CHIZARAM
How do I maximize my chances for a full-board Bsc scholarship in the US as an International student?
I’m a secondary school graduate from Nigeria. After managing to graduate, I faced the passing of my father two years ago, at age 16. Since then, I’ve taught myself to code, participated in hackathons, contributed to open-source projects, and built solutions aimed at solving real-world problems.
I was fortunate enough to take the SAT exam here in Nigeria, scoring a 1320. I’m planning to retake it in December if I can secure support for the attempt—I believe I can improve my score. Given my personal achievements and community contributions, especially in software, I’m hopeful about securing a full-tuition scholarship.
I’m looking for guidance on the entire application process, and ideally, someone I can reach out to with questions when needed. I’ve learned to work almost independently, but having guidance would definitely help me avoid rookie mistakes.
I intend to study Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or Physics in university, and I’m looking to maximize my chances of joining a program that emphasizes a curriculum focused on real-world problem-solving. My goal is to be somewhere that will equip me with the knowledge and skills to make a meaningful impact in the world of science.
Basically, I need a career and application guide. Any resources or advice would help me as I work toward studying abroad, even though I can’t afford it on my own. Where should I apply? What should my next steps be? Should I still retake the SAT exam in December, as I plan to?
For more about me, check out my Linktree: https://linktr.ee/ugochukwu850.
3 answers
Angel S
Angel’s Answer
Research Schools: Look for universities with strong programs in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or Physics that offer scholarships for international students. Schools like MIT, Stanford, or UC Berkeley may have options.
Strengthen Your Profile: Continue enhancing your coding skills and participation in hackathons. Highlight your self-taught skills and community contributions in your application.
Retake the SAT: If you believe you can improve your score, definitely retake it. A higher score can bolster your application.
Personal Statement: Craft a compelling personal statement that shares your story, achievements, and passion for technology. Explain how your experiences shape your goals.
Letters of Recommendation: Obtain strong letters from teachers or mentors who can speak to your character and achievements.
Application Process: Start early! Prepare for deadlines, required documents, and financial aid applications (like the FAFSA for U.S. schools).
Reach Out for Guidance: Connect with university advisors or communities on platforms like LinkedIn or Reddit. They can provide valuable insights and answer your questions.
Explore Scholarships: Look into specific scholarships like the Gates Scholarship, Fulbright, or university-specific awards for international students.
Stay Organized: Keep track of applications, deadlines, and requirements to avoid last-minute stress.
Keep pursuing your goals with determination, and don't hesitate to seek help along the way! Good luck!
I appreciate your support, Angel
CHIZARAM
Monica Chibuogwu
Monica’s Answer
Your resilience, determination, and passion for learning are truly inspiring! I'm honored to guide you through the US university application process.
Firstly, congratulations 🎉🎉🎉For👇🏽👇🏽👇🏽👇🏽
💪🏽Overcoming personal challenges and achieving academic success.
💪🏽Self-learning coding skills and participating in hackathons.
💪🏽Contributing to open-source projects and building solutions.
💪🏽Scoring 1320 on the SAT🎉
Now, To Maximize Your Chances For A Full Board BSc Scholarship, let's check out👇🏽👇🏽👇🏽👇🏽👇🏽👇🏽👇🏽👇🏽👇🏽👇🏽👇🏽👇🏽👇🏽👇🏽👇🏽
Short-term goals (next 3-6 months)👇🏽👇🏽
🫴🏽Retake the SAT in December to improve your score.
🫴🏽Prepare for and take the TOEFL or IELTS exam (English proficiency test).
🫴🏽Research and finalize your list of target universities.
🫴🏽Draft a compelling personal statement/essay highlighting👇🏽
✨ - Overcoming adversity
✨- Passion for Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or Physics
✨- Real-world problem-solving experiences
✨- Career goals and aspirations
🫴🏽Secure strong letters of recommendation from👇🏽
💌- Teachers or mentors familiar with your academic and coding achievements
💌- Hackathon organizers or project collaborators
Now To University Selection👇🏽👇🏽
Please, Focus On Institutions Offering👇🏽👇🏽👇🏽
💎 Full-tuition scholarships or generous financial aid.
💎 Strong programs in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or Physics.
💎 Emphasis on real-world problem-solving and innovation.
Some potential universities to consider are👇🏽👇🏽
🎓 Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
🎓 Stanford University
🎓 California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
🎓 University of California, Berkeley
🎓 Carnegie Mellon University
🎓 Georgia Institute of Technology
🎓 University of Michigan
🎓 Harvard University
Scholarship Opportunities You Should Explore are 👇🏽👇🏽👇🏽
🧩 Fulbright Scholarship
🧩 MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program
🧩 Microsoft Scholarship Program
🧩 Google Scholarship Program
🧩 National Science Foundation (NSF) Scholarships
🧩 University-specific scholarships (e.g., MIT's Presidential Fellowship)
For The Application Process👇🏽👇🏽
🏩 Create a Common App account
🏩 Submit applications to your target universities.
🏩 Ensure timely submission of supporting documents (transcripts, test scores, recommendations). My advice👉🏽 🫴🏽Contact University admissions offices directly via cold emails expressing your career interest as well as your passion, 🫴🏽get all your supporting documents ready including your essay(s) before you start your application, 🫴🏽humbly request for an application fee waiver, above all 🫴🏽ensure to start your application process very early this will allow your document get an early consideration.
Additional Resources👇🏽👇🏽👇🏽
🌹Career Village (you're already here😊)
🌹 College Board
🌹 International Student Organization
🌹 EducationUSA
🌹 Scholarships for International Students
🌹Connect with Online forums and communities (e.g., Reddit's r/InternationalStudents)
You're already taking significant steps toward achieving your goals. Stay focused, persistent, and optimistic.
Feel free to reach out, Career Village will always be here to help.
Best of luck Chizaram 💪🏽
Keep shining✨✨✨✨ I'm rooting for you💪🏽
TRAVIS UPCHURCH
TRAVIS’s Answer
I do know of some instances of students attending college on a Visa getting accepted to the US Military. This could be an option for you and could fast track a permanent residency and pay for your education. Look at what colleges you want to go to and find out what military branches allow for this arrangement.
Thank you Travis , but I do not even have a Visa yet , however , I guess it is still something to consider .
CHIZARAM