Portland State University International Student Retention Scholarships
Are you an international student looking to pursue higher education in the United States and become part of a vibrant campus community? Portland State University (PSU) offers the International Student Retention Scholarship (ISRS) for 2025 to financially support deserving students throughout their academic journey. This scholarship is a fantastic opportunity for international students already enrolled at PSU and committed to achieving their academic and professional goals. Read on to learn more about the eligibility requirements, scholarship details, and application process!
About Portland State University (PSU)
Portland State University (PSU) is a public research university located in the heart of Portland, Oregon. PSU is known for its strong emphasis on sustainability, community engagement, and innovation. It offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including business, engineering, urban planning, and social work. The campus is integrated with the city, providing students with unique opportunities for hands-on learning and internships with local businesses and organizations. PSU is also recognized for its vibrant and inclusive community, fostering an environment where students from all backgrounds can thrive.
Degree Levels
The Portland State University International Student Retention Scholarship for 2024/2025 is available for students pursuing Bachelor’s and Master’s level programs at Portland State University.
Available Subjects
All subjects offered at Portland State University are eligible for the International Student Retention Scholarship.
Benefits:
Award Details
- Scholarship Amount: The scholarship provides up to $1,500 per term, not exceeding the recipient’s total tuition cost.
- Renew-ability: The award is renewable for a maximum of six (6) consecutive terms.
- Graduation: If you graduate during the scholarship period, it will cover your final term, provided it falls within the 6-term limit.
Important Notes
- Funding Availability: Scholarship continuation depends on securing funds each year. Awards are not guaranteed.
- Term Availability: Scholarships are awarded during Fall, Winter, and Spring terms only. Summer term awards are not available.
- Conflicting Awards: Students receiving International Cultural Service Program (ICSP) awards or Graduate/Teaching or Research Assistantships are ineligible for the International Student Retention Scholarship.
Maintaining Eligibility
- GPA Requirement: Recipients must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.75 (undergraduate) or 3.0 (graduate) throughout the scholarship period.
- Course Load Requirement: Full-time enrollment is mandatory unless authorized for a reduced course load by an international student advisor in the Office of International Student and Scholar Services.
- Undergraduate: 12 credits per term
- Graduate: 9 credits per term
- Extenuating Circumstances: If you encounter situations affecting your enrollment status, notify the scholarship coordinator immediately.
Eligible Nationalities:
This scholarship is open to international students of all nationalities except US citizens.
Eligibility Criteria:
General Requirements
- Enrollment: Must be enrolled as an undergraduate (sophomore standing or higher), post-baccalaureate, or graduate student at Portland State University (PSU).
- Term Requirement: Must have completed at least one term (for undergraduate transfer students) or three terms (for all others) at PSU.
- Minimum GPA:
- Undergraduate: Maintain a GPA of 2.75
- Graduate: Maintain a GPA of 3.00
- Degree Goals: Must have clearly defined degree goals and demonstrate satisfactory progress towards completing your program.
Additional Considerations
- Co-enrollment: Co-enrollment at another USCIS-approved institution is allowed.
- English Language Proficiency: Students with English as a Second Language (ESL) restrictions are ineligible until meeting English Language Proficiency Requirements. Pathway students can apply after completing a term with all PSU academic/major courses.
Ineligible Applicants
- U.S. citizens, resident aliens, or anyone eligible for U.S. Federal Financial Aid.
- Students paying in-state tuition.
- Recipients of other fee remission awards (including graduate assistantships, ICSP, and some Employment Authorization Documents).
Application Procedure:
To apply for the Portland State University International Student Retention Scholarship, please follow the outlined procedure:
Submitting Your Application
- Application Method: Submit your application electronically through WorldLink.
- Required Application Materials:
- Completed Online Application Form: Ensure all sections of the online form are filled out accurately.
- Personal Statement Essay (2-page maximum, double-spaced):
- Briefly introduce yourself and your background.
- Discuss your academic and professional goals. Explain how a degree from Portland State University (PSU) will equip you to achieve these goals.
- Describe your financial situation and need for support. Include your family’s annual income (excluding bank statements).
- Two Letters of Recommendation: Submit two recommendation letters dated within the last 6 months from instructors or academic advisors who can speak to your academic abilities and potential.
Application Deadlines
- Fall Term: Applications must be submitted by July 15, 2024.
- Winter Term: Applications must be submitted by October 15, 2024.
- Spring Term: Applications must be submitted by February 15, 2025.
Please Note: Deadlines are strictly enforced. Applications received after the deadline for a specific term will be considered for the following term.
