International students
coming to the United States to attend dental school should always check with
the school financial aid office (FAO) regarding financial aid opportunities.
While you must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident to qualify for federal
financial aid, there may be other opportunities for financial assistance.
Check out eduPASS for
information on financial aid for international students, including
scholarships, loans, helpful organizations and the process for applying for aid as an international student.
Loans for International Students
You may be eligible
for a private loan for dental school, though you can expect your lender to
require a creditworthy cosigner who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Be
sure to ask about the terms and conditions of any private loan you are
considering applying for, including interest rates and capitalization,
repayment terms and repayment options, and postponement options, especially if
you think you might consider an advanced dental education program after dental
school.
Scholarships for International Students
Your school may
designate funds for international students, including DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals), so check with your
school’s FAO. These scholarships may be based on merit or academic interest. In
addition, the cultural department or education minister’s office at your
embassy may be able to offer assistance.