Prowd TouristThe United States of America is a choice destination for many international students, one of the reasons is the high academic standard it boasts.
Other reasons are the quality of education, abundant opportunities, and multi-cultural environment.
The US prides itself as a first-world country with several state-of-the-art facilities in the educational sector. It is a beautifully structured society and rightly attracts attention from students all over the world.
Boasting 7 out of the top 10 universities in the world in 2024 according to Times Higher Education, the US is the ideal destination for academic advancement.
If you want to learn how to go study abroad in the US, this article is what you need..
In this article, you will be learning how to access international study opportunities as a scholar in the US.
Before we delve into the tips, let us quickly answer these commonly asked questions.
Is studying in the US worth it for an international student?
The prestige that comes with studying in the US is second to none. international students stand the opportunity to enjoy the high standard of education available.
Studying in the US allows you to grow amid diversity. It offers you the golden opportunity to develop relevant interpersonal skills.
Yes indeed, studying in the United States comes with a lot of benefits, and it is worth it.
How Can International Students Survive In The US?
Living in a new environment comes with certain changes, changes that sometimes make life difficult and exciting.
One of the things international students who move to the US face is a cultural shift.
Things are done differently but in an organized manner though. With time, they make the necessary adjustments.
Another thing is the financial implications of moving, living, and schooling in the US, it can be quite expensive. So, how then can an international student survive?
Grants
Financial aid in the form of grants can be accessed by international students either from their home countries or from certain organizations that offer them. These grants could be scholarships or stipends.
Part-time jobs
Students with an F-1 visa can work part-time on campus for a specified number of hours, up to 20 hours a week in most cases.
As long as they are registered with the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System. The money made from this can come in handy in sustaining them.
Budgeting Expenses
As an international student, you would want to manage your finances well so you can stay afloat for a while, budgeting your expenses is one way to achieve this.
Ensure that you make a list of things that are necessary to spend on and within your capacity to do so. This will help you to always have funds.
How Can You Access International Study Opportunities In The US?
Statista reports that 1,057,188 international students studied in the United States during the 2022/23 academic year. Many more seek to gain access to study-abroad opportunities in the US.
When it comes to access to top-quality education, the United States consistently ranks high in the top 10 places to study abroad.
The higher education system in the US allows you to explore your interests as you earn qualifications through amassing credits from standalone courses. Here are ways you can access international opportunities if you plan to go study abroad in the US.
1. Research Your Options
The first step to studying in the United States is researching your options. You must first determine what course you want to go for and what college or university best fits your needs.
Don’t try to match yourself to the school, but rather find the school that matches you and your priorities as well as your long-term goals.
Contrary to what you’ll see on the internet, there’s no official ranking system for colleges and universities in the United States.
The best school is the on that meets your academic, financial, and personal requirements.
It is recommended you begin your research 12 to 18 months before the academic year in which you hope to attend a U.S. college or university.
Answering these basic questions would help;
- Why do you want to study in the United States?
- Where will you fit in best?
- Which colleges or universities best meet your needs?
- Will you need financial assistance?
- What are the application and financial aid deadlines?
- Where do you want to live in the United States?
Then go ahead to choose your level of study (e.g. undergraduate, graduate, etc.).
2. Finance Your Studies
Studying in the US does not come cheap. You’ll have to consider your study and accommodation costs. These costs vary with location.
With the right planning and research, pursuing a degree in the US can be made affordable with high returns on your investment.
International students receive financial assistance for their studies every year, so, you should start your planning as early as possible.
3. Apply For Your Study
Applying to study in the US is a task that takes time. It needs total concentration because each application is different.
It involves collecting recommendations, writing essays, and collecting results of required standard examinations. Give this step the time it needs. It largely determines the success of your result.
4. Apply For Your Student Visa
The next step will be to apply for your student visa. This is dependent on the success of the steps above
In applying for your visa, ensure to go through the appropriate quarters. The US Embassy or consulate in your country of residence is where you should make your visa application. Book an appointment and follow through the process.
5. Prepare For Depature
Congratulations on getting to this step, it is now time to make the move. This is where you’ll make your travel arrangements which include attending a pre-departure orientation.
At this point, you should gather pre-departure materials and documents for arrival. On arrival, report to your school and attend orientations.
Conclusion
Planning to go study abroad in the US comes with a rewarding experience. You’re sure to have a remarkable learning experience. the United States stands out as a premier destination, offering unparalleled educational experiences, cultural immersion, and research opportunities.
When you understand the demands of the application process, financial considerations, and visa requirements, you can embark on a transformative journey of educational advancement.
Prowd Tourist