The US has been ranked the number 1 most popular study destination for international students. It is a country where you can speak freely, enjoy multiple choices in everything, experience diversity and lastly live a life of limitless opportunity. Let’s face it, the U.S. education system is the best in the world and we at collegelearners.com are here to help you realize your dream of studying in USA. We have an easy and hassle free process to help you achieve this goal. You just have to follow our guidelines which will walk you through the process step by step. collegiatelearners.com provides world class study abroad services for undergraduate, graduate and post-graduate students seeking an education in United States of America. Our mission is to enable international students to access and complete their study abroad programs while ensuring their safety, support

The following article gives you valuable information about why do you want to study in the US & why you want to study in USA. Just read on to find out more details. Get precise details on benefits of studying in USA for international students & why do you wish to study in USA and not in India. You can also find more related posts on benefits of studying in USA for Indian students on Collegelearners.

Study in USA

The United States of America (USA) is one of the most preferred study abroad destinations in the world. The country has more than a million international students studying at the top-ranked universities. The US, for many years, has been a truly international space to be where people from all the countries and ethnicities come to, and stay with their own cultures. This makes the USA a diverse society to live in. If you are an aspiring international student, here is all you need to know about studying in the USA – why study in USA, education system, eligibility criteria, application process, costs, scholarships, and visa process.

Why Do You Want To Study In USA

The country being a pioneer when it comes to the quality of education is one of the most prominent reasons to study in USA. More than 150 Universities in the USA are ranked among the top universities of the world by QS rankings 2020. That alone speaks for itself for education.

All of us have heard about the Ivy League Universities of the US. Along with the higher standards of education, the research facilities and the sports are an important feature of USA’s academic culture. The USA is a land of opportunities, as it is home to some of the largest companies in the world. Therefore, even after studying at a US university, there is a chance to grow in the country. But for now, here is more on the Education system in the USA.

Education System in USA

The education system in the USA consists of Elementary, Middle School, High School, and Higher Education. The higher education, which most of the students choose, has four levels of education. Associate Degrees, Bachelor’s Degrees, Master’s Degree (professional and academic), and doctoral degrees.

The Associate degrees are for two years, and they are mostly job oriented. The candidates opting for these courses look for jobs straight away after completion. An Associate degree can also be counted as the first two years of a bachelor’s degree.

A bachelor’s degree is a more academic path compared to an Associate’s degree. The duration for these courses is 3 to 4 years, which are chronologically called Freshman, Sophomore, Junior and Senior year. They can be a stepping step to a Master’s Degree (MS) in USA.

A professional Masters takes the first-degree holder to a skill that will be more job-oriented, and a detailed study of one field of study. An academic Masters in the USA is a great foundation for PhD and Doctoral Programs. Quite often, students also opt for integrated MS-PhD in the US. Length of the professional Masters is 1 to 3 years, where an academic Masters is generally of two years.

A doctoral degree can run for 5 to 8 years typically and it is a research done under the supervision of a faculty.

Why Study In USA Not Other Countries

The US has the world’s highest population of international students. According to the Open Doors Report 2015 of the Institute of International Education, the number of foreign students in the country has increased over the years.

There are numerous reasons why internationals students come to study in the US. The country’s institutions thousands of academic programmes. This flexible and freedom for students to choose and arrange their timetable as they see fit makes studying the US ideal for any student. In addition to that, the US boasts the world’s best universities, with top-quality systems and programmes. Over the years, the institutions of higher education in the US have topped several world rankings, including QS World University Rankings® and Times Higher Education World University Rankings. You will also get a chance to learn, even work with the top minds in various industries. Furthermore, you will have the state-of-the-art facilities and research centres within your reach when you study in the US.

Students also choose to study in the US because of the vast financial aids available. Most universities would offer student grants, loans, and stipends to deserving students. This can be huge savings as these funds can help cover everyday expenses, such as food and transportation. Students can also spend their time doing part-time jobs on- and off-campus, some of which could also be related to your programme.

Studying the US is a chance to expose yourself to various cultures. What better way to learn and experience the world than to immerse yourself, with your classmates, and discover the world together while studying in the US. Not only is this an opportunity to educate yourself about the things around you, but it is also a good way to network yourself and meet people from every walks of life.

Higher Education in the US

The US ranks as the top country in the world with the most US universities constantly appearing in the top world rankings. In fact, half of the top 10 universities between the years of 2017/2018 comprised of US-based universities, with an impressive 31 universities ranked within the world’s top 100, and a further many much in the top 300.

Moreover, while there are a lot of options to choose from when it comes to studying in the US, the fact remains the same: a lot of students would always want to go to the Ivy League schools. This group is deemed to be a selection of the most prestigious universities in the world, being inclusive of Brown University, Columbia University, Cornell University, Dartmouth College, Harvard University, University of Pennsylvania, Princeton University, and Yale University. 

A. Higher Education Institutions in the US

Should you decide to study in the US, you will be spoilt for choice as to where you want to go. It will surely take the time to select which one to go to, so here’s a list for your reference.

Community Colleges	Colleges	Liberal Arts Colleges	Technical Schools	Universities
Also known as Junior CollegesOften, but not always two-year collegesLower tuition than state or private schoolsGraduates receive Associate’s Degree	Complete your studies in four yearsLarger number of students, greater range of studiesOffers Bachelor’s Degree	Focuses on Liberal Arts Known for being residential and smaller enrollment and classes – they have higher teacher-student ration Some offer experimental curricula	Focuses on a particular trade or set of technical skillsYou can complete your studies in four years.	Research oriented and offers both undergraduate and graduate programmesSome universities offer professional schools (ex. Journalism, Medical, Business schools)

B. Pathway to Studying in the US

The length of your study depends on the path you wish to take. Here’s a basic duration of studying in the US

C. Top Institutions in the US

For decades, the US has always been a destination of choice for international students – and for years now, the country has always been consistent with the quality of education it offers. This is evident in the yearly rankings of universities and colleges in the US.

Here are the best universities in the US:

D. After Study Opportunities in the US

Job-hunting after studying in the US might be a difficult task as employers are often reluctant regarding visa and immigration. However, if you are determined to start your career in the US, there are plenty of option available. To get more information, check out the US Citizenship and Immigration Services website.

Applying to Study in the US

A. Language Requirements

English proficiency is required, which is usually different than the IELTS or TOEFL; these are called the SAT or ACT tests. Some universities may also have an admission test or require an essay from the prospective student. Personal statements and recommendation letters from previous teachers may also be asked of you. Students should, generally, be prepared for a variety of admission requirements — the cost of a world-class education, essentially!

Did you know? Competition to universities in the US, in particular, those within the top 100 in the world, can be tough. Hence, students are often judged on their merit of grades, extracurricular, among others.

B. Visa Requirements

Applying and receiving a student visa for study in the US can be a bit strenuous and lengthy — but it is always well worth the effort. Much of what you will need to present to start your visa application process is dependent on your country, so you must ensure your personal requirements beforehand.

Once you are accepted into your university of choice, you will receive an offer letter along with a Form I-20 or DS-2019. It is integral, however, that your university is a certified and accredited institution by the Student Exchange and Visitor Programme (SEVP). Fill these out, and then you must proceed to visit your local US Embassy for an interview to apply for the F-1 non-immigrant visa, where you must remember to bring:

• Your passport, which does not expire until six months after the end of your degree
• Form DS-160, the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form, filled in online with a photo attached and fees paid beforehand
• Form I-20/DS-2019, and any other forms provided by your university
• Your offer letter from the university
• Proof of financial stability throughout the course of your degree
• Academic transcripts and certificates
• Your intention to leave the USA upon completion of your degree
• Other forms and requirements based on your country

The decision to provide you with a visa is dependent on your interviewer, and you will receive your student visa no more than 120 days before your degree’s start date — though you are not allowed to travel to the USA until 30 days before the commencement of your degree.

Tuition Fees

While amongst the best in the world, private universities in the US are notorious for their steep tuition fees and tend to be amongst the most costly to attend. Most times, however, the cost of such an education is worth it. You can decide on the approximate prices listed below.

Study Level	Tuition Fee, Per Year, in USD
Bachelor’s Degree	25,000 – 50,000
Master’s Degree	30,000 – 120,000
Doctorate Degree	40,000 – 110,000

Admission Intakes in USA

There are two main intakes in the USA – fall and spring. The Fall Intake starts in August, and it has the most number of courses available. Fall Intake in USA is the most favorite among international students.

The Spring (or Winter) Intake starts in January, and the students who might have missed the fall intake in USA can choose to study in Winter Intake, though not every course that is available in fall would be available in winter. There is a Summer Intake (May), too, however, it has a very limited number of courses on offer.

Eligibility Criteria and Application Process for Study in USA;

Good Academic Track Record

A solid GPA is a must in order to study in the US. A limited number of backlogs is also desirable (ideally, no backlogs if you are aiming top universities), and some other requirements that can be asked by the universities for specific courses.

Standardized Tests

Students who are looking to study Bachelors’s in the US must appear for TOEFL or IELTS. If you are aiming for the top 100/200 colleges in the US along with financial aid, you should also opt for the SAT or ACT. For the most selective schools like Ivy League schools and top 25 – 50 colleges, you should also appear for SAT Subject Tests and/or AP exams. For graduate studies, you must appear for GRE or GMAT, along with IELTS/TOEFL.

Essays/SoP and Letters of Recommendation

Apart from academic transcripts and test scores, you are also required to submit college essays, a statement of purpose (SoP), and recommendation letters (LoR).

How to Apply for Studying in USA

The application process for USA will change for different universities, however, most of them follow the process of online application. Most of the documents like the scanned copy of your passport, academic transcripts, essays, etc. must be uploaded to the online application portal of the particular universities. For undergrad programs, you can also apply through CommonApp.

As discussed above, the Graduate courses will require the GRE, and management courses (like MBA or MS Finance, MS Business Analytics) will require GMAT scores. The undergraduate courses will require SATs and LSAT (for Law courses), MCAT (Medical Courses). The other major requirement is English Language Proficiency Test scores such as IELTS and TOEFL scores. All these scores must be reported officially through the conducting bodies.

Cost of Studying in USA

The US universities are not exactly known for their affordability, however, for the return on investment they provide, the cost of studying is completely worth it. The average cost of studying in USA for a public two-year college (Associate Degree) would be $3,660 for a year.

For four year degrees, the public colleges will cost $26,290 per year, whereas private colleges are $35,830 per year. There are additional charges for the Room and boarding at the universities.

For Masters (MS) programs, average costs are in the range of $28,000 to $40,000 per year. MBA programs are more expensive. You will need to shell out $70,000 to $150,000 to attend an MBA from a top business school in the US.

The cost of living in USA would cost different for different cities and states. The coastal cities and states have a reputation of costing more than the inland USA that is also not universally true. It depends on the location and the lifestyle of the student.

Scholarships for International Students to Study in USA

As an international student, you would be looking at an overall expense (fees & living expenses) of INR 80 Lacs to 1.5 Crore for an undergraduate degree or INR 45 Lacs to 85 Lacs for a Masters (MS) program. MBA programs will cost you INR 70 Lacs to 1.5 Crore. There are many scholarship and financial aid schemes are out there for international students. Below is the list of top scholarships to study in USA.

List of Universities that offer Generous scholarships to Undergraduate International students

• American University Scholarships
• Amherst College Scholarships
• Berea College Scholarships
• Clark University Scholarships
• Colby-Sawyer College Scholarships
• Columbia College Scholarships
• Concordia College Scholarships
• Dartmouth College Scholarships
• East Tennessee State University
• East West Center
• Emory College Scholarships
• Illinois Wesleyan University Scholarships
• Iowa State University International Merit Scholarships
• Michigan State University International Scholarships
• New York University Wagner Scholarships
• Oregon University Scholarships
• Wesleyan University Scholarships
• University of the West Scholarships

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ztxs6z7z1Zc

Benefits Of Studying In USA For International Students

7 things you need to know about colleges and universities in the USA

Americans often call the United States an “exceptional” nation – in other words, America is one of a kind. This is a sentiment that’s reflected in its university system, which is famous for being super flexible and decentralized. This has pushed American universities to acquire all sort of quirks (most of them good) that set them apart from their more traditional, exam-centric British and Australian peers.

So if you’re considering studying in the U.S. of A, it’s best to familiarize yourself with what you’re getting into. Here are some of the most notable differences we’ve discovered about U.S. colleges and universities:
 
1. You don’t really need to decide what to study before university starts

You’re young, and you’re not sure what you wanna do in life. Then U.S. education is perfect for you! For one, you’re not required to declare a major upon university admission. Thanks to the extremely flexible course system, you can pick and choose whatever you’d like learn until you figure out your life mission. Wanna study ballet, or better yet, the politics of Beyonce? Why not? Just make sure to pick your major eventually – preferably in your second or third year.It’s freaking me out a little bit that this time next year I’ll be getting ready to move to university and I don’t even know what to study

2. “School”, “College”, and “University” are used interexchangably

In most of the world, “school”, “college”, and “university” are separate things, describing ascending levels of educational institutions. In the land of Uncle Sam, they all refer the same thing. So when an American asks you “What school did you go to?”, he/she doesn’t mean your primary school.
 
Also, while it’s fashionable to refer to universities as “uni” in the UK and Australia, it would sound totally weird in the U.S. Don’t do it or risk turning into an outcast!

3. Class participation is totally worth it

You may be used to seeing the classroom as a brightly lit bedroom, but you better ditch that thought quickly in the U.S. It pays to well… pay attention in U.S. college classrooms. Why? You can easily earn EXTRA POINTS for answering questions in class, or getting involved in classroom debates. Most classes allocate a small portion of the total grade (say 10%) to classroom participation. So if you snooze, you lose!

4. You have learn to live with others

It’s time to come out of your shell and mingle with others, even to the point of staying with them. This is a financial necessity in the U.S. Single accomodation may be available but is often very costly. Your best bet is to share a dorm room with others. It may be difficult at first, but imagine all the new friends you’ll gain in the end.

5. You gotta get some school pride

Americans are as enthusiastic about their universities as they are about their country. Schools have their unique, individual chants which are loudly and proudly communicated by their students at sports games. Attending these events are almost mandatory rituals for any college student. Before long, your choice of clothing colors will evolve to match the triumphant shades of your university mascot. 

6. You’re graded on a 4.0 scale

The U.S. university system features a unique grading system that sets it apart in the English-speaking world. You’ll accumulate a grade point average (or GPA) during the course of your studies. This numerical figure represents the entirety of your academic performance thus far. You get a 4.00 for A grades, and 3.00 for Bs, and so on and so forth. So the better you perform, the closer your GPA is to 4.0 – the maximum attainable and reserved for pure geniuses. 

Upon completion of a degree, students may receive a formal distinction. While the UK system relies on first-class honours, second-class honours, and so on, the American honor system is divided into three ranks: (in ascending order) cum laude, magna cum laude, summa cum laude. The GPA needed to achieve each of those distinctions may vary according to university, department, and even subject. 

College has taught me that you can pick two out of the three… A social life, money, or good grades. It’s very difficult to have all 3

7. You’ll learn lots outside the classroom

Historically and culturally, Americans have always embraced the tenets of a well-rounded education. Students are encouraged to learn a bit about everything and spend time outside the classroom gaining real-world experience. You’ll realize that internships, volunteering, extracurricular clubs, and sports are a huge part of the American educational experience, and the sooner you embrace that, the better – the friends, contacts, and experience you gain through these activities may have a huge impact on your future employment potential.

Things to know before studying in USA – The USA is vast and diverse:

One of the things to know before studying in USA is that it is a vast country. So, your life as a student there depends on the location the university is in. Therefore, you should be ready for a big difference if you are studying in New York University or the Texas A&M University. While the former is located in the centres of New York like Manhattan and Brooklyn the latter is located in a remote area where students have less accessibility to the city, though they have the advantage of huge and picturesque campus.  Also, like many other countries, the USA too has a very diverse culture. There are huge gaps in the language and mannerisms of people from two different states. So, try to understand the local lingo of the region you’ll be studying in. For example, if you want to get a bottle of cold drinks you would have to ‘pop’ in North America while just ‘Soda’ or ‘Coke’ in Southern USA.  Hence, you have to make sure you research about the city you are travelling to in detail.

What should you know:

Now, social etiquette is one of the most important things to know before studying in USA. After all, you’ll be spending years in your new destination. In terms of social beliefs, the USA is a very relaxed country to be in since it has a huge pool of international people leading to a potpourri of beliefs and behavioral patterns. However, there are certain things that you should know:

Tips all the way: One of the vital things to know before studying in USA is that you should have your dollar bills stacked in your pockets because tipping is a regular affair in the country.Make sure you are ready with tips at restaurants and for bell boys at the hotels you would be putting up at. Usually,restros fix around 15 to 20% of the bill for tips, but of course, it all depends on you!

Turn right: Among the vital things to know before studying in USA you should remember that traffic in the USA runs on the right hand side of the streets. So, if you are from a country which drives from its left, and plan to take up driving in the USA, make sure you adjust yourself to this position first. Also, honking is prohibited in many states unless necessary.

Clothes cost beyond the listed price: Yes, if you thought your tee costs $30 because the label says so, you are wrong. You see, the label price doesn’t include sales tax. So, get ready to fish out at least 4 to 6% extra for the clothes that you buy.

Underage Drinking: This is perhaps one of the most important things to know before studying in USA for students. For all those international students who are going for their undergrad or below, drinking is a strict no in most places if you are under 21. And yes, they’ll check you IDs at the door.

Food: Like your food. Well, the US is the right place for you. Having people from all over the world means that Americans are well oriented with a diverse food culture. So, name any cuisine- Chinese, Mexican, Indian- you would definitely find a good restaurant somewhere serving these food. However, if you are a vegetarian, it could get a bit difficult for you. Though with veganism becoming a trend in the country, many places do serve vegetarian food, you need to make sure what you are ordering as in some places, especially, if you are located, in the outskirts, purely vegetarian food is hard to come by.

Also, a very interesting fact is that everything in the USA comes in huge proportions. People find it easier to buy in packs as they tend to be much cheaper compared to single items. If you are single person dining at a restro it is better if you avoid large sizes or anything, unless, of course, you appetite runs high!

How to save your money:

Well, the USA is not just one of the most developed but also one the most expensive destinations to study. This is reflected in the tuition fees and living expenses of international students. The average weekly rent in most states is around $1500, however, in places like New York, it can be upwards $3000. 

Take the subway:  Most of the cities in USA are huge so transportation could not only take up a lot of your time, but also a lot of money. In New York, citizens consider 2 hour travels to be mandatory to reach anywhere. However, the cab system in USA can be wildly costly, too. There’s a general saying that if you are late, avoid the cab. So, what do you do? Take the subway. It is one of the most important things to know before studying in USA. It will not only take you to your destination faster but your entire journey will be covered in half the cost.

Don’t keep you phone on roaming: It is the habit of some international students to keep their phone on international roaming. Don’t do that. Because the next thing you know you’ll have already run out of the most of the money for the month. What do you do? Get a sim. You’ll get those for around $50 and can easily speak to your family. Better still, install a calling app on your phone. Whatsapp, Skype are very popular among international callers.

Get a library card: This is a must for international students. Most universities charge you a library fee and give students a card at the start of the semester. So, make sure you have one. Because books like other items in US can be very expensive. In fact, many domestic students also depend on libraries to get access to books.  Also, most of the libraries in USA are technologically enabled and advanced. So, whatever information you need you just have to log in.

Why USA?

4 Things International Students Should Know About U.S. Universities

Schools in the U.S. are actively becoming more and more diverse, attracting international students from every walk of life. As the global economy grows, it is more important than ever for universities to expose their students to many different cultures—and that’s good news for international applicants. For STEM graduate programs in particular, international students can make up a great deal of the population. It also means financial solvency for many other schools.

U.S. schools now actively court international students, but there are some key differences to be aware of when applying. Many aspects of the American educational system are invariably new, and sometimes shocking, to students from other countries. But don’t let the differences between international schools and those in the U.S. catch you off guard.

The following four points aren’t rules, and they don’t apply to every class or school across the board. But they are good indications of the system as a whole.

1. BE PREPARED TO TALK.

One stereotype about Americans in the international community regards their tendency to talk and talk and talk. Here’s another saying: Stereotypes don’t come from the wind.

In an American university classroom, it is much more likely that a student will be expected to participate by talking about their ideas and engaging in conversation. International students who are used to a stricter, lecture-only atmosphere might be taken aback.

What can you do? You may want to prepare answers and questions in advance of class, particularly if English is not your first language. Look for talking points in your readings, and make sure you are ready to be a chatterbox. Your grade could depend on it!

2. BE OPEN TO NEW CLASSES.

International students may be more familiar with a pedagogy that follows a linear path from basic study of one topic to more advanced lessons, without deviation from the subject. In the U.S., it is more typical for students to have an obligation to take some classes outside of their major. There is a larger focus on creating holistic education and fostering well-rounded graduates in U.S. universities.

What can you do? Think of this as an opportunity to delve into topics that, while not directly related to your major, teach skills that are useful to know in your future field. Engineering majors might want to look into psychology or sociology, which could be helpful in working with others in groups. Sales or debate electives could always be useful down the line, too. Something like a negotiations class or basic marketing techniques could pay dividends when you are trying to get that start-up off the ground. The same is true of literature and art classes that give you creative outlets and improve your ability to connect with peers.

3. IT’S MORE EXPENSIVE THAN YOU THINK.

“Sticker shock” is the term for when you get surprised by the high costs related to something that you are purchasing, and you might get sticker shock when looking at attending a university in the U.S. There is no question that tuition in the U.S. is growing considerably—something that can be identified as a worldwide trend. International students also often pay additional fees that local students do not for their education, not to mention all the added costs of travel and relocation. But the largest issue is a lack of available financial aid options for international students. U.S. students are eligible for a wide variety of government scholarships and loans that aren’t offered to someone from another country.

What can you do? Aid for international students is something that individual universities are prioritizing more and more. The University of Pennsylvania, for instance, allocated $6 million this academic year in funding specifically for undergraduates from outside of the U.S. However, if you do search for international scholarship opportunities online, be wary. There are many scams out there preying on international students.

And while cost of living (and college) may be more expensive in the U.S. than your country of origin, it’s possible that these costs can be reduced by part-time work opportunities on campus or work study programs that pay enough to make a significant difference. Be prepared to work and go to school simultaneously if need be—many Americans do, too.

4. ACADEMICS AREN’T EVERYTHING

In the U.S., students are expected to be involved in extracurricular activities. Outside of your studies, you could be part of cultural or professional clubs, or participate in athletics or the arts. Why? Your grades are just one part of your story, and the other level is one that involves networking and being unique. Part of your reason for attending a college program in the U.S. should be to network with fellow students! These will be your peers throughout your professional life—the people with whom you will forge connections, create businesses and rely on for recommendations. They are also your competition, so as they make connections, make sure you keep up.

What can you do? Think of it this way: Socializing is actually part of what you are paying for. Not all of your tuition money goes to professors and lab equipment. You should take advantage of clubs, teams and other extracurriculars because they can be every bit as important as the knowledge you receive in classes. If you don’t think you have time to join a regular club or society, pick something that has a shorter time commitment, like helping to host a specific event. You’ll still meet people, but a built-in end point means you have more time to get back to your studies.  

Culture shock might be something international students regularly face when coming to the U.S. for the first time, but if you are more aware of the difference between American and international universities, at least you’ll know what to do on campus.

How to Survive the First Year of Studying in the US

Deciding to study in a foreign country is a big decision. We think it takes a lot of courage. It’s not easy moving away from home, especially to another country where the language and culture may be very different. 

Whether your English is perfect or not, there are still many challenges that you will face your first year here. We understand this because all of us have been where you are, (or will be).

We hope that our advice will help you be better prepared!

Be prepared before you leave your home country!

Make a budget and make sure you have enough money. Things like food, books, and tuition are more expensive here than they are in most countries. So get a complete list from your school of estimated expenses before you decide to leave home. Don’t forget to include the cost of buying furniture if you rent an apartment.

Do not use Craigslist to find a place to live! Many international students had lost money thinking they had found a place to live and sent money before they arrived. When they got here, they discovered that there was no apartment and their money was stolen.

Ask friends who live in your new town for help; they will know of apartments or rooms for rent that is close to a school or public transportation. If you don’t know anyone in your new place, ask your new college or university for help- they can give you a room (called a “dorm”) or help you contact honest people who like renting rooms or apartments to foreign students. 

Take advantage of all the activities your school offers. 

We know you are worried about how well you speak English, but people don’t care! They want to talk to you and get to know you; so go on field trips, join international clubs, and make plans to go out to dinner with your classmates. Remember, everyone feels the same way you do, and they will be very friendly.

You will be homesick.  

It’s very normal. When you do, try to find a way to eat food at home. Look for a special grocery store that carries foods from your country, or a restaurant that serves food your mother made.

Find an activity that makes you happy and do it! If you played a sport at home, find a group that gets together to do this. If you played an instrument, bring it along and play it regularly. It’s crucial that you do something besides study! 

If you are having trouble finding these activities, ask your school for help. They can put you into contact with the right people. You are more than schoolwork!

Ask for help.

This is very difficult for many of us, but there are people at your school who care about you. Do not be embarrassed if you are feeling really sad, or if you are having a hard time in a class or socially. Always remember that you are not the first person who feels this way, and you won’t be the last, but it is important to get help rather than being sad or afraid.

Accept the strangeness of the culture here- once you do life will be more comfortable.

American colleges expect you to talk in class and to ask questions, which is very different from other countries. Americans are louder than you might be used to. They like to hug and often ask questions that you might think are rude. But they don’t mean to insult- that’s how they are, and once you get used to it you might find yourself being a little bit louder and a bit more questioning too.

Take time every once in awhile to be proud of what you’ve done. 

We have a writing teacher who makes us list one good thing every week that we did. Sometimes people write “nothing,” and she will say, “Did you get out of bed most days and make it to school?” If we say yes, she makes us write that down because, “A good life isn’t about the big accomplishments- it’s about all the little things that lead to those big things.”

10 Things International Students Should Know to Start a Career

Student life is loaded with challenges, but things get even tougher a soon as your student life comes to an end and your career starts. Feeling inexperienced and unskilled for a project is something everyone experience in the starting phase of their career. This is completely natural and it indicates you are learning new things and expanding your comfort zone. But for certain individuals, this feeling never goes away, they feel uncomfortable all the time. 

We humans are not perfect and we learn from our mistakes. If you are a student and is still learning, it is a great time to prepare yourself for the challenges which will arrive in the near future. Here are a few points an International student should know before starting a new carrier. These things will surely make you a more confident person who is ready to tackle all kinds of challenger put forward by life.Advertisements

1. Introduce yourself

You must learn to introduce yourself. Whether you are in a meeting or at a public place be confident and introduce yourself. There is nothing wrong with sharing your knowledge and opinion with someone you don’t know.

2. Be a leader

 Leadership quality will help you in the long run. It is an essential quality which is required for handling different projects and tasks. A good leader is one who listens to everyone, learn from mistakes and then lead.

3. Improve your communication skills

It doesn’t matter how knowledgeable and skilled, a person is. His knowledge and skills are of no use if he is unable to communicate it well with others. He must be able to express himself and his ideas with others. This simply means good communication skills is a necessity.

4. Make life-long friends

The best thing about studying abroad is that you will meet with different students from around the globe. This gives you an opportunity to make new friends. You should make an effort to stay in contact with these fellow students even after your study abroad program comes to an end. These friends can be an important networking tool later in your life.Advertisements

5. Personal development

Studying abroad brings out independent nature as you need to manage everything yourself. Being in an unknown place is quite challenging and it could be overwhelming at some point in time. This will test your ability to adapt to changes and will ultimately develop your personality.

6. Embrace fear

Fear is completely natural and we all feel it. But you should never let fear paralyze you, if you do so you will surely going to regret the rest of your life. To overcome your fear, you need to embrace it rather than running away from it. Put yourself in uncomfortable situations out of your comfort zone and challenge your fear.

7. Don’t hesitate to ask help

Never hesitate to ask for help. If you find yourself in a situation which is hard to manage or confusing, you must not fear to ask for help. Find a mentor who can help you in difficult situations.

8. Have a personal vision

Always have a personal vision and plan for your life. Having a plan and vision in life will open new doors of opportunity. It is completely fine if you plan changes with time. Plans for the future are important because it will force your mind to think about how you can achieve what you really want in life.

9. Accept yourself

You need to accept yourself and should never try to live someone else’s life. Everyone is unique and different and there is no like you. So never waste your time living others life. Develop your value, be ready to fail and learn from your mistakes.

10. Lead from the beginning

Leadership doesn’t require experience. Leaders are not made by time or experience but by leadership qualities. A leader is active, influential, passionate, focused and alert. He has the ability to work with a group of people. Don’t have a mindset that leadership is reserved for seniors. You can take the opportunity and can prove yourself.

Once you finish the abroad study program, you will return with new language skills and a great education. You will be a confident and independent person. And we all know these qualities are very attractive to any employer. These ten tips will make you ready and prepared for your upcoming career.

Top 5 best and worst things about my time studying abroad in America

ABrit studying abroad across the pond might not sound that adventurous, but it’s been an eye-opening year for me at the University of West Georgia in the much stereotyped US south. Here’s the best and worst of what I learned about America:

1. Bad: currency

I’m not very good with numbers, so maybe this didn’t help me, but I still cannot understand American coins after living here for 10 months. One of the coins which is larger actually has a lower value than a coin which is smaller (and of the same colour), go figure. “Dimes” and “nickels,” still mean nothing to me.

1. Good: value for money

Having said that, you get phenomenal value for money everywhere. Buy a drink which isn’t alcoholic (because you’re under 21) and you get free unlimited refills at the vast majority of establishments. First few months I was here I kept rejecting refills, presuming they’d show up on the bill, but they never do. You’ll also find the portion sizes here are more than generous, taking home meals in “to-go boxes” is commonplace.

Beyond meals, shopping is also generally cheaper in America. Even organic foods are basically on sale.

2. Bad: US healthcare

I paid $687.44 per semester for the mandatory international student health insurance that all internationals must take upon enrolling at my institution. It covered me for the student health centre, a couple of practices outside the campus and one hospital. Republicans say that Britain’s National Health Services is evil and doesn’t work … try private medical insurers.

2. Good: hospitality

When you’re not embroiled in a spat with a local hospital as to whether or not your insurance plan covers you for that particular treatment at that particular hospital, the hospitality you receive when visiting American homes is second to none. I have been shown nothing but kindness from Americans, and I’ve been invited to countless people’s homes during the year to spend the weekend with them, rather than being trapped in university dormitories. The TVs are also huge, which makes a day of Netflix after finals a reliable choice.

3. Bad: American media

I don’t know about you, but there is nothing better than hearing the same Top 40 songs repeated over and over again. I thought the repetition of songs on Capital FM in the UK was bad enough, but here it’s just the same playlist, almost hourly. In the south it’s either that or country music stations, choose your poison.Advertisement

Also, try and get any informed debate from any major national news network in the US, MSNBC will invite on mostly liberals to their shows and come to the conclusion that background checks for gun buyers are a good thing. Fox News will do the exact opposite. CNN doesn’t quite have the open debate that I’d like to see. As a result, all politics here is skewed towards spin, not facts. Don’t get me started on the one third of every televisual hour being advert breaks, either.

3. Good: place names

Yes, Intercourse, PA does really exist. There are also some amazing street names, if you fancy living on a student visa in a country in which most streets use any of the following names “Creek”, “Lakeview”, “Circle”, “Way”, “Court” and “Drive” then be my guest. I have no issue with the names here, but some of them are a little bizarre, if overly optimistic: “Happy Valley Circle”, for instance, in Georgia. The numbering idea for towns and cities is very wise, however, “1st Street”, “2nd Street” and so on. I like the system, the names just take a while to adjust to.

4. Bad: road network

The interstate highways are a beautiful system, modelled by President Dwight Eisenhower on the autobahns in Germany, but unfortunately that is where my love for American roads ends. Each junction in America is of increasing complexity, it seems to me, with some angles almost making it impossible to make a turn quickly enough. Road networks here also seem to have either too much information, meaning an information overload three miles before an exit is due, or not enough, and without a GPS you’d be completely stuck.

4. Good thing: weather

How can a Brit go abroad and not mention the weather? While Georgia weather is bipolar (it snowed in February, the next day it was 24 celsius, we also had hailstorms during spring break), when it is beautiful, it is stunning. Fortunately, the weather being beautiful accounts for about 70-80% of the year.

5. Bad thing: that accent and associated pronunciations

Asking for Oregano in any Subway sandwich causes a minor crisis at every outlet I have been to. For some reason, all the syllables from this word are removed, yet one of my host “moms” complains how the Brits drop the ends of words (Buckingham, Birmingham, Manchester, etc), usually, Americans are the ones to extend the vowels, but with oregano, this does not apply at all, clearly. I did once find myself saying to a friend on Skype after three months of being here, “oh, what a beautiful accent you have”, I thought that was something only Americans said.Advertisement

Clumsy sentences are also abound, “Gotten sick” and “Keep off of the grass/rocks/enjoyable water feature” are personal favourites.

5. Good thing: it’s beautiful

America is beautiful. I went travelling out west over the Christmas break and took over 1,000 photos in a week. Even the scenery where the houses are set in Georgia is beautiful. A lot of America is truly stunning. The suburbs are peaceful and quiet, with birdsong and the gentle rustle of wind through the trees as you step out of a car. I’ve heard California is even nicer, but I really can’t imagine how that’s possible.

I’m so torn, America is far better than I ever expected, but at the same time I must return to the UK to continue my studies. As much as this country has been great to me, and it really has, the people are just fantastic, I must return to the UK, where no one talks on public transport and where we’ll complain when it’s too hot and moan when it’s too cold, despite packing inappropriate clothing for both occasions. I can’t wait, but at the same time I’m leaving a fan of our former colony.

Why the USA is the most popular study abroad country

By a fair distance the US remains the most popular country for international students to study in, hosting over 30% of all international students in the world.

The attraction to studying in the US springs from three principle factors: a commitment to excellence, freedom of choice, and an appealing culture.

High standard of education

The US offers a consistently high standard of education. Harvard University commonly tops most world ranking tables and from this point down the lists are dominated by other US colleges. Though the tuition fees at these institutions can sometimes be startlingly high, with these high prices students are guaranteed excellence.

The high tuition fees can provide the best research and learning facilities in the world and in turn attract the brightest minds, both as professors and in the student body. Enveloped in an environment of attainment and achievement, a student will not only be able to learn much, but be inspired to learn more.

Choice of university

The second greatest reason that the States continues to attract so many international students is the extensive choice on offer. The States has over 5,500 colleges, each State averaging roughly 115. Though some of the institutions are quite expensive, many offer scholarships, thus opening up the opportunity to study in the States to those with restricted means.

In addition to this, it is not only in price but also in program availability and construction that these colleges differ. With the colossal number of colleges to choose from, a prospective student will be able to locate a program that suits them best. Not only do these programs vary in content but also in length, MA degrees ranging from 1-3 years.

The set-up varies from place to place, often students are able to drop, switch and retake modules, depending on work load and any personal factors. This freedom of choice and pace of study, though common in most of Europe, is not the case in the UK or in many universities across Asia.

Culture of the US

The third reason the States remains so popular is due to the country’s culture itself. With American films, television shows and music, many people around the globe feel like they have a pretty good idea of what college life in the States is like: parties with red plastic cups, sunny grass quads and a host of extra-curricular activities to jump into.

Living on campus in residential halls is one way to dive into the thick of US college life. Renting private accommodation off-campus, though a little more complicated to organize, gives more freedom and allows a student to escape from the campus bubble. Home stays, when a student lives with an American family, offers the quickest and most comprehensive induction into the American way of life.

Or at least, we should say, one American way of life. With its huge landmass and population of over 300 million, the US is one of the most diverse countries on the planet. It’s safe to say that the college experience in LA won’t be the same as that in New England. This should be taken into account when applying to study in the US, and taken advantage of in your free time when you are there.

Working in the US

Colleges in the US often place an emphasis on work and study. As well as enhancing your education, working while studying is a good way to get important experience. An F1 visa for international students studying in the US is a relatively simple one to apply for and often allows you to work on campus.

Applying for lawful permanent residence in the US (commonly referred to as the ‘green card’) can be very difficult.

Scholarships for International Students Planning to Study in the USA

It is essential to plan your entire U.S. education, including how to finance it, before you leave your home country. Some colleges, universities, and U.S. consulates require foreign students to provide certification of funding for the entire planned period of study.

You may be looking for scholarships to finance your education. This is a list of resources compiled by us to help your search. Don’t overlook the possibility of academic and need-related scholarships from the college or university where you’ll be studying. We hope you find this useful! 

Scholarships for International Students studying in the USA

• Cappex American Scholarships
• CDTrader Scholarship
• College Week Live
• CollegeScholarships.org
• Federal Student Aid Types
• Global Scholarships for International Students
• GotChosen
• Organization of American States – The Leo S. Rowe Pan American Fund
• Scholars4Dev
• ScholarshipsLab
• Sport-Scholarships.com
• The Ultimate Scholarship Guide
• GreyCampus Scholarship Program

Scholarships for International Students studying in the USA

ANNUAL CGTRADER SCHOLARSHIP

CGTrader is the largest 3D model marketplace backed by the strong designer community of more than 500k members. CGTrader was founded with the goal to ensure fair marketplace conditions for 3D designers.

Each semester CGTrader challenges students to dig into the field of technology writing an essay on how innovative technologies are transforming our lives.

Enter the CGTrader Scholarship 2017 challenge to win $3,000 for your education bills. The best submission will be awarded $2,000 while the two runners-up will receive $500 each.

CAPPEX AMERICAN SCHOLARSHIPS

Universities in the United States are offering scholarships to international students through AmericanScholarships.com. Get your scholarship offers and apply for admission to your university matches for free with our online application.

COLLEGE WEEK LIVE

CollegeWeekLive believes that a college education is the key to having opportunities in life. That’s why their scholarship will reward students who are working hard to research, apply and choose a college. Winning is easy – all you need to do is login to CollegeWeekLive and visit 3 colleges that interest you. One lucky winner will be awarded a $1,000 scholarship every month. And many other winners may find the college of their dreams.

FEDERAL STUDENT AID TYPES

Worried you won’t be able to get aid? Most people are eligible for financial aid for college or career school. Learn about the eligibility criteria for the federal student aid programs.

GLOBAL SCHOLARSHIPS FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

Global Scholarships for International Students is a popular scholarship database for international students that lists all of the popular scholarships around the world including the US. This website gives the scholarship information, application date, the link to the application form, and brief description of the universities in every scholarship articles that they publish. This scholarship website has valuable information regarding the scholarship opportunities in America as well. This website lists scholarships opportunities and high quality information for international students around the world.

GOTCHOSEN

GotChosen offers scholarship opportunities for U.S. and international students. GotChosen’s scholarships are dedicated to helping students meet their financial needs in order to fulfill a higher education. The largest scholarship, GotScholarship $40K Give Away, has been awarded twice with the third to be awarded in October 2013. Open to all fields of study, the $40,000 scholarship is not awarded based on academic achievement or financial need. Instead, the winner is selected by a random drawing.

• GotScholarship $40k Give Away
• $3,000 Lights, Camera, Action Video Scholarship
• $1,000 Every Month Scholarship

*Students must be 18 years or older to enter. Go to GotChosen’s website to review the rules for eligibility for each scholarship.

ORGANIZATION OF AMERICAN STATES – THE LEO S. ROWE PAN AMERICAN FUND

The Rowe Fund is an educational loan program of the Organization of American States (OAS) that helps citizens from Latin America and Caribbean OAS Member States finance their studies or research in accredited universities across the United States by awarding interest-free loans of up to $15,000 dollars.

By financing a portion of their studies in the United States, the Rowe Fund helps students complete their education while at the same time fostering cultural diversity, friendship, and communication among the people of the Americas.

SCHOLARS4DEV

scholars4dev, short for Scholarships for Development, is an updated listing of international scholarships specifically for people from developing countries, people who would like to pursue development-related fields, and people who seek global and national development through further education.

“It is our aim to help people find opportunities for higher education and become agents of development in their own countries and the rest of the world.”

SCHOLARSHIPSLAB

Scholarshipslab is a Free Scholarships Source for International Students.

A far better search engine for scholarships than any available international platform; with 2500+ scholarships on board, 800+ International and 500+ Corporate Scholarships with up to $400 Million in total funds. It surely helps students looking for external scholarships to finance 2019-2020 studies.

THE ULTIMATE SCHOLARSHIP GUIDE

If you’re still looking for scholarships that fit your needs, look through the listings provided by the sites and pages on this link. These sites are established, reputable, and have put many students in touch with the resources they need to help pay for school.

GreyCampus Scholarship Program

Nothing should stop a student from achieving their goal and we resolve to aid the deserving students with our scholarship program for a bright career. GreyCampus scholarship program specifically focuses on supporting students who are committed to their learning.

Top Scholarship Schemes for International Students for Graduate Studies (Master’s & PhD) in USA

Foreign Fulbright Student Program

The Fulbright student scholarship program is for students who want to study masters or PhD degree in reputed universities of USA. The entire scholarship will be sufficient for the tuition fees, textbook fare, airfare, health insurance, and the living stipend. This scholarship program is specially designed for non- degree postgraduate studies.

Humphrey Fellowship Program

The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program is also a USA Government scholarship program designed especially for experienced professionals. Additionally, the candidates need to demonstrate commitment towards the public services in either the public sector or private sector of different countries. This scholarship covers the maximum part of the expenses during the program.

Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship

The Aga Khan Foundation provides a limited number of scholarships each year for postgraduate studies to outstanding students (from developing countries) who have no other means of financing their studies. Scholarships are awarded on a 50% grant and 50% loan basis through a competitive application process. The Foundation gives priority to requests for Master’s level courses but is willing to consider applications for Ph.D. programs.

World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program

The scheme is open to women and men from developing countries with relevant professional experience and a history of supporting their countries’ development efforts who are applying to a master degree program in a development-related topic. The scholarship provides tuition, a monthly living stipend, round-trip airfare, health insurance, and travel allowance.

AAUW International Fellowships for Women

AAUW (the American Association of University Women) awards International Fellowships for full-time study or research in the United States to women who are not United States citizens or permanent residents. Both graduate and postgraduate studies at accredited institutions are supported.

Abbey Road Summer Scholarships

Abbey Road offers US scholarships worth of US$1,000 to literature and Arts students. “Summer enrichment” is another scholarship program which will grant about US$500 for the students in various universities in the USA.

Civil Society Leadership Awards

In this program, students from the eligible countries will be provided with the fully funded scholarship for their Master’s degree in the USA.

The NextGen Scholarship Fund

Scholarships are provided to the students who have at least 3.0 GPA in their graduation level. In this program, the student has to enroll at an accredited university within Washington DC, Maryland or Virginia. The scholarship worth about USD $1,000.

Tortuga Backpacks Study Abroad Scholarship

The Scholarship worth is about US$1,000. For passionate students, this scholarship is given twice a year.

David P. Shapiro Autism Scholarship

This scholarship is a one-time scholarship program. This program will be awarded to prospective students who are studying in the US.

Preply Scholarship

Basically, this program is a competitive based scholarship in which 3 students will be awarded a sum of $2,000. You need to be in the age group of 16 – 35 are in order to be eligible for this scholarship. To get this scholarship the candidate has to submit an essay of 500 words. “The importance of multilingualism to personal and professional development” is the topic of the essay.

Rotary Peace Fellowships

Rotary’s Peace Centres such as at Duke University or the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill award scholarships to the students who wanted to study for their master’s degree in the US.

MindSumo

In MindSumo scholarship program, the business and engineering students have to solve the challenges given in the competition. The winner of the competition will get a scholarship. MindSumo programme is a partner with Fortune 500 companies.

Capex American Scholarships

AmericanScholarships.com is a portal which offers various scholarships that are available for students in various universities in the US. The candidate has to apply through the portal to get the scholarship while applying to the university.

College Week Live

College Week Live scholarship is granted to the students who work on research in collages. To get this scholarship the student has to login into CollegeWeekLive, select a college based on the interest to do the research. The winner of this competition will be awarded a $1,000 scholarship every month.

Global Scholarships for International Students

Global Scholarships for International Students is a scholarship database for international students. This database has a list of all the popular scholarships around the world including the US. This is basically a website that provides the complete details about the scholarship information, application date, the link to the application form, and brief description of the universities in every scholarship articles that they publish.

Why You Want To Study In USA Answer

Over the past few years, the U.S. has dominated the globe in being the most popular university destination for students from all over the world. Somehow, even with the growth of other English-taught options in other countries, numerous students still choose to study in the U.S.A.

Why do international students choose studying in the U.S.A? To answer this question, we will run through the top five reasons students tend to always choose American universities for their international education, and what sets these universities apart.

1. U.S. degrees have an excellent international reputation

It’s hardly a secret that top universities in the U.S. continue to maintain a strong presence among the best ranked education institutions in the world. Partially this has to do with how well-funded and supported American universities are, but it also has to do with the high academic standards and rigorous requirements that they instil in their students.

With their always-changing and evolving classrooms, these universities continue to attract students from all over the world, and are courageously working every year to change the education they deliver so that foreign students from all over the world are prepared to go back home and find wonderful careers opportunities.

2. American universities are bastions of cultural diversity

Nearly every university in the U.S. takes diversity to be one of their defining pillars. Historically, there has been a strong effort within the structure of these higher education institutions to increase the number of educational opportunities and make cultural diversity central to the enrollment and admission efforts.

Students often remark that their classes and dormitories are full of students from every nationality, religion, or ethnicity, and having access to and contact with so many cultural backgrounds makes the experience that much more thrilling.

If you go to a university in the U.S., you will feel immediately comfortable around people who share a similar background and who have new ideas and perspectives to share. Studying abroad, in general, is one way to nurture your tolerance and openness to other cultures; studying abroad in America adds another dimension, exposing you not only to the U.S. culture, but to the languages and beliefs of people from nationalities all over the world.

3. U.S. universities offer excellent support facilities

In an effort to make your transition to a U.S. university smoother, these institutions offer plenty of support to prepare international students for their classes. Through various workshops, English-language practice courses, orientations, and trainings, foreign students are given plenty of help to get them ready for their classes.

Moreover, there is some effort to allow international students the ability to stay in the U.S. after they graduate, so that they can attempt to pursue a wonderful career at some of the world’s biggest companies. In 2016, a massive effort was taken to allow graduates from STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) to stay for 24 months to get work experience and extend their stay.

With this opportunity, you have the chance to look for work in fields that are always seeking ambitious and hard-working students; and with this extension, you can stay in the U.S. to find your footing at some of the biggest companies.

4. U.S. universities invest in optimised classroom experiences

As technology continues to innovate and change the way that information is delivered, university classrooms are trying to keep in step with the rapid acceleration of ideas. By giving students more access to web-based classes, utilising computer-based tests, and allowing students to use different labs and resources, universities are able to give you the latest and most modern classroom experience that you can imagine.

With these advanced capabilities and access to all kinds of resources, American universities keep the education up-to-date, with all of the gadgets and engaging virtual experiences that this generation of students is already accustomed to. If you study in the U.S.A, you will find yourself immediately introduced to new ways of studying, learning, researching, and taking tests.

5. American universities offer a flexible academic environment

Studying abroad in America provides an ideal environment for students, characterized by flexible methods of education and continuous development process for students in the various fields of studies.

Depending on your strengths, interests, and goals, U.S. universities deliberately shift their classroom structures and instruction methods to make learning engaging and, at the same time, relevant to your own domain.

U.S. colleges and universities are notoriously casual and relaxed. Students are under no obligation to show up to every single class, or to stay for an entire lecture. Now, just because you can avoid and skip classes, it doesn’t mean you should.