Whether you're going from Los Angeles to London or Belfast to Bangkok, it can be a challenge to find out about international financial aid. But study abroad scholarships are available worldwide - you just have to know where to look.

Applying for Study Abroad Scholarships
The first place to look for study abroad scholarships is the school you are planning to attend. Depending on where you're from and where you're planning to study, you may be eligible for scholarships earmarked for students from your home country. Some institutional scholarships are set apart for students enrolling in specific departmental degree programs, such as a master's program in digital media. Some schools even offer scholarships for exchange students.

Eligibility for study abroad scholarships may be determined by your grade point average, major, and full-time student status. Some scholarships require demonstrated financial need. Other institutional scholarships require an entrance exam.

Study abroad scholarships are limited, so apply as early as possible to be considered for one of these coveted awards. Scholarships may be good for study at any of the university's branch campuses. Though scholarships and fellowships are considered "free money," you may be required to give something back to the college in the form of campus or community service. Check with your school to determine all requirements for study abroad scholarships.

Study Abroad Tuition Waivers
A tuition waiver is one way that colleges and universities provide students with study abroad financial aid.  Tuition waivers provide a tuition discount to qualified students, either as a percentage of the total tuition amount or a predetermined figure. Awards may be good for one semester or even for a full degree program at a particular college or university. A tuition waiver must be used to pay for tuition. A general scholarship, on the other hand, may also be applied to other education expenses, such as room and board, books, and other student fees.

Some schools offer tuition waivers for students whose employer is willing to guarantee payment of a portion of tuition. And if your parents still claim you as a dependent, don't forget to ask about scholarship opportunities available through their employer.

Other Sources of Study Abroad Financial Aid
Study abroad financial aid may also be available through local or national government. Government scholarships may only permit you to study in specific countries and in specific institutions within those countries. Be sure to learn all the requirements before you choose your school.

Private corporations, foundations, and civic groups may be additional sources of study abroad financial aid. Check out ethnic, religious, and service organizations as well as private organizations and associations related to your area of study or your destination. If you belong to any professional organizations, you may be eligible for a variety of study abroad tuition discounts.

Study abroad tuition discounts may also be available through private organizations that operate university-level study abroad programs. And if you have had previous involvement with an intercultural program through a private organization, you may be eligible for a tuition discount through a university/organization partnership.

No matter where you go, international financial aid is available - you just have to know where to look.