FAFSA for International Students: Do You Qualify?

Your Guide to Financial Aid Options as an International Student in the US

The cost of studying in the United States is high, especially for international students. You might be searching for ways to reduce expenses and wondering if you can apply for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This guide explains how FAFSA works, who qualifies, and what alternatives are available for international students seeking financial aid for U.S. colleges and universities.

Understanding FAFSA and Its Purpose

FAFSA stands for Free Application for Federal Student Aid. It is the main application form used by U.S. citizens and certain eligible non-citizens to apply for federal, state, and institutional financial aid. Aid includes grants, scholarships, work-study, and federal student loans. Colleges use your FAFSA information to decide how much financial help you may need.

Many students complete the FAFSA each year to qualify for aid, but the rules are strict about who can use the application and receive federal assistance.

Can International Students Apply for FAFSA?

In most cases, international students do not qualify for federal student aid through FAFSA. Federal student aid is reserved for:

• U.S. citizens
• U.S. nationals
• Permanent residents (Green Card holders)
• Certain non-citizens with specific immigration statuses (like DACA, refugees, or asylees, under some circumstances)

If you are studying in the U.S. with an F-1, J-1, or other international student visa, you are not eligible to receive federal grants, federal loans, or work-study funds by filling out the FAFSA.

Exceptions: FAFSA-Eligible Non-Citizens

You may be eligible for federal financial aid if you meet specific non-citizen requirements. Examples include:

• U.S. permanent residents with a Green Card
• Refugees and asylees
• Individuals with T-visa (for victims of human trafficking)
• Cuban-Haitian Entrants
• Conditional entrants (valid only if issued before April 1, 1980)

If you fall into one of these categories, you should complete the FAFSA and check eligibility requirements at your college’s financial aid office.

Financial Aid Options for International Students

While FAFSA is limited to eligible non-citizens and U.S. residents, many colleges and organizations offer other resources for funding your studies. Here are options you should look into:

• University Scholarships for International Students: Some U.S. colleges offer need-based or merit-based scholarships specifically for international students. These are often competitive but can cover partial or full tuition.
• International Student Loans: Private lenders sometimes provide student loans to international students, usually if you have a U.S.-based co-signer.
• On-campus Employment: F-1 and J-1 visa holders may be eligible to work on campus for up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session.
• Country-Specific Government Scholarships: Check with your country’s government or embassy for grant or scholarship programs to study abroad.
• External Scholarships: Search for scholarships from international and private organizations. Popular search engines include Fastweb, IEFA, and EducationUSA.

What Colleges Require from International Students Seeking Financial Aid?

Colleges in the U.S. have different policies on giving financial aid to international students. When you apply for admission, many colleges ask international applicants to fill out a CSS Profile or an institutional aid application instead of or alongside the FAFSA.

The CSS Profile is used by hundreds of colleges and is available to international students. This form asks for detailed family financial information. Each school uses this data to decide your scholarship or grant eligibility.

Tips for International Students Applying for Financial Aid in the U.S.

• Start preparing early and research the policies of each college you apply to.
• Check if the college provides need-based aid to international students.
• Organize all necessary financial documents (bank statements, proof of income, scholarships from your home country, etc.).
• Contact the financial aid office of each college for international student funding opportunities.
• Make a calendar for key deadlines, as they can vary by school or scholarship program.

Alternative Ways to Cut Costs as an International Student

Besides scholarships and grants, there are other strategies to manage your expenses as an international student in the U.S.:

• Consider attending a community college for your first two years before transferring to a four-year university.
• Look for tuition payment plans that allow payment in installments instead of all at once.
• Share housing or meals to cut living costs.
• Apply for teaching or research assistantships if you are a graduate student.

Frequently Asked Questions about FAFSA and International Students

Can international students use the FAFSA to get financial aid?

In most cases, international students cannot use the FAFSA to get federal student aid. Only U.S. citizens, some eligible non-citizens (like green card holders, refugees, or asylees), can apply for aid using the FAFSA. International students on F-1 or J-1 visas are not eligible for federal financial aid.

Is there financial aid for international students to study in the U.S.?

Yes, some colleges, private organizations, and foundations offer scholarships and grants for international students. These may be based on academic merit, financial need, or other criteria. You need to research each school's offerings and search for external scholarship programs.

What is the CSS Profile, and should international students fill it out?

The CSS Profile is an online application used by many U.S. colleges to award institutional financial aid. International students are often required to submit the CSS Profile or a separate institutional aid form to be considered for scholarships and grants offered by the university.

Can international students get student loans in the U.S.?

Some private lenders offer loans to international students, usually if they have a U.S. citizen or permanent resident co-signer. Federal student loans through FAFSA are not available to international students on standard visas.

Are there any work opportunities for international students in the U.S.?

International students with F-1 or J-1 visas are often allowed to work on campus for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year, and up to 40 hours during school breaks. Always check your visa status and campus regulations before starting work in the U.S.