Are you an international student dreaming of studying in the United States? The University of Detroit Mercy (UDM) offers a welcoming environment, world-class academics, and significant financial support to help you achieve your goals. With a rich history rooted in the Jesuit and Mercy traditions, UDM is dedicated to making quality education accessible to talented students from across the globe.
In this comprehensive guide, we will break down the various scholarship opportunities available for international students, from undergraduates to graduates, and provide you with the essential information you need to apply.
1. Why Choose the University of Detroit Mercy?
Located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan, the University of Detroit Mercy is Michigan’s largest and most comprehensive Catholic university. It consistently ranks as a top-tier institution in the U.S. News & World Report for its commitment to academic excellence and value.
What sets UDM apart:
- Mission-Driven Education: A focus on social justice, compassionate service, and leadership.
- Diverse Community: Students from dozens of countries contribute to a vibrant, multicultural campus.
- Career Readiness: Detroit’s resurgence provides a unique backdrop for internships, networking, and professional growth in fields like engineering, business, and healthcare.
2. Undergraduate Scholarship Opportunities
For undergraduate students (both freshmen and transfers), UDM offers merit-based financial aid awarded directly through the Admissions Office. These awards are based on your academic performance and do not require a separate scholarship application in most cases.
A. For Canadian Undergraduate Students
Because of Detroit’s proximity to Canada, UDM has a long history of welcoming Canadian students.
- Freshman Scholarships: * Value: Up to $10,000 per academic year.
- Basis: Cumulative high school grade point average (GPA).
- Distribution: Split evenly between the fall and winter terms.
- Transfer Grants:
- Value: Between $1,000 and $9,000 per academic year.
- Basis: Cumulative college GPA from an accredited U.S. or Canadian institution.
B. For Other International Undergraduate Students
Whether you are attending a foreign high school or a U.S.-affiliated school abroad, you are eligible for significant support.
- Freshman Awards:
- Value: Up to $10,000 per academic year.
- Eligibility: Based on high school GPA and meeting English proficiency requirements (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.).
- Transfer Grants:
- Eligibility: Requires at least 24+ transferable credit hours (or 36+ quarter hours) from an accredited college or university.
- Criteria: Awarded based on your cumulative college GPA.
Important Note: These scholarships are renewable each year as long as you maintain good academic standing and full-time enrollment. However, they cannot be combined with other university grants or tuition discounts.
3. Graduate Student Funding
Graduate international students at Detroit Mercy have access to specialized funding opportunities that vary by department.
A. Assistantships
Many colleges within the university offer Teaching Assistantships (TA) or Research Assistantships (RA).
- Who they are for: Typically awarded to newly admitted and enrolled first-term graduate international students.
- How to apply: These are reviewed and awarded by the specific Academic Department or College (e.g., College of Engineering & Science, College of Liberal Arts & Education).
B. MBA Half-Tuition Scholarship
The Master of Business Administration (MBA) program offers a prestigious incentive for high-achieving applicants.
- The Award: 50% (Half-Tuition) Scholarship for the entirety of the graduate business degree.
- The Requirement: A score of 600 or better on the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT).
- How to claim: Simply submit your qualifying GMAT scores to the Admissions Office.
4. Key Requirements & Eligibility
To ensure you qualify for these awards, keep the following criteria in mind:
- Full-Time Enrollment: You must be enrolled as a full-time student to receive and maintain your scholarship.
- English Proficiency: Students from non-English speaking countries must meet UDM’s English proficiency guidelines.
- The ALCP Exception: Credits from the American Language and Culture Program (ALCP) do not count toward full-time status for scholarship purposes and are not eligible for discounts.
- Citizenship Status: These specific international awards are for students who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents. (U.S. Citizens and Refugees/Asylees should apply for Federal/State aid via FAFSA).
5. Additional Resources for International Students
While UDM provides generous institutional aid, international students are also encouraged to seek outside funding. Recommended resources include:
- EduPass: A guide to studying and living in the U.S.
- NAFSA: The Association of International Educators.
- IEFA: International Education Financial Aid search engine.
6. How to Apply: Step-by-Step
Ready to start your journey? Follow these steps to maximize your chances of securing a scholarship:
- Submit Your Application: Apply for admission to the University of Detroit Mercy through their official portal.
- Send Transcripts: Provide official high school or college transcripts. UDM will evaluate your GPA to determine your merit award level.
- Proof of English Proficiency: Submit your scores (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, etc.) to ensure your admission is processed quickly.
- Review Your Financial Aid Package: Once admitted, you will receive a financial aid letter outlining your scholarship amount.
Contact Information
If you have specific questions regarding your eligibility or the application process, reach out to the University of Detroit Mercy Financial Aid Office:
- Location: 4001 W. McNichols Road, Detroit, MI 48221
- Website: udmercy.edu/admission/financial-aid
Final Thoughts
Investing in an American education is a life-changing decision. At the University of Detroit Mercy, international students aren’t just numbers—they are valued members of a community dedicated to building a “Boundless Future.” By taking advantage of these $10,000 merit scholarships and graduate assistantships, you can make your dream of studying in Detroit a reality.
Apply today and start your journey toward academic and professional excellence!
