International Students
International students should begin the student visa process as soon as possible. Admitted international students can expect to receive an email from the Graduate Admissions Office with details regarding starting this process after they have officially accepted their offer though the applicant portal. For more information about obtaining your visa (I-20 form), visit BU’s Global Programs: International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO).
Financial Assistance
Many international students seek financial assistance while enrolled at Boston University. All full-time international master’s and CAGS students are eligible for BU Wheelock general scholarships.
Only those who are eligible noncitizens are able to receive federal financial assistance. To determine if you are an eligible noncitizen, visit the Department of Education’s Student Aid website for International Students.
On-Campus Employment
If you are an international student, you may be eligible for on-campus employment, including graduate assistantships and part-time employment. Eligibility is based on your visa status and the approval of the International Students & Scholars Office (ISSO). It is uncommon for international students to start a graduate assistantship during their first semester.
International students must provide documentation to the Graduate Admissions Office showing that they meet the financial requirements for a student visa. Before seeking any employment while attending Boston University, please consult ISSO and the Student Employment Office.
External Resources for International Student Aid
If you are not an eligible noncitizen, you may refer to the following resources for international student aid.
Carter Center Internship Program
The Carter Center Internship Program is for students committed to educational and peace initiatives worldwide. Students who have completed at least two years of a master’s program, or who have recently graduated from a master’s program are eligible. Internships are part-time and may be a nice complement to classroom experience.
Consulate or Embassy
There may be specific funds available for students to study internationally through the embassy or consulate of their home country. We encourage students to contact this office for any available funding opportunities.
Education USA
Education USA is a great resource that provides a holistic five-step guide for international students interested in studying in the US. Students can research everything from applying to schools to financing education to common terms and definitions. This site also offers podcasts for additional support.
eduPASS
Created by noted financial aid expert Mark Kantrowitz,eduPASS provides comprehensive information for international students. This includes financing studies, English proficiency requirements and tests, visa and passport information, and travel or cultural adjustment advice. As some of this information may be school specific, we do encourage students to verify required materials with BU Wheelock College of Education & Human Development Graduate Admissions Office and ISSO.
Josephine De Karman Fellowship Trust
The Josephine De Karman Fellowship Trust was established in 1954 to assist students of any discipline in their studies. Students from any country are eligible, but must be enrolled in an accredited university within the US at the time of application. Approximately eight fellowships (in the amount of $22,000 for graduate students), will be awarded for the regular academic year. Studies must be carried out only in the United States, and all funds must be expended only within this country. The award is for one year and may not be postponed or renewed.
Korean-American Scholarship
The Korean-American Scholarship was created for students in 1969 by the Korean American Scholarship Foundation. Students with Korean heritage, regardless of citizenship, are eligible to apply. These scholarships offer varying awards, made available through investments, donors, and annual fundraising activities. Recipients are considered based on financial need, scholastic achievement, recommendations, essays, and/or community service.
Margaret McNamara Memorial Fund (MMMF)
The MMMF offers grants of approximately $12,000 to female graduate students studying in the US or Canada. Eligible applicants are women over 25 from developing countries who are enrolled in an accredited university in the US or Canada, and who reside in the US at the time of application. Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to improving the lives of women and children in developing countries, as well as financial need and satisfactory academic performance. The MMMF also typically invites the recipients to Washington, DC to participate in a three-day Awards Program organized in their honor.
US Institute of Peace: Jennings Randolph Peace Scholarship Dissertation Program
The Jennings Randolph Peace Scholarship Dissertation Program offers grants to doctoral students from any country who are enrolled in an accredited university within the US. Eligible doctoral candidates are students who are researching and writing dissertations based on conflict management and peace building. Proposals from all disciplines are welcome. Successful candidates will have completed all coursework and examinations toward their doctoral degrees by the time their fellowship begins. Award amounts are approximately $20,000 for 10 months and may not be deferred or combined with any other major award or fellowship.
US Labor Department
The US Labor Department offers a free online scholarship search for students. Browse more than 7,000 scholarships, fellowships, loans, and other financial aid opportunities. Students can search by location, affiliation restrictions, residence preferences, and study level.