5-minute guide to International MS loan options

5-minute guide to International MS loan options

5-minute guide to International MS loan options
Bijay Poudel

An international MS loan can help international students fund their graduate studies, specifically a Master of Science (MS) program, in a foreign country. 

This type of loan is designed for students who may need access to traditional funding options, such as federal financial aid, scholarships, or grants, because they are not citizens or permanent residents of the country where they want to study.

Private lenders, such as banks or financial institutions, typically provide international MS loans. They usually require a co-signer who is a citizen or permanent resident of the country where the student wants to study. The co-signer makes the loan payments if the student cannot.

Interest rates on international MS loans can vary depending on the lender and the borrower's credit history. It is essential for students to carefully research their options and compare interest rates and repayment terms before selecting a loan.

Some popular lenders for international MS loans include Prodigy Finance, MPower Financing, and Sallie Mae. It is also recommended that students speak with their university's financial aid office or an education counsellor to explore other funding options and determine the best course of action for their particular situation.

A 5-minute guide to International MS loan options

Here is a quick 5-minute guide to international MS loan options:

Understand your eligibility

As an international student, you may not be eligible for federal loans in the country you plan to study. Check with the financial aid office of your chosen university for more information on your eligibility for various loan options.

Check with your home country's government

Some countries offer loans or scholarships to citizens who wish to study abroad. You may be eligible for such programs, and they may offer more favourable terms and interest rates than other options.

Research private lenders

Several private lenders offer international MS loans to students. Examples of such lenders include Prodigy Finance, MPower Financing, and Sallie Mae. These lenders usually require a co-signer who is a citizen or permanent resident of the country where you plan to study. Interest rates and repayment terms can vary, so it is essential to compare and carefully evaluate the duration of each lender.

Consider scholarships and grants

Scholarships and grants are an excellent way to fund your graduate studies without worrying about repayment. Look for funding opportunities from your chosen university and external sources such as government organisations, private foundations, and corporations.

Be aware of repayment terms

Repayment of international MS loans typically starts after you graduate, and you must make monthly payments. Be sure to understand the repayment terms and calculate how much you will need to pay each month to ensure you can afford the loan.

International MS loans can be a great way to fund your graduate studies abroad, but it is essential to research and evaluate your options before making a decision. 

Check with your university's financial aid office and explore scholarships, grants, and government programs before considering private lenders. If you decide to take out a loan, understand the repayment terms and calculate how much you will need to pay each month.

Do's and don'ts to consider when exploring international MS loan options

Here are some do's and don'ts to consider when exploring international MS loan options:

Do's:

  • Do your research: Research the various loan options available to international students and compare interest rates and repayment terms from different lenders.
  • Consider all your funding options: Don't limit yourself to just loans. Explore scholarships, grants, and work-study programs available to you.
  • Do read the fine print: Before signing any loan agreement, make sure you understand the terms and conditions, including interest rates, fees, and repayment schedules.
  • Make a repayment plan: Plan how you will repay the loan after you graduate. Calculate how much you will need to pay each month, and be sure to factor in the interest rate and any fees.
  • Do seek guidance from your university's financial aid office: Your university can provide advice on loan options, scholarship opportunities, and other funding sources.

Don'ts:

  • Don't take on more debt than you can afford: Only borrow what you need and can afford to repay after you graduate.
  • Don't overlook scholarships and grants: Scholarships and donations can help reduce the amount you need to borrow and don't have to be repaid.
  • Don't rush into a decision: Take the time to research and compare different loan options, and don't feel pressured to make a decision immediately.
  • Don't ignore the terms and conditions: Read and understand the loan agreement before signing, including the interest rate, fees, and repayment schedule.
  • Don't assume you will be approved for a loan: Many lenders require a co-signer, and only some are eligible for a loan. Be sure to check your eligibility before applying.

In summary, research, explore your funding options, and plan for repayment. Only borrow what you can afford to repay, overlook scholarships and grants, rush into a decision, ignore the terms and conditions, or assume you will be approved for a loan. 

Seek guidance from your university's financial aid office and carefully evaluate your options before deciding.

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