International Student Support: American Colleges' Office Availability

The United States is the top destination for students who study overseas, with many international students choosing to pursue their degrees at American universities. Applying to colleges in the U.S. as an international student can be an exciting yet challenging experience, as students must consider various factors such as language proficiency, transcript evaluations, legal documents, campus culture, and financial aid. To support international students, many U.S. colleges and universities have dedicated offices, such as the International Student & Scholar Services office at American University, that provide guidance and resources to help them adapt to their new environment. These offices offer a range of services, including academic advising, specialized immigration support, and career preparation programs, to ensure a smooth transition for international students.

Application process

Applying to American colleges as an international student can be an exciting but daunting experience. The application process can be lengthy, so it is important to start preparing early. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the application process:

Step 1: Research and Choose Your Preferred Colleges

The first step is to research and select the colleges that align with your academic and social preferences. Consider factors such as academic programs, geographic location, campus life, community, resources for international students, and financial considerations. Each institution may have specific requirements for international students, so be sure to review their websites or contact their admissions offices for detailed information.

Step 2: Prepare Your Application Materials

International students may be required to submit additional documents beyond the standard application materials. These may include:

• Academic Records and Transcripts: You may need to provide an evaluation of your academic records, including official transcripts. This evaluation ensures that your previous education is recognised by American universities. You can use third-party agencies, such as World Education Services or Educational Credential Evaluators, for this purpose.
• Standardised Test Scores: Most American colleges require international students to take standardised admissions tests. This includes the SAT or ACT, as well as English language proficiency tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or the Duolingo English Test.
• Letters of Recommendation: Start contacting teachers, mentors, or coaches who can speak to your skills and academic performance. Request letters of recommendation early to give them sufficient time to write strong letters.
• Application Essays: Many college applications include an essay section. Start brainstorming and outlining your responses to the prompts.
• Financial Documentation: International education can be costly. Research scholarship opportunities, and prepare to apply for them if needed. Some schools may require additional financial forms, such as the International Student Financial Aid Application (ISFAA) or a CSS Profile.

Step 3: Submit Your Applications

Once you have prepared your application materials, it is time to submit them. Most colleges will have an online application process, either through their website or a standardised application platform like the Common App. Be mindful of application deadlines, as they can be up to ten months before the start of the school term.

Step 4: Navigate the Visa Process

After gaining admission to an American college, you will need to enrol in the Students and Exchange Visitor Information System and apply for a student visa. There are two types of student visas: an F-1 visa for academic institutions and an M-1 visa for vocational or non-academic institutions. Follow the instructions carefully and reach out to the admissions office if you have any questions.

Applying to American colleges as an international student involves a comprehensive process. Starting early, staying organised, and seeking guidance when needed will help ensure a smooth application journey.

Financial aid

International students aren't eligible for federal or state aid in the US, but there are still other financial aid options available. These include scholarships, student loans, and grants.

Scholarships

Some US colleges offer scholarships for international students, such as the University of the Pacific, which offers merit scholarships for international first-year students. The AU Emerging Global Leaders Scholarship is another example, awarded to an international student who has demonstrated academic excellence, leadership, and global engagement. Vassar College in New York awarded the largest average amount of financial aid per international student, with $86,258 given to 52 international students during the 2023-2024 academic year.

Student Loans

International student loans are another option to help finance your studies in the US.

Grants

Grants are a form of financial aid that doesn't need to be repaid. The US Department of Education offers grants for international students, such as the Pell Grant.

Work-Study Opportunities

Some colleges offer work-study opportunities for international students, allowing them to work on campus while studying.

Waivers

Although not a direct form of financial aid, many colleges in the US waive application fees for international students, reducing the overall cost of applying to US colleges.

It is worth noting that financial aid packages for international students can be substantial. The average financial aid package for international students at US colleges was nearly $82,000, with an average amount given of roughly $23,800 for the 2023-2024 academic year at 868 undergraduate schools.

Student life

The International Student & Scholar Services office at American University in Washington, for example, offers a career preparation program to help graduating international students navigate the US job market or re-enter their home countries. Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh also has an Office of International Education that keeps international students informed about events and activities on campus.

Many colleges also offer academic coaching and support services through writing centres and English language institutes. For instance, Rutgers University provides academic coaching to improve test-taking skills, study techniques, and time management. Additionally, Pennsylvania's Swarthmore College has an i20 Club, a student group that welcomes international students during orientation and hosts monthly events to celebrate diverse cultures.

The social aspect of student life is also important, and American colleges offer numerous opportunities for extracurricular engagement. Most campuses have a vast array of student organizations, clubs, and activities catering to various interests and disciplines. International students can take advantage of these opportunities to make friends, build community, and integrate into the broader student population.

To support their academic journey, international students may need to consider factors such as language proficiency, transcript evaluations, legal documents, and financial aid. While international students are not eligible for federal or state aid, they can explore other options like scholarships, international student loans, and financial aid applications specifically for international students (ISFAA).

Academic support

Many colleges and universities in the United States have dedicated offices to support international students in adapting to their new environment. For example, American University in Washington has the International Student & Scholar Services office, which provides students with academic advisers, a student health centre, and specialised immigration services.

International students may also benefit from writing programs and writing centres, such as those offered by Rutgers' International Academic Success office. These services can provide guidance on academic writing, improving essays and assignments, and navigating the different academic expectations in the US education system.

Additionally, some colleges and universities offer specialised academic programs for international students. For example, American University has the School of International Service, which offers courses in international trade theory, digital trade, and trade theory. The University of the Pacific also offers a unique transfer program called American Collegiate, designed specifically for international students.

Furthermore, international students can seek support from their peers through student clubs and organisations. For instance, Swarthmore College's i20 Club welcomes international students during orientation and hosts monthly events to celebrate diverse cultures. These clubs provide a platform for international students to connect with each other and integrate into the broader student population.

Overall, American colleges and universities offer a range of academic support services, programs, and resources to help international students succeed in their academic pursuits and adapt to the US educational context.

Career support

Many US colleges and universities have dedicated offices to support international students in adapting to their new surroundings. These offices provide a range of services to help international students navigate their academic and cultural transition to life in the United States.

International student offices at American colleges often offer career preparation programs to help graduating international students navigate the US job market. These programs may include guidance on job search strategies, resume and cover letter writing, networking, and interview preparation. They may also provide information on work visa options and requirements for international students seeking employment in the US.

Additionally, international student offices can connect students with alumni networks and industry professionals, offering mentorship and internship opportunities. They may also host career fairs and recruitment events specifically for international students, providing a platform to interact with employers seeking diverse talent.

Some colleges offer practical training and workshops to enhance students' employability skills, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. They may also provide resources for entrepreneurship and guidance on starting a business in the US as an international graduate.

International students can benefit from cultural sensitivity training, which equips them with the cultural awareness and communication skills needed to succeed in the US workplace. These programs help students understand American business culture and etiquette, enabling them to interact effectively with colleagues, clients, and customers.

Furthermore, international student offices may offer re-entry workshops for students returning to their home countries after graduation. These workshops help students reflect on their international experience and develop strategies to re-establish themselves professionally in their home countries.

Frequently asked questions