Funding Your Education
There are many types and ways to fund your education in the United States. You will find several options below. Click each of them to learn more.
The priority deadline to apply for any financial assistance is March 31. Awards are typically dispersed in the fall (August) of the following year.
Scholarships & Grants
A scholarship or grant is a gift that do not need to be repaid. Each award has a variety of requirements. All UNC students may apply for these.
Types of Scholarships and Grants
- UNC Scholarships: complete the online application to be considered for all UNC Scholarships and Grants. Be sure to search for “international” scholarships as well.
- OGE Scholarships
Assistantships
Assistantships are a way for graduate students (Master's or Doctoral students) to work for UNC. In return your tuition and fees may be reduced. You may also be eligible to receive a stipend.
Types of Assistantships
- Graduate Assistants
- Teaching Assistants
- Research Assistants
Employment
F-1 and J-1 international students are eligible for employment on-, and in some cases, off- campus. Students are limited in the hours and type of employment and special permission is always required to work off campus.
Loans
A loan is money that is borrowed and must be repaid. Loans have interest which can vary depending on the type. Most loans originating in the U.S. require an American to co-sign. Loans may not be available to all students.
NAFSA Association of International Educators provides some helpful financial planning resources for international students on their website. It is also worth reaching out to your Ministry or Department of Higher Education to see what assistance may be available from your home country.
Making Payments
University of Northern Colorado has partnered with Flywire to simplify international payments. With Flywire, you can pay online from banks and countries around the world, usually in your home currency. Using Flywire allows payments from your home country (and in most cases in your home currency), offers several payment types (including bank transfer, credit cards, and e-payments), avoids unnecessary bank fees and provides competitive exchange rates, as well as customer support available 24 hours a day in many languages. Making your payment through Flywire also makes refunds, like your housing deposit, easier after you depart the United States.
Tuition, fees, housing, meal plans and insurance are charged on a semester-by-semester basis, due on the 10th class day of each semester. You can pay your student bill in full, or sign up for a monthly payment plan (Bear Pay). For more information please contact the Bursar’s office.
