Question:
Answer:
Yes, you absolutely can apply for scholarship opportunities to study in the United States, even while living in Gabon. Since you earned your baccalaureate in 2024, you're eligible to apply for undergraduate programs in the U.S. starting in the 2025 or 2026 academic year, depending on your preparation and the application timelines.
🎯 Fields of Study: Aviation or Architecture
Both aviation and architecture are offered in U.S. universities, though the scholarship options may vary:
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Aviation: Programs often lead to pilot training, aviation management, or aerospace studies. Some universities offer specific scholarships for aviation students, especially if they partner with aviation companies.
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Architecture: A popular major in many U.S. schools. Scholarships can be based on academic excellence, a design portfolio, or financial need.
🏫 Scholarship Opportunities You Can Explore
Here are types of scholarships you can apply for:
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University Scholarships: Many U.S. universities offer merit-based and need-based scholarships to international students. Some even cover full tuition and living expenses.
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Global Programs:
- Fulbright Foreign Student Program (for graduate studies, but worth keeping in mind later)
- UWC and Davis Scholarships (if you attended a UWC-affiliated school)
- Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (at partner universities)
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Institution-Specific Opportunities: Schools like Embry-Riddle (for aviation), MIT, or the University of Southern California (for architecture) often have strong financial aid programs for international students.
🌍 Living in Gabon — Is That a Barrier?
Not at all. U.S. universities welcome applicants from across Africa, including Gabon. In fact, being from an underrepresented region may help make your application stand out.
✅ Does Speaking English Help?
Yes, absolutely — and it's a big advantage.
- Most U.S. universities require proof of English proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS).
- If you're already comfortable speaking and writing in English, it will make the application process and your studies much easier.
- Strong English skills also make your scholarship application more competitive.
📌 What You Should Do Next
- Choose a Field: Decide whether you want to pursue aviation or architecture.
- Search for Programs: Look for U.S. universities that offer your chosen program and scholarships for international students.
- Prepare for Tests: Plan to take the TOEFL or IELTS (English proficiency) and possibly the SAT.
- Prepare Documents: Transcripts, recommendation letters, a strong personal statement, and (for architecture) a portfolio.
- Apply Early: Most scholarships and university applications open in August or September.
Would you like a sample timeline or a list of universities with strong programs in aviation or architecture?
I got my baccalaureate last year in 2024 and I would like to know if I can get scholarship opportunities to study in the United States in the fields of aviation, or architecture while living in Gabon? So I would like to know if knowing how to speak English could bring a plus?