Savanna Hoffman
Applying to universities as a foreign student can be a daunting task, but with the right resources, it becomes a lot easier. The first step is to start researching US universities and their admission requirements. Many universities offer flexible curriculum and teaching methods, giving international students the chance to explore different disciplines and build a strong foundation for their future careers. To apply, foreign students usually need to submit their applications online, along with supporting documents, by specific deadlines. There are also scholarships, grants, and other financial assistance options available for international students, making it possible to study in the US with limited funds. With careful planning and utilisation of available resources, foreign students can successfully navigate the application process and take advantage of the academic and career opportunities that US universities offer.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Application deadlines | For selective colleges, applications may be due as early as November or December |
| Application requirements | Academic transcripts, proof of finances, on-campus or video interview |
| Application method | Online submission |
| Supporting documents | Grade Point Average (GPA), English language proficiency test scores |
| Admissions options | Regular admission, early action, early decision |
| Visa requirements | F-1 non-immigrant visa for students |
| Tuition fees | $5,000 to $50,000 per year for undergraduate, $60,000 for top-tier universities including fees and living costs |
| Scholarships | Fulbright Awards, Fulbright Opportunity Fund, academic merit scholarships, graduate assistantships |
| Resources | EducationUSA advising centres, Shorelight enrollment counsellors, college fairs, webinars, university admissions teams |
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What You'll Learn
Research universities and programs
The USA has the world's largest international student population, with more than 1,000,000 foreign students choosing to further their education at American colleges and universities. The number of international undergraduate students in the U.S. has increased markedly, rising by 98% from 2000 to 2016.
International students looking for a unique, religious experience will find many religious schools spread throughout the United States. Whether you are looking for a Catholic university, a Bible college, or any other affiliation, you can find the perfect institution that combines spirituality with academics.
There are many resources available to help international students research and choose the right U.S. university and program. Websites like internationalstudent.com offer searchable data on over 3,000 schools, allowing students to match schools based on program of study and degree, state or other geographical location, tuition range, public vs. private, and many other data points.
For international students who cannot meet the high cost and requirements of universities, community colleges offer a great education at a fraction of the cost and are a good way to begin the journey of studying in the U.S.
International students can also look for scholarships and financial aid to help fund their studies. The U.S. government offers various scholarships and programs, such as the Stokes Scholarship Program, the Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Fellowship, and the Fulbright-Hays Doctoral Dissertation Research Abroad (DDRA) Fellowship Program. Additionally, universities like the University of Washington offer collaborative research opportunities and partnerships with institutions in over 130 countries.
When researching universities and programs, international students should consider factors such as accreditation, ranking, and recognition. They can also reach out to current students and alumni to gain insights into the academic experience, campus life, and support services offered by the university.
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Application requirements and deadlines
Application Deadlines
US universities typically offer Regular Admission for international students planning to pursue a four-year degree starting in the fall. The Regular Admission deadline is usually between November and January, and it is important to submit your application by this date to be considered for an on-time start. Some more selective colleges may have earlier deadlines for early action or early decision applications, which can be as early as November or December. It is recommended to begin your application early and stay informed about the deadlines of your chosen universities.
Academic Requirements
Academic requirements can vary depending on the university and degree level. For undergraduate programmes, universities may consider grades and test scores, such as the SAT or ACT. For graduate programmes, academic transcripts from your bachelor's degree studies may be required. Additionally, some universities may require proof of English language proficiency, such as a minimum TOEFL score or its equivalent.
Financial Requirements
International students are usually required to provide proof of finances to cover the full cost of their education, unless they have secured scholarships, assistantships, or fellowships. Tuition fees for international students can vary widely, ranging from USD 5,000 to USD 50,000 per year for undergraduate programmes, and costs for living expenses should also be considered. It is important to research the fees and funding options offered by your chosen universities and plan your finances accordingly.
Additional Requirements
Other requirements may include on-campus or video interviews, personal statements or essays, and letters of recommendation. Some universities may also offer flexible curriculum options, allowing students to start their degree programme remotely or participate in internships and other experiential learning opportunities. It is recommended to review the specific requirements and opportunities offered by your chosen universities to ensure you submit a complete application.
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Funding and scholarships
International students are not eligible for funding intended for US nationals. However, as US universities increasingly internationalize, the number of international scholarships has grown. These scholarships are funded by the US government, private organizations, and specific institutions.
US universities offer limited financial aid to international students. Most institutional aid is reserved for graduate studies in the form of assistantships and fellowships. Undergraduate international students may receive aid in the form of need-based scholarships, merit-based scholarships, tuition waivers, and private scholarships.
Need-Based Scholarships
Need-based scholarships are awarded based on financial need. Students who can demonstrate financial need may be eligible for this type of aid. Academic departments within the university may have funds allocated to assist international students with exceptional financial need.
Merit-Based Scholarships
Merit-based scholarships are granted based on special skills, talents, or abilities. Your university may offer scholarships based on TOEFL scores, academic records, artistic ability, musical ability, or athletic ability. Merit-based scholarships are usually very competitive.
Tuition Waivers
Some public and private universities may waive application fees for international students. Tuition waiver programs, such as the University of Wisconsin Superior Non-resident Tuition Waiver Program, offer tuition waivers for international students who demonstrate financial need.
Private Scholarships
There are many private scholarships offered by companies, organizations, and foundations for international students studying in the United States. Here are some examples of private scholarships:
- American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship: Undergraduate scholarships for international students demonstrating leadership potential.
- Brandeis University Wien International Scholarship Program: Funding for high-achieving students interested in contributing to the student community.
- Clark University Global Scholars Program: Scholarships of at least $10,000, along with a guaranteed $2,500 taxable stipend for a paid internship, for first-year international applicants.
- Emory University Needs-Based Scholarship Program: Funding opportunities for international students who can demonstrate financial need.
- Harvard University Scholarships: Harvard offers competitive international scholarships for students from around the world.
- Michigan State University International Scholarships: Various grants and scholarships for international students.
- New York University Wagner International Scholarships: Scholarships for international students studying at NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service.
- University of Arkansas International Scholarships: Funding opportunities for international students of varying backgrounds and nationalities.
- University of Iowa Scholarships for International First Year Students: Scholarships for international students starting their first year.
- University of Minnesota International Scholarships: Offers the Global Excellence Scholarship and the #YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarship, a renewable scholarship worth $15,000 per year.
- University of Oregon International Scholarships: Scholarships aimed at international students from around the world.
- Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship: Provides scholarships for graduate students from select developing countries with no other source of financial help. The scholarships are 50% grant and 50% loan.
- American Association of University Women Fellowships: Fellowships for non-American women pursuing a Master's or doctorate in the USA.
- Fulbright Foreign Student Program: One of the most popular government-funded scholarships for international graduate students, young professionals, and artists to study in the US for one year or more.
- MPOWER Financing Global Citizen Scholarship Program: Offers broad eligibility criteria and niche scholarships for international and DACA students throughout the year.
- P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship: Awards scholarships to women from other countries pursuing graduate degrees in the USA.
- Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program: Provides comprehensive financial coverage for graduate students from developing countries who have supported their home country's development and are applying for a development-related Master's program.
- Boren Award for International Study: Funding for US undergraduate students to study less commonly taught languages in world regions critical to US interests.
- Foreign Language and Area Studies (FLAS) Fellowships: Opportunities for outstanding undergraduate and graduate students to engage in area studies and world language training at participating institutions.
- Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Fellowship: Financial support, mentoring, and professional development for undergraduate and graduate students preparing for a career in the US Department of State Foreign Service.
- USDA/1994 Tribal Scholars Program: Scholarships for applicants attending 1994 Land Grant Tribal Colleges and Universities seeking careers in food, agriculture, and natural resource sciences.
Additionally, students can search for scholarships using online platforms such as International Student, Fastweb, ScholarshipOwl, and Buddy4Study (for Indian students). Students can also contact the public affairs department at the US embassy in their home country for funding advice and resources.
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Student visas
To study in the US as a foreign student, you must obtain a student visa. The most common types of student visas are:
- F-1 Visa (Academic Student): This visa is for full-time international students pursuing academic studies. You must be enrolled in an accredited academic program, language training program, or vocational program that culminates in a degree, diploma, or certificate. Your school must be authorized by the US government to accept foreign students and be certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). F-1 visa holders may be eligible to work on-campus or in a job related to their studies.
- M-1 Visa (Vocational Student): This visa is for full-time international students pursuing vocational or other non-academic programs, except for language training. Similar to F-1 visa holders, M-1 visa holders may be eligible for on-campus employment or jobs related to their field of study.
- J-1 Visa (Exchange Visitor): This visa is for foreign nationals participating in work-and-study-based exchange programs, such as visiting scholars, camp counselors, au pairs, or research assistants. J-1 visa holders must contact their responsible officer to determine their eligibility to work outside their program of study.
It is important to note that the US government has recently expanded the grounds for canceling international students' legal status and revoking their visas. These new guidelines have resulted in deportations and legal challenges. Therefore, it is crucial for international students to stay informed about the latest visa requirements and maintain compliance with the necessary regulations.
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English language requirements
To study at a US university, international students must demonstrate English language proficiency. This is a mandatory requirement for admission to US universities, and applicants must meet a minimum English language proficiency score. The specific requirements vary across institutions and programs, so it is essential to check the criteria of your chosen university.
English Language Tests
There are several English language tests that international students can take to meet the requirements, including:
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): This is a commonly accepted test, and universities often require a minimum TOEFL score, typically ranging from 55 to 100.
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS): The IELTS is another widely recognised test, and universities may require a minimum IELTS score.
- Duolingo English Test (DET): The DET is a more recent option that some universities accept.
- Pearson Test of English (PTE): The PTE is another standardised test recognised by many universities.
- Kaplan International English Language Test (IELT): This test is offered by Kaplan and is accepted by some universities.
Waivers and Exemptions
In certain cases, US universities may waive the English language test score requirement. This typically applies if you are from an English-speaking country or have completed a previous degree taught entirely in English. Additionally, some universities may consider other factors, such as your academic achievements and personal essay, as part of a holistic admission review, where they assess the whole person and not just English proficiency.
Preparation and Support
To prepare for these English language tests, students can access various resources, such as practice tests, online courses, and language schools. Additionally, organisations like EducationUSA, part of the U.S. Department of State, offer support and guidance to international students through their network of educational advising centres in over 175 countries. These centres can provide valuable information and assistance in navigating the application process and understanding the specific English language requirements of different US universities.
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Frequently asked questions
You can start your research on how to study in the USA online at the U.S. Department of Education College Navigator site. Other sites, like College Board’s Big Future, provide ways to search for undergraduate US colleges and universities across many different programs, features, or characteristics. You can also visit EducationUSA, the U.S. Department of State’s network, which has over 430 educational advising centers in more than 175 countries and territories.
Entry requirements vary by university and degree program. You will usually need to submit three types of additional documents to help a university with its holistic review: academic transcripts, proof of finances, and English language proficiency test scores.
Foreign student admission policies at US universities and colleges usually allow you to submit your international student application online, along with your supporting documents. US universities and colleges typically offer Regular Admission, which is the most common option for international students planning to pursue a four-year degree starting in the fall. After your application is reviewed, the admissions committee will send either an acceptance or rejection letter.
Undergraduate tuition fees can range from $5,000 to $50,000 per year, and living costs should also be taken into account. Public universities charge lower fees for in-state students, while private institutions charge the same rate for all students. International students can also apply for scholarships, grants, assistantships, and fellowships to help fund their education.
