International Student Earned 3 Graduate Degrees In The USA For Almost Free

An international student can study for free or almost free in countries like the USA. You need to know the details, and as a former international student who has done this, I want to share what I have learned.

Reflecting on my academic journey, I realize how fortunate I was to earn three graduate degrees from top institutions in the U.S. – the University of Texas at Austin, Louisiana State University, and DeVry University – for almost nothing. For many international students, studying abroad can seem financially out of reach, but with careful planning and persistence, it is possible to reduce costs significantly. Here’s how I did it and how you can, too.

1. Start with Strong Academics

Your journey to affordable education begins long before you apply to a graduate program. Having strong grades from your undergraduate studies is crucial. Universities are more likely to offer scholarships, assistantships, or tuition waivers to students with excellent academic records.

Additionally, prepare well for standardized tests such as the GRE or GMAT. A competitive score not only strengthens your application but can also make you eligible for merit-based funding. I invested time in preparing for the GRE, which helped me stand out in the competitive applicant pool.

2. Make Early Contact with Schools

One of my most important steps was reaching out to schools early. I contacted the admissions offices and department heads at the University of Texas at Austin and Louisiana State University to explain my situation. I expressed my interest in their programs and inquired about financial aid, assistantships, and any available funding for international students.

Many schools have unadvertised funding opportunities or assistantship positions that they may not post publicly. By establishing a relationship with the faculty and staff, I learned about and applied for these opportunities.

3. Apply for Assistantships and Scholarships

Assistantships were a game-changer for me. At the University of Texas at Austin and Louisiana State University, I secured graduate assistant positions that covered my tuition and provided a stipend. In exchange, I worked in administrative roles or as a teaching assistant. This not only reduced my expenses but also gave me valuable professional experience.

Scholarships were another key factor. Never underestimate the power of applying for multiple scholarships—even small amounts add up. I particularly love Texas because of the assistance that international students can get. At the University of Texas @ Austin, paid internships will go a long way for international students.

4. Utilize On-Campus Resources

Many universities have international student offices that offer help finding financial aid, housing, and part-time work. I regularly visited these offices to stay informed about new opportunities. I also sought mentorship and networking events, sometimes leading to further financial support.

5. Be Persistent and Flexible

Persistence and flexibility are essential. I was open to studying in different states and institutions, allowing me to find the best opportunities. I applied to multiple schools and kept my options open until I secured the best financial package.

Studying abroad doesn’t have to break the bank as an international student. Dedication, early planning, and resourcefulness allow you to achieve your academic goals without accumulating significant debt. My experience proves that international students can thrive academically and financially with the right approach.

Regarding Devry University, I worked as an expatriate worker with the company, and one benefit was that I could complete the Master’s for free.

If you think I can help in any way, please do not hesitate to contact me at mardenecarr@gmail.com. You can also find additional information on our website under the International Student Tab.