How to Easily Win an International Student Grant

Although scholarships and student grants are often used interchangeably as forms of  financial aids, it’s important to recognize that there are distinct differences between them. While we won’t delve into these discrepancies, our aim is to equip you with valuable tips on securing and retaining an international student grant successfully.

Difference between Grants and Scholarships:

Both student grants and scholarships serve as financial aids to assist students in covering educational expenses. However, there are several notable distinctions between the two:

Purpose:

Grants are typically awarded based on financial need, whereas scholarships are generally granted on the basis of merit or achievement.

Eligibility for the Student Grant:

Scholarships often consider academic or athletic accomplishments, while student grants are primarily allocated based on financial necessity.

Application Process:

Scholarships typically require applicants to submit essays, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and other materials showcasing their qualifications. Conversely, student grants usually mandate the completion of financial aid forms like the FAFSA to demonstrate financial need.

Award Amount:

Scholarships may offer larger sums of money, as they often recognize exceptional achievement or potential. Student grants, however, are typically intended to assist with basic educational expenses.

Repayment:

Scholarships are typically awarded as one-time payments, while student grants may require repayment depending on the grant’s terms or the funding agency’s policies.

Funding Source:

Grants may be provided by government entities, private organizations, or educational institutions, whereas scholarships can originate from various sources such as schools, businesses, nonprofits, and individuals.

Timing:

Grants may be distributed on a rolling basis throughout the year, whereas scholarships often have specific application deadlines.

Availability:

Grants may have limited availability and may be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, whereas scholarships may be more widely accessible.

Renewal:

Grants may necessitate annual renewal, whereas scholarships may be granted for multiple years.

Use of Funds:

Grants are typically designated for educational expenses exclusively, while scholarships may offer more flexibility in fund usage, allowing recipients to cover a range of educational and related costs.

In summary, while both grants and scholarships serve as valuable means of financing education, they vary in terms of eligibility criteria, application procedures, award amounts, and repayment conditions.

Concluding Remarks:

The pursuit of knowledge regarding grants reflects a broader ambition, signifying a commitment to educational advancement.