Scholarships are a great way to fund your studies in the United States. This guide explains types of scholarships, the application process, and — most importantly — a detailed Eligibility Criteria (EC) section so you can quickly check which scholarships you qualify for.

Detailed Eligibility Criteria (EC) — What Scholarship Committees Look For

The Eligibility Criteria (EC) varies by scholarship type and provider. Below is a detailed breakdown of common eligibility requirements and clarifications so you can assess your fit better.

1. Academic Requirements

• Minimum GPA / Grades: Many merit scholarships require a minimum GPA (e.g., 3.0/4.0 or equivalent). For competitive scholarships, expect 3.5+ or top percentiles in class.
• Transcripts: Official high school or university transcripts are usually required. International certificates may need equivalency or translation.
• Standardized Tests: Some scholarships ask for SAT/ACT (undergraduate) or GRE/GMAT (graduate). However, many universities have test-optional policies — always check the specific scholarship page.

2. English Language Proficiency

• TOEFL / IELTS / Duolingo: Most institutions require proof of English proficiency for non-native speakers. Minimum scores vary (e.g., TOEFL iBT 80–100; IELTS 6.5+), but scholarship-specific thresholds may be higher.
• Waivers: Some scholarships waive the test if your previous education was in English or if the university grants an exemption.

3. Financial Need & Documentation

• Need-Based Criteria: These scholarships require detailed financial documents such as family income statements, bank statements, tax documents, or official need-assessment forms.
• Currency & Proof: Provide certified translations and convert amounts to USD where requested. Some funders require sponsor letters if parents/guardians will support the student.

4. Nationality / Residency

• Open to International Students: Many U.S. university scholarships are open to international applicants; others are restricted to U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
• Country Quotas: Some government or university scholarships have country-specific allocations—check whether your country is eligible.

5. Program Level & Field of Study

• Undergraduate vs Graduate: Eligibility often differs by level. Undergraduate scholarships may emphasize academic records and extracurriculars; graduate scholarships may require research experience, publications, or professional experience.
• Field-Specific Scholarships: STEM, arts, education, public health, and other fields sometimes have dedicated scholarships with extra requirements (e.g., portfolio for arts, audition for performing arts).

6. Work Experience & Research

• Graduate Scholarships: Many master’s and PhD scholarships look for relevant work experience, internships, or research history. Include publications, conference presentations, or research proposals as applicable.
• Professional Scholarships: Some require letters from employers, CV with detailed job descriptions, or proof of leadership/impact in your field.

7. Age, Marital Status & Other Limits

• Age Limits: A few scholarships have age caps, particularly some government-funded youth programs.
• Marital/Dependent Status: Some awards consider family status or only fund single students—always read the fine print.

8. Essays, Personal Statements & Recommendations

• Quality Essays Matter: Scholarship committees place heavy weight on personal statements—clear goals, impact, and authenticity increase chances.
• Recommendation Letters: Provide letters from teachers, professors, or employers who can speak specifically about your achievements and potential.

9. Portfolio, Auditions & Tests for Specific Disciplines

• Arts & Design: Portfolio of work (images, links to online galleries, descriptions) is commonly required.
• Music & Performing Arts: Audition recordings or live auditions may be required.

10. Visa & Post-Award Conditions

• Visa Eligibility: Even after receiving a scholarship, you must qualify for an F-1 (student) visa. Financial proof requirements for visa may differ from scholarship rules.
• SAP & Renewal: Many scholarships require you to maintain a certain GPA or make progress in your program to continue funding (Satisfactory Academic Progress).

11. Disqualifiers & Red Flags

• Incomplete Applications: Missing documents are the top reason for rejection.
• Plagiarized Essays: Committees check for originality—copying sample essays is risky.
• Policy Violations: Criminal records or immigration violations can disqualify applicants for some awards.

How to Use the Eligibility Criteria

1) Read each scholarship page carefully — don’t assume requirements are the same across universities. 2) Create a spreadsheet with scholarships and their EC, deadlines, and required documents. 3) Start collecting documents early (transcripts, translations, bank statements, recommendation letters).

Short Application Checklist

• Official academic transcripts (certified & translated if needed)
• Copies of degree certificates
• English test score report or waiver
• Statement of Purpose / Personal Essay
• 2–3 Letters of Recommendation
• CV / Resume
• Financial documents (for need-based awards)
• Portfolio / audition recordings (if applicable)

Final Tips

• Always follow file format and naming instructions (PDF, JPG, max size).
• Keep copies of everything and track submission receipts.
• When in doubt, email the scholarship office for clarification — keep the email copy.
• Apply widely — even partial scholarships help reduce costs.

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