Does Hamilton offer financial aid to international students?
Yes. For those international students admitted into the Class of 2013, Hamilton offered approximately $1.5 million dollars in scholarship aid. The average Hamilton College scholarship for this year's incoming class is $39,247. While this may seem like a substantial amount, the pool of international students applying for this aid is extremely competitive. Financial aid packages typically include a Hamilton College scholarship, a work-study assignment, and an institutional loan. Hamilton meets the full demonstrated need of every admitted international student for all four years -- up to and including full tuition, room and board and estimated travel expenses -- based on information that we receive from the family each year.
Does Hamilton practice need-blind admission for international students?
Due to the limited resources available for international students, the Admission Committee cannot be need-blind when evaluating applications from international students. Therefore, it is in the student's best interest to be honest about his or her family's ability to pay, including the exact amount the family is able to contribute to a Hamilton education. Failure to do so may jeopardize a student's chance of admission to Hamilton. [Back to Top]
Am I eligible for financial aid if I apply Early Decision?
Yes. The admission deadlines are November 15 (Early Decision Plan I) or January 1 (Early Decision Plan II). Students may also convert their application to Early Decision anytime before January 25. [Back to Top]
What financial aid forms should I fill out as an international applicant?
Students who are not United States citizens or permanent residents should complete the International Student Financial Aid Application and the Certification of Finances. These forms should be submitted to the Financial Aid Office. U.S. students studying abroad need to complete the FAFSA, the C.S.S. PROFILE and the Hamilton Financial Aid Application.
What if a family's financial situation changes while their student is attending Hamilton?
The Financial Aid Office re-evaluates individual packages every year and will accommodate changes in a family's financial situation. As long as students are making progress toward their degree, we will meet their demonstrated financial need for all four years. [Back to Top]
What if I receive financial aid and want to study abroad while at Hamilton?
Hamilton encourages all students to take advantage of the many study abroad programs approved by the college. All students receiving financial aid who choose to study abroad (including our international students) may apply their financial aid toward their study abroad costs. [Back to Top]
What employment opportunities are available on and off campus?
International students who qualify for financial aid may be eligible for an on-campus job opportunity. Most students limit employment to 10 hours a week. On campus, students can work at the library, at the bookstore, in the dining halls, in the computer labs or tutoring centers, as research and teaching assistants, in the different administrative offices, etc. In order to work off campus, students need employment authorization from the U.S. government. Once this is obtained, you can work anywhere inside the U.S. over the summer or winter breaks, but not during the school year. The International Student Advisor in the Dean of Students Office can help you prepare the official documents needed to obtain the work authorization, while the Career Center will assist you in finding a job or internship. [Back to Top]
