S t u dy i n g i n t H E u S yo u r E S S E n t i a l g u i d E 1

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Your essential Guide

studYinG in the usa:

S t u dy i n g i n t H E u S yo u r E S S E n t i a l g u i d E 2

what now? p22

beFore You leaVe p20

table oF contents

whY studY in america? p4

the us education sYstem p5

aPPlYinG to an american uniVersitY p7

aPPlYinG For a us student Visa p11

student accommodation in america p13

suPPortinG YourselF FinanciallY p15

liFe in america p17

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whY studY in america?

S t u dy i n g i n t H E u S yo u r E S S E n t i a l g u i d E 4

diVerse nationThe US is very large and you’ll find a whole spectrum of attitudes, people, climates and cultures. There is so much to take in – in fact, most Americans don’t leave their own state in their lifetime! America is a complicated nation due to its size and diversity of opinions, but this makes studying and living there a constant discovery.

“the american dream”“The American Dream” is an ideal that in the US, anyone can start off with very little, and through hard work, can elevate themselves in society. Arnold Schwarzenegger, Oprah Winfrey and Jay Z are some real-life embodiments of this “Dream”. However, you don’t have to be a superstar celebrity to achieve this dream; as an international student, you can too! Many students come to the US on their own, sometimes through scholarships, with aspirations to be educated, start their career, settle down and change their (and their family’s) lives.

Value oF a us QualiFicationA qualification from an American education institution is highly regarded around the world because the country’s system is so respected. Each year, American universities take the top spots in world university rankings. While the likes of Harvard, Stanford and MIT are sought out for their international reputations, these are extremely difficult to get a place at. However, the good news is that there is a whole breadth of institutions which may be a better fit for you.

sharPen Your enGlish skillsAmerica is one of the best study destinations to go to if you want to sharpen your English language skills. You will have to meet certain standards of English proficiency in order to

be accepted on to a course initially; however, US universities will provide a lot of support to help you improve your English as you go on. Many universities offer English Language programmes in the summer specifically for this purpose. You may even pick up an additional language or an accent while you’re there!

there are manY Possible studY destinations to choose From; so whY should You choose the us? learn what You can Get From an american uniVersitY exPerience, whether PersonallY, academicallY or ProFessionallY....

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Why Study in the US

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the us education sYstem

S t u dy i n g i n t H E u S yo u r E S S E n t i a l g u i d E 6

Education systems do vary from one country to another. Differences can include how academic years are structured, how much tuition fee are and even the

names for things – some are vital to know, while others will save you from moments of confusion.

Here are a few things you should know about the US higher education system:

• Undergraduate (bachelor’s or BA) degrees last 4 years while graduate (also known as ‘postgraduate’, master’s or MA) degrees last 2 years, full-time. At undergraduate level, your first year is a more broader study of several subjects until you choose your major and minor for the other three years.

• There is also an option to study an associate’s degree at a community college which is smaller. This takes 2 years after which you can transfer to study the last 2 years of a related undergraduate degree at a university.

• ‘University’ is usually referred to as ‘college’ and even ‘school’, while ‘going to class’ also includes lectures and other course commitments.

• There are two intakes for students: fall (starting late August) and spring (starting late January) though you should confirm these dates with your institution.

• You will be required to meet a certain standard of English proficiency. Most institutions in the US will require you to have an IELTS score of 6.0 (approx.) to study there (though you should always confirm this with the university themselves).

• Course fees will vary depending on study level, course and university; Medical and Law degrees are normally substantially more expensive, while the

higher-ranking universities will have higher fees too. Always confirm course fees with the university you are interested in applying to. However, for a rough guide, undergraduate fees are around $22,000-$28,000 per year, while graduate fees are around $28,000-$38,000 per year.

• We recommend researching your study abroad options at least two years prior to when you plan to begin studying. You should always confirm the exact deadlines for applications with that institution, but usually these will be around May for a fall term start, and December for a spring term start.

the education sYstem in the us maY be sliGhtlY diFFerent to that in Your own countrY, esPeciallY at hiGher education leVel. reGardless, You should know the basics includinG aPProximate course lenGths, structures and Fees beFore You think about aPPlYinG. take a look below For a simPle Guide to the american education sYstem...

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Start searching for a course, university or scholarship in the US

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aPPlYinG to an american uniVersitY

S t u dy i n g i n t H E u S yo u r E S S E n t i a l g u i d E 8

You must apply to an American university directly (though some universities allow you to apply through the Common Application service as well). Applying to

an American university can seem a little overwhelming, with so much emphasis being placed on things like GPA scores (calculated from your own country’s academic system and the grades you have achieved) and demonstrating effectively your passion for the field you are applying to.

Personal essaYThis is often assessed through a personal statement or essay which you write, explaining why you are interested in the course; in American admissions this is a very important part of the application. You should demonstrate relevant real-life examples which have contributed to your current knowledge of or interest in the field; these can include personal endeavours, volunteering and work experience.

However, do not simply talk about your love for the course. Talk about why you want to study that course at that particular university. This will require researching that area, university or department.

tiP: Remember that an admissions officer will be reading hundreds of applications so you need to do something which makes you stand out. You can show some personality to distinguish yourself, but keep the tone of your application formal and professional.

academic recordsYou will need to provide evidence of your academic records so far so the university can evaluate whether you meet the requirements of the course you are applying to. This may involve getting these translated by an accredited translator.

tiP: Anything you can do to make the admissions officer’s job easier will be much appreciated by them. The number one problem for admissions officers is an incomplete application, so ensure you have provided all the information which is asked of you. Doing so will ensure a quicker response to your application.

admissions testsOtherwise known as ‘aptitude tests’, these assess basic skills for study at university level and are taken by domestic students as well.

For undergraduate study in America, you may be required to take either the SAT or ACT. You should confirm with your desired institution which they would prefer you take.

For graduate study, you will have to take either the GRE or the GMAT. Previously the GMAT was for Business courses only, while the GRE was for all other graduate courses; however more and more universities are now accepting the GRE for admission to Business courses as well.

lanGuaGe testsYou will need to show that you are proficient in English to a certain standard to study in the US. This is evaluated through an English language test which you can take in your own country at a test centre. The most common English language tests are IELTS and TOEFL which are widely accepted.

Different universities will have slightly varying language test score requirements or accept certain language tests only. Certain subjects will also require slightly higher overall scores or higher scores in particular areas of these language tests; these are usually Law, Medicine and Journalism,

so You’Ve decided that You want to aPPlY to a uniVersitY in the us? but how do You Go about this in the riGht waY? take a look at our Guide to aPPlYinG to an american uniVersitY, includinG where to aPPlY to, how to aPProach a Personal essaY, documents You must ProVide and more...

S t u dy i n g i n t H E u S yo u r E S S E n t i a l g u i d E 9

where strong English language skills are key to course material. Normally, the required minimum IELTS score for undergraduate study will be a 6.5 or a TOEFL score of around 80. Required scores to study at postgraduate level may likely be slightly higher given the step-up in course material.

However, always confirm this with your university before booking your test so you can prepare accordingly. If you can choose, you should also consider the language test which suits your strengths.

documents checklistAs part of your application to a American university, you will need to provide several documents. Ensure you have access to the following (providing either originals or translated copies where appropriate):

• A valid passport (valid 6 months after your course completion date)

• Evidence of how you expect to fund your studies and lifestyle e.g. notifications of scholarships and bursaries, bank statements (yours or your parents/guardians) etc.

• A passport-sized photo of you (it’s good to have a few of these when applying to study abroad – you never know when they’ll come in handy)

• Academic transcripts with grades achieved• Transcripts with scores from admissions and language

tests• Resume or CV (sometimes)• Reference or recommendation letter x 2 (at least one

being an academic reference)

interViewsOn some occasions international applicants will be interviewed by the institution they are applying to before a decision can be made regarding their admission. Do not worry if you are asked to do so; this is normal and simply means that they want to learn more about you.

Interviews can be conducted in person in your country by a university representative who will report back to the admissions team at the university. Interviews may also be conducted over the phone or via Skype/Google Hangout.

These interviews are normally rather brief. You can expect to answer questions about why you want to study the course you’re applying to, as well as some other questions about your interests and goals in life.

tiP: Focus on the education aspect of studying abroad, rather than the immigration aspect. Seeming more focused on living in the US than actually studying in the country is not a good message to send.

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Writing Your Personal Statement

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

Which Test Do I Take to Study in the US

Application Checklist: Essential Documents

Phone (& Skype) Interviews: Dos and Don’ts

Start searching for a course, university or scholarship in the US

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aPPlYinG For a us student Visa

S t u dy i n g i n t H E u S yo u r E S S E n t i a l g u i d E 11

While immigration and border security has always been a serious issue in America, the events of 9/11 have made things even more stricter since.

America is still welcoming of international students, but you must ensure you have the correct immigration authorisation to study in the US. If you don’t, you can run in to problems later, and in the worst scenarios, you may be deported before the end of your course (which means you can’t return to the States again).

Below is a rough guide to the process for applying for an F1 visa...

while aPPlYinG...Ensure you have a valid passport now while you are applying because you will need this to get a student visa for America. Applying for a passport will take time and can be subject to delays.

when You’Ve been accePted...Once you have been accepted at an SEVP-verified US institution, they will send you a version of their Form I-20, a paper document which confirms the details of your study with them. When you receive this, you must confirm that the details on this are correct.

aPPlYinG For Your VisaYou must then pay the SEVIS I-901 fee to apply for your actual student visa. Once your payment has been processed, you will be issued a receipt which you should print.You will need to apply for a specific type of student visa. Next, you must submit a DS-160 form electronically, again printing the receipt you receive. You will also be required to pay a visa application processing fee and schedule a visa interview at the US embassy in your country.

Your interViewWhen you attend your interview, it is best to take the following documents with you (these are the essential documents

required for applying for a student visa, so check that you have access to these):

• A valid passport (valid 6 months after your course completion date)

• Your Form I-20• Receipt for your I-901 fee• Receipt for your DS-160 processing fee• Evidence of how you expect to fund your

studies and lifestyle e.g. notifications of scholarships and bursaries, bank statements (yours or your parents/guardians) etc.

• A passport-sized photo of you (it’s good to have a few of these when applying to study abroad – you never know when they’ll come in handy)

• Letter from your institution confirming your acceptance/enrolment

• Academic transcripts with grades achieved• Transcripts with scores from admissions and

language testsYou should also bring these with you when you arrive in the country.

At your interview, you will be asked a few basic questions about your plans to study in America. Be honest! Again, focus on the educational benefits of studying in America for you, rather than the immigration aspect. You should be told there and then whether you are eligible for a US visa, which will be sent to you soon after.

conGratulations, You’Ve been accePted on to a course at an american uniVersitY! howeVer, You still need to secure the correct immiGration status to enter the countrY and remain there For the duration oF Your studies. let us break down what miGht seem a comPlicated Process For You, so You can sort this out QuicklY and smoothlY...

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Applying For a US Student Visa

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student accommodation in the us

S t u dy i n g i n t H E u S yo u r E S S E n t i a l g u i d E 13

In America, most students in their first year live on campus (especially for undergraduate students). Then, from their second year on they live off-campus in the surrounding

area.

Your First YearNearly all international students will be guaranteed accommodation on campus in one of their university’s residence or dormitory halls (known as “dorms”).

What is a residence hall? - This is a building comprised of double rooms which you share with a roommate (a fellow undergraduate of the same sex). There will usually be a shared kitchen and bathrooms amongst a floor of students, with socialising areas of some kind too. Sharing a room is a staple of American university life. If you really feel uncomfortable with this, you can request for a single room but this might not always be an option. You can indicate to the university some preferences for the type of person you would like to live with, which they will try to meet. The best thing about having a roommate is that from your very first day, you have someone with whom you can discover campus and university life with; this can be really helpful if you are quite shy when meeting new people alone.

How to choose accommodation? - Once you have accepted a university’s offer, they will send you all the information about their accommodation options available. There will often be guides with images and virtual tours available on their website, which you can browse from

your own country. Consider your budget for rent and living expenses as halls will vary in price depending on amenities (e.g. food plan or self-catered) and facilities. You will then have to indicate which halls are your preferred choices through an online application.

What furniture will be included? - Usually you will be provided with a desk, chair, bed, chest of drawers and wardrobe. You will have to buy additional items like a desk-light, extra storage, kitchenware and bed linen once you arrive.

What support is available? - Most universities have on-campus security of some form, while residence halls will have staff on site. Sometimes these will be 2nd and 3rd year students who have been trained to deal with any issues that may arise. If you are really not enjoying your living arrangements, you can ask to switch (though this will depend on what spaces are available).

subseQuent YearsAfter your first year, you will have to seek out off-campus accommodation. The good news is that having lived in America for a whole year, you will be more comfortable and have made many new friends, some of whom you would like to live with. Most choose to find a flat or houseshare with other students using sites like Craigslist, or by looking in a local newspaper. Your university’s accommodation office will also be able to put you in touch with reputable local agencies and landlords who’ve housed students before.

You’ll need somewhere to rest Your head each niGht, as well as housemates to share Your american uniVersitY exPerience with. let us exPlain what oPtions are aVailable to You and how You can secure somewhere You’re comFortable liVinG while You studY in the us...

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Student Accommodation in the US

Start searching for a course, university or scholarship in the US

You should consider some of the following factors when finding off-campus accommodation:

Budget - What can you afford for rent/utility bills per month?Getting to campus - Are there good public transport links or can you walk/cycle in?Choosing a location - Are you close to shops, friends and things to do?Safety - Do you feel safe in the neighbourhood?

one more oPtion.....A homestay option is also remarkably popular in America amongst international students. This is where you live in a family’s actual home as their guest. You can learn about a whole other side of American family life which you wouldn’t if you lived with other students. Also, you may find that your language skills improve vastly as you’ll be immersed in a real American home.

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suPPortinG YourselF FinanciallY

S t u dy i n g i n t H E u S yo u r E S S E n t i a l g u i d E 16

As mentioned in the previous chapter, you will need to show that you have sufficient funds to pay your course fees and support yourself. This is a

requirement for studying in the US.

Here are a few things which can help you financially before arriving and once you are studying...

beFore arriVinGScholarshipsScholarships are widely available for international students, but you need to search for them online. These can be issued by your government (or the US government), the university themselves or third-parties, and are often awarded to those who show exceptional academic merit. Often financial aid is based on where you come from or the field you are planning to study, as well as a number of other factors.

FamilySpeak to your family about possible financial support they can offer you. You should do this well in advance of when you plan to apply. This way, your family have enough time to calculate what they can provide you and make any necessary lifestyle changes for this.

once You arriVePart-Time WorkAccording to the terms of the F1 student visa, international students can work on-campus for up to 20 hours per week. There are some strict rules on what constitutes “campus work” so check these carefully. There are many work options available on US campuses, including in bars and restaurants, school offices and bookshops. However, there is no minimum wage in the States, so most employees in service industry roles rely on tips from their shift. Tipping culture is taken very seriously by Americans, who will often ask you directly if everything was OK if you don’t leave a tip.

AssistantshipsThere are paid roles available on campus supporting staff and students and are more academic in nature (i.e. especially beneficial for your CV). Research assistantships are normally available to PhD students, to support professors with their own work. Meanwhile, you can help students studying the same field as you with their studies, including preparing for exams (this may depend on your English proficiency though).

Living CostsThere are many ways to save money while living in America and this all depends on lifestyle. Look around and ask others for good deals on everything from phone tariffs to accommodation (it’s also a good conversation topic). Cook meals at home rather than eat out. Be prepared for living costs to be more in larger cities like Chicago and New York, compared to smaller towns.

studYinG abroad in the us can be exPensiVe, esPeciallY iF You can’t relY on Your FamilY to suPPort Your studies. howeVer, don’t let somethinG like moneY dash Your studY abroad dreams! with some careFul PlanninG and research, You can make the riGht Financial decisions to keeP Your studY abroad dreams aliVe....

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Funding Your Studies in the US

The Fulbright Programme

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Start searching for a course, university or scholarship in the US

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liFe in america

S t u dy i n g i n t H E u S yo u r E S S E n t i a l g u i d E 18

the PeoPle and the culture most inte-Most international students get their ideas about America from what they see in Hollywood films and TV shows. While this can be very inspiring, you should understand that there are many facets to American life for you to discover. If you can, try to visit a few different parts of the country to explore these different lifestyles.

There is a horrible stereotype that Americans are ignorant and this just simply isn’t true. You can find many intelligent and informed Americans who can articulate themselves in a thoughtful manner. You’ll find that Americans are generally very open and willing to learn about new things, and there is a (wonderful) variety of attitudes across the country. For instance, Portland, Oregon and Los Angeles, California are two cities which are widely known for being quite progressive in their attitudes; meanwhile Nashville, Tennessee or New Orleans, Louisiana are slightly more traditional or conservative in their ways.

Everything really depends on where you study in America, so don’t be afraid to take time to listen and learn what is widely-accepted. Ask questions without being rude or judgmental; Americans will be more than happy to explain further, especially those you can expect to study alongside and meet on campus.

socialisinGAmerican universities have fraternities (for boys) and sororities (for girls). These are groups or “houses” which students belong to which encourage bonding. There is often the option to live in a fraternity house with your “brothers” or “sisters”. Activities include hosting parties and volunteering

in the local community. This is an excellent way to form close relationships with a group of students and feel like you belong.

The legal drinking age in America is 21 years old. While there are still parties on campus (and students still manage to get their hands on alcohol), there are many ways to socialise with other students which do not involve loud music, promiscuity and drinking alcohol (despite what some Hollywood films might depict).

Sports are also a popular activity in America, both to play and to watch. While baseball is known as the “American Past Time”, football and basketball are also adored and make for useful conversation starters. In fact, college sports are wildly celebrated across the country, not just on campus. The universities themselves have some of the biggest stadiums in the country to host games and the thousands who attend them each week.

trY at least once...FoodWhile you can find healthy food options in America, you should indulge every now and then. Try a Philly Cheesesteak which is shredded beef steak with melted cheese and onions in a bap or roll. These are available across the country, though Philadelphia is famous for them.

DrinkWhile a handful of major American beer brands are world famous and available across the country, smaller microbreweries are popping up on a regional level with their own creations. Often there are long, sprawling tales and

what is it reallY like to liVe in america as a student? no lonGer do You haVe to base Your PercePtions soleY on what You’Ve heard or seen in Films; soon enouGh You’ll Find out For YourselF! PrePare For what the PeoPle and culture are like, as well as a Few thinGs You must trY when You arriVe...

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histories linked to the recipes for these beers and ales, so ask the bartender about these for a story while you enjoy your beverage.

PlaceWhere you are studying in America will impact what you can get to because the country is so large. However, make the most of being in the States and visit New York City if you can. “The city which never sleeps”, NYC is one of the world’s hubs for entertainment, culture, finance and business with so many world famous landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty and Times Square.

actiVitYTake a road trip across America. While you may not get too far on a student budget, gather some friends and your resources and take to the road to explore the American highway. Visit a classic diner on the side of the road for a stack of pancakes, just like in the movies.

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beFore You leaVe

S t u dy i n g i n t H E u S yo u r E S S E n t i a l g u i d E 21

Wait! Before you set off to begin your new future in America, you need to make sure that you have remembered everything you’ll need for

when you arrive. This will mean your first few hours or days in your study abroad destination are as straightforward and hassle-free as possible. So check that you have the following organised before you get on the plane....

Have you opened a bank account? You can open a bank account before or once you arrive. Just make sure that you have access to enough money for your first few days/weeks in the country. Every bank has their own set of incentives but study the fine terms for each carefully.

What to pack? This will depend on where you are studying. If you’re arriving in late August most areas will be getting colder as fall sets in; so pack warm jumpers, jackets and boots. Some regions of America are known for having certain climates; these include clouds and rain in Oregon, humid heat in Louisiana and sunshine in Los Angeles, so pack accordingly.

Have you got all essential documents? We suggest having a (hard copy) “Study Abroad” folder from when you begin applying, to keep all documents you’ve received and will need, and bring this with you. If you rely on electronic copies, you risk your device not working when trying to access them (you can always back these up electronically, as well as keeping copies at home). These documents will include:

• Passport• Student visa documents• Confirmation of enrolment or offer from the university• University (and accommodation) contact information• Notifications of financial awards• Academic and language test transcripts• Flight tickets and itinerary

Who will meet you once you arrive? Let the university know when you intend to arrive so they can prepare for you. Take

down a contact phone number of a relevant staff member (i.e. someone in the International Office) you can reach if you need assistance. Will someone from the university meet you at the airport, or will you have to make your own way to your accommodation/university?

Check before leaving home! You have your passport, flight tickets and device chargers, yes?

You’re almost there! excited? don’t Get too distracted; there’s still a Few thinGs to do beFore You can jumP on Your Plane to a new liFe in the us. Go throuGh our checklist oF thinGs to orGanise beFore You leaVe home. haVe You ForGotten anYthinG? are You sure? haVe one more look....

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International Students Checklist: Before You Leave Home

5 Reasons to Set Up a Bank Account Before You Leave

What to Pack: The US

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what now?

S t u dy i n g i n t H E u S yo u r E S S E n t i a l g u i d E 23

let’s take the next steP toGether...We don’t want to leave you alone to figure out the rest. We have lots more to offer you at Hotcourses Abroad. Visit our site and you can do the following:

Search for and compare courses You can search for and compare courses in the most popular study destinations in the world. You can search quickly according to your preferences including subject, study level, country and study mode; that way you find the course that is perfect for you.

Search for scholarshipsWe offer a scholarship search facility to help you find a scholarship that can help make your study abroad dreams a reality.

Connect with a universityRather than wait for a heavy, print prospectus to arrive in the post, you can download full prospectuses to your device to access wherever you go. You can also ask a university a question, as well as click through to their site directly from their profile if what you read about them interests you.

Read student reviewsFind out what other international students think of a university you’re considering, by reading student reviews on our site. As well as scores for several key categories, you can read their comments and advice.

Read articles and study guidesOur study guides and articles will guide you through each step of the study abroad journey, from research and applying, to student visas and preparing to leave. These are written by and collaborated on with current international students & graduates, professors, university staff and other experts; this way you know you’re getting the correct advice, laid out in an easy-to-understand manner.

Explore Hotcourses Abroad now and become a member!

Good luck,The Hotcourses Abroad Team

Oh, one last thing....Be a wonderful friend and share this eBook with those you know who are also interested in studying abroad.

hoPeFullY now that You’Ve read our ebook, You Feel more conFident about studYinG in the us. what’s brilliant about this ebook is that You can download and saVe it to anY oF Your deVices; so You can reFer to it throuGhout Your studY abroad journeY, whereVer You are.

who are we?Hotcourses Abroad is a part of the Hotcourses network of websites. As well as International Education (which is made up of Hotcourses Abroad and our local language sites), we have sites which cover Higher Education and Adult Learning in our main home of the UK, where we began nearly 20 years ago. Hotcourses is a global brand with offices in Sydney (Australia), Boston (USA) and Chennai (India), populated by a diverse and truly international team.

Hotcourses AbroadBedford House 69-79 Fulham High Street London SW6 3JW