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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction

Types of educational institutions in the US

Levels of education in US

Admission criteria to study in the US

Tests for admission in the US

What do colleges in the US look for in an applicant?

Prepare your application package

Cost of higher studies in the US

Financial aid for masters and doctoral programmes in the US

Working while studying in the US

10

Job opportunities in the US after studies

10

Visa requirements for the US

10

Other useful resources

13

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Introduction
The United States remains the premier destination for international students because it has something for
everyone. The US Universities offer a vast number of academic options and it is always possible to find the one
programme that is a perfect match for your interests. One can focus on a rather narrow area of a discipline or study
a varied group of subjects as per ones requirements. The variety, flexibility and quality of an American education
are the factors that draw students to the US in large numbers from everywhere.

Types of Educational Institutions in the US

There are nearly 6,000 postsecondary career and technical schools, and about 4,000 degree-granting institutions of
higher education in the United States. To keep matters simple, we have classified them according to the highest
degree/diploma they award.
Post Secondary career and technical schools
These schools provide short training courses, and sometimes specialised degree programmes. The vast majority of
career and technical schools are private and many of them are operated on a for-profit basis. Career and technical
schools are generally approved and regulated by state governments. They dont provide any degrees, only
certificates.
Community and Junior Colleges
Community colleges provide a variety of educational services, ranging from adult and community education
services, through post secondary career and technical education, to academic and professional studies at the
university level permitting transfer to higher level studies such as the bachelors degree. Most such colleges offer
Associate degrees. Almost all of them have transfer arrangements with local public and private colleges and
universities (called articulation agreements) that permit students who have completed approved courses of study
to transfer to bachelors level studies with up to 2 years of academic credit. Of late, some community colleges have
begun to offer accredited bachelors degree programmes as well.
Colleges and Universities
There are many famous US colleges and universities. Institutions that offer the bachelors and higher degrees are
often called senior colleges or universities. These may be single campus institutions, multi-campus institutions or
systems comprising several independent institutions.
The academic calendar in the US begins normally in August or September. It is generally divided into 2 semesters:
Fall semester August/September through December
Spring or Winter Semester January through May
May through August is the time when colleges close for summer. In this period also students are able to take
classes as they are offered in many schools. Each academic semester is of generally 14 weeks duration. The more
selective programmes offer admission only once a year, i.e., at the start of the academic year the Fall semester!
Often scholarship and funding decisions are also made in fall for the entire year.

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Popular institutions among Indian students in the US

State

Institutes popular with foreign students

California

University of Southern California, Los Angeles

Texas

University of Texas at Austin

New York

New York University; Columbia

Illinois

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Pennsylvania

University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia

Ohio

Ohio State University, Columbus

Massachusetts

Harvard University, Cambridge

Michigan

University of Michigan at Ann Arbor

New Jersey

Rutgers, State of NJ - New Brunswick

Indiana

Purdue University, West Lafayette

Source: Institute of International Education

Levels of Education in US
There are various types of degrees offered by the institutions in the US. The major among them are mentioned
below:
The Associate Degree
The Associate degree in the US is the first academic or professional degree that can be awarded in US post
secondary education. Holders of this degree may apply to enter higher degree programmes at the Bachelors level,
but are not qualified to apply directly for advanced (graduate) studies programmes. This degree is an award that
requires the completion of an organised programme of study of at least 2 but less than 4 years of full-time
academic study. Most associate degrees earned in academic programmes are Associate of Arts (AA) or Science (AS)
degrees; those earned in professional, technical or terminal programmes are frequently called Associate of Applied
Science (AAS) degrees.
Bachelors Degrees
The Bachelors degree in the US requires the completion of four to five years of full-time equivalent college level
work. However, many degrees take longer to complete, including those in architecture and other fields; and given
the structure of academic programmes of study, a bachelors degree may be achieved in less than 4 years by highly
qualified and motivated students.

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The undergraduate degree programmes in the US usually include requirements for breadth as well as depth of
study, and students will fulfil what are called liberal or general studies requirements for introductory knowledge in
several subjects as well as a concentration in one or more subjects, called a major.
Masters Degree
The Masters Degree in the US is the first graduate-level qualification in the US higher education system. These
degrees generally take two years to complete, but the time period may be shorter or longer depending on how the
degree programme is structured (12-month versus 9-month academic years, for example), whether the student is
enrolled full-time or part-time, the degree requirements and the prior preparation of the student.
The Research Doctorate (PhD)
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and its equivalent titles, represent the highest academic qualification in the US
education system. The degree is awarded after the student has fulfilled the preliminary advanced study that leads
to doctoral candidacy and successfully completed and defended the independent research presented in the form of
the doctoral dissertation (thesis).
There are many Indian students who do PhD from the US. In the 2011/12 academic year, 100,270 students from
India were studying in the United States (down 3.5% from the previous year). India is the second leading place of
origin for students coming to the United States.
Academic Level: The majority of Indian students study at the graduate level. In 2011/12,
their breakdown was as follows:
Students

Course Level

13%

Undergraduate

58.90%

Graduate students

1.50%

Other

26 .7%

OPT (Optional Practical Training)

Historical trends: The number of Indian students in the US in 2011/12 dropped 3.5% compared to the previous year,
marking two consecutive years of decline.

Admission criteria to study in the US

For admission to undergraduate programs, you are expected to hold secondary school qualifications that would
admit you to higher education in your own country. Colleges expect students to have English, Mathematics, a
language, a science subject and one other subject, plus an aptitude test. This is most often the Scholastic Aptitude
Test (SAT).
For admission to graduate programmes, again the basic qualification is an undergraduate degree. However, Indian
degrees are often of three years duration while US degrees are at a minimum of four years duration. Hence there
are many programmes that will require an additional year of study in a Masters programme or the completion of a
Masters programme for a student to be eligible for admission. This is what is commonly referred to as the 16th
year requirement!

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Undergraduate admissions criteria in the US

The undergraduate admissions process in the US relies on a number of factors but the basic criteria used to
evaluate students are:
Academic potential and performance: As evidenced by the students class rank and marks, the rigour of the
programme pursued and the reputation of the school.
Strengths and weaknesses as represented by the applicants participation in extra-curricular activities
Performance in standardised admissions tests administered to students globally
The first two factors are rather subjective as they represent great diversity courses and grading standards vary
from school to school and region to region.
Graduate admissions criteria in the US
Again the admission process in the US relies on a number of factors but the basic criteria used to evaluate students
are:
Academic potential and performance: As evidenced by the students performance in his or her
undergraduate education, class rank and marks, the rigour of the programme pursued and the reputation
of the school.
A number of science and arts-based programmes require experience in the area of study you are interested
in such as in projects and internships that convey your focus, achievement and dedication.
Strengths and weaknesses as represented by the applicants participation in extra-curricular and
community activities
Performance in standardised admissions tests administered to students globally; these tests vary depending upon
the programmes you apply to. Applications to Business schools demand GMAT scores while those to MS and MA
programs in the US require GRE scores. Professional programmes require yet more specific scores.
Some programmes like the MBA specifically require you to have worked in the industry for a minimum of two
years.

Tests for admission in the US

Often it is the scores on standardised tests that help colleges compare the academic achievements of students from
different schools in different educational systems; many US schools use these test scores to sift through the
thousands of applications and then start reviewing applications in detail. Hence, it is very important to score very
well in these standardised tests. In some schools, the scores are also used after the admissions process to place
students in classes.

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The most frequently examinations that international students need to take are the English proficiency tests of
which the TOEFL, IELTS and PTEA are the best known. However, there are schools that may accept other indicators
of your English and analytical proficiency, such as certain scores on the:
English Language Proficiency Test (ELPT)
Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)
Certificate in Advanced English (CAE)
Michigan English Language Assessment Battery (MELAB)
Advanced Placement International English Language test (APIEL)
SAT critical reading section
ACT English section
SAT
GRE
GMAT

Popular courses among Indian students

Field of Study

Percent

Business and Management

14.1

Engineering

36.7

Physical and Life Sciences

11.4

Social Sciences

3.2

Mathematics & Computer Science

21.7

Fine & Applied Arts

1.3

Health Professions

4.8

Intensive English Language

0.1

Education

0.6

Humanities
Source: Open Doors Report 2011/21012

0.7

What do colleges in the US look for in an applicant?

Specific colleges in the US may have different admissions criteria but they are all ultimately seeking the same thing-a well-rounded, capable student who will contribute to the school through his academic career in the school and
even after that. The criteria vary for undergraduate and graduate students.

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The first thing to know is that most US programmes have a deadline by which you have to make your application for
admission and generally, this deadline is at almost 10 months to a year before you hope to join the programme!
You are expected to have completed all testing requirements by the time your applications are submitted. Hence, if
desirous of a good US education start your preparation at least two years ahead.
Keep in mind that your application is your marketing tool, so presentation is very important. You will not get the
opportunity to convey your strengths in person. Hence, make the best impression through excellently packaged
information that highlights your strengths and camouflages your weaknesses.
There is no single most important criterion for admission. The decision is made on the basis of your entire packet
previous academic background, test scores, work experience and essays, all of which together are meant to give the
admissions committee an overview of your capabilities, interest, and accomplishments. While requirements vary
from university to university, organisation of thought, legibility and vocabulary are very important.

Prepare your application package

Cover letter
Checklist of documents
Application form: Most schools require an online application now. While your application can be submitted
online instantaneously, you need to have sent the rest of the documents like transcripts, letters of
recommendation etc. through courier. The timing has to be such that they receive the packet and
application before the deadline.
Application fee
Rsum
Essays: This is a very important part of your application as it gives you the opportunity to write whatever
you wish. So be judicious! Strictly adhere to the given topic and keep it simple. Dont repeat information
from other parts of your application. Repetitions are indeed boring! Keep in mind that bad English prose
and grammatical errors put readers off. Stick to the word limit.
Transcripts: Applicants are required to submit official records from each academic institution attended.
Official records are original documents issued by the institution that bear the actual signature of the
registrar in ink and the seal of the issuing institution. Certified copies and notarized documents are not
acceptable. To be considered as official, some schools request that these documents be sent directly to
them from the issuing institution. Grades must not be converted to a US scale. Some MBA programmes do
not require transcripts immediately but ask for them later.
Test scores

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 Letters of recommendation: Recommendations are used to support and reinforce the rest of your
application. This information from your recommendation needs to match up with the information you have
provided. Negative recommendations can invalidate your claim. Do not take letters of recommendation
from a relative or a friend. Take it from someone like a teacher or supervisor who can comment on your
potential and highlight your achievements.
Proof of finance: Affidavit of Support from sponsor and Bank Statement

Cost of higher studies in the US

The higher studies cost in the US is divided into tuition and living expenses. A US education is rather expensive and
there is great variation in the costs between different schools. Also, there are only a few scholarships available.
Since the competition to get into top schools is immense, there are almost no scholarships (which are merit-based)
available for international students. The top and many other schools allow you to apply for financial aid which is
need-based.
Need-based aid is of two types applying for one does adversely impact your chances of admission if you are an
international student. Stanford states clearly that if you are an international student and are applying for financial
aid, it will have an impact on your admission. Then there are a few, read very few, schools which are said to be
need-blind. Harvard and MIT fall in this category. Your request for aid is treated separately and hence your
admission decision is based totally on the credentials you present and your competition.
At the graduate level, there are many scholarships and assistantships. The former is awarded with no strings
attached and the latter pays the tuition and a stipend but expects students to put in up to 20 hours of work
according to their commitment.

Financial aid for Masters and Doctoral programmes in the US

In general, financial aid opportunities are more for Doctoral and Masters programmes than undergraduate
programmes in the US. These could be in the form of teaching or research assistantships, graduate assistantships,
fellowships, tuition waivers and internships.
But theres tough competition for all types of financial aid. The student should request financial aid information
from the university at the initial stage of the application. One has to read very carefully the instructions and
information related to financial aid. The student has to make it clear to the university that he/she is applying for
financial aid while filling out the application forms for admission. The criteria for selecting applicants for the
different forms of financial aid vary.

Scholarships
Flagship Scholarship

Award/Key Benefits

Remarks

Fulbright-Nehru Fellowships
for Leadership Development
www.usief.org.in

J-1 visa support; round-trip

airfare from fellows home city
and related costs; accident
and sickness coverage

For Masters programme in the area of

Business Administration, Communication
Studies, Economics, Environment and Public
Administration

Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral

Monthly stipend, round trip

PhD scholars in various disciplines in India

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and Professional Research

Fellowship
Source: USEIF

air fare, applicable allowances,

accident and sickness coverage

willing to conduct research and gain

practical work experience in US

Working while studying in the US

The US student visa does not allow students to work except for very limited hours on campus. Students are allowed
to work 20 hours a week. The minimum wage is between $ 7-8 an hour which isnt enough to manage living
expenses, as the cost of living is anywhere between $10,000-30,000 a year, approximately $ 840 2,500 a month.
However, places such as Texas, Ohio, Georgia, Iowa are comparatively cheaper places to live in. But you cannot
work off campus unlike in other countries such as the UK, Canada and Australia. But there is a provision for
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for some students.
CPT is an employment option available to F-1 students (academic students) where the practical training
employment is considered to be an integral part of the curriculum or academic programme. According to the
immigration regulations, this employment may be an internship, cooperative education job, or any other work
experience that is either required for the degree (as defined in the course catalogue) or for which academic credit is
awarded.
Many US universities offer partial to full funding to outstanding undergraduate students. Need-based scholarships,
merit-based scholarships and sports scholarships in the US would be some of the options for undergraduate
students.

Job opportunities in the US after studies

Students completing degree programmes can go for Optional Practical Training (OPT) for 12 months. OPT has been
increased from 12 to 29 months for qualified F-1 non-immigrant students in the field of Science, Technology,
Engineering, or Mathematics. But if you are a History student then chances of getting an OPT are few. And, of
course, theres no denying that companies across the globe recognise a US college degree.

Visa Requirements for the US

Foreign citizens who wish to study or participate in an exchange programme in the US need to apply for a nonimmigrant visa. The offer of admission to an accredited programme in the US does not guarantee a student visa!
The dreaded visa interview has to be taken.
A non-immigrant is someone admitted to the US temporarily for a specific purpose; who fully intends to return to
the host country upon completion of that purpose.
The United States issues different types of visas to non-immigrants. Students heading to the United States to
pursue full-time academic studies are usually admitted in the F-1 category that includes academic students in
colleges, universities, seminaries, conservatories, academic high schools, other academic institutions, and in
language training. People who will be participating in an exchange visitor programme in the United States need to
apply for the J visa. Students, who want to study or train at nonacademic institutions such as vocational schools,
need to apply for an M-visa. The F-1 visa is the focus of this article.
As per the Immigration and Nationality Act, US law requires consular officers to view every visa applicant as an
intended immigrant until the applicant proves otherwise. The onus of proving that you are a bona fide student and

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plan to return to your country upon completion of the programme lies on you during the interview. All F-1
applicants have to appear for an interview as they are required to submit two electronic fingerprint impressions.
The Immigration and Nationality Act defines the F-1 non-immigrant alien as one who has not abandoned his
residence in a foreign country and who is a bona fide student coming temporarily and solely to the United States to
pursue a course of study at a recognised institution of education.
You are not allowed to take anyone with you for the interview. The officer who interviews you is highly trained and
has at his or her disposal only the facts that you furnish. No one can read your mind or guess your intent so it is
critical that you be alert and answer questions with confidence and support your assertions with appropriate
documents. However, it is not the documents that will get you a visa. More emphasis is paid on what and how you
answer questions rather than any papers that you are carrying. Documents are to support your statements. During
the interview, you must be prepared to demonstrate:
Academic preparation for the programme of your choice: This is demonstrated by the relevance of your
preparation to the course you would be pursuing in the US and by taking the tests that different US
academic programmes require.
Your financial capability to pay for your academic and other expenses in the US for the entire length of the
proposed study. The consular officer requires credible documentary evidence of readily available funds to
defray all expenses. A US education is rather expensive so you must be prepared to explain how you will
pay for the same.
Evidence of English Proficiency: This is mostly done by taking the TOEFL. However, of late, many
institutions have started waiving this requirement for Indian students who demonstrate this proficiency
through their marks.
Your ties (professional, financial, social) to India; your long-term career goals and how education in the
United States will help you in pursuing the same, will help in establishing credentials. You will generally be
spending a lot of money for this education especially in comparison to pursuing the same degree in India.
You will be required to justify why this education is so critical.
Also, because each students personal and academic situation is different; two students applying for same visa may
be asked different questions and for different documents. Your visa interview will typically last for five minutes but
can go up to 15 minutes! Be forthcoming in the interview. Dont try to give evasive answers, which will only help to
hurt your chances.
May, June, July, and August are the busiest months in most consular sections. So begin early and be prepared.

YOUR VISA CHECKLIST

Your passport (and your old passports)
Your application photo
The DS-160 barcode page (you will not need the full application)
Form I-120
The HDFC visa application fee receipts and SEVIS fee receipt
VFS appointment letter

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KEEP IN MIND:
It is advisable and appreciated if you send your scores as soon as possible.
Do not try cost cutting by sending the relevant couriers and dispatch documents by ordinary post. It might
take time. Send your applications through a good and reliable courier.
The application should be sent at least a week before the deadline given by the institute. Keep the receipt
safe and do keep a tab on it. By any chance, if the documents go missing, it is immaterial whose fault it is
you need the application to reach on time and to the right person.
All universities require an original Bank Certificate on the banks letterhead signed and stamped by the
manager, in order to issue an I-20. Some universities will not consider your application complete without
this certificate.
It is a mandatory to mention equivalent amount in US dollars. If your bank does not deal with a foreign
exchange, it may not write the equivalent amount, so you must mention the equivalent amount in your
cover letter.

TERMS YOU MUST KNOW:

Form I-20: It is a government form that is issued by the educational institutes once you are admitted to an
approved programme. This is the document that is carried for the visa interview.
It tells the US government that you are eligible for F-1 Student Status and certifies that the school is convinced
that you are or expect to be a bona fide student who will pursue a full course of study and that you have
enough money to support your study and you will be able to manage your living in the US without working
illegally or facing any financial hardships.
SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System): is a mechanism for electronic verification of
prospective student status. All I-20s issued by academic and vocational educational institutions are created
within this system. This information is then accessed by US consulates worldwide. There is a one-time SEVIS fee
which is separate from and in addition to the visa application fee.

FACTS TO REMEMBER:
Procedure to apply for the student visa begins not before 120 days of the commencement of the
academic programme
Your passport must have the validity for at least six months after your proposed date of entry into the
US
You are not allowed to arrive in the United States more than 30 days before the start of your
programme

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Other Useful Resources

How to apply to American Universities
5 step guide to choosing right college
Don't be trapped in fake US universities
Where and how to apply for a PhD?
US classroom is informal but rigorous
Get used to learning by doing in USA
Students enjoy freedom of choice
Study in US: Funding and employment opportunities
How to ace a visa interview

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