<p>Hey Guys,
As a prospective international student from overseas with no standardized test scores done other than TOEFL, Bowdoin seemed like one of my few options; The problem is the maximum I can pay for college is $5000/year for the full cost of attendance (room, board, tuition and miscellaneous expenses). Is the financial aid office likely to offer me such a very generous scholarship if my application is highly competitive?
Also, is graduation from here with a 3.5+ GPA likely to get me a spot in an Ivy League Grad School?</p>
<p>It all depends. I would say a 3.7+ GPA, especially in your prospective major, and potentially a research project or honors project would also help. If you do well at Bowdoin, then you will have a great range of opportunities post-graduation. I don’t know about financial aid packages, but being an international students will most likely put you at a disadvantage if you need a practically full-ride package.</p>
<p>I can’t really speak to this from experience but I’d say it’s worth a shot. I don’t know the specific of my friends’ financial situations, but I have a few friends who are international students and have told me that they are on substantial financial aid. Unfortunately, it’s true that it puts you at a relative disadvantage, but Bowdoin is very generous and will make it work if possible.</p>
<p>I’m sorry to say that Bowdoin has need-aware policy especially to the international students. On the website, it clearly indicates that family financial information can be the final factor for the last decision of the admission. Good luck! I am also applying as an international student.</p>