Around 5% of all higher education students in the U.S are international or foreign students. If you’re an international student planning to go to the U.S. for your studies, or study at an online college, you need to acquaint yourself with their culture and environment to prosper. This article gives you a brief guide towards adapting to this culture and environment. The following are some of the important things to do when applying to study in a U.S. university or college:
Select a University
If you’re an international student, your incredible journey to study in the U.S. begins with selecting a university or college where you’ll study. There are many colleges and universities to choose from, but you need to research them first and understand if they accept international students. Some universities like the American International College already accept international students, and all you have to do is apply for admission and hope to be accepted.
Select an Academic Program
Most associate degrees from U.S. universities and colleges typically take two years to complete, while bachelor’s degrees take three to four years. Depending on your education level, you may also consider graduate school if you already have a degree or diploma. Choose your major carefully and strive to excel in it.
Apply to the College/University
After selecting the university you want and the program to pursue, your next step is to apply. You can apply online on the university’s website or through a third-party system like the U.S. Common App (which has about 900 colleges). Make sure you fill and submit all the required documents and information.
During application, you’ll also need to complete all the tests and requirements. Some of the documents and tests that most American colleges/universities require international applicants to fulfill are:
- Transcript
- Standardized test scores such as S.A.T.s, A.C.T.s, and English proficiency test scores (IELTS, iTOEFL, T.E.P., P.T.E.)
- Essay
- Copy of your valid passport
- Research proposal (for graduate students)
Student Financing
Some students apply to a U.S. college or university under full scholarship or partial scholarship, while others fund their studies out of pocket. Studying and living in the U.S. is expensive, and it needs a good financing plan. However, you can take advantage of some scholarships like athletic, academic, artistic, and service-based ones, if available, or need-based tuition aid such as international students’ grants.
Student Visa
Once everything is sorted, including your financial provision, you’ll need to apply for a student visa to grant you access to the U.S. and stay. A Visa application will depend on how you fund your studies and how long you’ll be there. Here’s the Visa application guide to support your access and stay in the U.S. You’ll also attend a visa interview to support your application.
Endnote
If the university or college accepts your application and you obtain a student visa, your next step is to arrange your travel documents, student accommodation, and other necessities. We wish you well and all the best in your studies and your stay.
