Application Timeline 12 to 14 Months Before

Application Timeline  12 to 14 Months Before

Choose the schools to which you will apply

By now, you should have your definitive list of the schools to which you would like to apply. If you are using the USA School Search, you can save these schools in your account and correspond directly with them. Your list should contain the following:

1 or 2 institutions that you would like to attend, but that may not accept you

2 institutions where you feel you have a decent chance of being accepted

1 or 2 institutions where you are quite certain that you will gain admission

Prepare a folder for each of the schools you select in which you will keep copies of all correspondence, application materials and other information.

Stay on track

Colleges are going to be paying special attention to what you’ve done with your senior year, so make sure you work hard and keep your grades up. Meet with your counselor to try to prepare a challenging schedule for your final year of high school, rather than loading up on easy electives. It is also a good idea to maintain a commitment to any extracurricular activities that you are a part of. Colleges like to see that you are involved in extracurricular activities, but they like to see that you can maintain an interest in and commitment to just a few activities, rather than bouncing from club to club every semester.

Obtain all necessary information and forms for each school

Contact each school to obtain information and an application packet – you can do this through the USA School Search. Many colleges and universities in the U.S. (but certainly not all) have application materials on their web sites. Be aware that some web sites carry only applications for institutions that subscribe to that site. Determine what you will need to apply to each college and/or university on your list of potential programs, as requirements are different at every school. Note carefully the deadlines on each application.

Graduate students should send a letter to the director of graduate admissions with a copy to the chairman of the department to which you seek admission.

Now is also the time to inform institutions if you will need financial aid, as you will need additional forms.

Take required entrance exams

You should take the necessary entrance exams at this time. Many graduate and undergraduates will need to prove their English skills by taking the TOEFL, IELTS or other accepted English as a Second Language test; undergraduates will need to take the SAT or ACT exam; and graduate students may be required to take the GRE or GMAT exam. Please visit our Standardized Tests section for comprehensive information about these tests, and make sure you know what is required from the schools on your list.

Be sure that you have requested—either by mail or online—that your test scores be sent to the colleges to which you plan on applying.

Note: Make sure you know your deadlines! You’re going to be filling out a lot of forms, so it’s important to know what is due when. You might want to make a calendar showing the application deadlines for admission, financial aid, and scholarships.

For your next steps, visit our 10-12 Months Before application timeline

Application Timeline 18 Months Before

Application Timeline - 18 Months Before

When applying to college, it is important to start the process early, especially if you are an international student. The application process is long and potentially frustrating, and you’ll want to give yourself as much time as possible to complete it, to make sure you don’t end up missing any deadlines.

Research various colleges and universities programs to see which programs will best fit your academic and professional goals

Thousands of American colleges and universities open their doors each year to international students like you. As you begin your research, visit the Decision-Making Process section of our Study USA Guide. Students seeking an undergraduate level of study have for years used reference books from school libraries or U.S. educational advising centers – but of course the web is the best source for school research now. You can start your search of possible schools in the U.S. using the USA School Search. The USA School Search lists every college or university in the USA that admits international students, and leaves out any schools that do not, making it very useful and efficient for an international student planning to study in the US.

Applicants to graduate study need to study college catalogs and web sites to find suitable programs and identify faculty who share their academic interests. You should use software such as Peterson’s Grad Search, and reference books such as the GRE/CGS Directory of Graduate Programs, available at U.S. advising centers. A few good web sites for the initial research are:
http://www.internationalstudent.com/school-search/usa/

http://www.collegeboard.org

http://www.petersons.com

http://www.review.com



Once you have narrowed down the colleges in which you are interested, read anything you can find about them. If possible, talk to or correspond with alumni of these institutions or parents of students studying there. Attend college fairs, college nights, and speak to representatives. Confer with faculty and academic counseling staff at your own school. A good list of your selected programs can only be made if you are well informed.

Start Organizing and Narrowing Down Your Choices

After you’ve gotten a good idea of the types of colleges you are interested in, you’ll want to create a filing system with individual folders for each college’s correspondence and printed materials. This will make it easier to go back and find information during the months to come.

Next, you’ll want to start narrowing down your choices. After you have gathered all of the information you need about the colleges you are considering (entrance requirements, tuition, room and board costs, course offerings, student activities, financial aid, etc.), it is time to start comparing the schools according to the factors that are most important to you and rank your choices.

It is also important to keep your family in the loop during this time. Have a discussion with them about the colleges in which you are interested. That way, your family can learn about what you want to pursue and they can voice and concerns or suggestions they might have.

Financial Aid

Another important factor to keep in mind around this time is financial aid. Learn about your family’s resources and gather information about financial aid from all of the schools in which you are interested.

Next, you’ll want to start a scholarship search, There are plenty of scholarships out there, you just need to spend a little time and effort in order to fine them. You can check with your guidance office to find scholarships from local organizations, as well as use online scholarship searches to find a wider range of options. The earlier you start looking for scholarships, the easier it will be to choose the best ones to apply to next year.

Register and Prepare for Required Entrance Exams

Undergraduates should register and prepare for the TOEFL, IELTS or other English language test accepted by your schools, as well as the SAT exams. In addition to one of the English language tests, Graduate students should determine whether they will need to register for the GRE and/or GMAT exams. Law students will likely need the LSAT, medical students the MCAT – and there are several more! Please visit our section on standardized tests for more information on standard tests you may be required to take.

Keep working at your subjects at school. Good grades in the courses you are taking will count heavily in the admissions process.

Check out our Application Timeline for 12-14 Months Before to learn what your next steps should be.

Application Timeline

Application Timeline

The application timeline will help you plan out your 18 months leading up to studying in the USA.

18 Months Before U.S. Study

Research various colleges and universities programs

Register and prepare for required entrance exams

Keep working hard in school

12-14 Months Before U.S. Study

Choose the schools to which you will apply

Obtain all necessary information and forms for each school

Take required entrance exams

10-12 Months Before U.S. Study

Request any forms and information again, if necessary

Identify your references and supply them with required reference forms

Request transcripts from your school/s

Write your application essay (also called a "personal statement")

10 Months Before U.S. Study

Retake entrance exams if scores were unsatisfactory

Line up all required financing

Complete and mail applications

Electronic Applications: An Additional Note

3 Months Before U.S. Study

Apply for your student visa

Research health insurance options for your time abroad

Make travel arrangements for when you arrive in the U.S.
 

Application Process For USA

Application Process

International students often underestimate the amount of time required to apply for admission to a college or university in the United States. Avoid this mistake by setting a schedule for yourself that starts well in advance of the time that you plan to begin your studies. When setting your timetable, always remember that doing things early is the best way forward. You need to allow yourself sufficient time to thoroughly research the institution and/or program that will best serve your academic and professional goals. Then you must meet the application deadlines of the universities to which you apply, which may be as much as 10 months before the beginning of the school term.

Especially for schools with competitive admissions, the application process takes a significant amount of time and needs to be done well, with required essays and recommendations from teachers or other who know you well. The need for an early start holds true even if you are able to access electronic applications on the Internet. University web sites and other academic Internet sites may provide quick and convenient access to the required application forms, but you still need time to research your options, contact teachers and institutions to provide recommendations and transcripts, and sign up for required entrance exams in time to meet application deadlines.

Application Timeline
The application timeline will provide you with full, detailed information about the steps you should take and when you should take them in order to plan your approach to studying in the USA. The plan starts 18 months before you wish to study, so you need to get planning soon! Of course, if you don’t have that much time you can still jump in and catch up – but there earlier the better! Learn More check 3a


Standardized Tests

Most U.S. colleges and universities require that you take one or more standardized admissions tests in order to gain entrance into their programs. SAT, ACT, GRE, MCAT, LSAT, TOEFL, IELTS – it’s like alphabet soup! We can provide you with further information about the various tests, what you need to do in order to prepare for, sign up for and do well on the appropriate standardized tests. Learn More check 3b

Credential Evaluators

School curriculum varies by country, not only in language but also in practice. Many schools accepting students from other countries require the official status of your school and need to verify the authenticity of documents. This is where credential evaluators come in. Your school may require you to submit transcripts to a credential evaluator who will examine your credentials and translate the documents into your host country curriculum for review. Learn More check 3c

Research Tools

Research Tools

Even if you do not have the opportunity to visit U.S. universities before you enroll, resources are available to help you learn more about the education in the United States and to select an appropriate program. These resources include books, videos, computer-search programs, and Internet sites.

Books

The right book can be invaluable to you in helping you to research potential schools. There are a variety of different types of books to help you in your search. Read on to find out what they are and how they can aid you.

The types of books that can help you with your search range from university guides and catalogues, which provide information on specific programs in the United States, to financial aid sourcebooks, to books detailing the application process, or on how to write a college application essay.

Check out our Books to Read page for some suggested research books.

Online Resources

The internet has a seemingly unlimited supply of information. If you know where to look and how to weed out the good information from the bad, it could be that the only tool you need to equip yourself with is a computer.

The internet can provide you with virtually all the information you need—if you know where to look. You might do a quick Google search using keywords such as "study in the US," or you might want to do a more specialized search using a database like our USA School Search or College Board.

These are a few online tools to help you search for colleges:

USA School Search

Online searchable database of Universities and Colleges in the USA. Users can search by State of course of study and results contain a paragraph of information about the school and a link to the institutions website

College Board Search

Searches can be tailored very specifically to include enrollment size, financial aid availability for international students, and majors. Matches are linked to school data pages which offer more in-depth information. A sophisticated browser is recommended. The College Board site also offers on-line purchasing of its publications, videos, and software.

Peterson's Undergraduate

Program Search

On-line searching of the guide above. Some entries offer links to electronic forms, or forms that can be downloaded, for admission purposes.

Test Prep Courses

You might also want to look into test prep courses for standardized tests like the SAT, TOEFL, or GRE, or you might want to buy a test preparation book, if you do not have the time or money to devote to a class. These can be a great resource for boosting your test scores.

Educational Advising Centers

In order to help you with your search, there are nearly five hundred U.S. educational advising centers around the world specializing in providing information and guidance on U.S. education. The American embassy, consulate, or United States Information Agency (USIA) office in your country or region can refer you to the nearest such center.

Advising centers are often found in USIA offices, American libraries, bi-national centers, Fulbright commission offices, and, in some countries, at the offices of private organizations such as AMIDEAST, IREX, World Learning Inc., the Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE), the American Council of Teachers of Russia (ACTR), and the Institute of International Education (IIE).

Some advising centers, in addition to providing print and online resources, reach out personally to prospective students through fairs and outreach events at local schools, universities, and other public venues.

An educational advising center can carry many names: for example the terms "advisory service" and "information service" are used interchangeably. Regardless of the name, the purpose of each center is to offer comprehensive and unbiased information and advice on study in the United States. Typically the centers have a library containing a variety of resources that can help you in your search.

Decision Making Process For US Visa

Decision Making Process

Studying in the United States is a serious and expensive undertaking. Consider carefully how your studies in the U.S. will fit into your long-term educational and professional aspirations, as well as your personal goals. Your experience as an international student will likely be a life-changing and fulfilling one, but you need to take many internal and external factors into consideration before you start packing your bags.

Use our definitive checklist below to make sure that you find the best fit for you:

What are your goals?

Are you academically prepared?

Accreditation

Quality and other educational factors

What will an education in the U.S. cost?

Do you have adequate English skills?

Access to heath care

Housing options in the USA

Location and climate within the U.S.

Safety issues

Social activities

Practising your religion

Are you prepared to live in another country?

What Are Your Goals?

What are your reasons for wanting to study abroad? You should think about not only the ways in which studying in the U.S. will enrich your multi-cultural and personal life, but also how it can enhance your educational and professional goals. Students pursue higher education, in their home country or abroad, because it will help them achieve any number of goals later in life. These goals may include professional advancements, a higher-paying job, or a broader range of cross-cultural knowledge, adaptability and experience.

As you define your educational and professional aspirations, here are some questions to consider:

Am I willing to spend this much time (at least a year or more) in higher education?

Will my U.S. credentials be recognized at home by institutions of higher education, professional licensing boards, and potential employers when I return?

Is the knowledge that I gain during my study in the United States readily transferable to situations in my home country?

Will the technological expertise I acquire in the United States be of use at home?

Is there a need for my chosen profession in my home country?

Would having an international educational base of knowledge and experience give me an edge over others working and/or competing for jobs in my field?

Will I earn enough in this profession to justify the investment?

Is the training and/or education that I am seeking in the U.S. available to me in my home country?

Will spending time abroad cause me to miss potential opportunities at home?

Are You Academically Prepared?

If you are applying for undergraduate study at a two- or four-year university in the United States, you must have completed at least twelve years of school and obtained the equivalent of a U.S. high school diploma. If you are considering graduate study at the master’s or doctoral level, you will need an academic equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree.

No matter which level of education you are seeking in the U.S., you should know that the grades you received in your previous schooling carry a lot of weight with admissions counselors. Some U.S. universities are very competitive, selecting only students with excellent grades, high test scores, a variety of extracurricular activities and overall leadership skills. Many other schools are less selective, but almost all require some demonstration that you have succeeded in your previous schooling. Furthermore, your application should show the admissions staff that you have the potential to succeed at a more advanced level. Most graduate schools also require a minimum grade point average of 3.0 from your earlier studies.

Be realistic about your academic record and test scores. Apply to universities whose requirements match your academic background and interests. Be aware that graduate work in the United States involves a great deal of independent work and classroom discussion, forms of learning that may be different from your past learning environment.

U.S. colleges and universities place a great deal of emphasis on neat, organized and clearly written presentation. Almost nothing is accepted in handwriting; projects and term papers should be typed or produced on a computer. More and more research at campus libraries is conducted using computers to access on-line resources instead of books. Most universities will issue a personal e-mail account to students upon enrollment and expect them to use it for homework assignments. Take care that you are knowledgeable and prepared for this type of learning.

Accreditation

You will want to make sure that any U.S. institution that you are considering is accredited by an agency that is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Because the United States central government does not control the educational system, private, non-governmental agencies were created to review higher education institutions and their programs. If a school is accredited, you can be assured that the quality of their courses and programs, faculty, recruiting processes and admissions guidelines has met specific standards set forth by an accrediting agency.

What happens if a higher education institution is not accredited? First, it will be extremely difficult for you to receive financial aid through grants or loans if you need the money for a college or university program that has not been recognized as meeting certain standards for their practices.

Second, if you choose to pursue a graduate degree after completing undergraduate coursework through a program at an unaccredited school, your credits from that program will not likely be accepted as part of your graduate school application.

Finally, many employers check to see if a potential applicant has received a degree from an academic program with accreditation. A candidate without such a credential may well be overlooked for employment. It is well worth your time to take care that all programs you are considering have met the high standards set forth by an accrediting agency.

Quality and Other Educational Factors

Because of the size and the variety of higher educational institutions in the United States, the quality of any given institution and its programs, even when accredited, is hard to determine. The most expensive institution is not necessarily the best, nor is every program at a highly regarded university necessarily of the same high quality.

There is no official ranking of colleges and universities in the United States, though many general university guides will offer objective information on the difficulty in the admissions process (more competitive schools are more difficult to get into) and the quality of various schools’ programs.

Some factors that can affect the quality of the education available, particularly to undergraduates, include:

Class size: Are all classes taught in a lecture format, with one professor lecturing the course information to a hundred or more students? Or are there smaller discussion seminars available to students? This is an important consideration for international students, for it can be difficult to get questions that you have answered if many of your courses are all lectures, with little to no opportunity for clarification and intensive study in a smaller group with a professor or teacher’s assistant.

Opportunities for independent research and direct work with faculty: The available opportunities to do your own research and to work one-on-one with department faculty is an important consideration for both undergraduate and graduate students. Are there service learning opportunities and research programs? Is there an honors program for students who excel in their area of study? Is the technology at the school current, and will it allow you to do the necessary work you need to be successful as a student?

Educational background of the student body: How selective is the institution in admitting students for enrollment? Do they have ‘open enrollment,’ whereby most any student can join their program, or are they selective, competitive or highly competitive? Again, our Research Tools to Guide Your Search section will provide you with helpful resources that you can use to determine a school’s selectivity.

What Will an Education in the U.S. Cost?

Studying in the U.S. can be an expensive undertaking. Tuition costs vary enormously from one institution to the next: a community college may have a yearly tuition of $2,000 (USD), while a highly selective private university may have yearly costs for tuition, room and board of $35,000 or more.

The biggest reason for this wide range of costs is because some colleges and universities in the United States are public schools, and some are private schools. What’s the difference? In short, public institutions receive funding from the government (usually state government), whereas private schools get their money from student tuition, alumnae gifts, grants and endowments. Public schools are generally much less expensive than their private counterparts, with public school tuition costs coming in at an average of one-third the cost of private school tuition. No matter which school you attend, you can pretty well count on tuition being the largest single cost that you will face.

Sources of financial aid available to international students at the undergraduate level are limited and highly competitive. In some cases, financial assistance may be available through the institution. In other cases, you may be able to get aid through a private foundation, a private company, or your home government. Financial assistance may come in the form of scholarships, loans, grants or tuition reductions. Graduate students may find some teaching assistantships and/or research assistantships available to them.

Many American students receive some form of financial aid to help them pay for their higher education. As a result, many schools reserve financial aid funds for students who are already U.S. citizens, and simply do not have enough money left over to offer financial aid to international students. Competition may be fierce for the international student funding that some schools can offer, so you will want to do your research well in advance and be prepared. It is important for you to keep tuition rates and the availability or unavailability of financial assistance in mind when going through your school selection process.

You should also remember that tuition is not the only expense that you will incur while studying in the United States. Housing costs can also vary greatly, whether you are living in a dormitory with a number of other students or in an apartment either on or off-campus. You will also want to consider the cost of living in the surrounding area. The cost of living in some parts of the country (especially in large cities) can be much more expensive than in other areas. Even different cities within the same state may have a wide range in costs.

As you set your budget and make financial plans, be sure to plan for all your time spent in the U.S. for the entire program. An undergraduate degree in the United States takes an average of four to five years to complete. Master’s programs may last one to three years. Doctoral programs may take anywhere from five to seven years, depending on your field of study and previous education. Non-degree or vocational programs last anywhere from several months to two years.

Be realistic if you plan to bring your family with you during your time in the United States. You will probably need an additional $5,000 per year to bring your spouse with you, and an extra $4,000 per year for each child. Health insurance is a necessity for living in the United States, and you should budget for these costs, as well. The cost of health insurance varies, but it generally ranges from $3,500 to $4,000 per year for a family.

Please visit International Student Loan and International Education Financial Aid for more information about funding your education abroad.

Do You Have Adequate English Skills?

It will be to your advantage to have a good command of written and spoken English from the very beginning of the application process. Most universities will require international undergraduate and graduate students to demonstrate their English language proficiency as part of the admissions process by asking incoming students to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). In addition to a TOEFL requirement, some universities require applicants to submit at least one essay as part of their application; others may request an interview or teleconference to hear how well you express yourself in English. It is therefore important to learn the policies on English language testing and classes at the schools in which you are interested. You may find it helpful to meet with an English teacher in your home country to help you determine how your English skills will fare in the United States.

Conditional or provisional admission may be offered to you if your academic or professional qualifications are very good but your English needs additional improvement. If you are granted conditional admission, you may be required to complete English language courses or retake standardized language proficiency tests before being allowed to enroll in certain courses. You may have to satisfy this condition during your first or second term. Most U.S. colleges and universities offer English as a Second Language (ESL) classes in which you may be required to enroll upon beginning your study at a school. You will find that the International Student Office may be of great help to you in learning more about the ESL opportunities available.

If you are an international graduate student and are interested in applying for a graduate teaching or laboratory assistantship, you will need to pay particular attention to any special English language or other preparation programs that may be required for such assistantships.

Whatever the proficiency level of your English language skills, just remember to carefully examine the documents in your admissions packet to determine whether you will be required to enroll in ESL classes. The level of English proficiency required varies from school to school and from department to department, but the more prepared you are before you begin study, the more confident you will feel as a student in the United States.

For more information about ESL programs and English as a Second Language please see the ESL directory.

Access to Health Care

Many colleges and universities have student health centers that offer basic medical care at little or no cost to students. If you know that you have a specific medical condition and/or will require regular medical care, you will want to locate a university that has adequate student health services and is located near a comprehensive medical center.

Health care for major illnesses or accidents can be extremely expensive in the United States. The federal government does not guarantee universal health care to everyone, and those who do not have health insurance are expected to pay privately for all medical heath care services. It is therefore essential for you to have such insurance before you go.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 protects the rights of all students, both U.S. and international, to participate fully in the programs and services of a college or university. Many campuses have offices with specially trained staff to provide support services for students with disabilities. If you have a disability, you will want to find out about the special facilities or resources available to you. If a university has other students with the same (or a related) disability, this may well indicate that the school can accommodate your special need.

Please see International Student Insurance for more information. International Student Insurance offers reasonably priced, comprehensive health insurance plans for international students that meet the requirements of most US schools. ISI also has information on selecting a health insurance plan, understanding health insurance terms and also a student health insurance blog.

Housing Options in the USA

Housing is an important consideration, as a variety of options are available when you start looking at where you will live when studying abroad. If you are single and are looking to immerse yourself in American collegiate life, living in a campus residence hall (also known as a dormitory) with an American roommate may be appealing to you. Dormitories also have resident advisors (usually one on each floor) that are available to assist students with everything from campus directions to helping new students find activities and organizations that match their interests.

If you are married and want your family to accompany you to the United States while you are studying, you will want to examine your options with care. You will find that some universities offer married student housing on campus, though it may be limited.

In many locations, students can find reasonably priced apartments or houses to rent. Also, you should be aware that some urban universities have little or no student housing.

Location and Climate Within the U.S.

If you have never visited the United States, you may be surprised to learn not only how large it is, but also how much variety exists between the different areas of the country. American colleges and universities exist in small towns surrounded by rural countryside, as well as in the middle of large cities where over a million people are living. Each campus has a different "feel" to it, and you will want to think about what sort of culture best suits you. Perhaps you are from a small town or have always lived in a rural area, and you are excited by the idea of living in a big city, surrounded by thousands of people. Or does the idea of being in a noisy, bustling city where you may need to learn how to navigate your way around using public transportation make you uncomfortable? These are important issues to consider.

Because the United States is such a large country, there is naturally quite a range of climates, as well. Many states have a full range of weather in the four seasons of one year, where temperatures may range from very cold with possible snow in the winter to hot, humid conditions in the summer. To give you an example, the University of North Florida is situated just outside Jacksonville, Florida where the climate for 8 months of the year is very hot and humid, with temperatures around 30 degrees celsius. During the other months, it can actually drop down to freezing and can be a little chilly in comparison.

You may be more comfortable studying in an area whose climate matches that of your home country, or perhaps you are ready for a change. You can study at a school in the mountains or near a beach by the ocean. Detailed weather information about the weather conditions and average seasonal temperatures may be found through the resources at your educational advising center, or on the World Wide Web.

Obviously, it is ideal if you can visit various schools in the U.S. before making your decision, but that may well be impossible. Learn as much as you can from this website and other research to learn about the different parts of the country and what each location has to offer. Look at not only the different higher education institutions in the U.S., but also the various regions of the country to decide where you will find the most happiness and success as an international student.

Safety Issues

Personal safety is important to people everywhere, and your family may have concerns about you being safe while studying so far from home. Violence on a school campus can happen anywhere, and the United States is certainly no exception. The country and the world watched in horror when, on April 16, 2007, a horrific shooting took place on the campus of Virginia Tech University in which an undergraduate student killed thirty-two students and wounded many more before taking his own life. Though incidents such as this one are extremely rare, the tragedy resonated throughout the country. Campus security and crime prevention, which were already a high priority on most (if not all) campuses, ranks even higher on the priority list for college and university officials. Schools all have a specific university department in place to ensure that their schools remain a safe place to learn at all times. Notwithstanding the terror and sadness of that day in April, which will haunt Virginia Tech and all US higher education for years to come, campuses in the US are generally very safe places.

Common security measures may include any number of the following: emergency and security access telephones throughout campus that connect directly to campus and/or local police; campus entrances that are gated and locked at night, where only students with school identification are allowed access from security staff after hours; residence halls that remain locked at all times, with only students living there having access to the buildings; live-in residence hall directors to oversee each campus housing building; and a student escort service that provides safe, campus-wide assistance to students. Many international student orientations also provide information to new international students about the various ways that they can stay safe on campus.

It is customary for public institutions in the United States to make available statistics about the types and numbers of crimes that occur on their campuses. Even though it is unlikely that you would be a victim, crime can happen anywhere. So regardless of where you choose to study, you should learn about common safety and crime prevention strategies.

Social Activities

International students come to the U.S. to not only to broaden their education, but to gain cultural and social knowledge about this country, as well. You would do well to make the most out of your experience here, and social activities on campus are a great place to start. Most universities offer a wide array of clubs and organizations representing student interests. You will find cultural and religious associations, sports teams and athletic clubs, volunteer service organizations, academic societies, music and theater groups, international student organizations and many other opportunities for social activities. All of these activities are good opportunities to meet others and develop friendships. You should check with the university’s international student office to learn more about the social and cultural offerings available at your school of choice.

Be aware that certain types of institutions may offer fewer social activities. For example, some schools that are located in large, urban areas (often called ‘commuter campuses’ because most students do not live on campus, but rather commute to campus for classes) tend to cater to part-time American students and do not concentrate on student social activities.

Practicing Your Religion

It may be very important to you to be a part of a religious community where you are studying in the United States. Muslim students, for example, might want to be sure that there is a mosque in their campus community. While some colleges and universities have a religious affiliation, many others do not, and you will often find a variety of religious organizations and places of worship available to you. The university international student office should be able to provide you with the necessary information you might need for your particular need.

Are You Prepared to Live in Another Country and Culture?

Living in the United States for an extended period of time while pursuing your educational goals is much different from visiting the country for a few weeks or months as a tourist. Give some thought to how living in a new environment and a new culture will change you, and the additional changes that you may need to make upon your return home. Consider whether you have the skills to live independently in a new culture, perhaps without the comforts of certain foods or products that you cannot get in this country. You will likely be separated from friends and family for a long period of time. If you do bring your family with you, be sure to consider their adjustments, as well.

Resourcefulness, creativity and realistic planning are all key factors in determining whether you will succeed in your plan to study in the United States. Once you have considered all of these factors, start researching US schools with the InternationalStudent.com School Search.

Study in the USA

Study in the USA

wall street usa

The USA has the world’s largest international student population, with over 800,000 students choosing to broaden their education and life experience in the United States. Nearly 4% of all students enrolled in higher-level education in the USA are international students, and the numbers are growing. From the mid-1950’s, when international student enrollment was only just reaching 35,000, international education in the USA has come a long way.

We look forward to helping students who, like you, are considering continuing your education in the United States. You will find all of the tools you need to compile your necessary research in deciding if the United States is the best place for you — we have gathered valuable information on educational, social, cultural and economic aspects of studying in the U.S.  

USA Education System

USA Education System

Studying in the United States has many advantages, but before you pick which program best meets your needs, you will first want to learn about the U.S. education system. There is a wide range of choices and opportunities, and you should have all of the information you need to make a decision that is right for you.

Role of U.S. Government in Education

Unlike in many other countries, the United States central government does not control the educational system. Rather, the higher education systems are either: 1) controlled by independent groups of people, or trustees (in the case of private schools); or 2) shared between local and state governments (in the case of public schools). A major difference between these two types of schools is the cost. Private schools are generally much more expensive to attend than their public school counterparts, mainly because the private schools must rely on sources outside of the government for their funding. Please see What Will an Education in the US Cost? for more information on the costs of public vs. private schools.

Additionally, the U.S. Department of Education reviews and recognizes "accrediting agencies" that in turn ensure the quality of the school and their programs. Most colleges and universities have what is called "regional accreditation" from an agency that oversees that particular part of the country where the school is located. You will want to make sure that the school you choose has accreditation, meaning that it has met specific academic, administrative and financial standards. Accreditation also ensures that your degree will be recognized by other educational institutions and employers.

Certain fields of study will also have "program accreditation" in addition to regional accreditation. For example, the Accrediting Board of Engineering and Technology accredits engineering programs. Your overseas educational adviser can help you find out if program accreditation exists in your field of study.

What Are My Options to Earn a Degree?

Education is mandatory in the United States until the age of 16, and the majority of students do finish high school. After completing 12 years of primary and secondary school, students often begin post-secondary learning, or higher education. The first level of higher education is undergraduate study; beyond an undergraduate degree a student may choose to receive a graduate education, also known as postgraduate work. Traditionally these programs are undertaken on campus, however there is a growing number of accredited online college degrees that are appearing for students from all around the world. They can offer some fantastic benefits to international students.

If you are debating the two-year degree option versus a four-year undergraduate course of study, you will want to think carefully about your goals. Some employers prefer candidates who have studied a full four years, particularly in competitive fields where there may be many students vying for jobs. Other professional fields may have a need for employees with only two years of study under their belts. You need to do your research to make an informed choice.

Additionally, some other non-degree options exist outside of the traditional university setting which students should explore as another option.

Applying to Schools

Although admission policies vary from one school to the next, most determine admission based on several common criteria, including a student’s high school course of study, high school Grade Point Average (GPA), participation in extracurricular activities, SAT or ACT exam scores, a written essay, and possibly a personal interview.

When looking at a potential student’s high school records, the university admissions office will consider whether the student has taken courses in high school that will prepare them for more difficult coursework. The admissions office will also consider the student’s GPA. A GPA is a quantitative figure averaging a student’s accumulated grades.

University admissions officers also like to see applications from students who have taken part in extracurricular activities, such as theatre or art clubs, scholastic clubs, or athletic teams. Participation in these kinds of activities demonstrate that the student has learned valuable skills such as teamwork and leadership.

Most high school students in the US take either the (SAT Reasoning Test) or the (ACT) during their final year of high school. These are standardized quantitative exams. Each school sets a minimum SAT or ACT score that a student must achieve in order to gain admission.

Universities will often require that applicants write an essay as part of their application. Each admissions office determines the length and content of the essay. For tips on writing an admissions essay, check out our Essay Writing Center. The applicant may also be required to have a personal interview with a representative from the admissions office.

Check out our Application Process section for more information.

Undergraduate Study

University students who are pursuing a Bachelor’s degree are called "undergraduates." Most universities offer undergraduate students a liberal education, which means students are required to take courses across several disciplines before choosing one major field of study in which to specialize. Undergraduate students will often ask each other, "What is your major?" meaning, "What is your major field of study?"

Courses at most universities are only one semester long. Each course is assigned a number of credit hours, generally based on how much time is spent in class. Most courses are three credits, but some might be one, two, four, or five credits. All degree programs require that their students completely a minimum number of credits before they are eligible for graduation. Most Bachelor’s degree programs do not require students to write a final thesis.

Graduate Study

Students who are pursuing a Master’s or Doctoral degree are called "graduate students." Graduate and professional programs are specialized, meaning students have one field of study from the beginning.

Students continue to take courses at the graduate level, and a final thesis is required for most programs. Doctoral students take courses until they have earned enough credit hours to attend their qualifying exams, which are usually taken over several days and often include both a written and oral component. After doctoral students pass their qualifying exams, they are advanced to candidacy and can begin writing their dissertation. Before the degree is given, the candidate’s completed dissertation

must be orally defended before the candidate’s faculty committee.

US college or university Visa

An F1 visa is issued to international students who are attending an academic program or English Language Program at a US college or university. F-1 students must maintain the minimum course load for full-time student status. They can remain in the US up to 60 days beyond the length of time it takes to complete their academic program, unless they have applied and been approved to stay and work for a period of time under the OPT Program.

F1 students are expected to complete their studies by the expiration date on their I-20 form (Certificate of Eligibility for Non-immigrant Student Status) which is provided by the US college or university that the student has been accepted to and will attend.

F1 Visa Qualifications

In order to qualify, applicants need to satisfy and prove several strict criteria during an F1 visa interview, including the following:

Foreign Residence

F-1 applicants must have a foreign residence and must intend to return there upon the completion of their studies.

Sponsoring Institution

While on your F-1 visa, you may only study at the academic institution through which the visa was granted.

Financial Support

Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial support — the Study USA Financing Guide can help you prepare for this aspect of your time abroad.

Ties to Home Country

All applicants must demonstrate that they have strong ties to their home country. Strong ties consist of, but are not limited to, the following:

A job offer letter upon completion of studies

Assets (i.e., house, land, vehicle, etc.)

Bank accounts

Family

Applying for an F1 Visa

Admission Requirements

Different universities have different admission policies. Your university will tell you what they need to determine if you are academically eligible. Among other requirements, you will need to show the school that you have enough money to support yourself while studying without having to work and you may have to show health insurance in order to cover any medical expenses should you need any medical assistance. Once the university has determined that your application is complete and you are academically eligible, they will issue an I-20 form to enable you to apply for your student visa.

Where to Apply for Your F1 Visa

Applicants for student visas should generally apply at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate with jurisdiction over their place of permanent residence. This will normally be your home country — the country in which you live. Although visa applicants may apply at any U.S. consular office abroad, it may be more difficult to qualify for the visa outside the country of permanent residence.

Find a U.S. Embassy or Consulate

Always protect yourself by keeping a copy of everything that you fill out and send off.

Items to Provide With Your Application

Although the process may vary or require additional steps, depending on your country and embassy or consulate, you will need the following when applying for your student visa:

Application Fee

You will have to pay a non-refundable application fee. This means that if your visa does not get approved, you will not get your money back.

Form DS-160

All applicants will need to complete and submit DS-160 , the online application for a non-immigrant visa.

Form DS-157

A DS-157 form for all males aged 16-45.

Valid Passport

A passport valid for travel to the United States and with a validity date at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the United States. If more than one person is included in the passport, each person desiring a visa must make an application.

Photos

You can upload a digital photo that is:

In color

Sized such that the head is between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (22 mm and 35 mm) or 50% and 69% of the image's total height from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head

Taken within the last 6 months to reflect your current appearance

Taken in front of a plain white or off-white background

Taken in full-face view directly facing the camera

With a neutral facial expression and both eyes open

Taken in clothing that you normally wear on a daily basis

If you are looking to get your F-1 student visa, then you won't want to miss our application timeline on what steps you should take and when. View the Application Timeline

F1 Visa Interview

An F1 visa interview will be required to determine whether or not you are qualified to receive an F1 student visa. You should arrive at the interview with all of the required documents and receipts, and you should be prepared ahead of time to answer personal questions about your decision to study in the US.

F1 visa interview questions often include inquiries about your academic qualifications and choice of university. You may be required to prove that you have ties and obligations that would guarantee your return to your home country after your international studies. Most importantly, you will be required to prove that you have the means to finance your education. Education expenses in the US are higher than most countries and being able to present a solid financial plan for the duration of your studies is crucial to pass your F1 visa interview.

Examples of F1 Visa Interview Questions

Why did you choose to study in the US instead of joining the workforce in your home country?

Why did you choose this school and why is it the best school for you?

What are your test scores ( GRE, GMAT, SAT, TOEFL, IELTS ), your GPA, and your overall performance as a student in the past?

How are you funding the entire duration of your education, including tuition, room and board, transportation, and all other expenses?

After you graduate, will you return home or will you stay in the United States?

Your consular officer may ask these questions in different ways, but they are all asked for the same purpose - to be sure that you qualify for the F-1 visa, as stated above. If these questions are answered in a satisfactory manner, the consular officer can approve your application.

If approved, you may be required to pay a visa issuance fee. Digital fingerprint scans will be taken for records. Your passport will be taken so that you can get your visa and you will be informed when you can get it back, either by pick-up or in the mail.

Keep in mind that visa issuance is not guaranteed. Never make final travel plans until you have your visa approved. If your visa is denied, you will be given a reason based on the section of law which applies to your ineligibility. Filing a waiver of ineligibility is possible in some cases.

F-1 Visa Denials

If your F1 visa application is denied, it is based on US immigration law. If you are denied, the reason and section of law you are denied under will be given to you in your paperwork. Some applications are denied because the applicant failed to provide necessary information or supporting documentation as required. Sometimes, however, you can be found ineligible for other reasons.

Of course, if you do not meet the F-1 Visa Qualifications as stated above, you can expect to be found ineligible. For example, if you do not sufficiently demonstrate that the strong ties to your home country will influence you to return home after your stay in the US, you will be denied under INA section 214(b), Visa Qualifications and Immigrant Intent.

Other common reasons for denial include Fraud or Misrepresentation, Unlawful Presence in the United States, Health-related grounds, Criminal-related grounds, or Security-related grounds. To learn more about visa denials and to see if you are eligible for a waiver or to reapply, the US Department of State website is a great resource.

Maintaining Valid F-1 Status After You Arrive

After you are approved for your F1 visa, you are able to enter the United States as an international student. However, after you arrive, you will need to stay aware of your obligations as an F1 visa holder. If you do not maintain your valid F-1 visa status, you will not be allowed to return to re-enter the US if you leave and you will not be eligible for practical training (OPT or CPT) or on-campus employment. Here are some tips to assure you’re in good standing during your study abroad:

Upon Arrival

Make sure you arrive in the US no more than 30 days prior to the first day of classes. Check in with your international advisor as soon as possible before your program begins.

During Your Program

You must remain enrolled full time. Go to class and maintain passing grades. If you are having difficulty in your classes, notify your international advisor. If you are unable to complete your program by the date listed on your Form I-20, your international advisor can help you request a program extension.

Your passport should be valid for at least 6-months in the future. Your country’s consulate or embassy can help you extend your passport if needed. Carry a copy of your passport with you along with your I-94 card for identification purposes.

Always notify your international advisor or office if you make changes to your address, study plans, or visa status.

Working

F1 visa students are not allowed to work off-campus. However, you may have some on-campus work or curricular practical training options if you qualify. Check with your international advisor to see if this is a possibility for you. If you choose to work without proper authorization, your visa will be revoked and you will be forced to leave the United States.

Upon Program Completion

You have 60 days upon completion of your program to leave the United States under your F1 visa. To remain in the US, you will need to re-enroll in a higher program, transfer to another school to receive a new I-20 form, or apply to change your visa status. Your international advisor can give you more information regarding your options.