The Problem:

A lot of international students who come to study in the U.S. either go back home within the first year or have to transfer to another institution. The cost of pursuing education in the U.S. is sometimes well above the financial means of the families of international students. Changes like tuition increases due to inflation or unforeseen life circumstances can drastically and negatively impact international students in the country.

While some of these challenges are true for all students in the U.S., international students face unique barriers when it comes to financial support. Statistically, fewer than 5% of international students receive full-ride scholarships in U.S. institutions—making such opportunities exceptionally rare unless one is admitted to a top-tier, need-blind university. Even partial aid is uncommon, with only about 10–15% receiving any form of scholarship support at all.

This lack of access is largely due to U.S. laws that restrict certain types of investments by corporations in foreign economies—a nuance that significantly impacts international students. Banks and other financial institutions are unable to provide such resources to international students, even if doing so aligns with their values.

Unfortunately, many students are left to fend for themselves, and with these financial challenges come increased risks of mental and physical health consequences.

How can you help:

Even though some corporations are unable to support international students due to legal or financial risks, individuals can make a direct and lasting impact.

That’s why we’re inviting you to support this initiative aimed at helping international students stay in school despite unexpected financial hardship. This fall, we hope to support five students at risk of dropping out due to funding gaps.

We’ve launched a GoFundMe campaign with a goal of $10,000, to be raised by February 1, 2026. Funds will be distributed in March 2026 directly to students for tuition and essential needs.

Here’s how you can help:

• Donate any amount through our GoFundMe page
• Share scholarship opportunities with us at bradysouma@starters.com
• Volunteer your expertise to help us design a fair, transparent disbursement process
• Provide feedback or ideas by emailing bradysouma@starters.com

Your support could be the reason a student completes their education instead of being forced to leave. We’ll release more information about the application process in mid-October.

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