Scholarship
A financial award to students based on academic merit, athletic ability, or other criteria, which does not need to be repaid.
Scholarships are gift aid awards that reduce the cost of education without requiring repayment, distinguishing them from loans. Types include merit-based (academic achievement), need-based (financial circumstances), athletic, and identity-based (heritage, field of study, community involvement) scholarships. Sources range from universities themselves to private foundations, corporations, and government programs. Full-ride scholarships covering tuition, room, board, and expenses are rare and highly competitive, while partial scholarships covering a portion of costs are more common. International students should note that scholarship availability varies significantly by country and institution.
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