How to get into some undergraduate programs if you're poor?

[sqrt2]

If you need more informations about this case just ask away.

I'm a professor from an African country and I recognized back a student who is brilliant enough to convince me to create this post. At his age other kids are struggling with solving quadratic equations or at very elementary number theory problems, yet he impressed me since he already mastered calculus in addition to GCSE physics and he now plans to study abstract algebra. I asked him about his interests and he replied that he wanted to join an university of the standing of Oxford... The problem is that he's very poor.

What would you advice him?

 

[Choppy]

Access to education for the poor is a huge issue. In the G8 countries, generally speaking, there are systems in place to mitigate costs or at least provide loans to cover the costs associated with university until such time as the student graduates and enters the workforce.

The first thing to look at is scholarships. For very advanced and high-achieving students lots of schools will provide entrance scholarhips. These are often more rare for foreign students, but they do exist. The student should invest some time in researching and applying for any scholarship he qualifies for. Also, it's important to remember that the "standing" of a university is not all that important. Prestige has a high cost-benefit ratio in my opinion. What matters is that the university provides a decent education in the student's subject of interest.

 

[sqrt2]

Thanks for your answer Choppy, what do you think if the student can teach in parallel so that he could offer enough money for his studies?

 

[Medicol]

Even being a TA can't be of help to afford everything. It's only stipends or small allowances to encourage good/or fairly good students.

Access to education for the poor is a huge issue...Prestige has a high cost-benefit ratio...

This is politically and socially correct everywhere . Life sucks!
Full tuition scholarships may help.

 

[Matrix0]

I understand the importance of education and the barriers that can exist for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds. It is commendable that this student has such a strong passion for mathematics and physics at a young age. My advice for him would be to first research and identify undergraduate programs that offer financial aid or scholarships for students from low-income families. Many universities have initiatives in place to support students from underprivileged backgrounds, and it is important for him to take advantage of these opportunities. He should also reach out to the admissions offices of the universities he is interested in and inquire about any additional support or resources available for students in his situation. Additionally, he could consider applying for external scholarships or grants specifically for students in STEM fields. It may also be helpful for him to seek mentorship or guidance from individuals who have successfully navigated the process of getting into undergraduate programs as a low-income student. With determination and perseverance, I believe he can overcome the financial barriers and achieve his goal of attending a prestigious university like Oxford.