International Students In Us Universities: Accepted Or Alienated?

International students are an integral part of the student community in the United States, with more than a million choosing American universities for higher education. The US boasts some of the highest-ranked universities in the world, attracting students from across the globe. The country's top institutions, vibrant campus life, and diverse culture are some of the reasons why international students are drawn to the US. However, it's important to weigh the pros and cons, including the challenges of adjusting to a new culture, rigorous academic programs, and financial obligations.

The application process for international students

Build your college list:

The first step is to decide on a list of colleges you want to apply to. Consider your GPA and SAT/ACT scores, the acceptance rate, grade and standardized test scores requirements, and tuition fees. Your list should include a mix of reach, target, and safety schools, with a total of 8 to 10 colleges, or 12 if you are applying to highly competitive colleges.

Get your transcript evaluated:

This step depends on where you are applying from. Usually, international students are required to get their transcripts evaluated by the admissions office to determine if their credentials meet the enrollment standards.

Prepare recommendation letters:

Letters of recommendation provide additional insights for admission counselors. These are typically written by teachers, principals, or counselors who have worked closely with you and can attest to your academic performance and character.

Be aware of language requirements:

If English is not your first language, you will likely need to take a standardized test like IELTS or TOEFL to prove your English language proficiency.

Get informed about standardized tests:

In addition to language tests, students may be required to take other standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT for undergraduate admissions, and GRE or GMAT for graduate programs.

Send application forms:

You can find application forms on the admissions office website or receive them directly from the office. The forms typically require personal information, test scores, a copy of your valid passport, and information on extracurricular activities. The application fee ranges from $35 to $100 and is non-refundable.

Take the entrance exam:

All prospective students are required to take an entrance exam. Research which exams are required by your chosen universities and register for them.

Wait for the acceptance letter:

After submitting your application and supporting documents, wait for the universities to send their responses. Some universities may inform candidates earlier, while others may wait and inform all candidates simultaneously.

Apply for financial aid:

If you require financial assistance, research the types of financial aid available, such as grants, scholarships, and student loans. Many U.S. universities offer financial aid and scholarships specifically for international students.

Apply for a student visa:

There are three main types of student visas: F-1, J-1, and M-1. The type of visa you need depends on the nature of your program and funding sources. To apply for a visa, you will need to pay a SEVIS fee, apply for a non-immigrant visa, schedule and complete a visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate.

Prepare for departure:

Book your travel and ensure you have all the required documents, including your visa, I-20 or DS-2019 form, passport, transcripts, immunization records, and medications. Set up necessities like a U.S. phone plan and bank account, and consider bringing adapters for your electronics.

Arrive on campus:

Your university will inform you of the dates for the beginning of the academic term and any optional orientation programs. It is recommended to arrive early to give yourself time to prepare and settle in before classes start.

On-campus housing:

Research your options for on-campus or off-campus housing and choose the best option for your needs. Many universities offer dormitories, apartments, or shared houses.

Orientation and advising:

Many universities offer orientation programs and ongoing advising sessions to help international students transition to campus life. These sessions cover topics such as housing, health insurance, on-campus work, student activities, and international student services.

The cost of studying in the US

Tuition Fees:

The cost of tuition is typically the most significant expense for international students. In the US, public universities offer lower tuition rates than private universities. Here is a range of costs for different types of institutions:

• Community College: Between $6,000 and $20,000 per year.
• Bachelor's Degree: Between $20,000 and $40,000 per year.
• Master's Degree: Between $20,000 and $45,000 per year.
• Doctoral Degree: Between $28,000 and $55,000 per year.

Living Expenses:

In addition to tuition fees, there are other living expenses to consider, such as accommodation, food, transportation, and utilities. These costs can vary depending on the location and your lifestyle choices:

• Accommodation: On-campus housing can range from $800 to $900 per month. Off-campus options like homestays or rentals can vary from $300 to $3,000+ per month.
• Food: The average cost of food for an international student is about $250 to $500 per month.
• Transportation: Depending on your location and travel needs, transportation costs can range from $20 to $100 or more per month.
• Utilities: Expect to pay around $50 to $100 per month for electricity and heat, $45 to $50 for internet, and $50 to $75 for water, trash, and sewer services.

Visa and Application Costs:

As an international student, you will need to obtain a student visa, which comes with its own set of costs. The application fee for a student visa is $160, and the visa itself can range from $160 to $510, depending on the type of visa required. There may also be additional costs for interviews and other application documents.

Textbooks and Miscellaneous Fees:

Textbooks and other study materials can add up quickly. Plan to spend between $500 and $1,000 per year on these expenses. There may also be other miscellaneous fees charged by your university, so be sure to inquire about these costs.

Health Insurance:

Health insurance is essential, as medical care in the US can be very expensive. The cost of health insurance for international students can range from $700 to $1,000 per year through your university or an average of $30 to $140 per month with a private insurer.

Additional Costs:

There will likely be other expenses that arise throughout your time studying in the US, such as social activities, sightseeing, clothing, and gifts. It is wise to budget for these miscellaneous expenses, with a recommendation of setting aside at least $2,000 for these extra costs.

Funding Options:

The good news is that there are several options available to help fund your studies in the US. These include personal savings, family support, scholarships, international student loans, and part-time work (depending on your visa status). Many universities offer financial aid and scholarships specifically for international students, so be sure to explore these opportunities.

In summary, studying in the US as an international student comes with significant costs, but with proper planning and budgeting, it is possible to manage these expenses. Remember to research the specific costs associated with your chosen university and location, and don't hesitate to reach out to the university's international student office for guidance and support.

The benefits of studying in the US

The United States is one of the world's most popular destinations for international students, with over 1.1 million international students moving to the US to study between 2019 and 2020. The US offers a wide range of benefits for international students, including:

Vibrant Student Lifestyle

US universities are known for their exciting student lifestyle, with sports teams, clubs, fraternities and sororities, and campus life. Embracing campus life is a great way to meet new people and try new things.

Academic Opportunities

The US offers a wide variety of degrees and study options, with many prestigious universities and colleges to choose from. This increases the chances of international students getting a quality education in their desired field of study.

Career Opportunities

Earning a degree at a US university can expand future career opportunities, whether you want to immigrate to the US or return to your home country. The experience of studying and working in the US can make you a more desirable job candidate, especially with international companies.

English Language Skills

For international students learning English, studying in the US is a great way to improve language skills. Being immersed in a culture where English is the primary language will help you gain fluency and a better understanding of the language.

Global Perspective

Studying in the US allows students to expand their global network, gain new cultural experiences, and enhance their global perspective. Interacting with individuals from different backgrounds and international communities gives students the chance to consider a wide range of perspectives.

Student Support

US universities offer outstanding student support for international students, including help with the complicated immigration process, visa applications, and pre-arrival information. Many universities also provide academic, career, and personal development support to ensure students' success.

International Experience

The US is a great place to explore, with exciting cities in each state. The diversity of US universities also provides excellent preparation for working in an international workplace, as you will deal with clients and colleagues from many different backgrounds and cultures.

World-Class Institutions

The US is home to some of the world's best universities, with 352 schools featured in the QS World University Rankings: USA 2021. US universities make up half of the top 10 in the QS World University Rankings 2021, including Harvard University, Stanford University, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Friends from Around the World

As the top choice for international students, the US offers the opportunity to meet people from many different countries and cultures. Studying in the US allows students to make new connections and lifelong friendships with individuals from all over the world.

The challenges of studying in the US

Studying in the US can be a life-changing experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. Here are some of the common difficulties international students face when studying in the US:

Language barriers

English is the primary language of instruction in the US, and students who are not proficient in English may find it challenging to keep up with lectures, discussions, and coursework. Language barriers can also lead to social isolation, as students may struggle to make friends or participate in extracurricular activities. To overcome this challenge, students can consider taking language classes, attending language exchange programs, and practicing with native English speakers.

Culture shock

International students may experience culture shock when encountering the different cultural norms, values, and behaviors in the US. Food, clothing, and social customs may be vastly different from what students are used to in their home countries. Navigating the complex social dynamics, such as dating, friendships, and social hierarchies, can also be challenging. To overcome culture shock, students should immerse themselves in American culture by attending cultural events, joining student organizations, and engaging with American students and faculty members.

Financial constraints

Studying in the US can be expensive, and international students may struggle to afford tuition, fees, books, and living expenses. They may also not be eligible for financial aid or scholarships available to American students. To overcome financial constraints, students can consider working part-time jobs on campus, applying for scholarships specifically designed for international students, and seeking financial advice from their university's financial aid office.

Academic pressure

The American education system is highly competitive and demanding, and international students may feel overwhelmed and constantly behind. They may also be unfamiliar with academic expectations, such as plagiarism policies and citation formats, leading to stress and anxiety. To overcome academic pressure, students can seek academic support from tutoring centers, attend workshops on academic writing and citation formats, and develop good study habits such as time management and note-taking skills.

Immigration policies

Immigration policies in the US can be confusing and time-consuming, and visa application processes can be challenging to navigate. These policies can change quickly, and students may find themselves in a difficult position if their visa status changes. To overcome immigration challenges, students should seek guidance from their university's international student office, stay informed about policy changes, and maintain accurate and up-to-date immigration records.

Health issues

International students may encounter physical and mental health issues due to adjusting to a new climate, food, and lifestyle in the US. Stress and anxiety caused by academic pressure, culture shock, and financial constraints can also impact their well-being. To address health issues, students should seek medical assistance from their university's health center, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and take advantage of mental health support services such as counseling or therapy.

Student visas

To study in the US as an international student, you will need to obtain a student visa. There are three primary types of student visas: F, J, and M. Each of these visa types has specific requirements and restrictions that you should be aware of when planning your studies in the US.

F-1 Student Visa

The F-1 visa is the most common type of student visa and is for full-time international students pursuing academic studies at an accredited US college or university. To be eligible for an F-1 visa, you must be enrolled in an "academic" educational program, a language-training program, or a vocational program. Your school must be approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), and you must be enrolled as a full-time student. Additionally, you must demonstrate English proficiency and have sufficient funds to support yourself during your studies. F-1 visa holders may work part-time on campus (up to 20 hours per week) during their academic term and may be eligible for off-campus work after their first year under certain circumstances.

J-1 Exchange Visa

The J-1 visa is for individuals participating in exchange programs, including high school and university studies. This includes foreign nationals who have been approved to take part in work-and-study-based exchange programs, such as visiting scholars, camp counselors, au pairs, and research assistants. J-1 visa holders may work part-time on campus according to the terms of their visa or off-campus with permission from the responsible officer mentioned on their DS-2019 form. The duration of off-campus work is limited to a maximum of 18 months, or 36 months for PhD students.

M-1 Student Visa

The M-1 visa is for full-time international students pursuing vocational or non-academic studies in the US. Similar to the F-1 visa, M-1 visa holders must be enrolled in a program at a school approved by the SEVP and must be enrolled as full-time students. M-1 visa holders can engage in practical training related to their studies only after completing their academic program and with approval from their Designated School Official. Off-campus work is limited to a maximum of six months, and an Employment Authorized Document (EAD) is required before starting work.

Application Process

To apply for an F-1 or M-1 visa, you will need to submit an I-20 form, while a DS-2019 form is required for a J-1 visa. These forms cover personal information, academic program details, English proficiency, and funding sources. Once you have received the necessary form from your chosen college or university, you will need to pay a SEVIS fee, apply for your non-immigrant visa (DS-160 form), schedule your visa interview at the US embassy or consulate, and complete the interview.

Frequently asked questions