The United States offers a variety of computer and IT scholarships for international students, especially from developing countries.
But how do you actually get a scholarship to study Computer Science in the USA?
It might seem not very easy, but with the right information, your chances can increase dramatically.
Studying abroad is a dream for many Nigerian students, and the USA is one of the top destinations, especially for Computer Science scholarships.
There are growing numbers of fully-funded computer science scholarships for students on offer to study computer science at the world’s most prestigious institutions, most especially, in Europe.
As computer science technologies and systems increasingly dominate every area of modern life, graduates in this field are likely to be in higher demand.
Let’s break it down.
Understanding the Types of Scholarships Available to Nigerian Students in the USA
The first step in securing a Computer Science scholarship in the USA is knowing what types of scholarships for Nigerian students are available.
Broadly, scholarships can be categorized into merit-based, need-based, and specialized scholarships.
1. Merit-based scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence. If you’ve got top-notch grades and test scores, you’ll stand out in this category.
2. Need-based scholarships are offered to students who demonstrate financial need. These can be a lifesaver for Nigerian students from less privileged backgrounds.
3. Specialized scholarships might be aimed at specific fields like Computer Science or offered to students from regions like Africa. These scholarships for international students may also focus on promoting diversity in the tech industry.
How to Research and Find Your Computer Science Scholarship Opportunities in the USA
Now that you know the types of scholarships available, it’s time to start researching. Start by looking for universities in the USA that offer Computer Science scholarships for international students.
Some great places to look include:
1. University websites:
Many institutions like Stanford, MIT, and the University of California offer Computer Science scholarships for Nigerian students.
2. Scholarship databases:
Websites like Fastweb and Schooldoings.com allow you to filter scholarships based on your background and intended field of study.
3. Government programs:
Both the US and Nigerian governments offer scholarships to help students study abroad. The Fulbright Program, for instance, is a popular option for Nigerian students studying abroad.
How to Apply for These Fully-funded Scholarships for Nigerian students to study Computer Science in the USA
Once you’ve found scholarships for Nigerian students to study Computer Science in the USA, it’s important to pay attention to the application process.
Each scholarship will have its requirements, but here are some general steps:
Step 1. Prepare your documents:
Most scholarship applications will require transcripts, proof of financial need, and recommendation letters. Make sure you gather these early.
Step 2. Write a compelling essay:
Your personal statement or essay is often the most critical part of the application. It’s your chance to show why you deserve the scholarship.
Focus on your passion for Computer Science, your goals, and how studying in the USA will help you contribute to the field.
Step 3. Meet the deadlines:
Scholarship deadlines are strict. Keep track of when applications are due and submit everything on time.
Fully funded Scholarships Specifically for Nigerian Students to study Computer Science in the USA
If you’re a Nigerian student looking to study Computer Science in the USA, you’re in luck. Several scholarships are specifically geared toward helping Nigerian students.
For instance:
1. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program: (Apply Here)
This program offers fully-funded scholarships for African students, including Nigerians, to study at partner universities in the USA.
Eligibility Requirements
1. Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Degree:
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- Candidates must be 29 years old or under at the time of application.
2. Graduate (Master’s) Degree:
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- Candidates must be 35 years old or under at the time of application.
Additional Eligibility Criteria
- Institution-specific requirements: Each university may have its own eligibility criteria, so applicants must carefully review the application requirements for the specific institution they wish to apply to.
2. AAUW International Fellowships: (Apply Here)
This program supports women from developing countries, including Nigeria, in pursuing graduate studies in the USA.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
1. Gender Requirement:
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- Identify as a woman.
2. Educational Level:
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- Be pursuing their first master’s, professional, or academic doctorate degree.
- Examples of master’s and professional degrees include: J.D., M.F.A., L.L.M., M.Arch., M.D., D.D.S.
- Examples of academic doctorate degrees include: Ph.D., Ed.D.
3. Academic Qualification:
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- Hold an academic degree equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree (earned in the U.S. or abroad).
- Must have a minimum GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale.
4. Study Location:
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- Pursue their study on a full-time basis at a U.S. Department of Education-accredited institution.
- Reside in the country of their studies during the fellowship period.
5. Membership (for studying outside the U.S.):
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- If intending to study in a country other than their own or the U.S., must be a member of Graduate Women International.
- Foreign branches of U.S. institutions are considered outside the U.S.
6. Postdoctoral Studies:
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- Applicants interested in postdoctoral studies should consider AAUW’s International Postdoctoral Research Fellowships.
3. TechWomen Scholarship Program: (Apply Here)
This initiative promotes the participation of African women in STEM fields, including Computer Science.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
STEM Experience:
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- Minimum of two years of full-time professional experience in a STEM field (science, technology, engineering, or math).
- Internships or unpaid work do not count towards this experience.
Education:
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- Must have at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
Language Proficiency:
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- Must be proficient in English (written and spoken).
Citizenship:
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- Albania, Algeria, Cameroon, Egypt, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestinian Territories, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tajikistan, Tunisia, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Zimbabwe.
Visa Eligibility:
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- Must be eligible for a U.S. J-1 exchange visitor visa.
- Must not have applied for an immigrant visa to the U.S. in the past five years (excluding the Diversity Immigrant Visa lottery).
- Must not hold U.S. citizenship or be a legal permanent resident of the U.S.
Preferred Criteria (Special Consideration)
1. Location & Displacement: Preference for those living and working in a TechWomen program country at the time of application and participation. Displaced applicants may receive special consideration.
2. Leadership & Community Engagement: Must demonstrate being an emerging leader in a professional track (via work, volunteerism, or community activities).
Preference for those with a record of voluntary/public service in their communities.
3. Commitment to Home Country: Must show commitment to return home to share knowledge and mentor women and youth.
4. U.S. Experience: Preference for those with limited or no prior experience in the U.S.
5. Entrepreneurial & Innovative: Preference for candidates with a proven record of entrepreneurship and commitment to innovation.
6. Mentorship & Collaboration: Willingness to participate in exchange programs, accept mentoring, and develop new partnerships.
How to Increase Your Chances of Securing Fully-funded Computer Science Scholarships
Getting a scholarship to study Computer Science in the USA can be competitive, but there are ways to increase your chances:
1. Focus on leadership and extracurricular activities:
Scholarships are not just about grades. Many programs look for students who have shown leadership in their communities or have been involved in tech-related extracurriculars.
2. Highlight your Computer Science projects:
If you’ve worked on any tech projects, either in school or, in your free time, make sure to showcase them in your application. This can set you apart from other candidates.
Also, remember, Nigerians have a 15% overchance probability for many scholarships in the US, especially in Computer Science. This means your chances are higher than you might think.
Don’t Give Up
Applying for scholarships takes time and effort, but the rewards can be life-changing. Many students get discouraged after one rejection, but persistence is key. If one scholarship doesn’t work out, another one might.
Remember to apply to as many scholarships for Nigerian students as you qualify for to improve your chances of securing funding.
Keep refining your application, and don’t hesitate to reach out to university advisors or alumni for guidance.
Final Tips for Securing a Scholarship to Study in the US
1. Network with others who have succeeded:
Talk to Nigerian students who have already secured scholarships in the USA. They can provide valuable insights and tips.
2. Stay organized:
Use spreadsheets or apps to keep track of scholarship deadlines, required documents, and progress.
3. Practice interviews:
Some scholarships may require interviews. Prepare by practicing common questions and showcasing your passion for Computer Science.
CONCLUSION
By following these steps, you’ll significantly improve your chances of getting a scholarship to study Computer Science in the USA. It’s not just a dream, it’s a realistic goal with the right preparation and determination.
Good luck, and never stop pursuing your education!
