The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Sonoma State University (SSU) require that international applicants demonstrate proof of financial support to meet all university and living expenses for one academic year before a Form I-20 or DS-2019 can be issued for the F-1 or J-1 visa. It is recommended that original financial documents are brought to the visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consular Office.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Scholarships
International Student Scholarship
Sonoma State University is thrilled to offer up to $5000 in a scholarship opportunity for new, international students!
As an international applicant applying for a bachelors or graduate degree program at Sonoma State University, the scholarship process is simple and strightforward. All international applicants offered admission with a 3.0 GPA or higher will automatically receive a scholarship award to help reduce the cost of tuition in your first year. The higher your GPA, the more money you will receive!
1. The President Lee International Scholars Award: $5,000 for F-1 visa, degree-seeking students admitted with a 3.60 GPA and above.
2. The International Student Provost or Dean's Award: $3,000 for F-1 visa, degree-seeking students admitted with a GPA of 3.26 to 3.59.
3. The International Student Merit Scholarship/Partner Scholarship: $2,000 for F-1 visa, degree-seeking students admitted with a GPA of 3.0 to 3.25.
Sonoma State University General Scholarship
Full-time degree-seeking international students are eligible to apply for university scholarships which are offered on an annual basis. For more information about this opportunity, please visit the website of the SSU Scholarship Office.
The International Education Exchange Council (our student club) offers a small scholarship to international student members who actively participate in club activities. For more information, check out the SSU Student Involvement website or email goglobal@sonoma.edu.
There are thousands of study abroad scholarships available to international students from organizations outside of SSU, like the Study California Scholarship. You can find many of these resources using a basic internet search, or by using one of these search engines:
- International Student
- Study in the USA
- Scholarship America
- Study.com's Complete Guide to Scholarships and Financial Aid for International Students
Financial Aid
International students on F-1 or J-1 visas are not eligible for U.S. federal or state financial aid.