International Students
Student Financial Services has complied a number topics pertinent to international students and funding your education at Boston University Medical Campus. We recommend reviewing all topics below, when beginning your search for education financing.
Federal Financial Aid and Need-Based Institutional Aid
Institutional Merit-Based Scholarships
Private Credit-Based Loan Options
How to research private, credit-based loan options:
- If you qualify as a citizen, permanent resident of the U.S. or eligible non-citizen and as such are able to access U.S. federal student loans, which offer very favorable terms, you should consider them first. Start by completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
- If you do not qualify for U.S. federal student aid we advise that you check with your home country to see if loans to study in the U.S. are available.
- Next, many U.S. lenders offer credit-based educational loans to international students if they apply with a credit-worthy U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or eligible non-citizen co-borrower. If you are able to secure a qualified co-borrower we urge you to do so and consider loans of this type, because approval and more favorable terms will be more likely. Our Credit-Based Loans page has more information on how to get started with finding the best option for you.
- If you are an international student seeking to borrow without a co-borrower you will find fewer lenders from which to choose. The two lenders listed below do not require a U. S. citizen, permanent resident, or eligible non-citizen co-borrower, however their interest rates and other terms may be less favorable. Certain restrictions apply as noted.
- MPower Financing
Offers loans to eligible international students who are enrolled in a degree program and are within two years of graduation.
- Prodigy Finance
Offers loans to eligible international students currently enrolled in GSDM and SPH.
You are not required to borrow from any lender listed here, elsewhere on our website, or in other University materials. You may choose to borrow from any lender without penalty. We urge you to compare credit-based loan information and terms carefully to determine the best fit for your particular circumstances.
Private Scholarships
Some private scholarship agencies do offer scholarships for international students. Although, you must search for these scholarships yourself and submit any applications apart from your application to your academic program.
More information about searching for private scholarships can be found on our Scholarships page.
Additional Considerations
International students applying for admission must present evidence of sufficient funds to cover all tuition, fees, books, and living expenses for their study at Boston University.
Consider costs for the entire duration of your program. Many credit-based loans are approved on a yearly basis and students are not guaranteed to be approved for loans each year as lender requirements change. We strongly encourage international students have plans in place in situations where funding availability changes.
Please be in contact with your program’s admissions office, and Boston University International Student Service Office (ISSO) to make sure you are compliant to begin your program at Boston University.
International students interested in employment while enrolled in a program can contact ISSO for more information on employment requirements and limitations.