Opportunity Funds Program scholars do not receive a scholarship from EducationUSA to study in the U.S. Scholars must work hard to apply to U.S. institutions that can provide full funding for them. The program covers the upfront costs of applying to U.S. institutions, including:
- Standardized test fees
- Application fees (limited amount)
- International passport
- Flight ticket to the U.S.
- Visa and SEVIS fees
- Settling-in allowance (if available)
In extenuating circumstances and funds permitting, the program may also cover:
- Credential evaluation
- Mailing transcripts and I-20 forms or additional score reports
- Internet data (if operating virtually)
The Opportunity Funds Program does not cover the following expenses:
- Mandatory immunizations
- Medical tests
- Expenses for which you can get a fee waiver
If Opportunity Funds Program scholars receive a voucher for expenses such as the CSS Profile fee, credential evaluation, or application to certain institutions, the program will not cover these costs.
Through periodic seminars, EducationUSA advisers will guide you through the college application process. The program begins with an application boot camp and continues throughout the year with seminars on:
- Researching your options
- Funding your studies
- Completing your application, including how to write a personal statement or college essay
- Applying for a student visa
- Preparing for departure
Opportunity Funds Program scholars must attend all group sessions held at the location to which they applied: Lagos or Abuja. Advisers will need to spend time with each scholar to provide the best guidance. This will take place from the time of selection in July of the year you apply until at least December of that year. However, meetings will continue to take place until you receive a fully funded admission and leave for the U.S. in August of the following year.
As an Opportunity Funds Program (OFP) scholar, you are part of a merit-based program and must commit your time and energy towards applying to institutions that can offer a full scholarship. Your responsibilities include:
- Putting in what we call “sweat equity” by dedicating significant effort to the application process
- Being willing to mentor the next cohort of scholars
- Demonstrating an ethos of giving back to the community
Opportunity Funds Program Scholars will apply for an F-1 student visa. For more information on student visas please visit the Bureau of Consular Affairs Website (link https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/study/student-visa.html ) and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Study in the States ( link https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/students).
Opportunity Funds Program (OFP) scholars will join their counterparts to form a network of OFP scholars in Nigeria and around the world. We encourage scholars to stay in touch, meet, exchange ideas with their peers, and connect via social media.