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 in the United States. Nearly 5% of all students enrolled in higher-level education in the USA are international students, and the numbers are growing. From the mid-1950’s, when international student enrollment was only just reaching 35,000, international education in the USA has come a long way.
In United States education, accreditation process is used to ensure the colleges, institutions and other education providers meet the required standards of quality and integrity regarding academics and administration related services. USA has thousands of accredited colleges and universities well known for their quality of education, programs of study, and their flexibility in changing fields of study.
The key factor to study in the United States of the America is its sense of Excellence and the way quality education is imparted by experienced faculties keeping the practical approach in the mind. Education of the United States is recognized all over the world and it is given an equal importance in any part of the world.
If you intend to make your career in the research then again USA is the perfect choice. USA has got reputed Universities and Private institutions who rule the country with their Iron fist by generating employment opportunities followed by thorough study. Not only research but one also gets chance to practically implement the knowledge of the management after pursuing the degree.
Benefits of Studying in USA
We look forward to helping students like you who are considering continuing education in the United States. You will find all the tools you need to compile your necessary research in deciding if the United States is the best place for you — we have gathered valuable information on educational, social, cultural and economic aspects of studying in the U.S.
Top Courses to Study in the USA
When the topic of studying abroad comes up in any conversation, USA is the first call in everyone’s lips. The reason is obvious. With nearly 10,00,000 international college students enrolled in its numerous universities, USA stands the tallest as a long way as the global schooling is concerned. Be it the wide variety of options or the flexibility within the programmes, US universities preserve to lure the ever increasing mass of overseas college students.
The table below will help you understand in brief about the top 6 courses that are popular among international students in USA:
| Engineering | Health Science | Computer Science |
| Business Management | Information Technology | Physics |
Cost of Studying in the USA for International Students
Your expenditure on tuition fee depends on the type of qualification and university or school you opt for. Most people consider studying in the US pricey, however, effective budgeting can help you better manage your expenses. Keep in mind - it’s not just the tuition fee alone you should be calculating to get your estimations.
S.no. | Study Program | Average Fee (in $*) |
| 1 | English language studies | $700 to $2000 a month |
| 2 | Community colleges Courses | $6000 to $20,000 per year |
| 3 | Undergraduate bachelor degree | $20,000 to $40,000 per year |
| 4 | Graduate programs | $20,000 to $45,000 per year |
| 5 | Doctoral degree | $28,000 to $55,000 per year |
*Please note all fee figures are indicative
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Choosing the USA
Every year, the number of international students in the US rises as more and more students choose the Unites States as the place they wanted to broaden their experience and continue their education. In fact, the US is now the most popular country for international students. Why do so many international students choose U.S. colleges and universities?
Before you pack your bags, you should learn what the U.S. has to offer you:
- Academic Excellence
- Variety of Educational Opportunities
- Cutting-Edge Technology
- Opportunity for Research
- Flexibility
- Support Services for International Students
- Global Education and Long-Term Career Prospects
- Campus Life Experience
Academic Excellence
The United States has one of the world’s finest university systems, with outstanding programs in virtually all fields. At the undergraduate level, excellent programs exist in traditional disciplines, as well as in professional fields. At the graduate level, students have the opportunity to work directly with some of the finest minds in their field of study, with the chance to become involved with exclusive research and educational opportunities. U.S. degrees are recognized throughout the world for their excellence.
Variety of Educational Opportunities
The United States is home to several thousand colleges and universities, boasting at least ten times as many campuses as in any other country. As a result, the higher education system in the U.S. has something for everyone. Some U.S. colleges and universities stress broad educational principles; others emphasize practical, employment-related skills; and still others specialize in the arts, social sciences or technical fields. This means that no matter what you plan on studying, you will have a wide variety of programs in your particular field from which to choose.
Cutting-Edge Technology
Universities in the U.S. pride themselves on being at the forefront of technology, research and techniques, and in making the best possible equipment and resources available to their students. Even if your field does not directly involve science or engineering, you will have opportunities to become skilled in using the latest technology to conduct research, as well as obtain and process information. You will find ways to stay connected with researchers, teachers and experts in your field all over the world.
Opportunity for Research, Teaching and Training
You may be able to gain valuable experience through teaching and/or research while you help to finance your education in the U.S., particularly if you are a graduate student. Many graduate programs offer training and teaching opportunities that enable students to become teaching assistants to undergraduates and/or research assistants on special projects exploring different aspects of your field of study.
International students are some of the most valued teachers and researchers in U.S. universities because they bring new skills and ideas to the classroom and library or laboratory. This practical component of your education will prove useful in your future career, and may give you insights into your field that would not be possible through course study alone.
Flexibility
Although many programs are highly structured in that specific coursework requirements must be met, you will generally be able to find a wide variety of course choices to meet those requirements. For example, liberal arts coursework for an undergraduate program will include classes in languages and mathematics, but you will be given a wide variety of classes which fit those requirements, and the freedom to decide which classes best match your interests.
At the advanced stages of a degree, or if you are pursuing a graduate degree, you will be able to tailor your coursework to fit your specific academic goals, needs and interests. When you choose topics for independent study for a graduate thesis or dissertation, you can emphasize ideas that are important to you, your field and your country.
Support Services for International Students
Studying in the United States is a rewarding experience, but navigating your way through day-to-day issues can be a challenge. Many international students find that the college and university international student office is a great resource when it comes to adapting to a culturally and academically different environment. The mission of the international student office is to assist students like you, and there is often a wide range of student services that they provide
An orientation program upon your arrival is just the start of the many programs and benefits of the university international student office - throughout your time in the U.S., they can help answer questions you may have regarding your visa status, financial situation, housing, employment possibilities, health concerns and more. If you choose to complete your degree in the United States, this office often provides resume and employment assistance as graduation nears. The international student office will be an invaluable source of information and help as you make the transition into academic and cultural life in the United States.
Global Education and Long-Term Career Prospects
Experience in an international setting is a marketable commodity. Many employers seek the wide range of knowledge, adaptability and experience that international students acquire by studying in the United States. Companies in the U.S. are increasingly seeking to become a strong presence in the global marketplace. They often look to hire employees who not only have multi-cultural language skills, but those who can also help communicate, negotiate and conduct business across different cultures.
The United States is not the only country seeking strong candidates when hiring; international students are in high demand elsewhere, as well. In recent years, international companies have become much more proactive in recruiting from the pool of strong international student graduates. Your long-term career prospects can be enhanced by your experiences through the development of self-confidence, independence and cross-cultural skills - attributes which are in high demand with employers worldwide.
Campus Life Experience
When you continue your studies in the U.S., you are making a choice to broaden not only your educational opportunities, but your cultural experience, as well. Whether you attend a small, private college in a small town or a university situated in the middle of a large urban area, most universities offer a variety of student clubs and organizations to match the wide array of student interests. You can have the opportunity to immerse yourself in American culture, meeting new people and making new friends, through different organizations and associations.
International students often find that the international student office is a good starting point for campus offerings, as well as the campus student center. Your time studying abroad can be enriched by taking part in the social and cultural scene surrounding you, and you will likely find that U.S. campuses provide a rich variety academic, cultural and athletic activities that add new dimensions to your life.
USA State Guides
The United States is a complex and vast country made up of 50 states plus the city of Washington, D.C. - the nation’s capital - all of which have a distinct regional identity. If you are an international student planning to come to the US to study, our USA State Guide can help you prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.
The United States has over 310 million people and offers international students a unique experience from buzzing, highly dense cities to unpopulated open spaces and pristine natural beauty. If you are curious about what your state has to offer, learn more about all 50 states in our USA State Guide. Here we’ve done the research for you so that you can learn about the state’s economy, internship opportunities, climate, activities, and more!
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- District of Columbia
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
Now that you know about all 50 states through our USA State Guides, check out our Study Guide by Subject where you can learn more about the different fields of study, top schools, internship opportunities, the US education system and more. Please also follow us on Facebook and Twitter if you want more regular international student updates!
Preparation for Your Stay
Careful planning is one thing that you will have to do in order to make you time abroad a success. With so much to plan, you need to start early and use a timetable in which to do things. As with your application process to select a school you need to make a list with everything you will need to make your time abroad easier.
Before you leave your country, you will need to plan for the following:
Student Visas
Anyone who will be studying in the United States could be issued one of the three following visa types for international students: F1 Visa, J1 Visa or M1 Visa. You may be asking, “What visa do you need to work as an international student in the US?”. The F1 and J1 Visas allow for the possibility of employment but does not guarantee it. The M1 Visa, however, does not allow for the possibility of employment. We’ve broken down each of these three types of international student visas so that you can get familiar with them and how they will impact your life in the US.
Types of International Student Visas
F1 Visa Qualifications
In order to qualify, applicants need to satisfy and prove several strict criteria during an F1 visa interview, including the following:
- Foreign Residence
- F1 applicants must have a foreign residence and must intend to return there upon the completion of theirstudies.
- Sponsoring Institution
- While on your F1 visa, you may only study at the academic institution through which the visa was granted.
- Financial Support
- Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial support — the Study USA Financing Guide can help you prepare for this aspect of your time abroad.
- Ties to Home Country
- All applicants must demonstrate that they have strong ties to their home country.
Strong ties consist of, but are not limited to, the following:- A job offer letter upon completion of studies
- Assets (i.e., house, land, vehicle, etc.)
- Bank accounts
- Family
Admission Requirements
Different universities have different admission policies. Your university will tell you what they need to determine if you are academically eligible. Among other requirements, you will need to show the school that you have enough money to support yourself while studying without having to work and you may have to show health insurance in order to cover any medical expenses should you need any medical assistance. Once the university has determined that your application is complete and you are academically eligible, they will issue an I-20 form to enable you to apply for your student visa.
Where to Apply for Your F1 Visa
Applicants for student visas should generally apply at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate with jurisdiction over their place of permanent residence. This will normally be your home country — the country in which you live. Although visa applicants may apply at any U.S. consular office abroad, it may be more difficult to qualify for the visa outside the country of permanent residence.
Help Getting an F1 Visa
The process of obtaining a visa can be difficult. If you’ve decided you need help from an immigration lawyer, explore working with a professional legal firm like F1 Visa Advisors, Inc. Founded by an experienced immigration lawyer in the US, F1 Visa Advisors offers a limited access program that provides students with personalized visa assistance and guidance to help increase their chance of getting approved an F1 visa.
Items to Provide With Your Application
Although the process may vary or require additional steps, depending on your country and embassy or consulate, you will need the following when applying for your student visa:
- Application Fee
- You will have to pay a non-refundable application fee. This means that if your visa does not get approved, you will not get your money back.
- Form DS-160
- All applicants will need to complete and submit DS-160, the online application for a non-immigrant visa.
- Form DS-157
- A DS-157 form for all males aged 16-45.
- Valid Passport
- A passport valid for travel to the United States and with a validity date at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the United States. If more than one person is included in the passport, each person desiring a visa must make an application.
- Photos
- You can upload a digital photo that is:
- In color
- Sized such that the head is between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (22 mm and 35 mm) or 50% and 69% of the image's total height from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head
- Taken within the last 6 months to reflect your current appearance
- Taken in front of a plain white or off-white background
- Taken in full-face view directly facing the camera
- With a neutral facial expression and both eyes open
- Taken in clothing that you normally wear on a daily basis
F1 Visa Interview
An F1 visa interview will be required to determine whether or not you are qualified to receive an F1 student visa. You should arrive at the interview with all of the required documents and receipts, and you should be prepared ahead of time to answer personal questions about your decision to study in the US.
F1 visa interview questions often include inquiries about your academic qualifications and choice of university. You may be required to prove that you have ties and obligations that would guarantee your return to your home country after your international studies. Most importantly, you will be required to prove that you have the means to finance your education. Education expenses in the US are higher than most countries and being able to present a solid financial plan for the duration of your studies is crucial to pass your F1 visa interview.
Examples of F1 Visa Interview Questions
- Why did you choose to study in the US instead of joining the workforce in your home country?
- Why did you choose this school and why is it the best school for you?
- What are your test scores (GRE, GMAT, SAT, TOEFL, IELTS), your GPA, and your overall performance as a student in the past?
- How are you funding the entire duration of your education, including tuition, room and board, transportation, and all other expenses?
- After you graduate, will you return home or will you stay in the United States?
F1 Visa Denials
If your F1 visa application is denied, it is based on US immigration law. If you are denied, the reason and section of law you are denied under will be given to you in your paperwork. Some applications are denied because the applicant failed to provide necessary information or supporting documentation as required. Sometimes, however, you can be found ineligible for other reasons.
Of course, if you do not meet the F1 Visa Qualifications as stated above, you can expect to be found ineligible. For example, if you do not sufficiently demonstrate that the strong ties to your home country will influence you to return home after your stay in the US, you will be denied under INA section 214(b), Visa Qualifications and Immigrant Intent.
Other common reasons for denial include Fraud or Misrepresentation, Unlawful Presence in the United States, Health-related grounds, Criminal-related grounds, or Security-related grounds. To learn more about visa denials and to see if you are eligible for a waiver or to reapply, the US Department of State website is a great resource.
Maintaining Valid F1 Status After You Arrive
After you are approved for your F1 visa, you are able to enter the United States as an international student. However, after you arrive, you will need to stay aware of your obligations as an F1 visa holder. If you do not maintain your valid F1 visa status, you will not be allowed to return to re-enter the US if you leave and you will not be eligible for practical training (OPT or CPT) or on-campus employment. Here are some tips to assure you’re in good standing during your study abroad:
Upon Arrival
Make sure you arrive in the US no more than 30 days prior to the first day of classes. Check in with your international advisor as soon as possible before your program begins.
During Your Program
You must remain enrolled full time. Go to class and maintain passing grades. If you are having difficulty in your classes, notify your international advisor. If you are unable to complete your program by the date listed on your Form I-20, your international advisor can help you request a program extension.
Your passport should be valid for at least 6-months in the future. Your country’s consulate or embassy can help you extend your passport if needed. Carry a copy of your passport with you along with your I-94 card for identification purposes.
Working
F1 visa students are not allowed to work off-campus. However, you may have some on-campus work or curricular practical training options if you qualify. Check with your international advisor to see if this is a possibility for you. If you choose to work without proper authorization, your visa will be revoked and you will be forced to leave the United States.
Upon Program Completion
You have 60 days upon completion of your program to leave the United States under your F1 visa. To remain in the US, you will need to re-enroll in a higher program, transfer to another school to receive a new I-20 form, or apply to change your visa status. Your international advisor can give you more information regarding your options.
J1 Student Visa
The J-1 visa in the United States is for people who wish to take part in work-and-study-based exchange and visitor programs in the U.S. These programs are sponsored by an educational or other nonprofit institution, which must be accredited through the Exchange Visitor Program designated by the U.S. State Department. J-1 exchange visitors come to the United States to teach, study, receive training, or demonstrate special skills. The J1 visa is meant for students who need practical training that is not available to them in their home country, and the training must be directly related to their academic program.
J-1 Visa Program Requirements
Each program available under the J-1 visa has specific requirements and regulations. Please choose the program below that you are interested in learning more about:
Learn more about how to apply for your J1 Visa
Au Pair
The Au Pair category of the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program allows for childcare providers between the ages of 18 and 26 to work caring for a family’s children in exchange for room, board, and a stipend. The main priority of an au pair is to care for his or her charge(s), but he or she will also have free time to enjoy life in the US.
In order be eligible for a J-1 visa as an au pair, a potential applicant must first have received a job offer from a family. Other prerequisites include:
- 18-26 years of age
- Good health
- Previous childcare experience
- Speak and understand English
- Secondary school education
- Non-smoker (if required by the family)
- Police clearance report
- International driver’s license and a minimum of 50 hours’ driving experience
- Willing to live 12 months away from home
- Cannot have previously lived in the US as an au pair
Applicants may need to interview in their home country by the sponsoring organization, and they may need to conduct a number of telephone interviews with potential host families. The sponsor must also provide the participant with a minimum of 32 hours of childcare training before placing them with a host family.
While working in the US, the au pair must provide no more than 10 hours of childcare services a day, with a maximum of 45 hours per week. He or she must also complete at least six hours of academic credit at a US post-secondary educational institution. The au pair’s responsibilities may include bringing the children to and from school and other activities, helping them with homework, helping to keep children’s rooms clean, and cooking light meals for the children.
The host family is required to pay up to $500 towards the au pair’s required academic coursework. The host family is also expected to provide the au pair with private room and board (three meals a day) and compensation for childcare work. This compensation must be in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act.
Camp Counselor
Through the Camp Counselor program, foreign post-secondary students and youth workers are able to work at American summer camps. In order to be eligible for these positions, applicants must:
- Speak and understand English
- Be proficient in dealing with children
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a foreign post-secondary student, youth worker, teacher, or individual with specialized skills
As a camp counselor, participants will be provided with housing and meals by the camps for which they are working, at no cost to themselves. They will receive pay and benefits proportionate to those offered to their American counterparts. Although they will occasionally be asked to perform non-counseling duties, they cannot serve as staff. This means that they cannot act as office workers, cooks, or menial laborers such as dishwashers or janitors. Participants can work as counselors for up to four months, and extensions are not allowed.
College and University Student Program
This program allows foreign students to study at American colleges and universities. Students who participate in this program must pursue a full-time course of study and must maintain good academic standing. They might also participate in a student internship program that fulfills educational objectives of their degree programs in their home countries.
Students in this program must be financed by funding from any source other than personal or family, such as directly or indirectly by the US government, their home country government, or an international organization of which the US is a member.
The program must be carried out according to an agreement between the US government and the student’s home government, of according to a written agreement between American and foreign educational institutions, an American educational institution and a foreign government, or a state or local government in the US and a foreign government.
Secondary School Student Program
Under this program, high school students are able to travel to the US and study at a public or private high school while staying with a host family or at a boarding school.
In order to be eligible, participants must be between the ages of 15 and 18.5 by the first day of school. They must not have completed more than 11 years of primary and secondary school (excluding kindergarten), and they must not have previously participated in a secondary school exchange program in the US.
In this program, students are allowed to take part in all school activities, though the school district and the state office in charge of deciding athletic eligibility must approve the student’s participation. Students in this program are not allowed to work part-time or full-time jobs, though they may work the occasional job such as babysitting or yard work. They are not permitted to live with relatives, and they must not stay in the US longer than one academic school year.
Government Visitor Program
Through this program, distinguished international visitors selected by a US federal, state, or local government agency visit the US to develop and strengthen professional and personal relationships with their American counterparts. They are engages in observation tours, discussions, consultations, professional meetings, conferences, workshops, travel, and training.
International Visitor Program
This category is for people-to-people programs meant to develop and strengthen professional and personal relationships between key foreign nationals and Americans and American institutions. Participants must be a recognized or potential leader in a field of specialized knowledge or skill. They are selected by the US Department of States.
Physician Program
This program allows foreign physicians to participate in US graduate medical education programs or training at US medical schools.
In order to qualify for clinical exchange programs, foreign national physicians must have adequate prior education and training for the program in which they are enrolling; they must be competent in speaking and writing English; they must have passed either Parts I and II of the National Board of Medical Examiners Examination, the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination, Step I and II, or the Visa Qualifying Examination (VQE) prepared by the National Board of Medical Examiners. They must also provide a statement of need from their home government that states that there is a need for persons with the skills the applicant wishes to acquire in their home country. Also necessary is an agreement or contract from the US medical school, affiliated hospital, or scientific institution at which the participant plans to study, signed by the physician and the official responsible for the training.
Non-clinical exchange programs allow foreign national physicians to come to the US for observation, consultation, teaching, or research purposes. These may be sponsored by a US university or medical center than has been designated by the US Department of State to conduct an exchange visitor program. The sponsor must sign and append to the Form DS-2019 a certificate that states, “This certifies that the program in which [name] is to be engaged is solely for the purpose of observation, consultation, teaching, or research and that no element of patient care is involved,” or the dean of the medical school in question (or his designee) must certify the following five points:
- The program is predominantly observation, consultation, teaching, or research-based.
- Any patient contact will be under the supervision of a US citizen or resident alien physician licensed to practice medicine in the state in which the activity is taking place.
- The physician in question will not be given final responsibility for the diagnosing and treatment of patients.
- And activities will comply with the State licensing requirements and regulations for medical and health care professionals.
- The experience gained will not be creditable towards clinical requirements for medical board certification.
Professor and Research Scholar Program
This program allows participants the opportunity to engage in research, teaching, and lecturing at American schools. The program encourages the exchange of ideas, mutual enrichment, and linkages between research and educational institutions in the US and foreign countries. The maximum duration of these programs is five years.
Participants in these programs are subject to several conditions. They must not be a candidate for a tenure track position; they cannon have completed a professor or research scholar program within the last 24 months preceding the beginning of the program; they cannot have participated in a J-visa program for any part of the 12-month period preceding the professor or research scholar program. There are three exceptions to this condition:
- The participant is transferring to another institution in the US to continue his or her current J-1 program.
- The participant’s prior stay in the US on a J-1 visa was less than six months long.
- The prior participation was as a short-term scholar.
The participant must have the education and credentials necessary to carry out the activity for which they are coming to the US, and must have sufficient English skills to function in an English-speaking environment.
These programs fall into two categories: professor and research scholar. The professor category is for participants who wish to teach, lecture, observe, or consult at a post-secondary school, museum, library, or similar institution in the US. The research scholar category is for participants who wish to conduct research, observe, or consult in connection with a research project at research institutions, corporate research facilities, museums, libraries, post-secondary schools, or similar institutions in the US.
Short-Term Scholar Program
This program allows professors, research scholar, or people with similar education or accomplishments to lecture, observe, consult, train, or demonstrate special skills at research institutions, museums, libraries, post-secondary schools, or similar institutions in the US.
The maximum duration of this program is six months, with no extensions, and no possibility of changing category. The minimum program duration (3 weeks) is waived for participants in this program. Exchange visitors who have recently participated in a professor or research scholar exchange program in the US are not permitted to reenter the US as a short-term scholar to rejoin the original sponsor. Participants are allowed to return to the US for another short-term scholarly stay, after a substantial break between visits, and may return using the J-1 Research Scholar/Professor category without being subject to the 12 and 24 month bars.
Specialist Program
This program allows experts in a field of specialized knowledge or skills to travel to the US for the interchanging of knowledge and skills among foreign and American specialists.
The duration of this type of program is one year. While in the US on this type of program, specialists may not fill a permanent or long-term position of employment. Categories covered under this program include international education exchange, labor law, environmental science, mass media communication, museum exhibitions, public administration, and library science.
Summer Work Travel Program
Under this program, post-secondary students are allowed to travel to the US to work and travel over the summer.
In order to be eligible for this type of program, participants must have sufficient English skills to interact in an English-speaking environment; they must be post-secondary students who are enrolled in a full-time course of study at a post-secondary educational institution outside the US; they must have completed at least one semester of post-secondary study; and they must have a job offer in the US, unless the participant is from a visa waiver country.The length of this program may not exceed 4 months, and must be completed during the participant’s summer vacation. Participants in this program mostly work in positions at resorts, hotels, restaurant, and amusement parks, but may also work for organizations such as architectural firms, legal offices, scientific research organizations, advertising agencies, graphic art/publishing and other media communication businesses, computer software and electronics firms. Participants who do not have prearranged employment must have sufficient financial resources to support themselves during a search for employment.
Teacher Program
Through this program, foreign teachers can come to the US to teach in primary and secondary schools for up to three years.
In order to be eligible for this program, a teacher must meet the qualifications for teaching in primary or secondary schools in his or her home country, have a minimum of three years of teach or related profession experience, satisfy the teaching standards of the US state in which he or she intends to teach, and possess the English skills necessary to participate in the program.
Participants in this program will learn US teaching methods while bringing international perspectives to US classrooms. They will need to submit references from both colleagues and current or former employers attesting to their good reputation, character, and teaching skills. After a participant receives and accepts a written offer for a teaching position at a US institution, the designated sponsor will issue a completed Form DS-2019; the location of the institution will be indicated on that form. Participants may only teach at that institution.
Trainee Program
These programs allow foreign professionals to gain exposure to receive training in US business practices in their chosen occupational field.
In order to be eligible, a trainee must be a foreign national with either a degree or professional certificate from a foreign post-secondary academic institution and at least one year’s work experience in his or her occupational field, or five years of work experience in the occupational field in which he or she is seeking training. Participants must have their English skills evaluated or verified by a recognized English language test, by signed documentation from an academic institution or English language school, or through an in-person interview conducted by the sponsor, or by video conference or webcam. They must be at least 20 years old.
Participants might find work in a number of fields, including:
- Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing
- Arts and Culture
- Construction and Building Trades
- Education, Social Sciences, Library Science, Counseling and Social Services
- Health Related Occupations
- Hospitality and Tourism
- Information Media and Communications
- Management, Business, Commerce, and Finance
- Public Administration and Law
- Sciences, Engineering, Architecture, Mathematics, and Industrial Occupations
Intern Program
These programs allow foreign professionals to receive training in their occupational field in the US.
Interns must be foreign nationals who are currently enrolled in a foreign degree or certificate granting post-secondary institution outside the US or who graduated from such an institution no more than 12 months before his/her program’s start date. Participants must be at least 18 years old, and must have their English skills evaluated or verified by a recognized English language test, by signed documentation from an academic institution or English language school, or through an in-person interview conducted by the sponsor, or by video conference or webcam.
Working Outside the Program
Generally, J-1 visa holders are required to work only for their program sponsors. However, in some cases J-1 holders may work for non-sponsor employers if they meet certain eligibility requirements. The requirements vary depending on the program. J-1 students are eligible for on-campus employment if it is pursuant to scholarship, fellowship or assistantship, or off-campus employment if it is a summer work/travel exchange program, or if it is necessary because of serious, urgent, and unforeseen economic circumstances that have arisen since acquiring J-1 status. Students must have good academic standing, and may not exceed 20 hours of labor per week except during holidays and vacations.
J-2 Visa
The J-2 visa is intended for non-immigrant spouses or children of J-1 exchange visitor who accompany or later join their spouse or parent in the United States. J-2 eligibility depends on the specific program in which the J-1 exchange visitor is enrolled. For example, the exchange categories of au pair, camp counselor, secondary work student, and summer work travel do not allow for J-2 eligibility. In addition, some specific programs within categories that generally permit J-2 visas do not.
The application procedure for J-2 visas is the same as the application process for J-1 visas. The sponsor of the program must approve the accompaniment of the spouse or child, who will be issued their own Form DS-2019. The J-2 visa holder can accompany their J-1 spouse or parent into the United States, or they may choose to join them later.
In most cases, a J-2 visa holder can work in the United States. In order to do this, he or she must obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Money earned by a J-2 visa holder cannot be used to support the J-1 visa holder.
The "M" visa is for nonacademic or vocational studies. M-1 visa holders for technical and vocational programs are not permitted to work during the course of their studies. The M-1 student visa applicants must have evidence that sufficient funds are immediately available to pay all tuition and living costs for the entire period of intended stay.
M1 Student Visa Requirements
You cannot enter as an M1 to just study "generally"; your program must have a goal and you must be involved in a "full course of study". A full course of study means study in a community or junior college, with at least 12 semester or quarter hours. It must be in a school where anyone attending for at least 12 semester or quarter hours is charged full tuition, or considered full-time. The only exception is where you need a smaller course-load to complete your course of study. It can also mean study at a post secondary vocational or business school which grants Associate or other degrees. Alternatively, if a school can demonstrate that its credits are, or have been, accepted unconditionally by at least 3 institutions of higher learning it can qualify. If that is not possible, study in a vocational or nonacademic curriculum, certified by a DSO to require at least 18 hours of weekly attendance or at least 22 clock hours a week (if most of your studies are in a shop or lab). If that is not possible, the last option is study in a vocational or nonacademic high school curriculum which is certified by a DSO to require class attendance for not less than the minimum required for normal progress towards graduation.
Applying for an M1 Visa
Different universities have different admission policies. Your university will inform you what they need from you in order to determine that you are academically eligible. Amongst other requirements, you will need to show the school that you have enough money to support yourself whilst studying without having to work and you may have to show health insurance in order to cover any medical expenses should you need any medical assistance. Always protect yourself by keeping a copy of everything that you fill out and send off.
Once the university has determined that your application is complete and you are academically eligible, they will issue an I-20 form to enable you to apply for your student visa.
Applicants for student visas should generally apply at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate with jurisdiction over their place of permanent residence. [This will normally be your home country, the country in which you live]. Although visa applicants may apply at any U.S. consular office abroad, it may be more difficult to qualify for the visa outside the country of permanent residence.
When applying at the consulate for your student visa:
- You will have to pay a non-refundable application fee. This means that if your visa does not get approved, you will not get your money back.
- All applicants will need to complete and submit DS-160 , the online application for a non-immigrant visa.
- A DS-157 form for all males aged 16-45.
- A passport valid for travel to the United States and with a validity date at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the United States. If more than one person is included in the passport, each person desiring a visa must make an application.
- Photos. You can upload a digital photo that is:
- In color
- Sized such that the head is between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (22 mm and 35 mm) or 50% and 69% of the image's total height from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head
- Taken within the last 6 months to reflect your current appearance
- Taken in front of a plain white or off-white background
- Taken in full-face view directly facing the camera
- With a neutral facial expression and both eyes open
- Taken in clothing that you normally wear on a daily basis
Living with your Student Visa in the USA
As you begin to think about funding sources for your educational and living expenses in the United States, remember that you cannot count on working in the United States unless you have been granted a teaching or research assistantship. Immigration regulations are very strict with respect to working while carrying a student visa, and when you submit evidence of your financial resources, you cannot rely on potential income. The income on which you base your application must be assured, and it must be equal to or exceed the costs of the first year of your studies.
Careful long-term and short-term planning is necessary to ensure that you will have a rewarding educational experience in the United States. If you are realistic about your financial needs, you will be better able to enjoy the exciting academic and cultural experience of living and learning in the United States.
Applying for your Visa
When putting together your application for a student visa, you will first need to research the admission policy for your university. Keep the following items in mind:
- Academic Eligibility
Every school has different academic eligibility criteria. Your school will tell you what their requirements are. If you are still in the process of researching different schools, you can use the USA School Search to research general academic standing and test scores.
- Financial Stability
You will need to show that you can support yourself without having to work.
- Health Insurance
You may have to show proof of health insurance in order to cover any medical expenses should you need any medical assistance.
For detailed application information and help preparing for your visa interview, please visit the F1 Visa Application process section.
Your arrival at the United States Port of Entry
You need to be aware that even if your visa is granted, it does not guarantee your entry into the United States. It is ultimately up to the CBP [Customs and Border Protection] to let you into the United States. It is also the job of the CBP to determine how long you may remain in the United States.
At the port of entry, a CBP official validates Form I-94, Record of Arrival-Departure, which notes the length of stay permitted. This will be a small white card issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection upon your entry to the U.S. The form I-94 is your permit to stay in the U.S.
How Long You Can Stay in the US After Graduation
Per US immigration law, students with F visas must leave the US within 60 days after the program end date that is listed on Form I-20. Students with J and M visa status must leave the US within 30 days after the program end date that is listed on Form I-20. However, if you wish to extend your stay in the US, you may request a visa extension through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website. Before requesting a visa extension, we recommend exploring your visa options after graduation.
How You Can Change Your Visa Status
While living in the US, your plans may change and you might have to change your visa status. If you wish to do this at any time while living in the US, you do not have to apply for a new visa. You must request to change your nonimmigrant status through USCIS. We recommend that you notify your Designated School Official (DSO) about your desire to change as it’s important that your school is aware of any changes to your nonimmigrant status, and your DSO can help you through the process.
Health Care in the USA
Unlike many other countries, the United States does not provide socialized health care. It will be helpful for you to learn about the local health care system before it is actually needed.
The American health care system is one of the best (and most expensive) in the world. Health care for a major accident or illness can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars; therefore, most Americans have health insurance to minimize the costs.
Yet the U.S. health care system is difficult to understand, even for Americans. New and pending legislation within the federal government complicates matters even further. Quality health care is available everywhere in the country from a variety of sources. The key lies in knowing the proper procedures, and in knowing where to go for specific kinds of care. This knowledge can save an international student significant amounts of time and money.
Health Care On Campus
Most college and university campuses offer some type of general medical care; services vary from basic first-aid and treatment of minor ailments to sophisticated multi-doctor primary care centers offering x-rays, laboratory tests, prescription drugs and access to specialists. The cost of on-campus medical services is normally not very expensive.
During your first week on campus, take a copy of your medical records (including immunization and vaccination records and prescriptions) to the school's health care center or infirmary.
Going Off Campus for Health Care
If you prefer to visit a medical practitioner off-campus, you have several choices (though the cost is generally higher). Private doctors treat non-emergency patients by appointment during regular office hours, typically 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Minor emergency clinics do not require appointments, and are usually open on weekends and holidays.
In case of serious emergency, go to the nearest hospital emergency room -- by ambulance if necessary. Hospital emergency rooms are designed to treat life-threatening ailments; this is typically the most expensive place to receive care.
If you need to use a medical facility, but are uncomfortable with your English skills, ask a friend to go with you. Proper communication is very important!
What You Need to Know About Health Insurance
Many colleges and universities have their own health insurance plans for their students. According to a recent independent study, larger U.S. schools tend to have better international student insurance programs than smaller schools. Participation in the plan is often mandatory, especially for non-U.S. students. If you are sponsored by an organization such as USAID or one of the Fulbright programs, that organization may have its own health insurance policy. If health insurance is not provided, the International Student Office at your new institution will be able to help you find a suitable plan that fits your needs, or visit International Student Insurance for more information.
A number of private companies offer insurance plans specifically designed for international students. The quality of these programs varies, so request advice from the on-campus International Student Office and other international students, especially students who have had experience with insurance claims.
Here are some basic insurance terms that will get you started in learning more about health care in the United States:
Premium
The premium is the amount that you pay to purchase the insurance coverage.
Deductible
The deductible is the amount that the insured person must pay before the insurance company starts paying.
Co-Insurance
Co-Insurance is the percentage that the insured person pays after the deductible is paid. For example, if co-insurance equals 20 percent, then the insured person pays 20 percent and the insurance company pays 80 percent.
Expenses
Expenses are the costs for services such as surgery, hospitalization, x-rays, prescription drugs, and/or laboratory tests; expenses are defined in the individual insurance contracts.
Important Questions to Consider When Selecting Insurance:
- Does the health insurance plan cover both accidents and illnesses?
- Does the plan cover costs incurred outside of a hospital setting?
- Which doctors or hospitals does the plan recognize?
- What exactly are the exclusions and limitations?
International students are responsible for the expenses they incur while in the United States. As such, U.S. law requires universities to verify that international students on J-1 visas (and their J-2 dependents) have health insurance before allowing them to enroll. The federal government does not require students on F1 visas to have health insurance, but many schools require it.
The most important thing you can do is learn more; study the details of your insurance plan, and get familiar with its rules and regulations. Also, try to maintain a healthy lifestyle to minimize your chances of illness or injury that may require medical treatment while you are studying in the United States.
Communications
When studying far from home for a prolonged period of time, you can expect to feel homesick from time to time. When this happens, one of the best ways to combat homesickness is to talk to a family member or close friend from back home. Thankfully, there are now plenty of apps and programs that allow you to communicate with people anywhere in the world for free.
Here are some of the best communications options:
Skype
Skype is probably one of the most popular methods of communication used today. Skype allows you to have a face-to-face conversation with your family and friends. Seeing faces and hearing voices can be extremely comforting when you’re feeling homesick, even if you can’t touch the person you’re talking to.
Skype also offers a text-based chat, which can be useful if you or the person you’re talking to doesn’t have access to a webcam.
Google Hangouts
Like Skype, this is a video and voice calling service, but it allows you to connect with several people via webcam at once. This is a great way to hang out a couple of friends at once, which is especially useful if you’re all studying in different places!
Additionally, Google Hangouts allows you to share your screen, as well as offering apps to play games together and Google effects so you can add masks and sounds to your Hangout.
Viber
Viber is a smartphone application that allows you to make free calls over a Wi-Fi or data connection. However, the other person must also have Viber installed on their phone in order for a call to be received.
WhatsApp
This is a free texting application available for smartphones. Like Viber, it uses Wi-Fi or data connections, and like Viber, it requires both parties to have the app installed on their phones.
Snapchat
Snapchat is an app that allows you to send updates to your friends and family through snapshots. These pictures only stay on the receiver’s phone for a few seconds, so you can be as quirky and weird as you want.
Mobile Phones/Sim Cards
If you have a tri or quad band GSM mobile phone, you will most likely be able to take your current mobile phone with you and simply insert a new sim card. You can find more information on our prepaid phone and SIM card resources pages.
Snail Mail
Sometimes it’s nice to revert back to simple pen and paper. Your friends and family will appreciate that you took the time to sit down and write them a letter that they can keep and reread forever, and it can feel more personal than sending an email. You might even consider asking your friends and family to write to you; this way, you’ll have a nice reminder of home on days that are particularly rough.
Travel Arrangements
As you know, your education will extend far beyond what you learn in the classroom. Preparing for an overseas adventure is really an education in itself, taking care of all details with regard to admissions offices, enrollment procedures, immigration, transferring funds…
By most international students' accounts, all of the preliminary work is well worth it; they are quite satisfied with their U.S. education. Students just like you also report that the best part of their experience in the United States is traveling -- enjoying a new environment outside of the academic world.
Most international students plan to explore parts of the country before or after the academic semester. Sometimes they opt to travel during school holidays such as Fall Break, Thanksgiving, Christmas or Spring Break; check your own school's calendar for specific vacation date and be sure to visit the student travel center for your travel needs.
Plan Ahead
It is important to plan a general itinerary before you leave your home country for the States, if you want to budget properly and take advantage of lower costs by purchasing your travel tickets in advance. Try to use a combination of airplanes, trains, buses and automobiles to get the most out of your travels -- and your budget! Amtrak, for example, is the United States' primary passenger rail provider.
The Internet has made it easier than ever to gather information about your travel options. We also have combined some of the best student travel resources into our student travel center homepage where you can find great student airfares, hotels and much more.
Temporary Accommodation
Once you decide where you'll go and how you'll get there, consider your accommodations options. Perhaps the best option for student travelers is a youth hostel, where men and women sleep separately in dormitory-style rooms. Hostels cost less than most hotels, and provide the added opportunity to meet other travelers from around the world! For more information on hostels please see our international youth hostel section.
Like most places around the world, lodgings situated a few miles out from a U.S. city are generally less expensive than the ones in the heart of downtown. Compared to hotels, motels are typically less costly and located near main highways. Here a few sites of discounted hotel and motel chains, along with their toll-free telephone numbers you can use once you arrive in the States:
- Best Western International: 1-800-528-1234
- Econo Lodges: 1-800-424-6423
- Howard Johnson: 1-800-446-4656
- Red Roof Inns: 1-800-843-7663
- Super 8 Motels: 1-800-843-1991
- Travelodge International: 1-800-255-3050
A Bed and Breakfast is a private home with one or more rooms available to travelers. Overnight stays include a morning meal. B and B prices are generally more expensive than hostels or motels, but the glimpse into American home life may be worth the few extra dollars. One of the most comprehensive websites is http://www.bbonline.com
Use Your School's Resources
While making your travel plans, make sure to check out your school’s Office of International Studies website. Most schools will offer information concerning travel arrangements in the immediate area, such as nearby airports, shuttle/taxi services, and temporary housing options. If you’re having trouble finding information on your school’s site, contact the office directly to see if they have recommendations for international students traveling to the US.
The USA "Way Of Life"
If you are planning to live, learn and grow in the United States, you already possess a well-known American characteristic—a sense of adventure! As an international student, you will experience many new and exciting things. In this section, we hope to prepare you for some of the adventures involved in living in the United States.
It is difficult, if not impossible, to discuss exactly what "Living in the U.S." means to everyone. American culture has been enriched by the values and belief systems of virtually every part of the world. From an international student's perspective, that diversity is very valuable. If you choose to live in a completely different environment, you may be challenged with new situations every day; but if you decide to live in a part of the U.S. that resembles your home country in some ways, you may find comfort in those similarities.
Learning more about yourself is perhaps the most important part of your decision to travel to the U.S. Once you know what you want to achieve, then you can identify the right place to study and live and grow in the States.
Culture Shock
You probably expect that things will not be the same in the United States as they are in your home country; but are you prepared to deal with those differences? Learn More
American Culture
As you may know, one of the hallmarks of U.S. culture is independence. Here is some advice about written by non-U.S. students just like you! Learn More
Social Life
Your interaction with other people—your social life—is an integral part of your stay in the United States. Learn More
Accommodation
There are a number of options when it comes to deciding where you will live when you are living and studying in the United States. Learn More
Transportation
Whether you are living on or off campus, in a city or suburb, you have many transportation options for getting around in in the US. Learn More
Safety Issues
Like most issues, safety in the United States is difficult to define because the United States covers such a large territory. Learn More
Money Matters
In this section, we explore money matters that you may encounter on a daily basis during your adventure in the United States. Learn More
Working in the USA
It is a MUST that you know all the requirements and restrictions concerning your visa when considering working in the USA. Learn More
Studying in the US
College & University Search
Find, research, contact and save schools you are interested in through our USA School Search. With listings of all universities and colleges in the USA that accept and enroll international students, once you create a free account it can be your central place to find the right school for you! With searchable data on over 3,000 schools, you can match to schools based on program of study and degree, state or other geographical location, tuition range, public vs. private and many other data points. We know that choosing the right school and program can be an extensive and exhausting process, and we have built this resource specifically so that you, an international student, can find the right program. Learn More
Getting into a US College or University
Trying to become an international student inside the US is not easy. The application process is complex and competitive which means it requires hard work and dedication before classes even start. Additionally, it’s not a quick process; students should start preparing months in advance and need to stay organized and informed throughout. We have created a guide to getting into a US college or university to help you navigate through each step and provide you with tips along the way. If you want to study in the US check out our guide to get started. Learn More
Subject Study Guides
Most students have some idea of what they would like to study – whether engineering, business, law, philosophy or anything else. Our Subject Study Guide offers subject-specific information for over 50 fields of study. No matter where your interests may lie – from Agriculture to Web Design and everything in between - we have information to help. Learn More
Application Process
The application process for US colleges and universities can be extensive and confusing, and many international students are intimidated by the number of steps required. From SATs, TOEFL and other tests, to essay writing, credential evaluation and more, we have created an easy-to-follow timeline and breakdown to help you through the application process. Learn More
Financial Aid for the USA
Financing an international education is not easy, and our financial aid resources are always popular. With tips on planning, a comprehensive international scholarship database, an award-winning international financial aid blog, and custom-built international student loan application, we can help you manage your finances effectively while studying in the USA. Learn More
Religious Schools in the US
International students looking for a unique, religious experience will soon learn that there are many religious schools spread throughout the United States. Whether you are looking for a Catholic university, a Bible college or any other affiliation, we can help you research and find the perfect institution that combines spirituality with a degree in the US. Learn More
Online Degree Programs
Many schools now offer their students the opportunity to earn a degree online from anywhere in the world. For many students that cannot afford to leave home for years, online learning is the only way to earn a US degree. Learn the advantages and disadvantages of completing an online degree in your chosen field of study. Learn More
Graduation
You have many choices to make after you graduate. Will you take advantage of optional practical training and look for a job? Or do you plan to continue on with your education by seeking an advanced degree? We can help focus your research and thinking on the next step for you to take on your educational and career journey. Learn More
Community Colleges in the US
If you want to become an international student inside the US but can’t meet the high cost and requirements of universities, consider a community college for your first two years. Community colleges offer students a great education at a fraction of the cost and are a great way for students around the world to begin their journey of studying in the US. Get more information on community colleges and if they’re a good option for you. Learn More
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