Resources for Chinese students
Federal financial aid
Your first step when looking for financial aid should be to fill out the FAFSA. Once you receive your EFC, you’ll get an idea of whether you qualify for the Pell Grant, and the federal loans you’ll qualify for. Colleges also use this, along with the CSS Profile, to determine your need-based aid eligibility. Completing this earlier rather than later gives you a better picture of how much you’ll need to earn in scholarships to make your education affordable.
Student loans
The majority of students will be unable to fund their education with only out-of-pocket funds, grants, and scholarships. If this describes your situation, you’ll want to look into some student loan opportunities. For the most part, federal loans are the most advantageous. So, you’ll want to exhaust as much of those as you can before you dip into private loans. Our ultimate student loan guide can help coach you through the entire process. Also see: How much student loan debt is too much?
Scholarship search tool
Our scholarship search tool is another great resource to help find more scholarships. We custom-match you with vetted scholarships, which auto-update as opportunities close and new ones open. It’s entirely free, and the sign-up process is easy. To find scholarships that match all of your interests and demographics, try it today.
Chinese student clubs
Many colleges are home to Chinese or Asian student clubs. These can be a great resource and source of community for students at the school. They can also be useful for prospective students; you can reach out to a prospective school’s Chinese club and hear more about the school and what it’s like to go there as a student of Chinese descent. Columbia University has a Chinese club which can serve as an example of what these organizations usually entail. To find similar institutions at the schools you’re considering, try searching their website, or reach out to a contact at the school. Also see: Top scholarships for Asian students
Frequently asked questions about scholarships for Chinese students
Do my parents need to be from China to get a scholarship for Chinese students?
Typically, no! Most of these scholarships only require Chinese or Asian heritage. You may have roots in the United States which go back several generations, but you will still be eligible. For example, the APIA Scholarship Program only requires that applicants be of Asian or Pacific Islander heritage. However, it’s important to note that every scholarship has its own rules. Some scholarships may be specifically for first or second-generation Chinese immigrants. So, make sure to read the terms of any scholarship carefully before deciding to apply. This can save you time as it ensures that you don’t put your energy into a scholarship that you can’t earn.
Do I have to have full Chinese ancestry to earn scholarships for Chinese students?
No! Many scholarships for Chinese students don’t have a specific requirement for the percentage of your heritage that is Chinese. You can qualify whether both your parents are of Chinese heritage, or even if you are only one quarter or one eighth Chinese. If you are ever unsure of a scholarship’s requirements, you can reach out directly to them. Although they generally don’t have these requirements, it’s always worth a check.
Can Chinese international students earn scholarships?
While this scholarship list is mostly focused on Chinese students who are American citizens, there are also scholarships out there for Chinese citizens looking to study in the United States. You can check out the Chinese Scholarship Council as a great starting point. The Chinese government distributes many grants for Chinese students to study abroad, including in the United States.
Can I earn scholarships to study in China?
Yes, you can! In addition to government scholarships, many individual schools in China offer scholarships to international students. For example, Xiamen University has some generous partial-ride and full-ride scholarships for students from out of the country. If you’re hoping to study in China, you’ll want to brush up on your Mandarin and explore options including government scholarships, private scholarships, and scholarships through schools. Also see: Top scholarships for minority students
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