Graduate Studies: International Students In New York

New York is a popular destination for international students due to its rich culture, community, history, and nightlife. The state is home to several prestigious colleges and universities, including the City University of New York (CUNY), New York University (NYU), and Ivy League schools such as Cornell University and Columbia University. International students applying to graduate programs in New York may need to submit various documents, such as transcripts, English proficiency exam scores, and financial certificates. Additionally, they may be required to obtain a student visa and maintain their immigration status while studying in the United States. Overall, New York offers a diverse range of educational and cultural experiences for international graduate students.

Application process and requirements

The application process and requirements for international graduate students in New York vary depending on the university. Here is a general overview of the process and requirements for some of the universities in New York:

New York University (NYU)

NYU uses the Common Application for all students applying for undergraduate admission. First-year applicants from countries with an academic calendar that extends from February/March to November/December can begin the application process in August before their high school graduation. NYU has different deadlines for Early Decision I (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), and Regular Decision (January 5). Along with the application, students must submit academic records, standardised testing results, recommendations, and any supplemental materials by the specified deadlines. NYU offers scholarships for non-US citizens or permanent residents applying as first-year students.

For graduate admissions, NYU Steinhardt requires applicants who completed their undergraduate or graduate degrees outside the US or Canada to provide translations and a course-by-course evaluation of their transcripts. The university accepts evaluations from World Education Services (WES) and prefers the WES Course-by-Course Credential Evaluation. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency by submitting results from English proficiency exams such as TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test. Applicants with degrees from institutions where the official language of instruction was English may be exempt from this requirement.

New York Institute of Technology (New York Tech)

New York Tech requires international applicants to demonstrate English proficiency by submitting exam results such as IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo English Test, or an equivalent examination. Applicants currently studying at another US institution must submit copies of their I-20 forms and a SEVIS I-20 Transfer Form. Additionally, if an applicant is in the US on a non-student visa, they must submit proof of that visa. To demonstrate financial support, applicants must submit a bank statement showing funds based on their academic status: $58,590 for 18 graduate credits, $68,670 for 24 credits, or $78,750 for 30 credits.

The City University of New York (CUNY)

CUNY offers resources and support for international students through its Offices of International Students and Scholars at each campus. International students can seek advice on college orientation, course registration, employment options, and maintaining their visa and immigration status. Before attending CUNY, international students must complete Form I-20 or DS-2019, which are integral to maintaining immigration status within the US. Additionally, CUNY provides funding opportunities for international students through the International Student & Scholar Services Office.

Scholarships and funding opportunities

There are several scholarships and funding opportunities available for international graduate students in New York. Here are some options to consider:

The City University of New York (CUNY)

CUNY offers various resources and support for international students transitioning to the US. The International Student & Scholar Services Office provides recommendations and assistance in financing a graduate international education. CUNY also offers student housing and residence life opportunities, which can provide a supportive community and increased chances for peer engagement and involvement.

Pace University New York

Pace University offers merit scholarships for international graduate students demonstrating exceptional academic abilities. The university considers academic merit scholarships during the admission process, and applicants are notified of any awards in their acceptance packet. International graduate students with strong academic backgrounds and related experience may also be qualified for graduate assistantships.

New York University (NYU)

NYU offers scholarships for non-US citizens or permanent residents applying as first-year students. However, students applying for transfer admission or their second bachelor's degree are not eligible for NYU institutional financial aid. International students at NYU Steinhardt may be eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which provides temporary employment directly related to their major field of study, allowing them to gain practical experience and advance their careers.

External Scholarships

There are also external scholarships offered by organizations and institutions in New York. Here are some examples:

• Cornell University of New York offers partial funding scholarships for international students.
• The State University of New York provides partial funding through the SUNY Plattsburgh International Student Scholarship.
• Columbia University of New York offers GSAPP Admission International Awards.
• The Institute of Cancer Research of New York offers the Cancer Research Institute Postdoctoral USA Fellowships for international students.
• The Food Dreams Scholarship is available for both domestic and international students.

Student visa and immigration status

International students who wish to study in New York will need to apply for a student visa. The process for obtaining a visa can be started once the student has been accepted to a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-approved school. The student will need to pay their enrolment deposit and submit the required supporting documents, including proof of funds to cover their education and living expenses.

There are two types of student visas: the F-1 visa and the J-1 visa. The F-1 visa is for full-time students enrolled in an academic or language program, while the J-1 visa is for exchange visitors participating in programs that promote cultural exchange, such as au pair and summer work travel programs. To maintain their visa status, students must be enrolled in a full course of study, make academic progress, and, if employed, work only under certain conditions.

Students can apply for their visa up to 120 days before the start date of their program. They will need to complete an online visa application, pay the application fee, and schedule an interview at their local embassy or consulate. During the interview, students will need to provide their passport, photos, certificate of eligibility (Form I-20 or DS-2019), and evidence of financial support. Students should also be prepared to demonstrate their knowledge of their chosen field of study and their reasons for studying in the US.

In addition to obtaining a student visa, international students may also need to take an English language proficiency test, such as the TOEFL or IELTS, and provide translations and evaluations of their academic transcripts. It is important for students to carefully review the visa requirements and application process for the specific country and type of visa they are applying for, as the process can be complex and time-consuming.

English language proficiency exams

International students applying to graduate programs in New York will need to meet specific requirements, including demonstrating English language proficiency. While the specific exams accepted may vary by institution, here is an overview of the commonly accepted English language proficiency exams for international graduate students in New York:

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

The TOEFL exam is a widely accepted English language proficiency test. It assesses your reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills in English. NYU Steinhardt accepts the TOEFL iBT and TOEFL MyBest scores. However, they do not accept TOEFL Essentials. Similarly, New York Tech requires TOEFL scores for international students, and The City University of New York (CUNY) also accepts TOEFL scores, exempting students who completed a bachelor's degree in an English-speaking country.

IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

IELTS is another commonly accepted English language proficiency exam. It evaluates your English language skills in listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Both NYU Steinhardt and New York Tech accept IELTS scores for their graduate programs.

Duolingo English Test

The Duolingo English Test assesses your English proficiency and is accepted by both NYU Steinhardt and New York Tech. CUNY also accepts this exam, and you can find instructions on submitting your Duolingo scores on the Duolingo website.

PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)

The PTE Academic exam is a computer-based English language test that evaluates your reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills. New York Tech includes this exam in their list of accepted English proficiency tests, and CUNY also accepts PTE Academic scores.

ITEP (International Test of English Proficiency)

NYU accepts the results of the iTEP Academic-Plus exam, both in-person and online versions.

Other Exams

In addition to the exams above, some institutions may accept other tests or have specific requirements. For example, New York Tech accepts the IB English exam and any examination deemed equivalent by their Office of Admissions. Furthermore, NYU Steinhardt requires applicants to their OT department to submit TOEFL scores specifically.

It is important to note that each university and program may have unique requirements for international students, so be sure to check the specific guidelines for your intended institution and degree program. Additionally, you will need to consider other aspects of the application process, such as visas, financial documentation, and transcript evaluations, as outlined by the institutions you are applying to.

Work opportunities after graduation

As an international graduate student in New York, you may be eligible to work in the United States after graduation through various visa programs and work opportunities. Here are some options to consider:

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

The F-1 visa program offers undergraduate and graduate students Optional Practical Training (OPT) opportunities. OPT allows international students to stay and work in the US for up to a year in a role directly related to their major field of study. This training helps students develop and apply the practical and research skills they acquired during their degree. To be eligible, you must have completed a full academic year in the US or obtained your degree from an American university.

STEM OPT Extension

If you have graduated with a degree in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM), you may be eligible for a 24-month extension on your OPT, allowing you to work in the US for up to three years. This extension is available for a limited number of students and requires you to submit work authorization paperwork to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

H-1B Visa

International students can also convert their F-1 visa status to an H-1B visa with the support of a sponsoring US company. The H-1B visa allows graduate students to stay and work in the US for up to six years. To obtain this visa, you must demonstrate to USCIS that your field of study makes you uniquely qualified for the job at the hiring company. If you change jobs during these six years, you will need to apply for a new H-1B visa.

University Resources

Universities in New York, such as New York University (NYU) and The City University of New York (CUNY), offer resources to help international students find work opportunities. NYU, for example, provides career development services and job postings for international students. CUNY has Offices of International Students and Scholars on each campus to advise students on employment options and maintaining their visa and immigration status.

Networking and Job Search Sites

Building a network with peers, professors, and graduating seniors can be advantageous in finding job opportunities. Staying connected with your university's community and alumni network can provide insights into job openings. Additionally, online job search sites like U.S. News, Indeed, and Facebook online communities are valuable resources for finding employment.

Frequently asked questions