Studying In USA - Master-Pieced

USA - Land of Opportunities

Whether you are starting to explore the possibility of traveling to study in the USA one day or you have the opportunity to come study in the USA, these resources will help you as you prepare for your studies here in the USA.

“A wise man will make more opportunities than he finds.”
— Francis Bacon

“A basic element of the American dream is equal access to education as a lubricant of social and economic mobility.”
— NIcholas Kristof, Journalist

Prospective Students

6 steps to get an opportunity to study in America

1. Research your options

Postsecondary education includes six degree levels. These levels include associate, bachelor, first-professional, master, advanced intermediate, and research doctorate. The U.S. system does not offer a second or higher doctorate, but does offer postdoctoral research programs.

2. Find an educational advising center in your country

Worldwide centers give international students advice on higher education. They can also help students find study opportunities in the United States.

College Navigator – Find and compare colleges by location, type of institution, programs, majors, and more.
Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-Certified School – Verify if the U.S. school that you are interested in is certified.
Stories by International Students – Learn about the experience of studying in the U.S. from other international students.

3. Finance your studies

The U.S. government does not provide loans, grants, or help with scholarships for international students. As an international student, you will have to find alternative sources of funding such as:

Your Home Country Education Authorities – Many countries offer foreign study funding for their own nationals. To receive funding, they must qualify for and be admitted to an approved program or institution abroad.
The International Admissions Office – Many U.S. academic institutions assist international students. Contact the international admissions office at the schools you are interested in to learn if you may be eligible for assistance.
Scholarships and Grants – Many organizations offer scholarships and grants for study and research. These organizations include private foundations, businesses, and nonprofits. Use the S. government’s free online scholarship search tool to find financial aid opportunities.
Exchange Programs Administered by the U.S. Government – These exchange programs provide assistance to qualified international students. You can get help from the Fulbright Program and other programs at all education levels.

4. Complete your application

In the U.S, colleges and universities establish their own admission requirements. These usually include minimum scores on third-party standardized tests. Follow the application requirements set by the admissions office of the school you’re interested in.

Foreign Diploma and Credit Recognition – The U.S. has no single authority that evaluates foreign credentials. Academic institutions and state licensing boards recognize these credentials based on their requirements. Academic evaluations include coursework, degrees, and professional licenses.
Standardized Tests – Some programs require students to take one or more standardized tests. Plan to take your tests in advance so your scores are available when you submit your application.
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) – Many schools require this test to measure your English language skills.

5. Apply for your VISA

Before you can apply for a student visa, you must be accepted by a SEVP-certified school.

Student Visas – Learn about the types of student visas, how to apply, fees, and required documents.
How to Prepare for Your Visa Appointment – You must pass an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Find out what you need to do before your appointment.

5. Apply for your VISA

Explore these resources while you plan your move to the U.S.

How to Navigate the U.S. Immigration System – Find out how to get started, arrive, stay, and leave the U.S.
Life in the U.S. – Learn about American holidays, states, and other useful information.
Working While You Study in the U.S. – Find information for international students who want to work while attending school in the U.S.
Training Opportunities in the U.S. – International students and new graduates can attend on-the-job training in the U.S. too. This training can supplement knowledge gained in their academic studies.
Foreign Visitors Driving in the U.S. – Get quick facts for short-term visitors, students, and residents about driving in the U.S.
English as a Second Language – Learn English and improve basic reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills.
Income taxes – Some international students may be subject to income tax

New & Existing Students

Are you ready for this new adventure?

Studying in America can be a great experience. There are so many opportunities to explore and a diverse range of subjects to pursue.

However, you’ll need to make some adjustments to this new environment of learning in order to be successful. Some of these adjustments may include: living and learning in a new language, managing the distance from home, living in an unfamiliar culture, getting acquainted with different religious and social norms, and eating unfamiliar foods.

But, the good thing is that most schools have great resources that support international students in the USA.

Here are some things to help you manage the transition to college and life in the U.S ;

1. Be open minded/curious and ready to learn and adapt in this new environment US is a very diverse place with people from all over the world. You’ll have to put a lot of bias aside to learn and know people and build your village. 2. Make use of the campus resources available to you 3. Explore community resources 4. Find ways to feel at home in a new place For example, find food, music, art, and other items to help you feel more at home. If you have a roommate from another country or culture, offer to share different types of food items. If you live in a dorm or apartment with a kitchen, plan meals or events with other people and learn from different cultures 5. Network Be intentional about making connections. It is very critical to your success. For more information about navigating college life in the United States as an international student, check out ISO – International Student Organization in the USA

World Education Services

World Education Services (WES) is a 501(c)3 non-profit social enterprise dedicated to helping international students, immigrants, and refugees achieve their educational and career goals in the U.S. and Canada. Master-Pieced has partnered with WES to help immigrants succeed in the USA.