the website pertains to both groups, it’s essential for international students to be aware of specific application requirements tailored to their status.
Established in November 1842 by Rev. Edward F. Sorin, C.S.C., a member of the Congregation of Holy Cross, a French missionary order, the University of Notre Dame sits adjacent to South Bend, Indiana. This city serves as the focal point of a metropolitan area boasting a population exceeding 315,000. 8,968 undergraduate students, 4,206 graduate/professional students, 1,526 instructional faculty. Notre Dame has been an international university since its founding. Notre Dame Mumbai forges fresh partnerships across India, broadening the University’s connections and collaborating with Indian universities, high schools, corporations, and government entities. This endeavor aims to enrich the international exposure of our students and expand the global impact of faculty research and scholarship.
Admission decisions for undergraduate international applicants at the University of Notre Dame taken into account are need-aware. This means that applicants’ ability to cover education costs is considered during the evaluation process. International applicants who state in their Certification of Finances that they will not seek financial aid and are admitted will not qualify for need-based financial assistance during their undergraduate studies at Notre Dame. Those anticipating the need for financial aid during their undergraduate studies at Notre Dame must apply for aid concurrently with their admission application.
Notre Dame extends prestigious merit scholarships to a select few international students admitted as first-time incoming freshmen. These scholarships recognize outstanding achievement, leadership, service commitment, and intellectual potential. Award amounts vary from $5,000 annually to covering the entire cost of attendance. Typically renewable for four years, recipients may also receive invitations to engage in leadership development and enrichment activities as an added perk of their scholarship. Although no separate application is needed for consideration, merit-based scholarship selections at the University of Notre Dame are made during the admission process. However, additional information such as a resume, phone interview, or essay may be requested before the final decision. Recipients of these scholarships are typically notified of their selection in early April.
University of Southern California was founded on October 6, 1880 in Los Angeles, California. USC comprises various schools, centers, and institutes, where brilliant minds collaborate in a dynamic environment, spearheading the future of education and fostering a healthier, more joyful, and sustainable Los Angeles and global community. Cultivating a global outlook begins with opportunity. At USC, students from all fields are empowered to transcend geographic and language barriers in pursuit of their educational and career aspirations. With USC as your guide, you navigate towards expanding your career and connections on a global level. Becoming a future global leader entails engaging with diverse individuals in unfamiliar environments. USC’s expansive global network encourages you to broaden your connections through a myriad of overseas opportunities.
With its international perspective and situated in a city celebrated for its multiculturalism, USC extends a hearty welcome to international students. Representing over 130 nations, international students constitute 24 percent of the university’s diverse student body. Some sources of financial aid may be available to international students who are not U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens:
- Merit-based scholarships: Some departments disburse their scholarships directly to recipients in the form of monthly stipends. Payments are made according to the stipend schedule.
- On-campus work (not including Federal Work-Study).
- Off-campus work, with permission from the Office of International Services. Please note that off-campus work authorization is very limited.
