Help! Funding studies overseas?

peppstudent

Hi!

I've just discovered this forum in a complete panic and would be SO grateful for any advice you could give me.

Last week I was accepted to my dream university in the USA to complete my doctorate in clinical psych. I had found a loans company called Sallie Mae, that provided loans to international students with a guarantor from the UK... all others I've come across need a US guarantor. So having accepted my place, I logged onto Sallie Mae to find out how to apply... only to find that they have just stopped offering this loan, and now require US cosigners for all loans.

I am looking to borrow £100,000 to cover my tuition fees and living expenses over the course of the 4-year degree. My parents are happy to act as guarantors... they have some loans out against our UK home, but own a house in Florida outright (about £80,000), which they would be willing to take out a mortgage on. The only problem with a mortgage is that I'd have to start paying it back straight away while still studying... most student loans let you defer payments until graduation.

I'm so stressed out... after thinking I had funding in place, it's now disappeared. I am not going to let this stop me attending this university this year, and would be so grateful for any advice you can offer.

Many thanks.

Voyager2002

Perhaps you should look at courses in this country?

Anyway, let the university know about your situation. If they are reputable they should have scholarships available, or perhaps could offer a fee waiver in return for work in their clininc.

melancholly

if you get on a course in the UK, you should also get a stipend to live off - and if you're good enough to get into a course in the US, you should be able to get in over here too.

i know the accreditation system is different in the US, so it's worth checking that the qualification will translate if you want to practice over here (i have no idea).

i also agree with Voyager - if it's a good uni, they should have a financial support office you can contact who will be experts in helping international students.