Are you one of those who’re planning to fly to the United States for further studies? If the answer to that question is a yes, then you’re at the right place! Well, we understand that your mind must be flooded with a million questions like “What are the top U.S. Colleges, what’s the admission process, or how will you study in the U.S..” Well, we got you covered!
The U.S. is considered to be one of the best countries for education, and more than one million international students pursue their further education in the USA. It not only gives you cultural diversity but also creates concrete career support for you. Let’s go through the basics together and learn more about studying in the USA.
RESEARCH the Best Universities/Colleges!
As an international student, you need to first research the University where you want to study and the academic program you want to pursue. A bachelor’s degree from a U.S. university usually requires three to four years of study, an associate’s degree takes two years to complete, the graduate or postgraduate programs (master’s degree) requires two years of study, and a doctorate or Ph.D. requires three or more years. The more you research about universities and your specified course, the easier it gets for you!
How to start your research for the Best Universities and Colleges?
To take admission as an international student in the U.S., you need to start your research for the best universities and colleges in the country. You can visit the USA online site at the U.S. Department of Education College Navigator site. With that site, you can search for associate’s, bachelor’s, and advanced degrees (i.e., master’s and doctorates). Not just this, various other sites can be used to research that will provide you with ways to search for U.S. colleges and universities across many different programs.
Rankings should not be the criteria you use to choose a university!
You can also refer to Government’s college ranking list (e.g., league tables in the U.K.). Furthermore, you can check private companies ranking measures that rank colleges accordingly. In countries like the USA, it is one of the most recognizable ranking systems. You can also refer to an advisor for help. Advisors can assist you in finding the best universities and also align with your academic and professional goals.
1. Reach a College Advisor
If you’re looking to study abroad or in countries like the USA, it’s better to get some help from an advisor. A professional expert/advisor can help you learn more about how to study in the USA and help you find colleges that match your academic interests, personal preferences, and professional plans. You can also attend virtual webinars with university experts. You can try catching up with American universities’ representatives in person. Try attending college or university fairs in your city or school highlighting several U.S. higher education institutions.
2. Choose a Suitable University Program
Choose a course that suits your academic interests. Your major/interests should be the most important factor when choosing colleges to apply to in the United States. As an international student, you have multiple choices to choose from. Your academic interests can vary. Further, you can also complete a double major at a particular college or University. Moreover, you may elect to add a minor or a secondary option as well. If you’re unsure about your academic preference, need not worry! A lot of international students change their intended major during their time in college, and 40% of undergraduate students begin their first year in college with an undeclared major.
ASK YOURSELF THE RIGHT QUESTIONS!
If you’re confused about the academic course, you can ask yourself a few questions to get your ducks in a row. Here’s are some questions you can consider:
● Where do you wanna study in the USA for your bachelor’s degree?
● What kind of university experience in the United States do you want?
● Do you want to target large universities or small colleges?
● Is public college your first preference or a private college?
● What is your preferred location?
● What is your academic preference?
Answering these questions will not only help you to make an informed and reliable decision but will also keep your preferences in mind clear. After answering the questions, start with your research. Check the websites of different colleges, tests required (academic standardized and English proficiency tests), costs, scholarships, international student services, campus facilities, and internships, and placement. You can also check rankings of colleges online and refer to the listings like U.S. News & World Report’s Best Graduate Schools. These rankings will help you identify a suitable degree program.
3. Start applying to the University
After your detailed research, you have to select and shortlist the program you want to pursue and prepare a list of universities to choose from. Start applying after that! You can either apply your application online or prefer going through each school’s website. You can also select a third-party system.
4. Complete College Applications & Tests
UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT APPLICATIONS
Every US university has its own admissions criteria, but there are several common requirements they share. As an international student applicant, you require the following:
● Transcript
● Standardized test scores
● SAT or ACT
● English proficiency test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, iTEP, PTE Academic)
● Essay
● Recommendations
● Copy of your valid passport
Some colleges and universities may require proof of financing for international students and an interview, which you can do with staff or alumni living abroad.
GRADUATE STUDENT APPLICATIONS
Here is what you may need for your application requirements as an international student:
● Academic transcripts from your bachelor’s degree studies
● Test scores
● GRE/GMAT
● TOEFL, IELTS, iTEP, or PTE Academic
● Statement of purpose
● Research proposal
● Recommendations from professors
● Copy of your valid passport
● Proof of finances
While taking admission to a U.S. college as an International student, you may also be required to do either an on-campus or video interview with the program’s admissions committee.
5. Know the Costs & Apply for Financial Aid
Colleges in the United States cost annual college charges. This covers college tuition, fees, living expenses, books and supplies, and health insurance. Studying at an American University can be expensive, but you can apply for scholarships, grants, assistantships, and fellowships that are made available to foreign students in the U.S. There are academic merit scholarships and/or graduate assistantships for master’s degree programs. For doctorate programs, funding assistantships and fellowships are available.
Important Requirements for International Students
Studying internationally can be hectic and different. It is better to take some necessary precautions for a seamless and better academic experience. You can check the below-mentioned list for reference:
● A US suitable cell phone
● A bank account
● An adapter for electronics
● Important Documentation
● Personal medication
1. Get Necessary Documents!
Apply for a visa timely! Give yourself a good preparation time. Booking travel should be your high priority. Here are two major points you need to consider:
Immigration regulations require you to arrive in the United States no more than 30 days in advance of the program start date on your I-20. You must arrive by that I-20 program start date. Double-check the required documents, keep them handy.
2. Check for Housing
Depending on your university location, you can explore your options for housing. Considering this step is extremely important as it’ll help you avoid last-minute hassles. Universities also offer on-campus housing in dormitories, have both on- and off-campus options, including apartments, complexes, and more.
Bottom Line!
Here’s all that you need to know about studying in the USA? We hope our guide was helpful for you. We advise you to study hard and enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime experience. For more information, you may refer to the USA.gov website.
Gone are the days when giving advice was just one way; share your comments on what you went through while getting an admit in an American University!
Thank you for reading 🙂
