George Mason University Scholarships and Financial Aid: Funding Your Education

George Mason University (GMU) is the largest public university in Virginia, USA, and is known for its strong STEM programs and innovative curriculum. GMU welcomes over 3,900 international students every year and helps thousands of them manage their finances by offering scholarships that cover up to 50% of their tuition costs. In this guide, we’ll explore the available George Mason University Scholarships, how you can apply and other smart ways to fund your education at GMU.

Types of George Mason University Scholarships

George Mason University fees are usually higher for international students, but its various scholarships and grants help students reduce their tuition costs along with other smaller expenses.

Merit-Based Scholarships

• If you are an undergraduate student with an excellent academic record, you will be automatically considered for merit-based George Mason University Scholarships.
• Once you are qualified, you can see the scholarship details mentioned in your acceptance letter.
• The scholarship amount depends on your qualifications and the course you choose, ranging from $1,000 to $20,000 per year.
• This scholarship is renewable as long as you maintain a strong academic performance.

#YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarship

• This is one of the exclusive George Mason University Scholarships offered only to first-year international students.
• The scholarship amount can cover up to 50% of your George Mason University Fee.
• You can also renew your scholarship for a second year by demonstrating good academic performance.
• To be considered, you need to select the #YouAreWelcomeHere scholarship option while applying through the Common App or the GMU website.

Department-specific Scholarships

Each department at George Mason University offers scholarships for eligible students.

For example:

• The College of Engineering and Computing has the “FreBon International Corporation Endowed Scholarship” for students in engineering programs.
• The College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) awards scholarships to students with incredible talent.
• Nursing students can apply for the Carolyn Atkinson Nursing Endowed Scholarship.

Make sure to check your department’s webpage to find out which scholarships you might qualify for.

$1,000 Global Gateway Scholarship

• This $1,000 scholarship is available to all students, whether you are from the USA, India, or any other country.
• The scholarship amount will be automatically added to your spring tuition bill after you complete the FAFSA form.
• Even though US federal aid is not available for international students, you still need to submit a FAFSA form to be eligible for George Mason University Scholarships like this one.
• You will receive $1000 before your spring semester starts, but if you have already paid your George Mason University Fee, you can use this money to get study materials or cover your other living costs.

Grants and Fellowships

Other than George Mason University Scholarships, you can also look for various grants and fellowships provided. You can contact the Office of Fellowships to learn about available opportunities and get guidance on applying for programs like:

• National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program
• Boren Fellowships
• Critical Language Scholarships
• Bryce Harlow Fellowship

How to Apply for George Mason University Scholarships

Apply for Admission

• Start by applying to GMU through the university’s official website or Common App.
• While filling out your application, do not forget to choose the option that you need, the #YouAreWelcomeHere scholarship.

Go to the Scholarship Application

• Once you are admitted, you will get access to login to GMU Academic Works Portal.
• Here, you can monitor your scholarship application process and upload other required details.

Submit Documents

• You need to submit an essay and a short video where you talk about your leadership experience, such as leading a group project, organizing an event, or volunteering at an NGO.
• You need to submit an updated resume along with other required documents.

Submit Application

• Late submissions or incorrect documents often get disqualified, so make sure you meet deadlines and double-check all the documents before submitting.
• Submit your scholarship application through the GMU Academic Works Portal.

Other Options & Tips to Manage Costs at GMU

Work On-Campus

• You can find work-study opportunities on the GMU campus in roles such as: 
  • Library Assistant
  • Research Assistant
  • Teaching Assistant
  • Office Assistant
• These on-campus work-study programs not only help you earn money while studying, but they also help you learn other necessary skills like communication, leadership, and teamwork to excel in your future job.
• You can also get internship experience in your field of study through CPT programs.

Get Education Loans

Scholarships can reduce some costs, but they alone cannot cover all the expenses. So, taking an education loan is important for students who want to study abroad.

• International students can take loans from private lenders like Prodigy Finance and MPower Financing.
• These options do not require a US co-signer.
• There are many Indian banks, like SBI, HDFC, and Bob, which offer education loans that can fund your entire tuition and living costs with reasonable interest rates.

Find housing smartly

• George Mason University Fee for on-campus housing costs between $12,350 and $16,210, depending on the type of room you choose.
• To save money, consider living with roommates. You can split your rent and even share groceries with them. It will make your living cost more affordable and give you a chance to make good friends in a foreign country.

Apply for External Scholarships

Don’t rely on on-campus funding alone; look for external scholarships and apply to those as well. Here are some popular options:

Education Future International Scholarship

It is best for Indian students who have impressive academic records.

Higher Education Scholarship Test for Indian Students (HEST)

Students from India who need funds to study abroad take this test to secure a huge amount.

Fulbright Foreign Student Program

This scholarship has high competition, but it offers full funding for study in the USA.

Final Tips

• Do not ignore scholarships that cover minor expenses like books and travel costs.
• Put extra care into drafting your resume and videos, and get it approved by an expert.
• Talk to your university advisors, department faculty, and alumni to know about hidden opportunities.
• Follow student communities and GMU official platforms to be updated.

Final Thoughts

Combine George Mason University scholarships and fellowships with part-time jobs, external scholarships, and smart budgeting. This makes managing your expenses much more doable than it might seem at first. So start early, stay updated, and don’t miss out on the opportunities waiting for you.

Need Personalized Guidance?

If you’re finding it hard to explore all the financial aid options or feeling confused, don’t worry – HelloUni is here to help. Our expert team can guide you in securing the best scholarships and even connect you directly with a country representative for a detailed discussion. Make your study abroad funding simple with HelloUni.

FAQs