Studying In the USA
We talk a lot about scholarships on our website. But what does this word mean anyway? And what does it mean to you? We have compiled all the information for you here:
What are scholarships?
Scholarships are awarded directly by the American universities and they are financial subsidies, which allow you to finance your studies despite the high tuition fees. The scholarships are awarded for different reasons: because of your academic or athletic ability. Differing from a loan, you do not have to pay the money back.
What exactly do I get out of a scholarship?
A scholarship is generally valid for only one year. However, there is a verbal agreement that you receive the scholarship also over the full four years of your study. That is when it is not required to renew your application every year. The scholarship will not be renewed if one behaves unacceptably or stops showing up to practice. In the event of injury or weak performance, the financial support will not be reduced or canceled.
Why are the universities supporting athletes?
The sports teams are the most important marketing tool of any university, because the media and the American people show great interest in college sports. Consequently, hopefully more students will want to attend the university, paying the full tuition and follow the high level athletic teams. At a football game alone, there are sometimes up to 110,000 spectators at the stadium to watch!
When the university awards sports scholarships, they take over the following costs either partially or completely.
1. Study and living costs
This includes tuition, housing, and in many cases the cost of dining halls.
2. The athletic gear
All costs associated with the athlete’s training and competition will be taken care of.
3. Medical expenses
In general, we recommend having an international health insurance. All additional costs not paid by the insurance will be taken care of by the university. In addition, all universities have highly trained physiotherapists and doctors on site.
4. Special services
An increased amount of academic and psychological support is offered to athletes. Also, separate study areas in the libraries and computer rooms are available.
Where does the money for financial support come from?
In the US, universities have very high income, especially from the profit-making sports like football, basketball and baseball. Through ticket sales, the sale of promotional items such as shirts and accessories, and the allocation of the TV rights. TV rights can allow the universities to make billions of dollars every year. These funds are then used to finance other areas such as athletics, swimming, soccer, volleyball and field hockey.