Strategies For International Students To Enter Top Graduate Schools

Getting into a top 20 graduate university as an international student is a challenging feat. The process varies depending on the country and university, but there are some general steps and considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, it's essential to have a strong academic background, including a bachelor's degree or equivalent from a recognised institution. Additionally, you'll need to provide supporting documents such as letters of recommendation, standardised test scores (e.g. GRE/GMAT), and proof of English proficiency if applicable. The application process usually involves deadlines, and you may apply to multiple universities to increase your chances.

When considering top universities, it's worth noting that some institutions have higher acceptance rates for international students. Additionally, certain countries and universities are known for having more international students, such as the US, UK, and Australia. The cost of studying abroad can be a significant factor, with varying tuition fees and living expenses. Some universities offer financial aid or need-blind admissions, while others provide opportunities for internships or part-time work.

To improve your chances, it's beneficial to research the specific requirements and application processes for your desired universities, as well as exploring scholarship and funding opportunities.

Application requirements for international students

International students are required to submit several documents as part of their application to graduate schools in the US. Here are the common requirements for international students applying to graduate programs:

Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent

To be eligible for graduate study in the US, you must have completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognised institution. The specific requirements may vary depending on the country where the degree was earned.

Letters of Recommendation

You will typically need to provide one or more letters of recommendation as part of your application. These letters should speak to your academic performance, research capabilities, and potential for graduate-level studies.

Research Proposal (for PhD and Postdoctoral Applicants)

If you are applying for a PhD or postdoctoral position, you will need to submit a research proposal outlining your planned research project. This proposal should demonstrate your knowledge of the field, research methodology, and the significance of your proposed research.

Graduate Admissions Test Scores (if required)

Some graduate programs may require you to submit test scores from exams such as the GRE or GMAT. These tests assess your verbal, quantitative, and analytical skills, and are used as part of the admissions evaluation process.

Proof of English Proficiency

International students whose native language is not English will need to provide proof of English proficiency. This can be demonstrated through standardised tests such as the TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. Alternatively, completion of specific English language programs may also be accepted as proof.

Statement of Purpose

You will typically need to submit a statement of purpose, which is an essay outlining your academic and career goals, research interests, and reasons for applying to the specific graduate program. This is your opportunity to demonstrate your suitability for the course and highlight your unique strengths and experiences.

Application Fee

US universities often charge an application fee, which typically ranges from $50 to $100, although it can vary depending on the university. Some universities may offer fee waivers or reduced fees for online applications.

Visa and Immigration Documentation

As an international student, you will need to obtain a student visa to study in the US. The most common type is the F-1 non-immigrant visa, which requires proof of sufficient funds and confirmation of your intention to return to your home country after completing your studies. You may also need to submit additional documentation, such as visa forms and financial guarantees, as part of the visa application process.

Official Transcripts and Translations

You will need to submit official transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities. These transcripts should include courses completed, grades earned, and any degrees or certificates awarded. If the transcripts are not in English, you must provide official translations along with the original documents. The translations must be completed by a university or government official, or an official translation service.

Additional Support Materials

Depending on the specific graduate program, you may be required to submit additional support materials such as a statement of purpose, writing samples, portfolios, resumes, or letters of recommendation. These materials provide a more comprehensive view of your qualifications and fit for the program.

Student visa process

To get into a top graduate university as an international student, you will need to obtain a student visa. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do that:

Apply to an SEVP-approved institution:

First, ensure that you choose an institution and program accredited by the US government's Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). Only SEVP-approved institutions can enroll students in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and provide you with the necessary documents for your visa application. Accreditation is important as it ensures your degree is recognized worldwide.

Pay the SEVIS fee:

You must pay the SEVIS fee at least three days before submitting your visa application. The fee is $200 for F/M visa holders and $180 for J student visa holders. You can pay the fee online or by paper form, which can be accessed through the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) SEVP website.

Complete a US student visa application:

Once you've paid the SEVIS fee, you can apply for a US student visa. You will need to complete the online visa application form DS-160 and upload a recent photograph. It is best to apply as early as possible, and you will need to provide personal details such as your name, date of birth, address, phone number, travel plans, previous US travel, and your point of contact in the US.

Pay the visa application fee:

The visa application fee, also known as the Machine Readable Visa Fee or MRV fee, is non-refundable and non-transferable. You can pay it in person at an approved bank, by phone, or online. The methods may vary depending on the embassy or consulate, so be sure to check their website for instructions.

Schedule and attend a US student visa interview:

The final step is to schedule and attend a visa interview at a US embassy or consulate. You will need to bring various documents to the interview, including your passport, SEVIS form, DS-160 application confirmation, MRV fee payment confirmation, and photographs. You may also be asked about your ties to your home country, English language skills, academic background, financial resources, and plans after graduation.

The student visa process can be lengthy, so it is recommended to start planning and applying as early as possible—at least three to five months before your course starts. Additionally, remember that you cannot renew or reissue your student visa within the US; it must be done at a US embassy or consulate abroad.

Tuition fees and financial aid

Tuition fees at US universities are known for being expensive. Private universities tend to charge higher fees and usually have a single rate for both local and international students. Public universities have a lower rate for in-state students and a higher rate for international students and out-of-state residents. Professional degrees such as MBAs, JDs, and LLMs also tend to be more expensive than other postgraduate programs.

All US universities are legally required to include a fees and financial aid calculator on their websites, which can be used to estimate the cost of attendance and what funding you may be eligible for. Many students benefit from financial aid, and often the most competitive institutions offer the most generous support. For example, Harvard, Amherst, Yale, Princeton, and MIT are "need-blind", pledging to offer sufficient financial assistance for all students, regardless of their financial situation.

As US government aid schemes and loans are often not available to international students, your best sources of funding are likely to be those offered by your chosen university and/or other organizations. Scholarships and grants may be awarded based on financial need, academic achievements, and/or other talents, and may also take into account factors relating to your background and field of study.

While the largest funding packages are often found at the top end of the private sector, many public universities offer alternative support. An example is the Curricular Practical Training (CPT) scheme, which allows students with F-1 visas to gain paid, off-campus internships.

The average financial aid package for international students at US schools was nearly $77,000. The average amount given to international students was roughly $26,800 at the 533 undergraduate schools ranked among Best Value Schools. However, the average aid was more than triple that – nearly $77,000 – at the 20 schools that gave the most financial aid to international students.

Among private colleges, Wesleyan University awarded the largest amount of financial aid per international student, about $83,000. Among public schools, the University of Vermont awarded the most aid to international students, about $39,500 on average. Although the average amount of aid was much lower at Arizona State University – about $12,200 per international student – it offered aid to 2,500 international students, the most of any public or private institution that provided data.

Sources of Funding

University Funding

Your chosen university may offer financial incentives for students to attend, although this is more common for graduate studies. Both private and public institutions may waive application fees in some situations.

Scholarships and Grants

Merit-based scholarships are granted based on special skills, talents, or abilities. Need-based scholarships are awarded based on financial need. Academic departments within the university may have funds allocated to assist international students with exceptional need and/or talent.

Private Loans

Although rare, there are international student loans available to individuals who meet certain criteria. Many loans require a cosigner, who is responsible for payment if the loan recipient is unable to pay back the loan.

Personal Resources

According to Open Doors 2023, undergraduate international students must still rely heavily on their own personal and family sources of funding.

Top universities for international students

US universities with the most international students

According to the QS World University Rankings® 2016-2017, these are the top US universities with the highest proportion of international students:

• Illinois Institute of Technology
• Carnegie Mellon University
• Stevens Institute of Technology
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
• The New School
• Northeastern University
• Columbia University
• Rice University
• California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
• Georgia Institute of Technology

US universities with the highest acceptance rates for international students

The following universities have the highest acceptance rates for international students, according to data from fall 2022:

• University of Mississippi: 98%
• University of Kentucky: 97%
• University of Utah: 96%
• Long Island University (NY): 93%
• Arizona State University: 85%
• University of Colorado Boulder: 85%
• University of Massachusetts—Boston: 85%
• University of Texas at Dallas: 84%
• University of Toledo (OH): 82%
• Pace University: 81%
• University of Texas at Arlington: 81%

US universities with the lowest costs for international students

Based on data from the 2024-2025 academic year, these are the universities with the lowest costs for international students:

• Minot State University (ND): $19,788
• Fayetteville State University (NC): $19,857
• Delta State University (MS): $20,336
• La Roche University (PA): $21,818
• Western Carolina University (NC): $22,042
• Dickinson State University (ND): $22,252
• Washburn University (KS): $23,205
• Northern State University (SD): $24,347
• Voorhees University (SC): $24,476
• Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania: $24,634

Top universities for graduate jobs

The Global University Employability Ranking 2025, designed by the HR consultancy Emerging, reveals the universities that recruiters at top companies consider the best at preparing students for the workplace. Here are the top 10:

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology
• California Institute of Technology
• Stanford University
• Harvard University
• University of Cambridge
• Princeton University
• University of Oxford
• The University of Tokyo
• National University of Singapore
• Imperial College London

Universities with the highest percentage of international students worldwide

According to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024, these are the top five universities with the highest percentage of international students:

• Macau University of Science and Technology, Macao
• Near East University, Northern Cyprus
• Constructor University, Germany
• Eastern Mediterranean University, Northern Cyprus
• American University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

Post-graduation work options

As an international student in the US, you may be keen to stay and work after graduating. Fortunately, there are several options for you to do so, although you will need to follow certain regulations and obtain the correct visas. Here are some of the most common ways to stay and work in the US after graduation:

• Optional Practical Training (OPT): OPT allows international students to work in their field of study for up to 12 months after graduation. This can be done either before or after you complete your degree. To be eligible, you must have finished your program and applied for an employment authorization document (EAD) from the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You do not need a job offer to apply for an EAD, and your OPT employment can take place anywhere in the US. However, your employment must be directly related to your major, and you must maintain lawful F-1 status.
• Curricular Practical Training (CPT): CPT is a work authorization program that allows international students to work part-time or full-time in a job related to their field of study. This can be done during the school year or during breaks. To be eligible, you must be enrolled in a US institution for at least one academic year and get approval from the Designated School Official (DSO) who knows your program requirements.
• STEM Optional Practical Training Extension (OPT): If you have graduated with a degree in a STEM field, you can apply for a STEM OPT extension, which allows you to work for an additional 24 months, making a total of 36 months of OPT. To be eligible, you must have a job offer from an employer who is part of the E-Verify program and provide you with a formal training plan.
• H-1B Visa: The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US employers to hire foreign workers in specialized occupations. It is usually valid for three years and can be extended for another three years. To be eligible, you must have a job offer from a US employer who is ready to sponsor you and possess specialized knowledge and skills that are hard to find among US workers. However, there is a limited number of H-1B visas issued each year, making the application process competitive.
• Green Card: Obtaining a green card is a way for international students to gain permanent residency and work anywhere in the US. While it can be challenging and time-consuming to obtain a green card, there are several ways to apply, such as through employer sponsorship, sponsorship from relatives who own a business, participating in military services, or receiving parent or child sponsorship. As an international student, you may have an easier time obtaining a green card, but it is still in high demand and may take several years.

It is important to note that the process of obtaining work authorization and visas can be complex and time-consuming. Therefore, it is advisable to start the job search process early and seek guidance from your university's career center advisors or immigration experts.

Frequently asked questions