Scholarships for international students still in high school

Answer:

You're very welcome! It's great that you're looking for scholarship opportunities as a high school student who is interested in studying abroad, even before university. There are indeed scholarships and programs available for high school students, including international transfer students, who want to experience studying abroad before committing to a full university program. Here are some options and programs that you might find helpful:

1. Exchange Programs (Short-Term Study Abroad)

Several organizations offer short-term exchange programs that allow high school students to study abroad for a semester or a year. Some of these programs also offer scholarships to help cover costs. These programs allow you to experience studying in another country and culture before university.

Popular Programs:

• YES Program (Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study): Offers fully funded scholarships for high school students from Kenya and other countries to study in the U.S. for one academic year. This is an exchange program, and students live with host families while attending high school.
• AIFS High School Study Abroad: Provides opportunities for high school students to study abroad in countries like Italy, France, Spain, and more. They offer some scholarships to help cover program fees.
• The Rotary Youth Exchange: The Rotary Club offers a youth exchange program that allows high school students to live and study in another country. Scholarships are often available, depending on the country and local Rotary clubs.

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2. Summer Programs Abroad

Many universities and organizations offer summer programs that give high school students the chance to take courses, participate in cultural activities, and explore university life in another country. Some of these programs offer scholarships to help cover costs.

Notable Programs:

• Pre-College Programs at U.S. Universities: Many U.S. universities (like Harvard, Stanford, and Princeton) offer summer programs for high school students. Some of these programs may offer partial or full scholarships, especially for students from developing countries.
• The United World Colleges (UWC): UWC provides scholarships for high school students to study at their campuses abroad. They aim to promote intercultural understanding, and their scholarship program is highly competitive.
• AIFS Study Abroad: AIFS offers high school students the opportunity to study abroad for a summer term in various countries. Scholarships are available.

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3. Specific Scholarships for Kenyan Students

There are several scholarships available specifically for Kenyan students who want to study abroad as high school students. These may cover tuition, travel costs, and living expenses.

Some options include:

• The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program: Though this is primarily for university students, the MasterCard Foundation also has programs that support high school students from Sub-Saharan Africa, including Kenya, in gaining access to educational opportunities abroad.
• The Kenya National Commission for UNESCO (KNATCOM): While mostly university-focused, sometimes KNATCOM offers opportunities for high school students to participate in international academic exchanges or programs abroad.
• Kenya High School Study Abroad Program: This is a Kenya-based initiative that sometimes partners with international schools to offer scholarships to Kenyan high school students wishing to study abroad for a short-term program.

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4. Internships and Volunteer Programs Abroad

Some volunteer and internship programs offer partial or full scholarships for high school students to gain international experience. These programs can be a great way to build global connections and learn about other cultures.

Opportunities include:

• Volunteer Abroad Programs: Organizations like Global Vision International (GVI) and Projects Abroad offer internships and volunteer opportunities abroad for high school students. Some of these programs may offer funding or scholarships, especially for students from developing countries like Kenya.
• International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ): Offers volunteer programs around the world, and some of them are designed for high school students. Scholarships or discounts may be available for Kenyan students.

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5. Research Scholarships with Specific Organizations

There are many foundations and organizations that offer scholarships to high school students for studying abroad, particularly from regions like Sub-Saharan Africa. Some options include:

• The Fulbright Program: Although the Fulbright program is mostly for graduate students, there are also opportunities for high school exchange students through their various international initiatives.
• The African Scholars Program: Some organizations, like the African American Institute, offer scholarships and exchange programs specifically for African students. Keep an eye out for opportunities that target Kenyan or African students specifically.
• The African Leadership Academy (ALA): This academy provides scholarships to African students, including those from Kenya, to study in South Africa and other international locations, often leading to university placements abroad.

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6. Research University-Specific Scholarships for High School Students

Some universities abroad offer scholarships for high school students who wish to attend preparatory programs or engage in early college experiences. These are usually non-degree programs but can offer valuable exposure to academic life abroad.

Examples include:

• Harvard Pre-College Program: Offers summer programs for high school students with financial aid or scholarships available for international students.
• Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes: This offers a summer program for high school students with a chance to study at Stanford. Scholarships may be available for students who need financial assistance.

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How to Apply for These Scholarships

1. Start Early: Scholarship deadlines can be long in advance, sometimes a year or more ahead of the intended study period. Keep track of application deadlines and be prepared well ahead of time.

2. Prepare Documents: You will generally need to submit the following documents:

   • Transcripts or grades
   • Letters of recommendation
   • Personal statement or essay explaining your interest in studying abroad and why you deserve the scholarship
   • Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable)
   • Application forms

3. Research and Apply: Visit scholarship websites, universities, and exchange programs to find more specific opportunities. Apply to as many as you can, especially if you are unsure about eligibility or competition.

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Conclusion

As a high school student in Kenya, there are plenty of opportunities for you to study abroad and gain valuable international experience. Many exchange programs, summer study opportunities, and scholarships exist for students like you who want to explore education in another country before university. The key is to start your research early, stay organized, and apply to multiple programs to increase your chances of receiving funding.

If you need more help researching specific programs or applying to scholarships, feel free to reach out!