In this episode of Don't Chuck It Up, college counselor Chuck sits down with Manila-based independent educational consultant John Sy. to demystify the complexities of financing a US education for international students. The duo explores the critical differences between public vs. private universities, explaining how out-of-state tuition impacts non-US passport holders and why some institutions offer "discount" merit scholarships to attract global talent. John provides a reality check on the highly competitive nature of full-ride scholarships, the limitations of on-campus employment under student visa regulations, and the importance of reading the fine print on full tuition offers that may exclude room and board. Whether you are searching for affordable US colleges or navigating the international admissions process, this conversation provides essential strategies for finding a school that fits your family's budget without sacrificing academic quality.