Studying abroad is a dream for many, but the costs can be overwhelming, especially for international students eyeing the United States. Scholarships play a crucial role in making this dream affordable and achievable. For those looking to join the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM), this guide will help you navigate available scholarships and financial aid options tailored for international students.
Scholarships Offered by the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
UWM is aware of the challenges faced by international students and strives to offer financial support through various scholarships. These scholarships are aimed at both undergraduate and postgraduate students and can significantly reduce the financial burden associated with studying abroad.
Here are the key scholarships available for international students:
1. Global Excellence Award
The Global Excellence Award is one of the most sought-after scholarships at UWM, designed for new international freshmen and transfer students. This merit-based award provides financial aid ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 per year. For freshmen, the award can be renewed for up to four years, while transfer students can renew it for two years, provided they meet the renewal criteria.
2. International Student Grant
The International Student Grant is a need-based financial aid program open to both undergraduate and postgraduate international students. The amount awarded depends on the student’s financial need and the availability of scholarship funds at the time of application.
3. Chancellor’s Graduate Student Award
For graduate students, UWM offers the prestigious Chancellor’s Graduate Student Award. This competitive, merit-based scholarship covers full tuition for a year, providing exceptional international graduate students with the financial support they need to continue their studies without worrying about tuition fees.
4. Graduate Assistantships
In addition to scholarships, international students can apply for Graduate Assistantships. These assistantships provide both financial support and practical work experience in your field of study. They are available in various departments and can significantly reduce the cost of education while enhancing your academic and professional skills.
Steps to Apply for a Graduate Assistantship:
- Acceptance into a Graduate Program: First, you must be admitted to a graduate program at UWM. Ensure you meet all admission requirements and submit your application early.
- Contact the Graduate Program Coordinator: After enrollment, reach out to the graduate program coordinator in your department for information on available assistantships.
- Prepare Required Documents: These typically include a resume, transcripts, and a cover letter explaining your interest in the assistantship. Some departments may also request writing samples or letters of recommendation.
- Apply Early: Submit your application as early as possible, as assistantships are competitive and sought after by many students.
Cost of Living in Milwaukee
Milwaukee, the largest city in Wisconsin, offers a reasonable cost of living compared to other major U.S. cities, which is a relief for international students on a budget.
Here’s a breakdown of typical monthly expenses:
- Accommodation: Depending on whether you live on-campus or off-campus, housing costs range from $800 to $1,200 per month. Living on campus is generally more expensive but includes utilities and proximity to campus amenities.
- Food: Expect to spend between $200 to $400 per month on groceries, with home-cooked meals being more affordable than dining out.
- Transport: UWM provides students with a U-PASS, allowing unlimited access to Milwaukee County Transit System buses. If you plan to own a car, factor in additional costs for parking, insurance, and fuel.
- Miscellaneous Costs: Other expenses include health insurance (required for international students), books, and personal items, with monthly costs estimated at $1,500 to $2,000 overall.
Application Deadlines
Application deadlines at UWM vary depending on the program and the semester you’re applying for. However, general deadlines are as follows:
- Fall Semester: For international students starting in the fall, the application deadline is typically May 1.
- Spring Semester: For those starting in January, the deadline is usually October 1.
If you’re applying for scholarships or assistantships, it’s recommended to submit your application well before these deadlines, as most scholarship deadlines fall between December and February for the following academic year.
Final Thoughts
The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee offers a wide range of scholarships and assistantships to help international students achieve their academic goals. By applying early and staying informed about financial aid options, you can make your education at UWM more affordable and manageable. Good luck with your application!
