Are International Students Eligible for FAFSA?

No, international students are generally not eligible for FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) since it is primarily intended for U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and certain eligible non-citizens. However, there may be alternative financial aid options for international students, including:

1. Institutional Scholarships: Some U.S. colleges and universities offer scholarships specifically for international students.

2. Private Scholarships: Look for scholarships from organizations that support international students.

3. On-Campus Employment: Some schools allow international students to work on campus part-time.

4. International Student Loans: Some lenders provide loans to international students with a U.S. citizen or permanent resident as a co-signer.

To explore your options, contact the financial aid office of the schools you’re interested in or check their websites for international student financial aid information.

What is FAFSA?

FAFSA stands for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. It is a form administered by the U.S. Department of Education that helps determine a student’s eligibility for federal financial aid, including grants, loans, and work-study programs. FAFSA is mainly designed for U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and certain eligible non-citizens to assist in funding their education.

Are International Students Eligible for FAFSA?

Generally, international students are not eligible for FAFSA. This is because FAFSA is meant to support students who are legally recognized as U.S. residents. However, there are specific scenarios where non-citizens may qualify, such as those who have:

• Permanent Resident Status (Green Card holders)

• Refugee or Asylee Status

• T Visa or Victim of Human Trafficking Status

• Eligibility under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) in certain states

If you do not fall under any of these categories, you will not qualify for FAFSA.

Financial Aid Options for International Students

Although FAFSA is not available, international students can explore the following financial aid options:

1. Institutional Scholarships

Many U.S. colleges and universities provide scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships may be merit-based (academic or athletic achievements) or need-based (financial need). Check each school’s financial aid office or website for available options.

2. Private Scholarships

Various organizations and foundations offer scholarships to international students based on academic performance, leadership, or specific fields of study. Examples include:

• The Fulbright Program

• The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program

• Rotary International Scholarships

3. On-Campus Employment

Most international students with an F-1 visa are eligible to work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) on campus. On-campus employment may help cover living expenses, but it typically does not fully cover tuition.

4. International Student Loans

Some private lenders provide student loans to international students who have a U.S. citizen or permanent resident as a co-signer. Examples of lenders include Prodigy Finance, MPower Financing, and Sallie Mae.

Conclusion

While international students do not qualify for FAFSA, there are multiple avenues for financial support through scholarships, on-campus work, and private loans. It is crucial to research each option carefully and reach out to the financial aid offices of the schools you are considering.

FAQs

1. Can international students apply for state financial aid?
It depends on the state’s policies. Some states allow international students, especially those under DACA, to apply for state-specific aid.

2. Do international students qualify for federal student loans?
No, federal student loans through FAFSA are not available to international students. However, private lenders may offer loans with a qualified co-signer.

3. How can I find scholarships for international students?
Use scholarship search platforms like Fastweb, and IEFA, and check university-specific scholarship portals for opportunities.