Opportunity Grant Program

The US Department of State is pleased to announce the Opportunity Grant, designed to support the application process to US higher education institutions for students who are highly qualified but are unable to cover the expense of applying.  The Grant provides funds to cover the costs faced by talented but financially disadvantaged international students who are not eligible for or funded by other US Government-sponsored exchange programs.  Students must apply to accredited institutions independently (at the graduate or undergraduate level) and are responsible for the entire process.   

What Can the Grant Pay For?

• Testing fees, including additional score reports, for TOEFL, SAT, GRE and other specialized tests required by U.S. institutions.
• Round-trip transportation and, if necessary, overnight accommodation and meals at testing sites located far from the student's home.
• Application fees for U.S. institutions to which the student is applying.
• International courier fees to ensure the student's application package reaches U.S. institutions.
• Costs of translations and certifications of the student's official documents and records.
• Cost of international telephone or Internet communications with receiving institution for the purpose an admissions interview or to finalize details.
• Costs relating to applying for appropriate U.S. visa.
• Round-trip transportation to a U.S. Embassy or Consulate and, if necessary, overnight accommodation and meals.
• Transportation to the U.S. to the institution where student will begin studies.
• Advanced English lessons for specialized uses to enhance student's competitiveness in his/her academic field (i.e. technical English, scientific English, business English, etc.)
• A one-time settling-in allowance.
• Limited financial aid to supplement assistance offered by an accredited U.S. institution of higher learning when the offer falls short of meeting the student's needs.

How to Apply

There are no complicated forms or lengthy procedures.  Students who wish to apply should simply contact an adviser at the nearest EducationUSA advising center for details. 

Remember, Opportunity Grant is here to help you take the next step toward an American higher education.  You may apply early in the process of applying to go to the U.S., for help with testing fees, or you may apply after acceptance at a school in the United States, for limited financial aid funds to help pay for your studies. This program is only open to students who will not receive a Fulbright or other U.S. Government-sponsored grant.