Your Five Steps to the US Study

Studying in the USA is a wholesome great opportunity and experience for international students that opens up new opportunities for personal and academic growth. By carefully planning and preparing for your journey, you can make the most of your international education experience. Quality of education, abundant opportunities, and multicultural environment are some of the reasons why choosing the USA for study can be a great idea.

Huge numbers of students from across the world choose American universities every year to pursue their preferred courses. Being a highly desirable destination for several international students worldwide, it is very important for all the aspiring students to have a keen planning of each step required to successfully be a student of a reputed American university.

Therefore, each student needs to follow some basic steps in order to make his dream to study abroad come true smoothly. 

Here is your 5-step journey to Study in the USA:

• Research and Choose Programs: Start by researching universities and programs that align with your academic interests, career goals, and personal preferences. Consider factors such as location, cost, reputation, faculty, and available scholarships. The best college or university is the one that is best for you and meets your requirements—academic, financial, and personal.

Commence your research at least 12 to 18 months before the academic year in which you want to enroll in a U.S. institution or university. 

1. Why do you want to study in the United States?
2. Where will you fit in best?
3. Which colleges or universities will meet your needs?
4. Will you need financial assistance?
5. What are the application and financial aid deadlines?
6. Where do you want to live in the United States?

Select your academic level (e.g. undergraduate, graduate, etc.) to gain further insights into exploring your available choices. It is important to note that the institutions you choose to apply to must be officially accredited by the Student Exchange Visitor Programme.

• Prepare for Standardized Tests: Most U.S. universities require standardized test scores such as the SAT or ACT for undergraduate admissions and the GRE or GMAT for graduate admissions. Prepare for these exams well in advance by taking practice tests and possibly enrolling in preparatory courses if needed. Here’s a list of exams accepted in the USA
• SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test): The SAT is a standardized test widely used for college admissions in the United States. 
• ACT (American College Testing): Similar to the SAT, the ACT is another standardized test used for college admissions in the United States. 
• GRE (Graduate Record Examination): The GRE is a standardized test required for admission to graduate and business schools in the United States. 
• GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test): The GMAT is a standardized test specifically designed for admission to graduate management programs, such as MBA programs. 
• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): The TOEFL is an English proficiency test that measures the ability of non-native English speakers to understand and use English at the university level. 
• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Similar to the TOEFL, the IELTS is another English proficiency test accepted by many colleges and universities in the United States.
• Complete Application Materials: Each university will have its own application requirements, which typically include submitting transcripts, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, a personal statement or essay, and possibly a portfolio of work for certain programs like art or design. Ensure you meet all deadlines and submit your application materials accurately and completely.
• Apply for Financial Aid: If you need financial assistance, research scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid available to international students. Many universities offer merit-based scholarships, and there are also external scholarship opportunities you can explore.

Scholarships

Scholarships are often regarded as the predominant method of funding one’s education. There is a diverse range of scholarships available to cater to various requirements. Some of these scholarships are:-

• Merit-based scholarships.
• Sports scholarships.
• Targeted scholarships.
• International fellowships or scholarships from independent organizations.

• Student Loans

Student loans are a well recognised approach to funding education. The standard duration for the repayment of student loans is 30 years.However, a significant number of student loans provided by banks and commercial organisations impose exorbitant interest rates. While there are a limited number of government institutions that provide loans with low-interest rates, these loans are comparatively more manageable to repay.

• Students Grants

Bursaries or student grants are an excellent means of financing your education in the United States. These awards are only based on financial need. In order to be eligible for these scholarships, you must satisfy certain financial criteria. Verify the university you are attending and inquire about the current student awards that you are eligible for.

• Part-time Work

Many students who do not receive sufficient assistance from other sources frequently resort to working part-time jobs in order to fund their studies in the United States. International students holding a student visa are eligible to engage in part-time employment. Attending classes and supporting everyday expenditures with this method is an excellent approach to supplement your education.

• Personal Support

If all other options have proven inadequate, you might seek assistance from your parents or other members of your family. You may need to rely on your family for a longer duration. However, although it may be the final choice, it is not an unfavorable one. Moreover, when you eventually repay them, it will be an immensely gratifying time for them.

• Study Awards

Annually, several institutions provide study grants. These prizes significantly defray a substantial portion of the expenses associated with studying abroad. Initially, you are selected as one of the top candidates, and subsequently, you are invited for a face-to-face interview. In order to be eligible, it is necessary that you have previously submitted an application to a foreign university.

• Obtain Student Visa: Once accepted by a U.S. university, you’ll need to apply for a student visa (typically an F-1 visa for academic studies). This involves completing the DS-160 form, scheduling and attending a visa interview at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate, and providing required documents such as the Form I-20 issued by your university, proof of financial support, and proof of ties to your home country.