Studying abroad is such a life-changing experience that can expand your perspective on fashion, people, food, and cultures. You can discover so much about yourself and other people living in cities like Rome, Paris, and Tokyo. Going abroad is exciting because you and your classmates get to learn and explore a new country for a semester.
Expenses from traveling abroad can also add up when you factor in international plane tickets, student visas, and passport fees. You can cut down on your out-of-pocket costs for these expenses by applying for study abroad scholarships!
Study Abroad Scholarships From The University
The first place to start looking for study abroad scholarships is through your university’s scholarship database. This step is essential because it shows what opportunities are available to you through your university. I was able to study abroad in Florence, Italy for a semester through a program at Kent State’s Fashion School. I applied for scholarships through The Fashion School and The Office of Global Education the semester before traveling to Italy. Applying early is important because it gives you more time to find and craft high-quality scholarship applications.
Many study abroad scholarships from the university will cover the cost of housing, plane tickets, and program fees. Look to see what some scholarships may want in exchange for funding your semester. In my case, I won 2 scholarships through the Office of Global Education at Kent State University. In exchange, I had to send pictures from my trips abroad, and post about my experience on social media. Applying through your university gives you better chances of winning since the applicant pool is smaller.
General Study Abroad Scholarships
Study abroad scholarships for the general public are always much more competitive since more applicants are able to apply. Some examples of these scholarships would be Tortuga Study Abroad Scholarship and Ashley Soule Conroy Foundation. The main thing you must prove is that you will be studying away for a semester through your university.
In your essays to these scholarships speak about how your study abroad experience will change your life. Most judges are looking to see how this time abroad will shape you into being a more thoughtful global citizen. Also, write about what you want to learn there or how you can get involved with the community. You can also check out my articles on Writing Winning Scholarship Essays and The Best Website To Find Scholarships for additional help.
Country-Specific Study Abroad Scholarships
Many companies in different countries can offer scholarships for U.S. students coming to study abroad in their country. One example of this would be a scholarship from ItaliaRail, a tourism and travel company based in Italy. Every semester they award $1,000 and train passes to a U.S. or Canadian student coming to Italy. Another example is the United States-Japan Bridging Foundation Scholarship. The foundation awards U.S. students a $2,500 stipend for the semester and $4,000 for year-long programs in Japan. So there are several ways to find and win country-specific scholarships like these it just takes a little bit of Googling.
Using these three ways to find study abroad scholarships will help increase your chances of winning one. So pack your bags and get ready to experience a semester like no other!
