Getting fully funded programs is a big problem for most people, although there are a lot of funded programs available worldwide for students from different backgrounds. The lack of funding hinders the potential of many students to pursue higher education. Usually, they cover the cost of tuition, and living expenses and in some cases help with visa assistance and travel costs. However, only a few people get access to such benefits. This article discusses how to find fully funded programs and what to consider in applying.
Where to find fully funded programs
a. University Websites
A lot of universities advertise positions for funded programs usually for postgraduate studies on their websites. Therefore, to find such programs, visit the website and navigate to the field of interest. Also, you can check for financial aid and scholarships available for your program which will help you achieve your career goals.
b. Scholarship Databases
There are a lot of online scholarship databases that potential students can search through. This database can help you look for funding based on your program of interest, location of study, financial needs, etc.
c. Government and Nonprofit Organizations
There are a lot of government-funded programs for domestic and international students. Also, Nonprofit organizations provide funding to students based on academic potential or other reasons. Visit your home country’s scholarship secretariat to check funding opportunities available.
d. Professional Associations and Foundations
Usually, professional associations and foundations offer scholarships for brilliant students who demonstrate high academic and research potential. You can check with your professional association to see funding opportunities available. Mostly such awards are granted to students who can excel and make meaningful contributions in their chosen field of study.
How to get fully funded programs
There are a lot of things to consider in the application process. Unfortunately, most people are not successful in their application due to negligence. This portion outlines the basic things to do to be successful with your application.
a. Research
Research funded programs well before applying. Understand what is required from you, the selection criteria, and the deadlines you must meet. This will help you in the overall application process and increase your chances of selection.
b. Start the application early
Start your application early once you decide to apply. Most fully funded programs have deadlines that you must always meet to be considered for selection. Gathering all the documents required takes a lot of time hence start early. If you don’t start early, you may be stacked with some of your documents, especially recommendation letters and transcripts. Due to this, you need to start early to avoid rushing the application process. Because rushing can lead you to make errors in the application.
c. Craft a strong and irresistible application
Invest in crafting strong and irresistible applications. Understand what the program requires and input them in your application. Write a good statement of purpose , craft a good CV, and get good and well-written recommendation letters from your lecturers and employers. Also, let your application reflect your unique capabilities and potential for success in the chosen field of study.
d. Seek Feedback
Seek feedback from lecturers, friends already in funded programs, and mentors before applying. They may provide insights on how to improve your overall application. Also, this will increase your chances of being successful in the application.
e. Prepare for Interviews
Certain fully funded programs require interviews as part of the selection process. Due to this, prepare adequately for interviews if it is required. Research the program to come out with potential interview questions. The interview will require you to discuss your qualifications and contributions to the program. Always do mock interviews before the main interview to correct errors. Show with the interview why you must be selected among other candidates.
f. Apply to a lot of programs
To increase your chances of getting fully funded programs, apply to a lot of them. Most funded programs are very competitive and the selection process is not easy. The more programs you apply the better your chance of being selected for at least one of them.
Conclusion
To get fully funded programs, you need to search on university websites, government and Nonprofit organizations, and scholarship databases. Moreover, do a lot of research on the program to craft a good application and increase your rate of selection.
