Discover if you are eligible to study abroad for free
When you go abroad to study, you must organize your funds in advance. There are many methods available to help you reduce the cost of studying abroad. One of the most popular possibilities is to apply for a scholarship. Another popular alternative is to obtain a freeship. Because you may be puzzled between the two possibilities, we decided to assist you grasp the fundamental difference.
What is a scholarship?
Consider a scholarship to be a form of financial aid that normally pays a set portion of your tuition payments. This is financial assistance granted to you depending on your application. So you’re not compelled to repay it. Typically, a student receives a scholarship based on merit.
Different types of scholarships
Merit-based: Based on the student’s academic or extracurricular achievements.
Student-specific: Applicants that fit the criteria based on gender, color, religion, family, and medical history.
Destination-specific bursaries and scholarships are awarded to students from specified countries. For example, the UK government’s Chevening scholarship.
Subject-specific: Some universities provide grants to students for a particular field of study.
Need-based: Aimed at students who face financial difficulties due to their parent’s financial situation. Some universities refer to these as ‘freeships’.
Athletic scholarships: Provided to elite athletes who can represent the university.
What is a freeship?
Freeship is a complete exemption from tuition payments. This, too, is a financial aid program that assists you with your studies overseas. Freeships are often granted to kids from low-income families. However, when combined with academic brilliance, it can be considered a form of scholarship (100% scholarship).
Some US institutions refer to freeships as need-based scholarships.
How do I apply for a freeship/scholarship?
The application process for a freeship or scholarship varies by university. To be eligible, the applicant must typically have earned more than 60% in high school and/or undergraduate studies.
To receive a good amount of merit-based scholarship, you must be able to present marksheets demonstrating academic excellence. Similarly, for an athletic, regional, or minority scholarship, you must be prepared to provide supporting documentation.
For a need-based scholarship/freeship, you must also submit financial records, verification of your parents’ work, and necessary tax documents.
The university may also demand you to prepare an essay or letter arguing your case against the other applicants.
Does a freeship/ scholarship come with terms and conditions?
Certain scholarships and institutions require you to maintain a standard grade point average or Satisfactory Academic Progress, or SAP, in order to continue receiving financial aid. If you fail to complete these standards, you risk losing your aid.
Whether you apply for a scholarship or a freeship, keep in mind that time is critical. To gain an advantage over your peers, you should always research your possibilities and prepare your application ahead of time.
Once you’ve narrowed down the courses and study-abroad countries that pique your interest, it’s a good idea to look into the scholarships available to you. To gain an advantage over the competition, plan ahead of time and begin applying early.
