Studying in the USA

Studying in the USA

Created by CoverMore

Why Study In The US?

Thousands of students from all over the world choose to study in the US. Here are a few reasons why:

• The US has one of the top university systems in the world.

• The US has an extremely wide variety of degree programs; it’s easy to find one that will suit your needs.

• A degree from a US university will make it easier for you to get a visa to live and work in the US later on.

• You’ll experience a new culture and make social and professional connections.

Deciding Where To Study In The USA

The United States is a big place with thousands of colleges & universities. Narrow down your choices by considering these criteria:

• Geographic Location (In which region of the US do you want to study?)

• Setting (Urban, small town or rural?)

• Size of School & Classes

• Academic Focus & Reputation of School

• Distance from Home Country

• Transportation to the Destination

• Transportation around Town (Will you need a car?)

Before Applying to a US University

Prepare yourself for the application process with these steps:• Take the required standardised tests.

– SAT or ACT› All universities require one or both of these exams, which cover

English vocabulary, reading and writing; as well as Maths.– SAT II Subject Tests

› Some universities require these tests to demonstrate expertise in content areas.

– TOEFL or IELTS› You must take these tests to demonstrate English proficiency if

you are from a non-English speaking country.• Provide financial information.

– You may need to provide bank statements, income records or other documents

– Check with each university for specific requirements • Understand the requirements for US students visas (more on this

later).

Handling the Cost

US universities are very expensive; yearly costs can range from $10,000 – more than $40,000. Be sure you have a plan for covering the costs.

• Research academic and other scholarships to help offset tuition and living expenses.

• Investigate whether you may qualify for financial aid.

Applying to Universities

Each university’s application process will vary. Typically, you will be required to submit:

• A university application (many use the Common Application)

• At least two essays, including a personal statement

• At least two letters of recommendation from people who know you well: teachers, employers, religious leaders etc.

• High school transcripts

• Standardised test scores

• Other materials relevant to your course of study:– Artwork, musical compositions, sports highlight reel, etc.

• An application fee

Applying for a Visa

After you are accepted, you will need to apply for a visa.

• Your university will send you an I-20 form

• Make an appointment at a local US embassy where you will:– Present your 1-20 form – Provide documentation showing that you will be able to cover the tuition and costs of

living in the US.

What University Life Is Like

Attending university in the US is both a great academic opportunity and a rich social experience.

• You will be able to arrange your own class schedule. – Often students can arrange a schedule in which they have classes only 3 days of the

week

• Classes may be large lectures with hundreds of students, or smaller seminars with greater opportunities to interact with the instructor.

• Most students take at least 4 classes per semester.

• Most students’ schedules are busy during the morning and just after lunch, but are free in the afternoons and evenings.

• American universities are very social settings with lots of organised and university-sponsored activities.

What To Expect From Other Students

• Americans are extremely friendly and helpful.

• Expect them to be fascinated with your accent.

• There will be plenty of student-run activities to join.

• Expect students to be just as passionate about their college sports teams as any professional sports team they may support.

Staying Safe in the US

Laws vary greatly from state-to-state in the US. Be sure to familiarise with state and local laws where you are living.

• The nationwide drinking age is 21. You may be arrested if you are caught drinking before the age of 21.

• Any run-ins with the law may affect your ability to stay enrolled and keep your visa.

• Medical care is very expensive: Health insurance is essential.

Staying Healthy in the US

You will need to have adequate health insurance the entire time you are in the US. Be aware of the following before you go:

• Americans do not have universal health care coverage.

• Without health insurance, you are responsible for the entire cost of your own medical care. Such costs can be astronomical.

• Most universities provide bare-minimum cover and the cost is included in your tuition/fees.

• It is important to supplement cover you receive from your university with your own health insurance policy.

• You can get a quote on health insurance cover from Cover-More Travel Insurance.

Cover-More Travel Insurance: www.covermore.com.au

Helpful Links

Here are several links that can help you find test centres, decide which universities to attend, and much more:

• http://sat.collegeboard.org

• http://www.educationusa.info

• http://www.collegeboard.org/

• http://collegecost.ed.gov/scorecard/

• http://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/

For additional information about a specific university, consult its website.

This study was commissioned by Cover-More Travel insurance as general information to assist people interested in travelling to the USA for study. It is not intended as an official document nor was it prepared by any US educational institution.

The views, opinions and positions expressed by the author and those providing comments are theirs alone, and do not necessarily reflect those of Cover-More Insurance.