international scholarships

The 10 Best Universities to Study Music for International Students

David1 Comment

The music industry attracts those who are confident in their skills and eager to develop them further. In addition to its universal accessibility, music is a powerful means of expression. It has no bounds and no perspective. Music has the power to affect our emotions, our vocabulary, and our ability to convey our thoughts and ideas to others. Those who are able to passionately pursue their professional interests have the best chance of succeeding in this field. This means that attending a reputed music school can help you land a wide range of jobs in the music business.

One should not study music if they are only exposed to that of one culture. Music, more than any other art genre, draws inspiration from a wide range of cultural practices.

If you are just beginning your search for a place to study music, this list of the top 10 music schools and institutes should give you with enough information to get started.

1. The Julliard School, New York

 The Julliard School is a school for the performing arts that was created in New York City in 1905 and is often regarded as the best of its kind in the world. Somewhere around 7% of applicants are accepted each year, making this school extremely selective. At both the undergraduate and graduate levels, Juilliard offers programs in music, dance, and acting. Vocal arts, Jazz studies, composition, historical performance, and conducting are just a few of the well-respected specializations offered by the music school.

Juilliard exemplifies its commitment to the rich diversity of its neighborhood by fostering an environment where all members of the community feel welcome, safe, and appreciated. While working toward this setting, we are cognizant of the need to not just evaluate the strides made within our own group, but also to confront the institutional systems of systemic injustice that form the basis of our field. If we want to create this environment, we need to take this step.

Although there are no strict requirements regarding coursework, GPA, or standardized test scores, it is preferred that applicants have a varied background and range of interests. However, in addition to talent, training, and the ability to perform well under pressure, they also demand excellent performance and musicality. Many successful performers with international reputations are among the many Julliard alumni. Keyboardist for the band Bon Jovi and a notable alum, David Bryan has made significant contributions to the music industry.

The music department provides its students with a first-rate learning environment, its teachers are among the best in the world, and their hard work will not go unrewarded if they put in the time and effort required. Moreover, if you are an instrumentalist looking for work in an orchestra, having the name Julliard on your résumé would undoubtedly help you get interviews. 

2. Berklee College of Music, Boston

Berklee College of Music is the largest independent college of contemporary music in the world, and it is a private, not-for-profit university. If you want to be a successful recording artist, Berklee College of Music is where you need to get your education.

The modern and contemporary music styles taught at Berklee include rock, hip-hop, salsa, reggae, heavy metal, bluegrass, and pop. Berklee also provides online learning opportunities, with courses that may be completed in as little as 12 weeks and cover a wide range of topics.

Berklee College of Music’s faculty is made up of seasoned professionals and award winners, and the school regularly holds talks and seminars co-taught by industry heavyweights. Also available at this company are modern performance spaces, a professional recording studio, and other state-of-the-art technological comforts. More than 95 different nations are represented among the student body, creating a richly diverse learning environment.

Berklee’s mission is to educate musicians who will then lead the cultural conversation and be at the top of the charts after they release their work to the public. Many of the most accomplished former students no longer perform in orchestras or write music in the classical tradition, focusing instead on pop, rock, and other forms of modern music.

Berklee provides a wide variety of academic programs, including advanced degrees, undergraduate degrees, online degrees, certificates, summer programs, and more. While auditions and interviews are commonplace in undergraduate admissions processes, they are not always necessary for graduate school. Recent years have seen the opening of Berklee College of Music campuses in New York, Valencia, and Spain. It’s well-known that Boston is a major educational hub, and that Berklee College of Music is among the city’s most prestigious universities.

3. Royal Academy of Music, London

With its origins dating back to 1747, London’s Royal Academy of Music may rightfully claim to be the oldest music institution in the entire country. When it comes to music degrees, the Royal Academy of Music is the oldest school in the UK. It is also a part of the University of London as a constituent college. The academy is dedicated to the study of performance, composition, and academic research, and it offers degree programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and professional levels.

In addition to the Master of Science in Performance Science, graduate students can focus on performance, composition, or both. With four years to complete the degree, the Bachelor of Music can be tailored to meet the needs of each student.

The Master of Science is an innovative, multidisciplinary course of study that addresses issues of musician wellness, musical growth, and other spheres at the crossroads of art and science.

The Royal Academy of Music is proud to provide its students with ample opportunity to perform both on campus and in other parts of London as part of its commitment to preparing them for successful careers in music. The school offers a variety of classes, events, and activities to help its students learn about the music industry, how to record in a studio, how to edit music, how to promote and sell yourself, how to build a resume, and how to apply for funding.

Additionally, the academy is home to one of the world’s finest collections of musical artifacts and instruments. The vast majority of programs have auditions and other forms of competition for potential participants. Sir Elton John, an internationally acclaimed musician, is one of its most famous alums. Many famous musicians received their start at the Royal Academy of Music, including singer-songwriter Annie Lennox, Welsh vocalist Katherine Jenkins, and British conductor Simon Rattle.

4. Universität für Musik und darstellende Kunst Wien

Among the world’s largest music, theater, and cinema schools is Vienna’s University of Music and Performing Arts. This university was founded in 1817, and since then it has educated almost 3,000 students from 70 different nations in the fields of Music and Performing Arts. More than 115 majors and minors are available at the university. In addition to its academic responsibilities, the institution also produces about 1300 annual artistic and cultural activities, making it the most famous cultural event organizer in Austria.

The Universitat für Musik und darstellende Kunst Wien educates over 3,000 people annually across 105 primary degree programs and 68 secondary degree programs (sometimes known as “supplementary programs”), all of which are overseen by 24 different faculties. The MDW’s primary objective is to encourage the development of the unique skills and points of view of each member of the local arts community.

In addition to teaching, research, and service, the university is Austria’s largest cultural event organizer, staging more than 1300 annual artistic and cultural events. Breathing, vocal, and physical education, music and instrument studies, music therapy, motion picture and television, computer music and electronic media, and many more are only some of the numerous available courses and specializations to students.

Students must demonstrate proficiency in both English and German before being admitted to degree programs; thus, the university offers courses to those who wish to improve their German language skills. In order to enroll at Vienna’s University of Music and Performing Arts, where you can study anything from music to film and theater, you need to be fluent in German. Those fortunate enough to have been born in Germany or who are fluent in German will likely agree that this is the best possible situation.

5. The Moscow Imperial Conservatory, Moscow 

When it comes to music education, the Moscow Conservatory is not only among the world’s most illustrious institutions, but also among the oldest in Russia. Moscow, the capital of Russia, is where you’ll find it. An institution widely recognized as among the best in the world for music education, offering both undergraduate and graduate programs in performance and research.

Classical performance and study are given priority at this institution, which also boasts thriving contemporary music and music technology programs. After leaving the Moscow Conservatory, string players have found the most success as pianists, violinists, cellists, conductors, and composers.

In addition to a Bachelor of Music Performance, the conservatory also offers a Master of Music, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Research. Imperial Conservatory’s goal is to educate talented young people who will go on to make significant contributions to the world of music and beyond.

Degrees at both the undergraduate and graduate levels are offered in a wide range of music-related disciplines, such as performance, journalism, composition, and research. All prospective students must take a battery of entrance exams designed to gauge not only their general intelligence but also their aptitudes in the areas of creativity, professionalism, and literary expertise. These tests are typically administered in Russian, therefore fluency in the language is essential.

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6. Yale School of Music, Connecticut 

The Yale School of Music, founded in 1894, is another major music production school in the globe. One of the best schools for music offers graduate programs leading to degrees like Master of Musical Arts, Doctor of Musical Arts, and Master of Music. Organ, brass instruments, guitar, harp, harpsichord, and many more are among the many instruments available for study. There is a consensus that it is among the best composition programs in the world. In addition, Yale is a world-class institution for conducting and composition study.

The Yale School of Music, one of Yale University’s 12 professional schools, is widely recognized as the alma mater of many well-known musicians and film composers. Among the degrees and programs available from these institutions are a Bachelor of Arts/Master of Music degree in conjunction with Yale College, a certificate program in Performance, an Artist Diploma, and two master’s degrees (a Master of Music, a Master of Musical Arts, and a Doctor of Musical Arts). Further, a Doctor of Musical Arts degree is also available.

The lone Ivy League music program provides its students with state-of-the-art technology, a wealth of printed materials, and a wide range of historical instruments. Researchers, musicians, and instrument makers can all benefit greatly from Yale’s Morris Steinert Collection of Musical Instruments. The arena regularly hosts free concerts and exhibits, so anyone can go check them out.

One of the many benefits of attending this prestigious university is that students pay no tuition. Annually, there is intense competition for the spots available to the roughly one hundred graduate students who are accepted.

Attendees can see live performances by students at the institution on a regular basis. The profile of students includes many exceptional people who have graduated from highly selective music schools in the United States and around the world. Please note that in order to be considered, your application must be submitted through the Yale University Admission portal. The application checklist should be reviewed carefully for any stipulations on pre-requisites for the program.

7. New England Conservatory of Music (NEC), Boston

Since it is the oldest music school in the country, it has been designated as a National Historic Landmark and is the only independent music school in the United States. Each of NEC’s instrumental programs—piano, strings, brass, and woodwinds—has earned a stellar reputation. Programs leading to master’s degrees, graduate diplomas, artist credentials, and undergraduate certifications and degrees are all available at the conservatory. It is also possible to complete a double degree with Tufts and Harvard. There is something for everyone at the NEC this summer.

Students that make significant ingenious strides and exhibit a strong creative sensibility will find a welcoming community at NEC. Music-related programs are also available, and they range from diplomas to dual degrees to undergraduate and graduate degrees to certificates. Vocal performance, brass, strings, woodwinds, composition, and other areas of music study are all open to students. The New England Conservatory of Music provides a world-class education for aspiring string, woodwind, and brass instrument players.

Summer programs at NEC are fun and engaging for students of all ages. Through NEC’s Music Referral Service and Community Performances & Partnerships Programs, students can play in front of an audience as soloists, in ensembles of varying sizes, and even for pay. There are also master’s programs in conducting, accompaniment, and voice pedagogy. Instruments such as brass, strings, woodwinds, and more are discussed in detail, in addition to vocal performance and composition.

This university is well-known for allowing students the independence to develop their talents and prepare for any vocation they want. The audition and/or recording submission is optional at this stage of the application process and will be handled online. Prospective students should familiarize themselves with the resources available on the university’s website prior to starting the application process.

8.  Curtis Institute of Music, Philadelphia

The Curtis Institute of Music is the most prestigious school in the world. Given the relatively low admittance rate of the institution (about 4%), you can rest assured that you will be learning from and collaborating with only the brightest students and faculty. This institution, which is about to turn a century old, has been consistently producing some of the most talented musicians in the history of the world for quite some time.

Undergraduates and postgraduates alike can take part in the school’s music performance programs. Opera music studies, a Post-Baccalaureate Diploma, and a Professional Studies Certificate are also available to students. Specializations in string, brass, organ, vocal, and other areas are available to meet a wide range of needs.

In addition, there is a unique curriculum available to students called “career studies,” in which they can learn about pedagogy, technology, entrepreneurship, and community-based projects while also keeping up with the latest developments in the sector. Many Curtis grads have gone on to prominent positions in the music business.

The school has a full symphony orchestra, an opera program, and a string quartet, despite having an average enrollment of only 175 students. This is because the institution offers selective programs in conducting, composition, piano, organ, and guitar.

The faculty consists of 120 highly accomplished professionals in various fields. Due to the low student-to-teacher ratio, each student is able to take lessons in their primary instrument from multiple professors. Over two hundred performances are given each year by Curtis students, who share the stage with peers from a wide range of cultural and national backgrounds.

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9. University of Southern California Thornton School of Music (Los Angeles, CA)

Established in 1884, the Thornton School of Music remains Los Angeles’s oldest arts institution. It has long been regarded as one of the top sites in the world for musicians, teachers, and academics to visit because of its central location in Los Angeles.

You may help yourself and the next generation of talented musicians by enrolling in classes at this music academy. This is the place to be if you want to pursue a career in the arts, whether as a musician or visual artist. Furthermore, this music institution boasts a long list of illustrious alumni who have worked in the cinema music industry.

In addition, by enrolling in one of these programs, students will learn the business and technical skills necessary for a successful career in the music industry, such as how to launch a successful business and make the most of today’s available tools Being the oldest cultural institution in continuous operation in the city is a notable achievement. Located on the grounds of USC’s University Park Campus, this institution is often regarded as Los Angeles’s most valuable cultural asset.

The school is well-respected for its innovative approach to music instruction, which blends traditional conservatory-style training with cutting-edge techniques. Academic studies, modern research, academic performance and composition, and other programs are just some of the options available at the institution.

10. Guildhall School of Music and Drama

Nonetheless, students from sixty countries throughout the world make Guildhall their home. The Royal Opera House in Covent Garden, the Tate Modern, and the theaters of London’s West End are just a few of the cultural landmarks that students can visit while studying in London.

Guildhall University has established a stellar reputation for the quality of its music degrees. The acceptance rate may be low, but the quality of the individual attention that each student receives makes up for it. If you’re a singer, you shouldn’t miss this opportunity because they offer an excellent singing class.

Private lessons are an integral component of the undergraduate curriculum, and students may expect in-depth instruction in a variety of areas, including composition, chamber music, electronic music, music therapy, strings, harp, and guitar. In addition to its focus on composition and orchestral studies, Guildhall also provides outstanding vocal training for students interested in making a career out of singing. Students can choose between a Master of Arts in Vocal Studies and a Bachelor of Music.

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$15,000 Terry Foundation Scholarship Program, 2023

Michael Nzeribe1 Comment

Application is currently underway for Texas students to apply for the Terry Foundation Scholarship Program. The Traditional Terry Foundation is awarding scholarships to graduating freshmen from Texas high schools. While the Terry Transfer Foundation Scholarship is for non-traditional students transferring from a Texas community college.

In particular, the Terry Freshman Scholarship is for Texas high school seniors who have been admitted to one of Terry’s affiliated public universities in Texas. While the Transfer scholarship is for non-traditional students who are transferring from a Texas community college or university and working toward their first college degree.

Basically, the Terry Foundation is the largest private provider of scholarships in the state of Texas.

About the Terry Foundation

Specifically, the Terry Foundation is the largest provider of private scholarships in the state of Texas in Houston. This award-winning scholarship program was created to help outstanding high school graduates and transfer students. In order to help themselves by providing them with access to quality education at 13 public universities in Texas.

Founders Howard and Nancy Terry created the Terry Foundation to help young people help themselves. His desire to invest in Texas students stems from the belief that a university, as the state it represents, is only as good as the educated citizens it produces. Today, the Terry Foundation funds freshman and transfer scholarships at 13 public universities in Texas.

In 1987, Terry and his wife Nancy founded the Terry Foundation with a check for $1.2 million. The first scholars, known ever since as “Terry Scholars,” were selected in interviews in the summer of 1987. Over the years, the Terry Foundation has become the largest private source of scholarships in the state. The Foundation was created to last indefinitely and will continue to host Texas students for years to come.

The legacy of Howard and Nancy Terry lives on among the thousands of fellows who bear their names and who exemplify Terry’s Four Pillars program of scholarship, leadership, service, and community scholarship on a daily basis.

About the Terry Foundation Scholarship Program

Since 1987, more than 5,000 scholars have participated in Terry’s scholarship programs. His and his family’s lives have been forever changed by the opportunity to receive an education and graduate without the burden of excessive debt.

Mr. and Mrs. Terry asked the Fellows to give the Foundation, through their time and resources, the strength to build a strong Terry family. Terry Scholar Alumni return to the Foundation in many ways. New Alumni, visit this page for tips on how to stay in touch and get involved.

The Terry Foundation program isn’t just about writing checks once a semester; It is about a sense of family and community. Scholars are expected to participate in student organizations and be involved on campus. Similarly, the elderly often remain active and want to participate in many functions.

The Foundation maintains close contact with fellows and hopes that fellows and alumni will help each other whenever they can.

What You Need To Know About The Terry Foundation Scholarship

Unlike many scholarship programs, selecting a Terry Scholar is not simply based on financial need, test scores, or cumulative grade point average. Terry Fellows are chosen because they display a well-rounded personality, rooted in a desire to succeed, and a proven history of community leadership.

The Terry Foundation program isn’t just about writing checks once a semester; It is about a sense of family and community. Scholars are expected to participate in student organizations and be involved on campus. Similarly, the elderly often remain active and want to participate in many functions. The Foundation maintains close contact with Fellows and hopes that Fellows and alumni will help each other whenever they can.

Above all, these foundation scholarships have been of great help to the citizens of Texas. These scholarships include;

  • The Terry Freshman or Traditional Scholarship
  • The Terry Transfer Scholarship

Terry Freshman/Traditional Scholarship Program

The Terry Freshman or Traditional Scholarship funds freshmen who have graduated from a Texas high school and attend one of Terry’s affiliated colleges for the fall semester following graduation.

More especially, the scholarship covers up to eight full semesters of undergraduate study and is renewable each year during this period.

The Traditional scholarship funds incoming freshmen who have graduated from a Texas high school and attend one of the Traditional program partner universities in the fall semester following graduation.

Terry Freshman Scholarship Worth

A traditional scholarship covers up to eight full semesters of undergraduate study. The traditional scholarship is renewable each year at the discretion of the directors, which is automatic unless otherwise notified by the grantee.

Considering the other scholarships the student may receive, the Foundation provides sufficient assistance to cover tuition, books, tuition, and reasonable living expenses on campus. The specific grant amount varies by grant holder, other scholarships, and financial support received.

The Foundation encourages researchers to apply for other scholarships or grants or other financial aid for which they are qualified. So that the financial resources of the Foundation can be increased to help as many students as possible. However, the Foundation intends not to deal with student loans from traditional specialists.

The Terry Freshman Scholarship Grade Requirements

Academic achievement

Candidates must demonstrate strong academic skills, as evidenced by SAT/ACT scores and scores.

Demonstrated leadership

Applicants must have a history of leadership in the school and in the community.

Financial need

Applicants must demonstrate financial need, as evidenced by completion of the FAFSA.

Citizenship and residency

Applicants must be US citizens or permanent residents and meet Texas residency requirements. Applicants must also be eligible for state and federal financial aid courses.

High school graduate

Applicants must have graduated from an accredited high school or school of origin in Texas. Candidates who have taken a gap year immediately after completing high school are not eligible.

University admission

Candidates must be admitted to a Terry-affiliated college or university as full-time freshmen for the upcoming fall semester.

Residence on campus

Applicants must apply and commit to residing on campus for the first year of school.

Terry School Nomination

Candidates must be nominated by one of the thirteen Texas public universities affiliated with Terry.

Terry Freshman Scholarship Affiliated Universities

Traditional scholarships are available for the 2021-2022 academic year at these Texas public universities:

  • The University of Texas-Austin
  • Texas A&M University
  • University of Houston
  • Texas State University
  • The University of Texas-Dallas
  • The University of Texas-San Antonio
  • Texas Tech University
  • University of North Texas
  • Texas Woman’s University
  • Texas A&M University- Galveston
  • Sam Houston State University
  • The University of Texas-Arlington
  • The University of Texas-El Paso

Terry Freshman Scholarship Application Process

Terry Transfer scholarship applications are only available at universities and are not available at the Foundations or high schools.

Visit Terry Affiliated College Pages

Terry Transfer Scholarship Program

The Transfer Scholarship funds students who transfer their college hours to one of Terry’s affiliated colleges during the summer or fall semester immediately following acceptance. A Terry Transfer grant covers up to six full sessions and is renewable each year during this period.

Terry Transfer Scholarship Worth

A transfer scholarship covers up to six semesters of undergraduate study. The transfer scholarship is renewable annually for six semesters at the discretion of the directors, which is automatic unless otherwise notified by the scholarship recipient.

The Terry Transfer Scholarship amount is 65% of the scholarship recipient’s official tuition cost for the current school year. With a guaranteed minimum annual stipend of $13,800 for the 2021-2022 academic year, divided equally between the two semesters.

Terry Transfer Scholarship Grade Requirements

Academic achievement

Applicants must demonstrate strong academic skills (minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0)

Demonstrated leadership

Candidates must have a history of leadership in the school and in the community.

Financial need

Applicants must demonstrate financial need.

Age Requirement

Candidates must be at least 20 years old on May 1 of the year their application is submitted.

Citizenship and residency

Applicants must be US citizens or permanent residents and meet Texas residency requirements. Applicants must also be eligible for state and federal financial aid courses.

Texas Residency

Applicants must be permanent residents of the state of Texas for at least three years at the time of application.

Transferable credits

Applicants must have completed at least 30 postsecondary transferable credit hours in residence at a Texas college or university at the time of application.

University admission

Candidates must have been admitted to Terry’s college or university during the summer or fall immediately following the application deadline. They must be admitted as full-time students to obtain the first degree.

Terry School Nomination

Candidates must be nominated by one of the Terry-affiliated Texas public universities currently offering the Terry Transfer Scholarship.

A candidate who has already been interviewed for a Terry Scholarship and has not been selected, either as a traditional candidate or a transfer candidate, is not eligible for a Terry Scholarship.

In addition, a candidate currently attending or attending a Terry-affiliated university will not be considered for a Terry Foundation transfer grant.

Terry Transfer Scholarship Affiliated Universities

Terry Transfer Scholarships are available for the 2021-2022 academic year at these Texas public universities:

  • The University of Texas-Austin
  • Texas A&M University
  • University of Houston
  • Texas State University
  • The University of Texas-Dallas
  • The University of Texas-San Antonio
  • Texas Tech University
  • University of North Texas
  • Texas Woman’s University
  • Sam Houston State University
  • The University of Texas-Arlington
  • The University of Texas-El Paso

Terry Transfer Scholarship Application Process

Terry Transfer scholarship applications are only available at universities and are not available at the Foundation or community colleges. Members affiliated with the Terry Scholarship at each university review applications and nominate candidates for interviews with the Foundation.

Visit Terry Affiliated College Pages

Terry Freshman and Scholarship Transfer Interview Process

Members affiliated with the Terry Scholarship at each university review applications and nominate candidates for interviews with the Foundation.

During the interview, a panel of six former Terry Fellows will ask you questions. Frequently, a director of the Foundation will participate in conducting the interview.

Basically, you will be asked about your academic and personal background, as well as your family’s financial situation. You must also submit your Terry Financial Financial Data Form to your panel chair. In addition, you will learn a little more about the Foundation and its activities and you will have the opportunity to ask your questions. The process is informal and usually takes less than 30 minutes.

What should you do to prepare for the interview?

You should be ready to discuss the financial situation of your household with the interview panel. To help you do this, the Terry Foundation asks that you complete a Terry Financial Data Form and bring it to your interview. Along with a copy of his financial aid award letter from Terry’s college that he nominated him.

The chairman of the panel will take your completed form into the interview room and discuss it with its contents. Therefore, he should know as much as possible about his family’s income and the value of his assets that appear on both his application and Terry’s Financial Information Form.

They will ask you about other grants or scholarships you plan to receive. You will also be asked about the current balance of funds or bank accounts that your family or others have set aside to provide financial support for your college education. This includes savings accounts or other college savings accounts, such as 529 plans or the Texas Tomorrow Fund.

General Terry Foundation Scholarship FAQ

The Terry Foundation Scholarship is awarded to traditional freshmen graduating from Texas high schools and the Terry Foundation Transfer Scholarship is awarded to non-traditional transfer students from Texas. …Funding for the Terry Foundation Scholarship at Texas A&M is provided by the Terry Foundation.

To apply for the Terry Scholarship, you must complete the ApplyTexas Application or the Coalition Application for Freshman Admissions. The deadline to submit the application is December 2. First, complete the admissions portion of the ApplyTexas Application and then the scholarship application portion.

The Terry Foundation offers full scholarships that are renewable for up to four years to Texas high school students. These students are selected from a highly competitive group of freshmen who have excelled academically, demonstrated leadership, and have financial needs.

The traditional Terry scholarship covers up to eight full semesters of undergraduate education and is renewable annually during that time. Whereas, the Terry Transfer Scholarship covers up to six semesters of undergraduate study. The transfer scholarship is renewable annually for six semesters at the discretion of the directors, which is automatic unless otherwise notified by the scholarship recipient.

The Terry Foundation Scholarship is available to many students. It all depends on the universities you apply to.

Enrolling in any of the affiliated universities can be very easy. and once you have done that, you will have no problem getting the Terry Foundation Scholarships.

Satellite campuses are considered on a case-by-case basis. The presence of the satellite campus is only allowed with the prior approval of the Foundation. If a fellow student is authorized to attend another campus, (1) all mandatory functions will be held at the main campus, and attendance is required; and (2) the cost of transportation to attend these mandatory functions is the responsibility of the student and is not funded by the Foundation.

No. The Foundation only considers students designated by the universities associated with the program. Click HERE to find out how to apply to a participating university.

Yes. Terry Scholarships are not awarded without a satisfactory interview. The Foundation bears the costs of the candidates invited to an interview. Learn more about the interview HERE.

Separate interview boards work simultaneously in various cities in the state. During the week following the interviews, final selections are made and new Terry Scholars are informed by email approximately three weeks after the interviews.

Pell Grants are federal financial aid grants for students whose family income is below a certain threshold. Terry Scholar candidates are encouraged to apply for a Pell Grant if they are qualified. Receiving a Pell Grant does not preclude a candidate from obtaining a Terry Grant.

No. A candidate can only receive one Terry Scholarship interview, regardless of whether he or she has previously applied as a traditional candidate or a transfer candidate.

No. The Foundation will not accept applications for candidates who are already attending one of our 13 Terry-affiliated universities.

The transfer scholarship is transferable at any time to one of the participating universities.

Plan to arrive at the interview site at least 30 minutes before your scheduled interview time.

This interview is important to you and the Foundation. Dress accordingly. The members of the interview committee wear traditional work clothes: coats and ties for men and women with professional clothes.

However, if you don’t have a coat, tie, or “professional” attire, don’t go out and buy them for this interview. Dress the best you can.

If you find that you will not be able to attend your scheduled interview for any reason, or if you decide to attend another university not affiliated with the Terry Scholarship Program and wish to cancel your interview, please call them as soon as possible and let them know.

They have replacements who would like to take their place for an interview. Failure to notify them of cancellation may deprive someone else of the opportunity to earn a scholarship.

No, a resume is not necessary. They have designed the Terry Foundation Scholarship Application Form to obtain the most relevant information about their candidates that their fellowship interview panels will review.

During your interview, of course, you will have the opportunity to speak with panel members to complete or update the information on your application. In addition to bringing to the attention of the panel, any information that you think may help you in evaluating your scholarship application.

No. They will take your photo shortly before your interview for our records and help your interview panel.

No. Before your interview, you will meet with Foundation staff, who will likely be able to answer most of the questions you may have about the Foundation or the scholarship selection process.

During the interview, you will probably be asked if you have any questions for your interview panel. If you still have questions, feel free to ask them. But don’t feel obligated to ask a question. They do not evaluate the questions asked during the interview selecting students to receive their scholarships.

One of the conditions of the traditional scholarship is that students live on campus during their first year of study. Do not interview if you do not intend to meet this requirement. This requirement does not apply to transfer exchange.

No. The Terry Foundation will contact you by email with the results of your interview.

Bad College Essays: 10 Mistakes to Avoid in 2023

Michael Nzeribe1 Comment

What is a good college essay for you? Is it one that can strike the reader like thunder with its elegance and grip of it? Or is it one that keeps readers on edge from start to finish? According to established academic standards, the most critical aspect of a good essay is its absence of errors.

However, if you are armed with the knowledge of the mistakes that are most dangerous to your job, you can greatly increase your chances of developing amazing work! Now, get ready for a list of the most common mistakes college students make in their essays that make it bad!

Yes, to impress the readers, the essays should be devoid mainly of the errors that devalue them. The difficulty of writing a perfect text in which the experts do not find a single mistake leads students to look for how to pay someone to write their article and end up browsing through online help services.

1. Skip important data

When writing an essay, you may accidentally or intentionally exclude information critical to your work. Students often make this common mistake when they think some piece of information is less important than it really is. And it is extremely difficult to distinguish between the facts and data that are required in your article and those that you should omit. 

For this reason, read a lot of material on academic writing to learn how to properly construct your work. Use reliable and critically acclaimed sources and use them wisely. You should be able to recognize the rules and recommendations that apply specifically to your job.

2. Write at the last moment

Students procrastinate, putting off pressing academic commitments and indulging in more pleasant things. In the end, they put themselves at high risk of failing their writing assignments. Completing them a few hours before the deadline is not a good idea. In fact, putting off a paper assignment is another typical mistake that college kids seem to forget.

3. Not getting a second opinion

Essay writing safety is a severe vice that prevents students from meeting the goals of good academic writing. By thinking that you are a masterful writer who does not need any advice or correction from others, you put your writing in jeopardy. To ensure that your paper maintains the proper quality, you should ask a knowledgeable person to provide feedback on your writing.

4. Not reading the topic carefully

Most of the time, college students spend very little time familiarizing themselves with the subject and this greatly affects the quality of their work. There is a misconception that an essay topic can be studied quickly and superfluously, which often disappoints students. 

Therefore, you should spend time exploring the topic before you sit down and write the article itself. Do some in-depth research and you will see how smooth and efficient the writing process will be.

5. Using the wrong fonts

It is a real challenge to find reliable theoretical materials to use in your work. The Internet presents many dubious sources that are dangerous to use when writing an academic article. 

When choosing the sources to use in your article, be discreet and vigilant and seek only reliable information. Unfortunately, many college students can’t discern what information is safe to use and end up choosing questionable posts that mislead them.

6. Give in to distractions

As you play your part, you force yourself to be distracted by everything from notifications on your devices to noise from the next room. That said, for your writing to be productive, eliminate all distractions as much as possible.

Unfortunately, for most college students, saying “goodbye” to their iPhones, iPads, and other addictive devices is a big challenge, but here’s what it means to pay due attention to writing assignments.

If you want your article to be an ultimate success, you need to reduce all distractions from your work process.

7. Regardless of the format

Many inexperienced writers, especially students, underestimate the importance of formatting in academic writing. However, adhering to the required structure of an academic article is one of the crucial aspects of successful academic writing. By adhering to the correct format, you make it compatible with academic standards and thus increase the academic value of your work.

8. Focus on one part

It is quite common for college students to get stuck in a scenario, and not proceed with their assignments as planned. When you immerse yourself in just one complex part of the essay, you get distracted from the rest of the work and can end up missing your deadline and ruining your college career.

Thus, learn to optimize the time you dedicate to the different facets of your work.

9. “Borrowing” your teammates’ mistakes

Almost all students consult their classmates when completing their writing assignments. And this trend is fraught with dangers: You never know if someone you ask for advice has followed the right course of writing.

In fact, the person you ask for help may be just as wrong as you are. Therefore, by asking your peers for advice, who also make mistakes, you simply repeat their mistakes and make things worse.

10. Not taking breaks

When you are struggling to organize ideas and concepts into thoughts as you write, it is vital that you take breaks to allow your mind and body to relax for some time. Many inexperienced writers avoid breaks, believing that the harder they work, the more successful the essay will be. But they just end up wearing out and spoiling the quality of the paper.

Summary

As long as you avoid the destructive mistakes we mentioned in this article, your articles will take on a new and refined form and bring you success. College admissions boards will not mark your essay as bad and set it aside. It is difficult to comply with the strict rules of academic writing, but what is more difficult is not to get caught up in the errors that lurk every time a scientific article is written.

Low Tuition Universities in Portugal with Tuition Fees

Michael Nzeribe7 Comments

In this article, I have included a list of low-tuition universities in Portugal, tuition fees, cost of living, admission requirements, how to apply, and much more. I would like to describe Portugal and Portuguese higher education before continuing. 

The beautiful scenery, the exciting mix of old buildings and new life, and the affordable lifestyle that comes with studying in Portugal are just a list of the advantages for international students in Portugal.

With a small number of universities to choose from and the third most widely spoken language in Europe apart from English and Spanish, this country is a huge draw for international students. The excellent education and the beautiful Mediterranean climate make Portugal one of the best options for international students from all over the world.

Portugal is a country in southern Europe on the Iberian Peninsula, bordering Spain. Its location on the Atlantic Ocean has influenced many aspects of its culture: grilled cod and sardines are national dishes, the Algarve’s beaches are a major destination, and much of the nation’s architecture dates back to 1500- 1800 when Portugal had a powerful maritime empire.

Higher education in Portugal

Higher education in Portugal is divided into two main subsystems: university and polytechnic education. Portuguese universities have been around since 1290. The oldest such institution, the University of Coimbra, was first established in Lisbon before moving to Coimbra.

Why study in Portugal

Below are the reasons why I think you should study abroad in Portugal as an international student.

  • Attend some of the well-ranked and famous European universities
  • Availability of the most popular fields of study in Portugal
  • International students who choose to study in Portugal will be impressed by the low cost of tuition and the equally affordable cost of living. On average, tuition is $1,500 USD per undergraduate year. This also depends on the grade level a student attends. The cost of living is a staggering 600-800∈ every month.
  • Tourism in Portugal is full of great surprises.
  • Fantastically unique food and wine.
  • Opportunity to learn Portuguese, a global language
  • Enjoy the lovely weather
  • Portugal welcomes you with open arms.
  • It’s a small country
  • Open doors for your future.
  • Portugal is a safe and stable place to study.
  • Due to the emphasis on education and culture, there are several ways international students studying in Portugal can become a part of Portuguese life. There are various sports and clubs on each individual campus, as well as opportunities within the communities to get involved.
  • The educational quality of studying in Portugal dates back to 1290AD when the ninth oldest university in the world was established and the level of education was cultivated.
  • Two types of education are offered: university and polytechnic. Within these large institutions, there are smaller study subcategories that make studying in Portugal ideal.
  • Why study in Portugal? It’s not just Portugal! Africa is a great link with Portugal and will enrich students’ lives by studying in this unique country. Brazil is another strong draw providing great education and association with Portugal.
  • With the exciting Bologna Agreements and the continuing union between most European nations, transfer between two, three, or even four universities is quite possible throughout Europe. International students who want to gain life and experience in several places instead of just one have this opportunity when they study in Portugal.

Cost of living in Portugal

The cost of living in Portugal is extremely low and affordable compared to places like the United Kingdom, the United States, or Australia. Although the cost of living in Portugal has increased in recent years, it is still a relatively affordable place to live. According to research, the cost of living generally depends on the location and lifestyle of the student.

Accommodation will be your biggest monthly expense, and the cheapest option is to live in your university’s residence halls, which are likely to cost between €165-230 (~US$190-260) a month while renting an apartment in a hostel private could cost in the region of €400 (~US$450) each month.

You will need around €7,800-10,200 (~US$8,830-11,550) a year to cover your living expenses. Living in big cities like Lisbon will cost you more. Therefore, you can stay in lesser cities if you want to lower your living costs.

Admission requirements

Undergraduate applications to study in Portugal are made through a centralized online system, called Online Application, which allows applicants to choose up to six programs in order of preference.

In addition to submitting evidence of your secondary level qualifications, you will likely be required to take an entrance exam in your home country; public universities use the national exam, while private universities have their own. If you study in Portuguese (as is likely), you will need to prove your command of the language.

Prospective postgraduate students must apply directly to the universities in Portugal where they wish to study, submitting all required documents, including proof of previous qualifications.

Tuition fees in Portugal

Tuition fees are not the same for all universities, as Portuguese universities set their own fees. You may be interested to know that public institutions are likely to charge less than private universities.

Tuition fees for bachelor’s and master’s degrees average around €950-1,250 per year (~US$1,075-1,415), while fees for Ph.D. programs hover around €2,500-3,000 per year (~US$2,830-3,400).

How to Apply to Universities in Portugal

Undergraduate applications to study in Portugal are made through a centralized online system, called Online Application, which allows applicants to choose up to six programs in order of preference.

In addition to submitting evidence of your secondary level qualifications, you will likely be required to take an entrance exam in your home country; public universities use the national exam, while private universities have their own. If you study in Portuguese (as is likely), you will need to prove your command of the language.

Prospective postgraduate students must apply directly to the universities in Portugal where they wish to study, submitting all required documents, including proof of previous qualifications.

Visa application and requirements 

Those from countries outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland who intend to study in Portugal for more than three months must apply for a residence visa (Vista para residency) before entering the country. This can be requested through your nearest Portuguese embassy or consulate and requires:

  • Passport valid for at least three months after the end of your course;
  • A completed application form;
  • Acceptance letter from a Portuguese university;
  • academic transcript;
  • Photocopy of the key pages of the passport;
  • Three passport-size photos;
  • Police record of good conduct;
  • Copy of health insurance;
  • Proof of sufficient funds, either a bank statement or scholarship/scholarship.

Your visa will cost a maximum of €170 (~US$190) and will take two to three months to issue, so apply well in advance. EU students must apply for an EU citizen residence card within four months of arriving in Portugal, and pay a small fee for it.

Is it possible to learn in Portuguese universities using the English language?

Yes, most schools in Portugal teach students in English. Some Portuguese universities teach some of their courses using the English language as the language of instruction.

In addition, some schools such as the Lisbon School of Economics and Management teach 2 undergraduate courses and 5 master’s courses in English. At the University of Porto, many master’s and doctoral programs are taught entirely in English.

What this means is that if as an international student you choose to study in English, there is a place for you in some Portuguese universities.

Can I find universities in Portugal that offer free studies for international students?

Without mincing words, there are no free universities in Portugal for Portuguese citizens or international students.

But what we are sure of is that you can be sure to find cheap and affordable universities in Portugal for international students.

Some of these cheap colleges include;

#1 University of Porto

  • Founded: 1836
  • Annual tuition fees: Undergraduate EUR 3,500 ($4,180), Postgraduate EUR 3,500 ($4,180)
  • The University of Porto is one of the cheapest universities in Portugal for international students. Although it began as a Polytechnic Academy and Medical-Surgical School, in 1911 it was granted university status.
  • In Portugal, you can estimate the University of Porto as the second largest university with a population of more than 32,500. About 18% of the total registration represents international students.
  • This figure is learned in the 15 subdivision schools that include; Faculties of Architecture, Economics, Dentistry, Fine Arts, Engineering, Letters, Law, Medicine, Pharmacy, Nutrition, Psychology, Sports, Business, Biomedical Sciences, and Sciences.
  • Visit the school website

#2. University of Minho

  • Founded: 1973
  • Annual tuition fees: Undergraduate EUR 4,500 ($5,380), Postgraduate EUR 6,500 ($7,760)

The very affordable tuition fees of the University of Minho make it one of the universities considered a free university in Portugal for international students. It has 3 campuses in Braga and 1 in Guimarães.

These campuses offer schedules in the areas of Arts and Human Sciences, Architecture, Social Sciences, Education, Psychology, Engineering, Economics and Administration, Law, Medicine, and Sciences.

Although it is one of the youngest universities in Portugal, it is one of the best institutions in the world under 50 years old. In addition, she is one of the best in the country in terms of education and influence. 

Visit the school website

#3. The University of Evora.

  • Founded: 1559
  • Annual tuition fees: Undergraduate EUR 2,500 ($2,985), Postgraduate EUR 2,500 ($2,985) 

The University of Évora is the second oldest university in Portugal and we consider it one of the free universities for international students.

As a renowned university, the school offers a large number of courses, such as Arts, Social Sciences, Science and Technology, Health and Human Development, and Nursing, except Medicine, Civil Law, and some Canon Law.

Évora has a student population of around 10,500 students, of which 1,000 are foreigners from more than 70 countries. 

Visit the school website

#4 University of the Algarve

  • Founded: 1589
  • Annual tuition fees: Undergraduate EUR 3,000 ($3,585), Postgraduate EUR 2,000 ($2,390) 

Located in the south of Portugal, it is one of the universities in Portugal that can be considered a free university for international students.

Through its 2 campuses; Faro and Portimão, UAlg hosts only a small student population with around 19% coming from over 70 countries.

We can trace this number to its cheap tuition as well as quality education. To date, it is one of the best in Portugal and in Europe in general. 

Visit the school website

#5 University of Lisbon

  • Founded: 1290
  • Annual tuition fees: Undergraduate EUR 3,000 ($3,585), Postgraduate EUR 5,000 ($5,970)

The University of Lisbon is undoubtedly the largest educational institution in Portugal. This university emerged as a confederation of 2 universities and currently has around 49,000+ students. 15% of the student population are foreigners. 

The university is currently listed as the 28th-best institution in the European Teaching Rankings.

This world-class institute offers more than 400-degree courses that are subdivided into faculties/schools of Fine Arts, Architecture, Law, Pharmacy, Sciences, Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Medicine, Letters, Psychology, Human Motricity, Social Sciences, Education, Agronomy, Geography and Territorial Planning, Social and Political Sciences, Engineering and Economics and Management.

Visit the school website

#6. University of Beira Interior

  • Founded: 1979
  • Annual tuition fees: Undergraduate EUR 5,000 ($5,970), Postgraduate EUR 1,500 ($1,790)

Here is a public educational institution that offers its degrees in an affordable course. We can find the University of Beira in Covilhã.

This is one of the Portuguese universities that has an expanding international society despite having a low acceptance rate. About 18% of its more than 7,100 students are international students.

We can trace this number to being attracted by the reputation of the university. This school is listed in the Young University rankings as well as the Impact Rankings.

Visit the school website

#7. ISCTE – University Institute of Lisbon

  • Founded: 1972
  • Annual tuition fees: Undergraduate EUR 5,500 ($6,570), Postgraduate EUR 3,000 ($3,590)

Last on our list of cheap and affordable universities in Portugal that are considered free schools for international students.

Following its transformation into a foundational university, ISCTE – Instituto Universitario de Lisboa has expanded its offering to postgraduate courses.

Currently, the university has more than 9,000 students registered in the Schools of Business, Social and Human Sciences, Sociology and Public Policy, and Technology and Architecture. It also has research units in the areas of Business, International Studies, Sociology, Anthropology, Socioeconomics, Telecommunications, Information Technology, and Architecture.

Visit the school website

Frequently Asked Questions about Free Universities in Portugal for International Students

If I want to work and study, can I do it as an international student in Portugal?

Absolutely.

International students are eligible to work in Portugal.

As is the case with most European universities, international or foreign students can work without restrictions. 

But working means that students outside the EU/EEA can pursue casual part-time work for up to 20 hours per week.

Working while you study is one of the ways to pay your fees if you don’t make it to tuition-free universities in Portugal for international students.

Universities Portugal: How many are there?

Portugal is home to one of the oldest universities in the world. Its universities have lived since the beginning of the 13th century. 

However, following the 2020 statistics, Portugal is home to 50 public higher education institutions. In addition to this, there are a handful of various private universities and polytechnics.

And interestingly, 12 of these higher education institutions rank at the top of the

World University Rankings list.

Is it possible to study in Portugal if you can only speak English?

No, you cannot study in Portugal using only English. But that does not mean that there are no English teaching programs in Portuguese universities.

Portuguese is actually the main language of instruction in Portuguese universities. As we said before, there are several universities that offer English teaching programs.

To simplify this piece of the puzzle, consult the brochure of your preferred university and discover the relevant courses taught in English.

If that is your preferred option, you have just been blessed!!!

Studying at a Portuguese university; What should I budget for as a cost of living?

As we said, there are no free universities in Portugal for international students. However, you can get a low tuition fee at some universities in Portugal.

Talking about the cost of tuition, tuition fees and the cost of living in Portugal are relatively much lower than in most European countries.

Since there are cheap universities in Portugal for international students, students who take advantage of that do so at considerably less cost.

The cost of studying in Portugal based on our research estimate for the academic year from a single university is around $1500 USD.

And the average cost of living at most is $900 USD per month.

Summary

Portugal is a great place to study.

Not only does it give you the chance to get a degree program from the best academic hands, but it also gives you the opportunity to learn the third most famous language in the world.

We hope you will make the most of this post about low-tuition universities in Portugal, which can be seen as free universities for international students.