<p>Hi Steven,
Here are two websites that I strongly urge every international student who is considering coming to the U.S. for college read thoroughly:</p>
<p>International</a> Students – EducationUSA </p>
<p>This site, run by the U.S. State Department, provides comprehensive information about applying to U.S. colleges as an international student, and also covers the process of applying for a Student Visa to come here to study. As you'll learn from reading through this site, the U.S. State Department does ask international students to show proof that they have the finances to study here in the U.S. as part of the Student Visa process, but that includes any scholarships or financial aid you might receive. You'll also find a list of college advising offices in many different countries (including yours) who can answer your questions and help you through the process -- they also have a list of upcoming College Fairs in various countries, where you can meet representatives from U.S. colleges that are interested in recruiting international students.</p>
<p>Only a handful of colleges in the U.S. offer financial aid for international students, and there are very few "full rides" for international students. If you go to the link below, about halfway down the page you will see a link for a database put together by Doug thomson, of the OACAC, a professional organization for college counselors working with international students. If you click on that link, you will find a list of colleges offering financial aid to international students, and details about the average financial aid awards at each college. I would suggest using it to narrow your search:</p>
<p>::</a> OACAC - Links :: </p>
<p>Another good resource on the same webpage are the links to the college counseling websites of different international high schools. You will find a wealth of advice and information on their websites, written by people who help students like you every day.</p>
<p>At the same time, since there are so few "full rides" available, it is very important that you and your family accurate assess how much they can contribute to your education here in the U.S. As mentioned, the State Department will want to see proof that your family can afford to make up the difference between the cost of attendance and any scholarships or financial aid you might receive. </p>
<p>I would STRONGLY suggest that you email the international admissions representative of every college that interests you, and ask your questions about applying and financial aid directly to them. The colleges themselves do not mind answering these questions from international students, and they will ALWAYS be your most reliable source of information. By asking the colleges directly, you'll avoid misleading information that can lead to mistakes in the application process -- so don't be shy, email the colleges you're considering, and talk to them directly.</p>
<p>By the way, many U.S. colleges these days have admissions representatives who travel to Europe and other parts of the world each year to talk with prospective students, and interview them as well. So, it's important to get in touch with the colleges you're considering directly, and keep in touch with them throughout the application process.</p>
<p>Good luck!
Carolyn Lawrence</p>