An International Student’s Guide to Studying in the United States

An International Student’s Guide to Studying in the United States

There is always a dream where students imagine themselves in an ivy league school just like the famous movie scenes such as Good Will Hunting, Angels & Demons, High School Musical, and the list is endless. We have covered all the basics of studying in the USA in this article for international students who are often in confusion about how and where to study. Keep reading!

Why choose the USA for your study? 

The US invites close to 1 million international students every year to attend its universities due to several reasons.

Here are the pointers that explain in detail below:

  • Flexible syllabus

Students are facilitated to design their own curriculum which is a very flexible approach that is not heard or followed by other countries. You can pick any course in any semester that is what the authority that students get. When you choose to do an internship, or to focus on a project, you can select the subjects you wish to study. Students come in huge numbers to study in the USA where they meet one of the intellectual minds, indulge and learn about different cultures and share their own experiences. 

In addition to making friends who will be there for you through thick and thin, building relationships with your classmates will help you grow professionally.

  • Quality education

As per the data out of top 100 universities there are 33 universities that are based in the US. This itself shows how the education system works in this country.  

Students in US colleges have a hands-on practical approach and are provided with the latest technologies. Not only that, but their faculty is among the world’s best and includes some of the brightest minds around.

  • Job opportunities

Several international and local organizations are willing to hire recent graduates, given the US’s size and the startup trend.

Through your university’s career support services, you can find internships and job opportunities at such organizations.

  • Friendly immigration policies

Graduates of US universities are allowed to work for 12 months after graduation if they were not STEM majors, and an additional 24 months if they were.

In addition to allowing you to pay back your loans, it also gives you the opportunity to apply for an H1B visa.

  • Travel and explore

There is a lot of travel exposure in this country as one cannot miss lush green wild forests, tall mountain ranges, and beaches that is everyone’s travel bucket list dream. Traveling is something that one must while studying abroad especially in a country like America. 

So, what are you waiting for? Make your weekend special with your friends and long drives. 

How to study in USA for international students

Studying in the USA is a dream come true for many as it requires a lot of hardship in the admission process. After you choose your university based on your courses, you need to go to the university website and know the admission requirements. There are common requirements and criteria for almost all universities which are mentioned below. 

To take admission in an undergraduate course students need to have:

  • Proof of English proficiency such as IELTS, TOEFL, DET, etc.
  • College essay
  • Entrance exam tests scores like SAT, ACT, etc.
  • A high school diploma

Students who are apply for Master’s degree need to have the list of documents such as:

  • Statement of Purpose
  • Resume
  • Entrance exam test scores such as GRE, GMAT, etc.
  • Portfolio (for subjects like Architecture, Fine Arts, etc.)
  • Transcripts 
  • Proof English Language proficiency IELTS, TOEFL, etc. 

Prepare these documents six months before you have to apply. Then you need to wait. You will receive a letter of acceptance, which you can use to apply for a student visa if you are selected.

What is the US student visa process

To apply for a US student visa, the process begins after receiving an admit card from the university of your choice. When you get the acceptance letter from the university, they will provide you with the I-20 form. If you do not have this form, you cannot begin the process of applying for your visa.

Here’s what you need to do-

  • Obtain admission to a SEVP (Student and Exchange Visitor Program) approved institution.
  • For enrollment in SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System), you must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee ($350). Upon payment, your school provides you with an I-20 form that you will need to present to the consular officer during your F-1 visa interview.
  • Meet the application requirements of your specific embassy or consulate and pay the nonrefundable visa application fee. It is possible to apply for a visa online, and you will need to print the DS-160 form before going to your F-1 visa interview.
  • Plan your interview and prepare for it. If you are going to be granted an F-1 student visa, your interview is crucial. Depending on the visa category, season, or location, waiting periods for interview appointments can vary. You can schedule the date but be aware of the implications.

Here is the list of documents you will be needing during your visa interview:

  • Certificate of Eligibility for Non-immigrant (F-1) Student Status (Form I-20).
  • A valid passport
  • Academic transcripts
  • Other documents such as certificates, degrees, etc.
  • English proficiency and other entrance exam scores of exams such as GMAT, IELTS, GRE, SAT, TOEFL, etc. 
  • Receipt of visa application fee payment ($160).
  • Non-immigrant visa application form (Form DS-160).
  • Standardized digital color passport photo taken recently.
  • Documents proving adequate financial support during your stay in the US (Bank Statement).
  • Documents that serve as proof of your intent to return upon completing your program.

Apply in the US universities with Unicoach

Applying in universities of the USA is itself a dream for many. Unicoach is a one-stop solution for students who want to study in an Ivy league school and are often confused about the process. We on behalf of our students make their career journey at best by admitting them in one of prestigious institutions. 

Choosing your course and university is easy and life changing with us as we do not let settle students for ordinary and work best for their future.

To take admissions in an Ivy league contact us today at info@unicoach.com