Study in USA is the most sought after for international students as USA has some of the World's Top Universities. USA houses 3800 higher education institutes, 42 of which ranked in the top 100 universities in the world in 2008. The United States has more institutions of higher learning than any other country in the world. Most American colleges and universities offer top-notch education programs with highly qualified teaching staff. The research at many of these universities is cutting-edge and often published in journals worldwide. Since the USA is such a large country with vast resources, almost every field of study is available in the country. This country has the highest international student population coming for education here. This is because of its world class universities, institutions, state-of-the-art facilities and up-to-date technologies.
Undergraduate School
After achieving high school diploma, students will join colleges or universities to pursue their undergraduate course of study. They offer two types of degrees:
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Associate Degree: Most colleges require good score in TOEFL (for establishing English proficiency) and Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) Reasoning scores for admission in their Associate Degree programs. In some colleges, admission is also possible with just a TOEFL score and good academics in 12th class. Note: For some top universities (like in Mathematics, Languages, Biology etc.), a good score in the relevant SAT Subject Test is required in addition to the SAT Reasoning Test score. |
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Bachelors Degree: In the U.S, the first year of Bachelor’s degree is called the Freshman Year, the second one, the Sophomore Year, the third, Junior Year and the fourth, the Senior Year. |
Professional School
For professional programs like Law, Medicine, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy etc., US universities offer professional programs leading to degrees such as MD (for Medicine), Pharm D (for Pharmacy) Doctor of Physiotherapy (DPT – for Physiotherapy) etc. These are known as the first professional degrees, completion of which entitles the students to practice as professionals in their respective fields (after meeting other requirements). Admission into most of these professional programs are based on good performance in entrance tests such as MCAT (for Medicine), PCAT (Pharmacy), LSAT (for Law) etc., after completion of a Bachelor’s degree in related subjects.
In near future, US universities are considering to convert the Business Administration program into a professional degree, by offering a DBA (Doctor of Business Administration) as the first professional degree.
The main difference between Indian and American systems for study of professional programs is that, while Indians can take up professional degree programs after completion of their secondary (+2) education, students have to first complete their Bachelor’s (a four-year degree) and then take up professional degree programs.
Graduate School
Graduate Schools and specialized colleges (Eg. College of Engineering, College of Management etc.) offer various degree programs such as Engineering, Arts and Sciences at the post-graduate level, leading to Master’s and Doctoral level degrees. These degrees are called the ‘Master of Arts (M.A), Master of Sciences (M.S), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). Duration of these programs range from one to five years, depending upon the course and level of study. Most of the Master’s level programs are of two years and Doctoral level are of four years duration.
Admission into Master’s level program is possible with a four-year degree from India. It is also possible to seek admission into the same, with a three-year degree from India. Some universities may ask to take additional pre-requisite courses to compensate for the fourth year requirement. Others ask applicants to complete a ‘Bridge’ program comprising a few additional courses, while simultaneously doing the Master’s program. Such ‘Bridge’ programs are mainly offered in the fields of Computer Science, Information Systems, IT and Business Administration. Also, some universities do directly accept the three-year degrees as equivalent to their Bachelor’s degree and enroll students from India into their Master’s programs, especially in MBA. Pre-requisite tests that are required for admission at the Master’s are,
For MS and MA programs – TOEFL and GRE General Test
For MBA and other Management related programs – TOEFL and GMAT
Note: For some programs at top universities (like in CS, Chemistry etc.), a good score in the relevant GRE Subject Test is required in addition to the GRE General Test score.
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is becoming popular even in the US too and is being accepted by many universities now. For more information, please see: http://www.ielts.org/pdf/USA_Recognition_List.pdf
Admission into Doctoral level programs is possible normally after completion of Master’s. However, US universities are flexible in admitting even those with a Bachelor’s degree. But, the length of program might be longer than for those with a Master’s degree. Typically, the duration of Doctoral level programs is between 3 and 6 years, depending on the field of research and university.
What is the application process for USA?
Compared to other countries, admission procedures in US universities are very competitive for international students. Universities and colleges have their own criteria in selection of their students. Most of them prefer the students to apply to them at least before one year.
What are the Visa application requirements?
Before applying for the visa, the student needs to be accepted by the institution. After the institution accepts the candidate, they will provide the necessary approval documentation which is required to apply for the visa. Visa application requirements include:
- Have a residence abroad, with no immediate intention of abandoning that residence
- Intend to depart from the United States upon completion of the course of study
- Possess sufficient funds to pursue the proposed course of study.
What are the housing options available?
Accommodation is very important as it is significant for your successful studies in USA. In USA you are provided with two options- campus and off campus housing. Universities provide dormitories with necessary facilities. Or else you can easily a rent house off campus.
How much does USA education cost?
The tuition fee is not same for different universities. It varies widely with courses. A brief idea is shown in the following table:
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What are the living expenses in USA?
The approximate annual living expense in USA is about $10,000. It includes accommodation as well as other daily expenses. The expenses vary depending on the lifestyles. The main expenses can be split up as:
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Can I work while I am studying?
Working while study is a popular option for students in the United States. Students are allowed to do part time jobs up to 20 hours per week as a full time student. During holidays this is extended up to 40 hours per week.
Are Scholarships available?
International students are provided with scholarships by the universities to support their education expenses. This range from a few hundred dollars to full scholarships. Private scholarships are also available. They are the educational gifts given by various organizations or individuals, predominantly for academic merit.
What are the advantages of studying in USA?
USA is considered to be one of the most widely chosen study destination for international students. Apex institutions of learning, infinite study choices, international recognition, industrial training and research, flexibility, exciting campus life, global vision are the main features that make USA perfect for the international students.
How to study Masters Degree in USA. What tests must I take to be considered for graduate admission?
You are required to take the following tests to be considered for admission in any of the US Universities.
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language):
Almost all U.S. institutions require international applicants whose native language is not English to demonstrate their English language proficiency .A new, Internet-based version of the TOEFL test (TOEFL iBT) has been introduced beginning in 2006. The
TOEFL iBT score assesses speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
Graduate Record Examination (GRE):
The GRE test is required for students to enroll in masters or doctoral programs in the arts, sciences, humanities, and engineering fields. It consists of two independent tests, the General GRE and the Subject GRE. The General Test is a computer test that measures verbal, quantitative, and analytical writing skills developed over a long period of time and not necessarily related to a particular field of study.
What is the Visa I should get to study in USA?
F1 Visa
Is there any specific website that I can refer to get more details?
http://www.path2usa.com/immigration/visacategory/studentvisa/
How much is the cost of studying in USA?
In USA the cost of studying includes the Tuition fee and the living expenses. For one year at university in the U.S.A you should have a total budget of (school, lodging, food, living) somewhere between $15,000 and $38,000.
What are the opportunities for work after the completion of my Masters in USA?
Here are a few of the most common options applicable to graduates. Practical Training -An F-1 student is generally entitled up to one year of post-completion practical training. Authorization for this type of practical training may be granted for a maximum of 12 months and only starts once you have graduated or completed your course of study.
Steps to
1. Email or write to several schools:
After you have selected those schools where you want to study, contact them for more information and an application form.
2. Send application forms:
The Admissions Office or postgraduate school department will send you information about their academic programs. This will include an application form. (You might be able to obtain a specific school's application form at your local educational advising center.) The application form usually asks for:
Certified transcripts:
U.S. colleges and universities usually base their admissions decisions on a student's academic record. The Admissions Office will look at your marks during the last four years of secondary school and on the national secondary school examinations in your country. If you are applying to graduate school, the Admissions Office or department will look at your marks from college or university. The mark sheet will bear the signature of the registrar or another academic official and either a raised or ink stamp or seal of the issuing institution.
Activities:
Make a list of clubs to which you belong, awards earned, team sports experience or leadership roles you have exercised.
Personal information:
State your name, age, address, family background, birthplace, citizenship, and so forth.
Education plan /or Statement of Purpose:
Write a short essay telling why you want to attend this school, what course of study you want to pursue, what your career goals and research plans and how you intend to accomplish these goals.
Letters of recommendation:
The application form will probably include several blank pages to be completed by your teachers. Most Universities ask for three current letters of recommendation from persons qualified to evaluate your academic and professional qualifications ,Ask several of your teachers to complete the forms and mail them directly to the Admissions Office.(The letters should beif sifned by a college professor should be signed and sealed with a college authorized seal.
Admissions tests:
Most schools ask for official reports of test scores which could be GRE or GMAT/TOEFL for Masters/MBA Program and Phd programs. It is recommended that you plan to take the required exam in October-Dec time frame (or as early as possible Year earlier J) to allow sufficient time for scores to arrive in time for consideration for Fall August –September admission
Application fee:
You will pay the school a fee, probably between US $30 and $50, payable by check in U.S. dollars. This money pays for processing your application, and it will not be refunded if you do not attend the school. Be sure to send your application to the college or university well before the deadline.
3. Register for admissions tests:
Students applying to U.S. colleges and universities must take examinations that measure aptitude and achievement like GMAT and GRE. International students must also take a test that measures English proficiency (TOEFL).These tests are given at test centers around the world. They are "standardized," so that students take the same test at every test center. Your scores give the Admissions Office a uniform international standard for measuring your ability in comparison with other students. In India these tests are held in most major cities round the year.
4. Take the admissions tests:
You can have your test scores sent directly to the colleges and universities to which you are applying. You will be asked to indicate the names of these schools when you register to take certain tests, such as the GMAT/ TOEFL/GRE/SAT, you will mark them on your answer sheet when you take other tests, such as TOEFL. The testing agencies will mail your scores to these schools. Later, for a fee, you can ask the testing agencies to send your scores to other schools.
5. Financial Certificate (Affidavit of Support)
In order to meet U.S. Immigration requirements for entry into the United States, proof of sufficient financial resources to cover educational and living expenses for the duration of your program must be in place before visa documents can be issued. A completed Financial Certificate outlining financial support available to you, along with original evidence to support the amounts indicated (bank statements, scholarship letters, etc.), must be submitted directly to the program to which you are applying. Please attach a photocopy of the identification page of your passport
Acceptance Letters
After the application deadline, you will receive letters from the schools to which you have applied. Some schools tell students if they have been accepted soon after the students documents arrive at the Admissions Office. This is called "rolling admissions." Other schools wait several months before writing you with their decision. Acceptance letters can also be provisional pending degree completion and all marksheets (Final Year marksheets
Paying Your Deposit
Most schools require students to pay a deposit before a certain deadline if they want to reserve space in the entering class. For international students, this deposit can be as high as a semester's or a full year's tuition.
You should send your deposit immediately if you are applying for financial aid or if you plan to live in college housing. Many schools do not have enough campus housing for all the students, so you will have a better chance of getting a room on campus if you send your housing application and a room deposit fee as soon as possible.
The school that admits you may also ask you for a statement that shows how much money you have available for all the years you will be in school. If your government or company is sponsoring you, you will need to send details of your award.
Student Application Calendar
12-month Countdown Until Enrollment
12-18 months before you hope to enroll
· Consider you reasons for studying in the USA
· which universities interest you? Can you afford them?
· Visit advising office
August
· Write to schools for catalogs and application forms.
· Register for standardized tests (TOEFL, SAT, ACT, GMAT, GRE, MAT, etc.)
· Take any required test before you submit applications.
September - November
· Ask your school to send official transcripts with the applications.
· Ask your teachers to write letters of recommendation.
· Complete and mail applications.
January - April
· Be sure you and your school have met all application deadlines.
April - June
· Receive letters of acceptance/rejection. Decide where to study. Inform all schools by completing and submitting any forms they require.
· Organize your finances; apply for housing and medical insurance.
Summer Months
· Make travel plans.
· Contact your school's International Student Advisor with your arrrival plans.
· Attend pre-departure orientation
What is Needed to Apply for a Student Visa?
All applicants for a student visa must provide:
- A Form I-20 obtained from a U.S. college, school or university. Please be sure to give us all four pages of the I-20 form. The form must also be signed by you and by a school official in the appropriate places;
- A completed nonimmigrant visa application form (OF-156) with photo for each person applying. A separate form is needed for children, even if they are included in a parent's passport. These forms are available at the Embassy at no charge.
- A passport valid for at least six months after your proposed date of entry into the United States;
- A receipt for visa processing fee. A receipt showing payment of the visa application fee for each applicant, including each child listed in a parent's passport who is also applying for a U.S. visa, is needed;
All applicants should be prepared to provide:
- Transcripts and diplomas from previous institutions attended;
- Scores from standardized tests required by the educational institution such as the TOEFL, SAT, GRE, GMAT, etc.;
- Financial evidence that shows you or your parents who are sponsoring you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses during the period of your intended study. For example, if you or your sponsor is a salaried employee, please bring income tax documents and original bank books and/or statements. If you or your sponsor own a business, please bring business registration, licenses, etc., and tax documents, as well as original bank books and/or statements.
Applicants with dependents must also provide:
- Proof of the student's relationship to his/her spouse and/or children (e.g., marriage and birth certificates.)
- It is preferred that families apply for F-1 and F-2 visas at the same time, but if the spouse and children must apply separately at a later time, they should bring a copy of the student visa holder's passport and visa, along with all other required documents.
What Items Does a Returning Student Need?
All applicants applying for renewals must submit:
- A passport valid for at least six months;
- A completed and signed application form (OF-156) with photo for each person applying. A separate form is needed for children, even if they are included in a parent's passport. These forms are available at the Embassy at no charge;
- A receipt for visa processing fee. A receipt showing payment of the visa application fee for each applicant, including each child listed in a parent's passport who is also applying for a U.S. visa, is needed;
- A new I-20 or an I-20 that has been endorsed on the back by a school official within the past 12 months;
All applicants applying for renewals should be prepared to submit:
- A certified copy of your grades from the school in which you are enrolled;
- Financial documents from you or your sponsor, showing your ability to cover the cost of your schooling.
How long may I stay on my F-1 student visa?
When you enter the United States on a student visa, you will usually be admitted for the duration of your student status. That means you may stay as long as you are a full time student, even if the F-1 visa in your passport expires while you are in America.
For example, if you have a visa that is valid for five years that will expire on January 1, 2001, and you are admitted into the U.S. for the duration of your studies (often abbreviated in your passport or on your I-94 card as "D/S"), you may stay in the U.S. as long as you are a full time student. Even if January 1, 2001 passes and your visa expires while in America, you will still be in legal student status. However, if you depart the U.S. with an expired visa, you will need to obtain a new one before being able to return to America and resume your studies. A student visa cannot be renewed or re-issued in the United States; it must be done at an Embassy or Consulate abroad.
How to find any immigration help/ legal help?
www.immigrationvoice.com
www.immigraiononline.com
www.murthy.com
How to associate myself with local Indian student community in USA?
Most Universities have an Indian Student Association where in one can contact the students to get help in terms of airport pickup ,initial accommodation at the University. Each state will have a Indian community. Also you will find Language community in each state. For example, Tamil association, Telugu association etc will be there in each state.