Valdosta State University in Georgia gives out a limited number of International Student Scholarships, which are out-of-state tuition waivers. Holders pay in-state tuition and fees rather than the out-of-state rate, which is the biggest single saving the university can offer an international undergraduate.
To be considered you need F-1 or J-1 status, a school transcript showing a GPA of around 3.0 out of 4.0 or its equivalent, and an essay about your achievements and goals. The committee weighs academic record, extracurricular involvement and financial need together. Students who complete level six at the university's English Language Institute get priority in the award process.
Keeping the waiver takes ongoing work. You carry at least 12 credit hours a semester, hold a cumulative GPA of 3.0, stay in valid immigration status, and join service activities such as cultural presentations, orientations and open houses each autumn and spring. Fall below a 3.0 and you go on probation for a semester, and continued shortfall ends the waiver.
The catch is supply. Many students apply each year, the number of waivers is limited, and Valdosta State warns applicants to complete their Certificate of Finances without assuming they will receive one.