UNF: ISA Scholarship Frequently Asked Questions

How do I submit the ISA application?

Please complete the online form available on the International Center website. Incomplete packages will not be considered.

What is required for the letter of recommendation?

Letters of recommendation from an academic or professional source are preferable. For the best chances of success, the letter will be on an official letterhead, include a signature from the writer, as well as their credentials. The letter should also include the date, mention the name of the applicant, and reference the relationship of the writer to the applicant. Letters from relatives will not be considered.

What is the difference between in-state tuition and out-of-state tuition?

Students who are residents of Florida pay in-state tuition fees, which are less expensive. Students from other states and international students are typically required to pay out-of-state tuition fees, because they are not residents of Florida. Out-of-state tuition rates are significantly more expensive than in-state tuition rates.

Please view the estimated cost of attendance for international students at UNF with out-of-state tuition rates for one academic year (2 semesters with12 credits per semester, 24 credits per year).

You can also compare the different rates (in-state vs. out-of-state) per credit hour.

Can I use the ISA scholarship for housing, food, etc.?

No. This scholarship functions as an out-of-state tuition waiver, not a cash award, and serves to alleviate a portion of out-of-state tuition fees only.

Is the scholarship only for one semester?

No. You will be awarded the scholarship for the number of hours required for your degree program for the Fall and Spring semesters. Your ISA Scholarship will automatically renew for Fall and Spring semesters pending sufficient enrollment, academic standing, immigration status, and satisfactory academic progress. You must sign a new ISA contract each term you are awarded the ISA.

Funding during summer semesters is very limited and not guaranteed. If you are interested in receiving the ISA Scholarship for the Summer terms, you must submit a renewal application prior to the deadline (April 1).

Remember, to maintain eligibility while receiving the ISA Scholarship, you must inform the International Center of any changes in immigration/residency status.

I do not have my student visa (F-1 or J-1) yet, can I apply?

Yes, this scholarship is for new students to UNF, so we are aware that you may not have a visa at the time of the application. This is fine, but you must hold an F-1 or J-1 student visa at the time the scholarship is awarded.

What are my chances of receiving the ISA scholarship?

This is a competitive scholarship, but we aim to award as many qualified students as possible. It is worth applying for!

I already have a graduate assistantship or other scholarship that pays my out-of-state tuition fees. Should I apply?

No. The condition of the scholarship is that it waives a portion or all “out-of-state tuition” fees only. We cannot award the scholarship if you have no out-of-state tuition fees to pay. That’s great that you already have your out-of-state tuition fees paid for – you do not need the ISA scholarship!

I have been a student at UNF for a semester or more, can I apply?

No. You must be a newly admitted student. However, check the International Center website or email intlctrscholarships@unf.edu for other scholarship options for continuing students.

I graduated and am returning to UNF for a second degree program, can I apply?

Yes. In this case, you would be considered a newly admitted student as it is a new degree program.

I am a J-1 exchange student who has tuition exemption due to my University Agreement with UNF, can I apply?

No. The ISA Scholarship can only help waive UNF out-of-state tuition fees. We cannot award you if you have no UNF out-of-state tuition fees to pay.

I have a different visa type, should I change my visa type to F-1 or J-1 so I am eligible for the ISA Scholarship?

Probably not, but contact us at intlctrscholarships@unf.edu so we can go over your individual case.

I’m a dual citizen holding U.S. citizenship, can I apply?

No. Dual citizens with U.S. citizenship are not eligible to apply. This scholarship can only be awarded to F-1 and J-1 international students.

I’m from ________, can I apply?

Yes! International students are welcome to apply. This scholarship is not country-specific

I am a UNF English Language Program (ELP) student, who was admitted to a degree program at UNF. Can I apply?

Yes! The ELP is different than UNF degree programs, so you are eligible to apply.

I have another question about my specific case, who can I contact?

Please reach out to us at intlctrscholarships@unf.edu! We are happy to assist you.