Lana Oconnell
The USA has the world's largest international student population, with over 1,000,000 international students enrolled in higher education. However, US colleges and universities face challenges in recruiting international students, especially due to the steep decline in Chinese students coming to the USA for college. This decline can be attributed to various factors, including the after-effects of the Trump administration's antagonistic actions towards China, strict travel restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and strained geopolitical relations between the two countries. To counteract this decline, US institutions are focusing on recruiting students from other countries, such as India, and emphasising direct, in-person international recruitment. Additionally, they are addressing concerns about safety and investing in mental health support and other student services to reassure international students. While the USA remains the top destination for international students, competition from other countries, such as Canada, Australia, and Asian countries, is increasing.
What You'll Learn
International student visa requirements
The United States offers three types of student visas: F, J, and M. These visas are for students who are neither US citizens nor permanent residents.
F-1 Student Visa
The F-1 visa is for international students enrolled in an academic program at an accredited US college, university, school, or English language institute. To be eligible, you must:
- Be enrolled as a full-time student.
- Be proficient in English or be enrolled in courses leading to English proficiency.
- Have sufficient funds to support yourself during your studies.
- Maintain a residence abroad with no intention of giving it up.
F-1 students may accept on-campus employment during their first academic year, subject to certain conditions and restrictions. After the first year, they may engage in three types of off-campus employment: Curricular Practical Training (CPT), Optional Practical Training (OPT), and STEM OPT.
J-1 Exchange Visa
The J-1 visa is for participants in an exchange program, including high school and university study. To be eligible, you must be enrolled in an exchange program designated by the Department of State Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.
M-1 Student Visa
The M-1 visa is for international students enrolled in non-academic or vocational study or training in the US. To be eligible, you must be enrolled in a vocational or non-academic program and meet the same criteria as for the F-1 visa. M-1 students may engage in practical training only after they have completed their studies.
Application Process
To apply for a US student visa, you must first be accepted by an SEVP-certified US institution of higher education. Once accepted, you will receive a Form I-20 or DS-2019 from the institution, which you will present when applying for your visa.
The visa application process is handled by the US Department of State, which issues the visa. Once you arrive in the US, the Department of Homeland Security takes over as the responsible agency for entry into the country and enforcing immigration regulations.
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The application process for international students
Research Your Options:
First, you should research different US universities and decide which ones you want to apply to. Consider factors such as the programs offered, location, cost, and the popularity of the university among international students. You can use online resources, such as the EducationUSA Network, to find information about different universities and compare your options.
Finance Your Studies:
Studying in the US can be expensive, so it's important to plan your finances in advance. Research the tuition fees and living costs for each university you're applying to, and explore options for financial aid, scholarships, and student loans. International students may be eligible for various scholarships or financial aid packages, so be sure to look into these opportunities.
Complete Your Application:
The application process for US colleges typically involves several steps, including standardized tests (such as the SATs or TOEFL), essay writing, credential evaluation, and more. Each university may have slightly different requirements, so be sure to carefully review the application guidelines for each school. Start preparing your application materials well in advance, as the process can be time-consuming and competitive.
Apply for Your Student Visa:
As an international student, you will need to obtain a student visa to study in the US. The type of visa you need may depend on your specific situation, but the F-1 student visa is the most common for international students. Be sure to carefully review the visa requirements and application process, as it can be complex and time-consuming. You may also need to purchase international student insurance and ensure you have the necessary travel essentials and funds for your stay in the US.
Prepare for Your Departure:
Once you have received an offer of admission and secured your student visa, start preparing for your departure. This includes making travel arrangements, finding accommodation, and packing the essential items you will need for your stay. You should also familiarize yourself with the cultural, social, and economic aspects of living, studying, and working in the United States, as it may be quite different from your home country.
Remember, the application process for international students can be competitive and time-consuming, so it's important to start early and stay organized. Each university may have slightly different requirements, so be sure to carefully review and follow their guidelines. Good luck with your applications!
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The appeal of studying in the USA
The USA has the world's largest international student population, with more than 1,000,000 students choosing to broaden their education and life experience at a United States college or university. There are many reasons why students opt to study in the USA at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
High-ranking universities
The US is home to many of the world's top universities, making it an attractive option to study abroad. Along with the world-renowned Ivy League schools, many of America's universities rank highly on global lists, meaning that you are likely to receive a high-quality education wherever you study.
Cultural diversity
America is a cultural melting pot, and much of the diversity permeates through cities via architecture, food, and language. Many major cities and college towns will have distinct cultural hotspots where you can learn about and appreciate many unique cultures. Likewise, many international students come to the US to study, so you are likely to meet a variety of people both from the US and abroad.
Career prospects
Studying abroad is looked upon favourably by many recruiters, and studying in the US might give you an extra edge. Having an education in business or engineering from a US university, for example, is highly sought after both in North America and abroad. By studying in a US university, you gain a unique perspective on US industry and business, which can be utilised by companies globally.
Welcoming international students
US universities anticipate and welcome international students to their campuses. University students in America place a big emphasis on clubs and societies, for everything from sports to nationality-based student associations, so you will easily find a group of like-minded people you can socialise with.
Proving your English ability
By completing a degree in the US, you can show that your reading, writing, and speaking skills are highly proficient. Aside from improving your English on an academic level, being surrounded by native English speakers while living in the US will help you quickly enhance your English ability. Having confidence and fluency in speaking is also looked upon favourably by companies, both within America and worldwide.
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The costs of studying in the USA
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees in the USA vary depending on the type of university and the degree program chosen. On average, undergraduate bachelor's degree programs can cost between $20,000 to $40,000 per year, with some programs such as law, medicine, and engineering being more expensive. Public universities, which are typically run as state university systems, have lower tuition fees than private institutions. According to College Board, the published tuition fees for 2018/19 at state colleges were an average of $10,230 for state residents and $26,290 for everyone else, while private non-profit colleges charged an average of $35,830. The cheapest options are public two-year colleges, also known as community colleges, with average fees of $3,660.
Living Expenses
The cost of living in the USA will depend on factors such as the area you choose to live in, the type of accommodation, transportation costs, and dining options. On-campus residence is a more affordable option for international students, but it needs to be applied for separately and well in advance. Off-campus options include sharing apartments with other students or living in a homestay with a local family. The average cost of living in the USA ranges from INR 8,50,000 to INR 16,62,000 per year. This includes expenses such as rent, transportation, groceries, internet, and food.
Other Essential Costs
There are several other essential costs that international students need to consider when studying in the USA. These include:
- SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee: This is a database that stores information related to international students. The SEVIS fee is INR 30,000 and must be paid before filing the visa application form.
- Visa Application Fees: International students are typically required to apply for an F1 visa, which has a visa application fee of INR 13,300.
- Health Insurance: It is mandatory for students travelling to the US to have medical insurance before commencing their program. The average cost of health insurance ranges between $700 and $1,000 per year.
- Application Fees: Most universities charge a non-refundable application fee, which can range from INR 5,400 to INR 7,066.
- Entrance Exams: Depending on the course chosen, students may need to take entrance exams such as the MCAT or NEET, which can cost around INR 20,000 to INR 21,000.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
It is important to note that the costs of studying in the USA can be mitigated by applying for scholarships and financial aid. The USA provides a range of scholarship opportunities for international students, and many universities offer financial aid packages to both domestic and international students. According to data from US News, universities like Harvard and Columbia awarded average grants of over $60,000 to international undergraduates in 2017/18. Additionally, students can work part-time during their studies to earn money and gain work experience.
While studying in the USA as an international student can be expensive, proper financial planning and exploring scholarship opportunities can make it more affordable. It is essential to research the costs associated with your specific university and degree program to create an accurate budget.
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The benefits of recruiting international students
International students bring a wide range of benefits to US universities. Firstly, they boost campus diversity, creating an environment where students can learn from each other and promoting cultural diversity. This is especially important as university is the first opportunity for many students to interact with people from different cultures. A diverse campus also encourages students to challenge their preconceptions and broadens their worldview, which is a vital skill in today's globalized world.
In addition to creating a more culturally aware environment, international students bring different perspectives to the classroom. Seminars and tutorials often involve lively discussions and debates, and having students from various backgrounds and with varying viewpoints will positively impact learning. A diverse classroom allows students to learn how their subject is approached in different countries, encouraging them to think critically and form more informed opinions.
From a financial perspective, international students can also be a real boost for universities. They usually pay higher tuition fees, often around 50% more than domestic students, which can help keep classes full and institutions thriving. International students also positively impact the wider local and national economy through their living expenses, such as rent and socializing, and the spending of visiting friends and family. For example, international students starting their studies in the UK in 2018/19 contributed £25.9 billion to the economy.
Finally, recruiting international students can help create powerful ambassadors for the university. When international students return home, they can spread the word about their positive experiences and encourage others to apply. They can also strengthen links between countries and become powerful advocates for cultural awareness and exchange.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, USA universities do recruit international undergraduate students. In fact, the USA has the world's largest international student population, with more than 1,000,000 international students enrolled across various colleges and universities. Nearly 5% of all students enrolled in higher-level education in the USA are international students, and this number is growing.
USA universities face several challenges in recruiting international undergraduate students. Firstly, there is increasing competition from other countries like Canada, Australia, and Asian countries, which offer more flexible visa processes and attractive post-graduation employment options. Secondly, the application process for international students in the USA is complex and confusing, involving multiple steps such as standardized tests, essay writing, and credential evaluations. Additionally, the cost of studying in the USA is relatively high compared to other countries, including tuition fees, insurance, housing, and living expenses.
To improve the recruitment of international undergraduate students, USA universities can implement the following strategies:
- Utilize data analytics to make informed decisions and craft meaningful international strategic recruitment plans.
- Create international strategic plans that involve the entire family, not just the applicants, as parents often play a significant role in deciding where their children will enrol.
- Focus on employability by providing information on the employment outcomes of graduates and placements in graduate or professional schools.
- Collaborate with national and international colleges and universities to offer flexible enrolment programs, such as two-plus-two-degree completion schemes and combined undergraduate and graduate degrees.
- Offer a variety of recruitment resources, such as international student mobility data, insights on leveraging scholarships, and facilitating conversations with consortia and other government agencies.
