10 Ways International Students Can Pay for U.S. Graduate School
Paying for graduate school in the U.S. as an international student isn’t easy, especially since you don’t have access to the same financial aid options as domestic students. But don’t worry—there are still ways to manage the costs even if you don’t have the money upfront.
“While international students can’t get U.S. federal student aid like loans for undergrad or grad school tuition, they can still lower their expenses through scholarships, grants, and loans,” explains Nellie Gaynor, an academic adviser and graduate admissions counselor at IvyWise.
Here are 10 strategies to help international students cut down on grad school costs in the U.S.
Comparison Shopping
“When figuring out if a program is financially doable, consider all expenses: tuition, mandatory fees, health insurance, living costs—which vary a lot by location—travel, and any extra events or opportunities that might need funding,” says Indhika Jayaratnam, another academic adviser at IvyWise.
Assistantships
Many grad students teach or assist with research part-time. Assistantships often cover part of your tuition and may even include a stipend for personal expenses. Reach out to your academic department to learn about available opportunities.
Some grad programs also offer paid assistantships. “This funding might come with your admission offer or open up later as positions become available,” Jayaratnam notes.
Besides financial help, assistantships let you “work closely with professors, sharpen your skills, and boost your resume,” she adds.
Good Budgeting
Plan your budget carefully—factor in daily expenses like food, transportation, and utilities, along with tuition. Buying used textbooks and using student discounts (on tech, phone plans, etc.) can save you a lot.
“Estimate your budget on the higher side. This gives you a safety net for unexpected costs,” Jayaratnam advises.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
CPT lets you work full- or part-time in an internship or co-op related to your major (like engineering). Usually, you can’t use CPT until after completing two terms or a full academic year—unless your program requires it earlier.
“Look for well-paid CPT positions to maximize the financial benefit,” Jayaratnam suggests.
Since CPT rules vary by school, check with your university’s Office of Global Services before applying.
“Balance the financial and career benefits against the time you’ll spend away from studies. Don’t let earning money hurt your academic performance,” she cautions.
Fellowships
Fellowships are often merit-based and may require teaching or research. They can cover tuition and sometimes include a living stipend.
“Students get stipends to work with professors while studying full-time,” says Jennifer Ann Aquino, an educational consultant. “This depends on the school and program but usually offers the best financial support.”
You can find fellowships through grad schools, departments, or outside organizations. Some schools, like Caltech, list options for international students.
“External fellowships from foundations, companies, or nonprofits are great for funding—plus, they often come with prestige and networking perks,” Jayaratnam says.
Search early—many deadlines are as early as October, before program applications are due.
Home-Country Assistance
Your home country’s government or organizations might fund your studies—but may require you to return and work there after graduating.
This type of aid is rare: In 2022-2023, only 1.6% of international grad students relied on foreign government/university funding, and 0.5% used private sponsors (per IIE data).
On-Campus Employment
Working on campus (like tutoring) can help cover costs. F-1 visa holders can work up to 20 hours/week during school and full-time during breaks.
“Check with your program about on-campus job options—every school handles this differently,” Aquino says.
Personal and Family Funds
Most international students rely on personal or family savings. In 2022-2023, 60.7% of grad students used these funds as their main source (per IIE’s Open Doors report).
“Assess how much your family can contribute—income, savings, and other resources,” Gaynor recommends.
Private Loans
Private loans come with interest, increasing the total cost. Some U.S. lenders work with international students but may need a U.S. co-signer (a creditworthy citizen who agrees to repay if you can’t).
“Your school can’t co-sign, but they might suggest lenders who’ve worked with international students before,” Gaynor says. “Compare interest rates, repayment terms, and loan conditions carefully.”
Scholarships
Scholarships (from schools or private groups) don’t need repayment. Check university financial aid pages or free databases like:
- U.S. News Scholarship Finder
- EducationUSA
- IIE’s scholarship lists
“Scholarships aren’t centralized—you’ll need to search and apply yourself. The best ones usually come from the school,” Aquino notes.
Most are merit-based, so a strong GPA, relevant experience, polished essays, and good recommendations help.
