How I Funded My Graduate Degree at UAlbany as an International Student

A man in a dark sweater stands on a frozen lake under a clear blue sky. Mountains line the horizon, with four distant people walking behind.
by Yashwanth Kotha, UAlbany MS in Data Science Student

Coming from India, studying in the U.S. had always been my dream, but figuring out how to pay for it was my biggest challenge. When I was admitted to the University at Albany’s MS in Data Science program, I was thrilled, but the reality of tuition, living expenses, and visa costs hit quickly. What I discovered, however, is that with the right planning and persistence, funding your graduate degree is absolutely possible.

My Funding Journey
My first big win was the Dean’s Merit Scholarship, which awarded me $5,000 per year for both years of my program. This recognition not only eased my financial pressure but also reassured me that I was entering a university that valued academic achievement.

To cover the rest, I applied for an education loan in India. Thanks to UAlbany’s excellent reputation as a Research 1 university, my loan was approved easily. That scholarship and loan gave me a stable foundation.

Once on campus, I learned how important it is to stay alert for on-campus opportunities. I landed a paid internship as a Student Assistant, which helped me pay tuition and gain professional experience. Later, I joined the Graduate Ambassador Program, representing the University to prospective students, a position that’s both paid and rewarding. These opportunities have shaped my finances and my professional growth.

Funding Options You Should Know About
At UAlbany, there’s no single path to funding. Here are some of the main options every graduate student should explore:

  • Assistantships (TA, GA, RA): These positions usually come with a bi-weekly stipend, tuition support, and health insurance. Assistantships are often department-based, so it’s crucial to contact your department early and complete the application when you apply, if available.
  • Student Assistant Positions: On-campus jobs that offer hourly pay and valuable work experience. Many roles are available through MyUAlbany or Handshake, the University’s job portal.
  • Scholarships and Fellowships: Beyond the Dean’s Merit scholarship, UAlbany offers awards like the Great Dane Grad Scholarship and Dissertation Research Fellowship (learn more here). Some departments also have internal scholarships, so always ask your advisor.
  • External Funding & Research Foundation Grants: Some assistantships are funded through external research grants, these can be a great fit for students in data, tech, or research-based programs.
  • Loans & Aid: As an international student, you may be bale to find local or private loans in your home country. 

My Top Tips for Future Students

  1. Start early - deadlines matter: Apply for funding as soon as you apply for admission.
  2. Build a strong résumé: Highlight your skills, research, and project experience, as it can set you apart for scholarships and assistantships.
  3. Check Handshake weekly: That’s where most on-campus and state-agency roles are posted.
  4. Ask questions: Always ask for clarity about funding options and never assume you’re not eligible. 
     

Final Thoughts
Studying at UAlbany has been one of the best decisions of my life. The University truly invests in its students, offering countless ways to fund your education while gaining real-world experience. If you’re proactive, open-minded, and willing to explore, you can make your dream of studying in the U.S. a reality just like I did.