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International Students

Macalester’s long-standing commitment to internationalism includes a significant financial aid fund for qualified international students. Applicants for financial assistance should be aware that all awards are based on need and that the competition for these funds is extremely keen.

Candidates who need financial assistance are required to complete the following by November 8, 2024 (Early Decision 1 and Early Action), January 8, 2025 (Early Decision II), January 22, 2025 (Regular Decision), or April 1, 2025 (transfer applicants).

  1. CSS Profile OR International Student Application for Financial Assistance

Students for whom the fee to submit the CSS Profile is a financial burden may submit the 2025-2026 International Student Application for Financial Assistance (ISAFA) instead.

  1. Macalester Financial Declaration Form (available on the Applicant Checklist in the student’s portal)

International students applying for financial assistance will not be considered for admission unless both required forms are completed and submitted.

International students who are not applying for financial aid must complete and submit the Financial Obligations Agreement form confirming their understanding of the financial commitment of not applying for need-based financial aid. This form is available in the applicant portal. International students not applying for aid will not be considered for admission unless this form is completed.

International Students Applying for Aid

  1. Can I work to help pay for my education?
  2. Are educational loans available to international students?
  3. Will I have a better chance of being admitted to Macalester if I offer to pay for my first year and apply for financial aid after I have matriculated?
  4. Should I pursue outside scholarships, and, if I receive them, do I need to notify Macalester?
  5. Does Macalester offer special or honorary scholarships to international students?

1. Can I work to help pay for my education?

All international students who qualify for financial aid are offered part-time campus work as part of their financial aid package. Students generally work between nine and twelve hours per week in an office or department on campus during the academic year.

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2. Are educational loans available to international students?

Yes. We offer a Macalester College International Student Loan to assist students in financing a portion of their educational expenses.

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3. Will I have a better chance of being admitted to Macalester if I offer to pay for my first year and apply for financial aid after I have matriculated?

No. Macalester is unable to consider applications for financial aid from international students after they have begun their studies at the college. All candidates are required to submit an accurate and thorough assessment of their financial situation as part of their application for admissions to the college.

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4. Should I pursue outside scholarships, and, if I receive them, do I need to notify Macalester?

Yes. All applicants are encouraged to pursue any source of funding that may help them afford their education at Macalester. Money is often available through local, national, regional, and global foundations. To maximize your chances of receiving financial aid from Macalester, it is imperative that you provide us with details of any outside assistance you have obtained. Scholarships from non-Macalester sources will be treated according to Macalester’s Outside Scholarship Policy.

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5. Does Macalester offer special or honorary scholarships to international students?

While the majority of financial aid awarded to international students is based on financial need, Macalester does offer a merit scholarship for international students. The Charles J. Turck Presidential Honor Scholarship is awarded to a limited number of international students who demonstrate special potential to excel academically. The scholarships range from $10,000 to $23,000 per year. Every international applicant is automatically considered for the Turck Scholarship — no special application is required.

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