<p>Some thinking you will have to do: Is there a cut off point at which you would say, “I’d be better of studying in England than go to xxx college.”? Would you consider going to a lesser known but excellent college? I’m thinking Whitman or Grinnell. They are not as easy to get to but offer excellent educations. Because of the perceived lack of “prestige” they get fewer applications from international students and your odds might be better, especially if your application stats put you at the high end of their students. Or would you decide to skip them and go to LSE instead? </p>
<p>Here is an excerpt from Whitman’s international applications:</p>
<p>"Financial Aid and Scholarships</p>
<p>Whitman College does offer scholarships to international students. All applicants to Whitman College, regardless of financial circumstances, are considered for the Whitman Academic Scholarships, also known as merit scholarships. These awards range between US$6,000 to US$10,000 per year and are renewable for four years.</p>
<p>International Student Scholarships are also available. Competition for these scholarships is very keen. In a typical year we offer 25 scholarships from a pool of approximately 300 international applicants. Scholarships are awarded to the top 25 applicants based upon their academic and extra curricular achievements in secondary school. We do not regularly offer international scholarships to transfer students.</p>
<p>Once a student is selected to receive a scholarship the actual amount awarded will vary depending upon the student’s financial need. For the 2007 - 2008 school year international student scholarship awards ranged between US$2,500 and US$40,036. The full cost of attending Whitman for the 2007 - 2008 school year is approximately US$40,036 for international students. This includes tuition, fees, room, board, health insurance, and a US$1,450 estimate for books and supplies. The awards are for four years of study, and will increase slightly each year as the cost of tuition changes. Students and families are encouraged to fill out the International Application for Financial Aid and the Certification of Finances carefully and accurately. You and your family should consider the larger picture of all four years of study in the United States including transportation costs. Our budget for international student aid is limited and our ability to increase your scholarship other than to cover the increase in tuition each year is extremely limited.</p>
<p>Most international students work on-campus while attending school. Under U.S. law you can work up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and up to 40 hours per week during holidays and breaks. About half of our international students remain on campus during the summer to work and earn the funds necessary to help pay for their education. During the school year you can earn approximately US$2,500 and an additional US$4,000 during the summer." </p>
<p>Note that they expect you to work during the school year and in the summer.</p>
<p>One could argue that being in a less cosmopolitan area would give you a more authentic american experience.</p>
<p>Just food for thought.</p>