Are you an international student looking to study in the United States but worried about the cost of tuition and living expenses? Emory University, located in Atlanta, Georgia, stands out as one of the few top-tier U.S. institutions offering needs-based financial aid to overseas students. If you’re academically gifted but financially constrained, understanding how to access Emory’s aid packages could open doors to a world-class education and a bright future.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the application process for needs-based financial aid at Emory University for international students, explain the different types of aid available, and provide insider tips to help you maximize your chances.
Why Choose Emory University as an International Student?
Emory University is consistently ranked among the top 25 universities in the United States. It’s especially recognized for excellence in fields such as:
- Public Health and Global Health
- Business (Goizueta Business School)
- Biology and Pre-Med
- Political Science and International Studies
With a student body representing over 100 countries, Emory places strong emphasis on global engagement, cross-cultural exchange, and diversity in education. More importantly, Emory provides significant financial aid to admitted international students who demonstrate need, making it a highly accessible destination for talented applicants worldwide.
Understanding Emory’s Financial Aid Philosophy
Emory University maintains a strong commitment to meeting 100% of the demonstrated financial need for all admitted students, including international applicants, who apply for aid during the admissions process.
However, it’s important to know that Emory is need-aware for international students. This means your financial need is considered as part of the admission decision. While this might seem like a disadvantage, it also ensures that students who are admitted receive financial packages that make attendance possible.
Once admitted, Emory guarantees that your needs-based aid will be renewed annually for up to eight semesters, provided your financial circumstances remain the same and you maintain good academic standing.
Types of Financial Aid Available for International Students
1. Need-Based Aid Packages
These packages consist of:
- Grants (funds that do not need to be repaid)
- Work-study opportunities (available on campus during the academic year)
- Limited institutional scholarships
Aid is calculated based on your family’s financial resources, not your academic performance alone.
2. Merit-Based Scholarships (Supplementary)
In addition to needs-based aid, international students can also compete for merit-based scholarships through the Emory University Scholar Programs, which include:
- Emory Scholars Program
- Oxford Scholars Program
- Goizueta Scholars Program (for business students)
While these are highly competitive and separate from needs-based aid, receiving a merit scholarship may reduce the amount of need-based assistance you’re eligible for.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Access Needs-Based Financial Aid at Emory as an International Student
Step 1: Apply for Admission and Indicate Financial Aid Interest
Emory uses two application platforms:
- Common Application
- Coalition Application
When filling out either form, be sure to check “Yes” to the question asking if you intend to apply for financial aid. This simple step is essential—if you do not indicate interest at this stage, you won’t be considered for aid later.
💡 Tip: Apply to either Emory College of Arts and Sciences or Oxford College, or both. Oxford offers the same aid policies and may increase your chances of admission.
Step 2: Submit the Required Financial Aid Forms
International students must submit two key documents:
1. CSS Profile (College Scholarship Service Profile)
This online form, managed by the College Board, collects detailed information about your family’s finances, including income, assets, and expenses.
- Submit via cssprofile.collegeboard.org
- Emory’s CSS code: 5187
2. Emory International Financial Aid Application
This is an institution-specific form provided after you submit your admission application. It provides additional context about your family’s financial situation.
Make sure both documents are completed by the financial aid deadline.
Step 3: Prepare Supporting Documents
To ensure an accurate review of your application, you may need to upload:
- Bank statements
- Tax returns or official income documentation
- Business records (if self-employed)
- Currency exchange rates (if applicable)
All documents must be translated into English and converted to USD for consistency.
💡 Tip: Be honest and transparent. Inconsistencies or inaccuracies can lead to disqualification or revocation of aid.
Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline
Deadlines for applying for admission and financial aid must be strictly followed.
| Application Round | Admission Deadline | CSS Profile Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Early Decision I | November 1 | November 15 |
| Early Decision II | January 1 | January 15 |
| Regular Decision | January 1 | February 1 |
If you miss the financial aid deadline, you will not be eligible for any need-based assistance from Emory—no exceptions.
Step 5: Await Decision and Financial Aid Package
If you are admitted and have submitted all necessary documentation, you will receive a financial aid award letter along with your admission decision. This will outline:
- Total cost of attendance
- Amount Emory will cover
- Expected family contribution
- Any potential work-study opportunity
You’ll be able to compare this offer with other schools you may have applied to, enabling you to make an informed decision.
How Emory Calculates Financial Need
Your financial need is calculated as follows:
Cost of Attendance (COA) – Expected Family Contribution (EFC) = Financial Need
The COA includes:
- Tuition and fees
- Room and board
- Books and supplies
- Travel
- Personal expenses
Emory then works to fill this gap using grants, scholarships, and possibly on-campus employment.
Emory Scholars Program: A Supplemental Opportunity
The Emory Scholars Program provides full or partial tuition scholarships and requires a separate selection process. If you want to be considered, you must:
- Submit your admission application by November 15
- Indicate interest in being considered for merit-based scholarships
Though it’s not needs-based, some international students qualify for both merit and need-based awards, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
Work Opportunities for International Students
As an international student on an F-1 visa, you’re allowed to work up to 20 hours per week on campus during the academic year and full-time during school breaks.
Common jobs include:
- Library assistant
- Research assistant
- Dining services staff
- Academic tutoring
Though not guaranteed, many students use on-campus jobs to help cover personal expenses.
Renewal of Financial Aid Packages
If your financial situation remains consistent, your aid package will be renewed every year for up to eight semesters. You will need to update your financial aid documentation annually.
Changes in your family income or financial obligations can result in adjustments to your aid—either increases or decreases—depending on the circumstances.
💡 Tip: Plan ahead. Keep copies of all your documentation and meet yearly deadlines to avoid disruptions in your funding.
Additional External Scholarship Resources
While Emory’s aid is generous, it’s smart to look beyond for external scholarships. Some trusted international options include:
- Davis United World College (UWC) Scholars Program
For UWC alumni attending Emory. - Fulbright Foreign Student Program
For graduate-level study but can be a future option. - MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program
Emory was a partner in this program for African students (check for updates). - Scholarships from your home country’s Ministry of Education or international NGOs.
These external funds can be used to cover gaps not covered by Emory’s aid or for personal/living expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is financial aid available for graduate international students at Emory?
Graduate financial aid is handled separately by each department. Aid may include:
- Fellowships
- Assistantships
- Research grants
Check directly with your program for graduate funding options.
Will applying for aid reduce my chances of admission?
Possibly. Emory is need-aware for international applicants, meaning that your financial situation may influence your admission decision. However, qualified students who demonstrate both academic excellence and genuine financial need are still admitted and generously funded.
Can I receive both merit and needs-based aid?
Yes. Students who receive a merit scholarship can also receive needs-based aid, depending on the total cost of attendance and family contribution.
What happens if my financial situation changes after I’m admitted?
If your financial circumstances change significantly, you may submit a financial aid appeal. The office may adjust your package depending on available funds and documentation.
Insider Tips for International Students
- Start Early
Begin preparing financial documents at least six months before the application deadline. - Practice Currency Conversion
Convert your family’s income and assets to USD using consistent exchange rates. - Be Thorough
Submit all requested documents, even optional ones, to strengthen your case. - Write a Financial Circumstances Letter
Use this letter to explain unique financial hardships (e.g., illness, job loss, single-parent home). - Stay in Touch
Maintain communication with Emory’s Office of Financial Aid. Ask questions if you’re unsure about forms or requirements.
Final Thoughts
Securing needs-based financial aid at Emory University is a realistic goal for many talented international students. The university’s commitment to meeting 100% of demonstrated need for admitted students ensures that your financial background doesn’t have to limit your academic aspirations.
Yes, the process is competitive—and yes, it requires planning and meticulous attention to detail. But the payoff is enormous: a world-class degree, a diverse global community, and the chance to thrive in one of the most dynamic cities in the United States.
If you’re dreaming of an American education and need help funding it, Emory might just be the right fit for you.
Ready to apply?
Start your journey on Emory’s International Admission Page and learn more about financial aid for overseas students on their Financial Aid for International Students portal.
Need help writing your financial circumstances letter or preparing your CSS Profile? Let me know—I can guide you through each step.