Discover the Prestigious Graduate International Excellence Scholarships at UMass Lowell 🎓🌏

Outstanding international students from every part of the world who demonstrate remarkable academic achievements and apply to any of the University of Massachusetts Lowell’s Master’s degree programs may become eligible to be considered for the highly coveted Graduate International Excellence Scholarships.

This merit-based financial award has been carefully designed to support and reward outstanding scholars committed to elevating their education, advancing their careers, and enriching the vibrant cultural diversity that defines the UMass Lowell community.

Scholarship Details and Benefits 💰

The Graduate International Excellence Scholarship offers generous awards ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 per semester.

These awards can be renewed for a maximum of four semesters, enabling students to receive up to $20,000 in total financial assistance.

For students pursuing the 42-credit Master of Public Health (MPH) degree, the scholarship coverage extends to five semesters, potentially providing up to $25,000 throughout their program.

This scholarship program has been structured to empower students who engage in full-time, on-campus study at UMass Lowell.

Such an arrangement ensures recipients can fully immerse themselves in the academic rigor and dynamic campus environment, gaining the optimal learning experience while receiving crucial financial support.

Eligibility and Application Requirements 📝

In order to be considered for the Graduate International Excellence Scholarship, applicants must meet several specific criteria, which are carefully reviewed to ensure that the awards go to deserving candidates:

• Academic Standards: Applicants must meet or exceed the required academic qualifications for acceptance into their selected Master’s degree program at UMass Lowell.
• This includes prior academic performance, test scores, and other admission requirements.

• Program Admission: Only students who have been formally admitted to one of UMass Lowell’s eligible Master’s degree programs qualify for scholarship consideration. Admission confirmation is essential.

• Enrollment Status: Recipients must be enrolled full-time and physically attend classes on campus.
• This means either taking all classes on campus or, at minimum, completing two on-campus courses plus one online course per semester.
• This ensures a balanced and engaged academic experience aligned with scholarship guidelines.

• International Residency & Visa Status: Applicants must hold an international tuition residency status as defined by university and state policies.
• Additionally, they must maintain a valid F-1 student visa, sponsored by UMass Lowell, for the entire duration of their studies.
• Compliance with immigration regulations is strictly monitored.

• Nationality: This scholarship is exclusively available to international students who are not U.S. residents or citizens.

• Priority Deadlines:
  • For those planning to begin their studies in Fall 2025, submitting applications by April 15, 2025, is strongly recommended.
  • Deadlines for the Spring 2026 semester will be announced in February 2026.
  • Early applicants admitted by the priority deadline will be automatically considered for the scholarship.
  • Applications received after the deadline may still be reviewed if funds remain available.

• No Separate Application Needed: There is no additional scholarship application form or documentation required. Eligible applicants who apply to UMass Lowell by Applications submitted by the given deadlines will automatically be considered for scholarship awards.
• Enrollment Deposit: Scholarship recipients must confirm their intention to enroll by submitting an enrollment deposit within 21 days of notification. Missing this deadline will lead to the scholarship being revoked and reassigned.

Important Awarding Guidelines ⚖️

Students who receive other tuition-based financial awards — such as those from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), the National Science Foundation (NSF), Fulbright Scholarships, or who hold research or teaching assistantships, or employee tuition benefits — may only apply one of these awards towards their tuition.

In these cases, UMass Lowell will apply whichever award provides the greatest financial benefit to the student.

Step 2: Financing Your Graduate Studies at UMass Lowell 💡

Invest in Your Future: Begin Financial Planning Early 📊

Pursuing higher education in the United States is often a transformative investment in one’s future.

However, understanding the complete costs involved—including tuition, living expenses, health insurance, and other fees—is essential for international students.

Expenses differ greatly based on the institution, course, and location, making financial planning one of the earliest and most crucial steps in the application journey.

Every year, many international students receive meaningful financial aid packages, but competition is intense. To increase your chances of securing aid, it is prudent to submit your financial aid application simultaneously with your admission application.

💸 Evaluate Your Financial Situation Thoroughly

Explore Special Opportunities and Financial Aid Options 🎁

US higher education institutions, including UMass Lowell, provide a wide array of scholarships, tuition waivers, and special financial aid arrangements targeted at international students. Common forms of assistance include:

• Merit-Based Scholarships: Like the Graduate International Excellence Scholarship, which rewards academic performance.
• Need-Based Financial Aid or Grants: Provided based on demonstrated financial need.
• Tuition Reductions or Residency-Based Benefits: In certain cases, tuition rates may be lowered for specific programs or under residency agreements.
• Work-Study and Assistantships: Opportunities to work part-time on campus, gaining experience and supplementing finances.

Keep in mind that costs of living can vary drastically depending on the city or state.

Urban centers like Boston may be more expensive compared to smaller cities. It’s important to include these considerations in your overall budget.

Navigating Financing Options by Level of Study 🎓

The financial landscape shifts according to your chosen educational level:

• Community College: Generally offers the most affordable tuition rates and pathways to transfer to universities.
• Undergraduate Programs: Often longer in duration and with variable tuition fees depending on the institution.
• Graduate Programs: Typically come with higher tuition costs but also more scholarship, fellowship, and assistantship opportunities.
• Short-Term or Certificate Programs: Provide flexible, often less expensive options to gain specialized skills.
• English Language Programs: May require separate budgeting and financial planning.

Understanding these distinctions will help you design a financial strategy tailored to your academic path.

Preparing Your Complete Application Process ✍️

After clarifying your financial plan, the following steps will guide you to complete your application successfully:

1. Complete Your University Application: Gather and submit all required academic records, test scores, letters of recommendation, and personal statements to meet UMass Lowell’s admissions requirements.
2. Submit Scholarship and Financial Aid Documents: While the Graduate International Excellence Scholarship requires no separate application, other forms of financial aid might.
3. Apply for Your Student Visa: Obtain an F-1 student visa sponsored by UMass Lowell. Ensure all visa requirements and documentation are meticulously followed.
4. Prepare for Departure: Organize your travel arrangements, housing, initial living expenses, and other logistical details before arriving on campus.

Final Thoughts: Maximize Your Educational Journey at UMass Lowell 🚀

The Graduate International Excellence Scholarship represents a golden opportunity for international students passionate about academic excellence and cultural exchange.

By starting your financial planning early By turning in your application promptly, you enhance your likelihood of obtaining this vital financial support.

With thoughtful preparation and dedication, you can unlock the full potential of your educational experience at UMass Lowell.

The university eagerly awaits your talents and ambitions to add value to its vibrant and multifaceted community.

Your transformative academic journey begins here—invest wisely, plan strategically, and embrace the possibilities! 🌟