Portland State University (PSU) is proud to offer the International Student Retention Scholarship (ISRS) 2025 to support deserving international students pursuing higher education in Oregon. Funded by the State of Oregon, this scholarship aims to enhance the diversity of PSU’s campus and provide financial assistance to students from around the world.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand the benefits, eligibility requirements, application method, and deadlines for this scholarship opportunity.
Benefits
The International Student Retention Scholarship provides recipients with a partial tuition scholarship of $1,500 per term, or the total amount of tuition, whichever is less. The scholarship is awarded for a maximum of six consecutive terms, covering Fall, Winter, and Spring terms only. This financial support can significantly reduce the burden of tuition fees, allowing students to focus on their academic and professional goals.
Eligibility
To be eligible for the ISRS, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Undergraduate Students: Must have at least sophomore standing, completed at least three terms at PSU, and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.75.
- Undergraduate Transfer Students: Must have at least sophomore standing, completed at least one term at PSU, and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.75.
- Post-Baccalaureate and Graduate Students: Must have completed at least one term at PSU and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.00.
- Co-Enrolled Students: Those co-enrolled at another USCIS-approved institution are also eligible.
- Applicants must have clearly defined degree goals and demonstrate satisfactory progress toward their degree.
- Exclusions: U.S. citizens, resident aliens, individuals eligible for U.S. Federal Financial Aid, those paying in-state tuition, recipients of other fee remission awards, and those with Employment Authorization Documents (except through Economic Hardship) are not eligible.
Application Method
Applications are submitted through WorldLink (https://worldlink.intl.pdx.edu/). The application process involves several steps:
- Online Application Form as per this call letter
- Essay: Submit a maximum two-page double-spaced essay covering:
- Personal background.
- Academic and professional goals and how a degree from PSU will help achieve them.
- Financial support statement, including your family’s yearly income and financial need circumstances.
- Letters of Recommendation: Provide two letters or forms of recommendation from instructors or academic advisors.
Application Deadlines
Applications are accepted for Fall, Winter, and Spring terms with strict deadlines:
- Fall Term: July 15, 2024
- Winter Term: October 15, 2024
- Spring Term: February 15, 2025.
