How to get at least 50% scholarship in the USA for MS in Computer Science in a dream college. My CGPA is 8.6. When to apply for Jan 2023?

Question

Neha Shah · Accepted Answer

I understand that finances play a huge role in the studying abroad process. The tuition fee for studying in universities abroad is quite a lot as compared to the universities in India. Things like accommodation, healthcare, groceries etc add upto the already enormous expense. So scholarships come as a saviour to any study abroad aspirant since they help waive off some of the burden of expenses. 
While you can not get a fully-funded scholarship, you can look for scholarships that cover most part of your expenses. I have created a list of scholarships that you can look into: 1. Fulbright ScholarshipsThese scholarships are only offered for masters and PhD studies. Fulbright Foreign Student Program covers full tuition fee, a living stipend, full accommodation fee, airfare and health insurance.
2.  Stanford University ScholarshipsThis scholarship is offered for Masters and Ph.D studies. This scholarship is offering full tuition fees, traveling allowance, Living allowance and academic expenses.
3. Yale University Scholarships This scholarship is offered for undergraduate, masters and PhD. Yale Scholarship can vary from a few hundred dollars to over $70,000 per year; the average Yale need-based scholarship is over $50,000.
4. AAUW International Fellowship Program This scholarship is offered by The American Association of University Women, USA. International students from all world countries are eligible to apply. This scholarship is only available for graduate and post-graduate studies in any subject offered by the university. AAUW Fellowship Program covers $18,000 to $30,000 per year, contingent upon meeting academic standards for renewal.

5. ACI Foundation ScholarshipThis scholarship is offered for undergraduate, masters, PhD and Postdoctoral studies. This scholarship provides $10,000 &ndash; $15,000 US educational stipend for tuition, residence, books, and materials.

All of these scholarships have specific profile requirements and so you need to be double sure if your profile matches their requirements. I know it can be a bit difficult to check the requirement for each scholarship separately. I suggest you to directly get in touch with Study Abroad Experts for FREE here. They will not just help you with all the information about scholarships but also assist you in the complete application process. 
Let me know if this helps and if you want any more information from my end

Nitin Chauhan · Answer

To secure at least a 50% scholarship for an MS in Computer Science in the USA, it's important to build a strong application beyond just a good CGPA of 8.6. 
Key components include a compelling Statement of Purpose (SOP), some quality Letters of Recommendation (LORs), and a solid GRE score (preferably above 320). 
Highlighting significant projects, internships, or research experience (if any) can also set you apart. 
For scholarship considerations, apply early, ideally during the priority deadlines for Fall intake. Most universities have these deadlines between September and December for the following Fall. 
Since we are late at replying, hope you can focus now on Fall 2024 (if not already done), giving time to strengthen your profile, perhaps by gaining additional work or research experience to improve scholarship chances. Good luck!

Neema Nigam · Answer

To have the best chance of getting at least a 50% scholarship for an MS in Computer Science in your dream college in the USA with a CGPA of 8.6, you should start your application process early and focus on building a strong application. 
Here are some key steps to follow:
1. Research scholarships:
Begin by researching scholarships offered by your dream college, as well as external scholarships that you may be eligible for. Look for scholarships specifically for international students, students from your country, or students studying computer science.
Consider the eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and award amounts for each scholarship you're interested in.
2. Build a strong application:
- Maintain a strong academic record throughout your undergraduate studies. A high CGPA is a significant advantage for scholarship applications.
- Prepare for and take the GRE or GMAT exams. Aim for a high score to demonstrate your quantitative and analytical skills.
- Ask professors or employers who know you well to write strong letters of recommendation. Choose recommenders who can highlight your academic achievements, research experience, and personal qualities.
- Craft a compelling statement of purpose that clearly articulates your academic goals, research interests, and reasons for pursuing an MS in Computer Science at your dream college.
- Gain relevant research experience through internships, undergraduate research projects, or coursework. 
- Participate in extracurricular activities or community service to demonstrate your well-roundedness and leadership skills.
3. When to apply:
For January admission (regardless of the year), you should ideally start applying in the fall of previous year. For Jan 2023, apply in the fall of 2022, for example. 
This will give you ample time to prepare your application materials and meet the deadlines for scholarships and admissions.
Some scholarships may have earlier deadlines, so be sure to check the specific requirements for each scholarship you're interested in.