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    Study in the USA

    Capital: Washington D. CLanguage: English, SpanishOfficial Currency: U S Dollar (USD)Climate- Varies from place to place, 4 distinct seasons. While summers can riseto 35 degree Celsius, winters can range from 4 degree Celsius to 15 degreeCelsius.

    Time Difference: Washington- 9 hrs 30 min behind India.

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    USA as a Study DestinationThe USA has the worlds largest international student population, with nearly 700,000students choosing to broaden their education and life experience in the United States.Nearly 4% of all students enrolled in higher-level education are international students,and the numbers are growing. From the mid-1950s, when international studentenrollment was only just reaching 35,000, international education in the USA has comea long way.

    In the 2009/2010 academic year the number of international students in the USA roseby 3% to an all-time high of 690,923. They choose the Unites States as the place theywanted to broaden their experience and continue their education, making the U.S. thetop choice over any other country in the world. But why do so many internationalstudents choose U.S. colleges and universities? Before you pack your bags, you shouldlearn 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 ExcellenceThe United States has one of the worlds finest university systems, with outstandingprograms in virtually all fields. At the undergraduate level, excellent programs exist intraditional disciplines, as well as in professional fields. At the graduate level, studentshave the opportunity to work directly with some of the finest minds in their field ofstudy, with the chance to become involved with exclusive research and educationalopportunities. U.S. degrees are recognized throughout the world for their excellence.

    Variety of Educational OpportunitiesThe 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 highereducation system in the U.S. has something for everyone. Some U.S. colleges anduniversities stress broad educational principles; others emphasize practical,employment-related skills; and still others specialize in the arts, social sciences ortechnical fields. As a result, you can often have a variety of options and educationalopportunities if you are looking for a place to study a particular field. You can usuallyfind several schools to choose from, no matter how specific or unusual your needs maybe.

    http://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/choosing-the-usa/#academichttp://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/choosing-the-usa/#academichttp://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/choosing-the-usa/#varietyhttp://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/choosing-the-usa/#cuttinghttp://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/choosing-the-usa/#opportunityhttp://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/choosing-the-usa/#flexibilityhttp://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/choosing-the-usa/#supporthttp://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/choosing-the-usa/#globalhttp://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/choosing-the-usa/#campushttp://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/choosing-the-usa/#campushttp://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/choosing-the-usa/usa-education-system/undergraduate.shtmlhttp://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/choosing-the-usa/usa-education-system/graduate.shtmlhttp://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/choosing-the-usa/usa-education-system/graduate.shtmlhttp://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/choosing-the-usa/usa-education-system/undergraduate.shtmlhttp://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/choosing-the-usa/#campushttp://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/choosing-the-usa/#globalhttp://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/choosing-the-usa/#supporthttp://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/choosing-the-usa/#flexibilityhttp://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/choosing-the-usa/#opportunityhttp://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/choosing-the-usa/#cuttinghttp://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/choosing-the-usa/#varietyhttp://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/choosing-the-usa/#academic
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    Cutting-Edge TechnologyUniversities in the U.S. pride themselves on being at the forefront of technology,research and techniques, and in making the best possible equipment and resourcesavailable to their students. Even if your field does not directly involve science orengineering, 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 tostay connected with researchers, teachers and experts in your field all over the world.

    Opportunity for Research, Teaching and TrainingYou may be able to gain valuable experience through teaching and/or research while youhelp 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 studentsto become teaching assistants to undergraduates and/or research assistants on specialprojects 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 orlaboratory. This practical component of your education will prove useful in your futurecareer, and may give you insights into your field that would not be possible throughcourse study alone.

    Flexibility Although many programs are highly structured in that specific courseworkrequirements must be met, you will generally be able to find a wide variety of coursechoices to meet those requirements. For example, liberal arts coursework for anundergraduate program will include (among others) classes in languages andmathematics, but you will often have several options from which to choose insofar aswhich language class you take, or which area of mathematics appeals most to yourinterests and skills.

    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, youcan emphasize ideas that are important to you, your field and your country.

    Support Services for International StudentsStudying in the United States is a rewarding experience, but navigating your waythrough day-to-day issues can be a challenge. Many international students find that thecollege and university international student office is a great help in helping them adaptto 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 studentservices that they provide

    http://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/financing/http://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/financing/
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    An orientation program upon your arrival is just the start of the many programs andbenefits 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 tocomplete your degree in the United States, this office often provides resume andemployment assistance as graduation nears. The international student office will be aninvaluable source of information and help as you make the transition into academic andcultural life in the United States.

    Global Education and Long-Term Career ProspectsExperience in an international setting is a marketable commodity. Many employers seekthe wide range of knowledge, adaptability and experience that international students

    acquire by studying in the United States. Companies in the U.S. are increasinglyseeking to become a strong presence in the global marketplace. They often look to hireemployees who not only have multi-cultural language skills, but those who can also helpcommunicate, 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 ofstrong international student graduates. Your long-term career prospects can be

    enhanced by your experiences through the development of self-confidence, independenceand cross-cultural skills - attributes which are in high demand with employersworldwide.

    Campus Life ExperienceWhen you continue your studies in the U.S., you are making a choice to broaden not onlyyour educational experience, but your cultural opportunities, as well. Whether youattend a small, private college in a small town or a university situated in the middle of alarge urban area, most universities offer a variety of student clubs and organizations tomatch the wide array of student interests. You can have the opportunity to immerseyourself in American culture, meeting new people and making new friends, throughdifferent organizations and associations.

    International students often find that the international student office is a good startingpoint for campus offerings, as well as the campus student center. Your time studyingabroad 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 andathletic activities that add new dimensions to your life.

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    USA Education SystemStudying in the United States has many advantages, but before you pick which programbest meets your needs, you will first want to learn about the U.S. education system.There is a wide range of choices and opportunities, and you should have all of theinformation you need to make a decision that is right for you.

    Role of U.S. Government in EducationUnlike in many other countries, the United States central government does not controlthe educational system. Rather, the higher education systems are either: 1) controlledby independent groups of people, or trustees (in the case of private schools); or 2) sharedbetween local and state governments (in the case of public schools). A major differencebetween these two types of schools is the cost. Private schools are generally much moreexpensive to attend than their public school counterparts, mainly because the privateschools must rely on sources outside of the government for their funding.

    Additionally, the U.S. Department of Education reviews and recognizes accreditingagencies that in turn ensure the quality of the school and their programs. Most collegesand universities have what is calledregional accreditation from an agency thatoversees that particular part of the country where the school is located. You will want tomake sure that the school you choose has accreditation, meaning that it has met specificacademic, administrative and financial standards. Accreditation also ensures that yourdegree will be recognized by other educational institutions and employers.

    Certain fields of study will also have program accreditation in addition to regionalaccreditation. For example, the Accrediting Board of Engineering and Technologyaccredits engineering programs. Your overseas educational adviser can help you find out

    if program accreditation exists in your field of study.

    What Are The Options to Earn a Degree?Education is mandatory in the United States until the age of 16, and the majority ofstudents do finish high school. After completing 12 years of primary and secondaryschool, students often begin post-secondary learning, or higher education. The first levelof higher education is undergraduate study; beyond an undergraduate degree a studentmay choose to receive a graduate education, also known as postgraduate work

    Application ProcessInternational students often underestimate the amount of time required to apply foradmission to a college or university in the United States. Avoid this mistake by setting aschedule for yourself that starts well in advance of the time that you plan to begin yourstudies. When setting your timetable, always remember that doing things early is thebest way forward. You need to allow yourself sufficient time to thoroughly research theinstitution and/or program that will best serve your academic and professional goals.Then you must meet the application deadlines of the universities to which you apply,

    which may be as much as 10 months before the beginning of the school term.

    http://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/choosing-the-usa/decision-making-process/#accreditationhttp://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/choosing-the-usa/decision-making-process/#accreditationhttp://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/choosing-the-usa/decision-making-process/#accreditationhttp://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/choosing-the-usa/decision-making-process/#accreditationhttp://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/choosing-the-usa/usa-education-system/undergraduate.shtmlhttp://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/choosing-the-usa/usa-education-system/graduate.shtmlhttp://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/choosing-the-usa/usa-education-system/graduate.shtmlhttp://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/choosing-the-usa/usa-education-system/undergraduate.shtmlhttp://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/choosing-the-usa/decision-making-process/#accreditation
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    The need for an early start holds true even if you are able to access electronicapplications on the Internet. University Web sites and other academic Internet sitesmay provide quick and convenient access to the required application forms, but you stillneed time to research your options, contact teachers and institutions to provide

    recommendations and transcripts, and sign up for required entrance exams in time tomeet application deadlines.

    Application TimelineThe application timeline will provide you with full, detailed information about the stepsyou should take and when you should take them in order to plan your approach tostudying in the USA. The plan starts 18 months before you wish to study, so you need toget planning soon!

    Standardized TestsMost U.S. colleges and universities require that you take one or more standardizedadmissions tests in order to gain entrance into their programs. We can provide you withfurther information about the various tests, and what you need to do in order to takeand complete the tests.

    Colleges, Universities, and Institutes in the US: The differenceUS is such a country which grants degree-awarding capacity to all the educationalinstitutions, be it a college or a university or an institute. Colleges and institutes in thestates are considered to be at par with universities. Commonly speaking, the onlydifference that makes a US college different from a US university is that colleges aregenerally smaller and usually offer only undergraduate degrees, while a university alsooffers graduate degrees. In US, an institute usually specializes in degree programs in agroup of directly related subject areas, so students take up degree programs offered atinstitutes of technology, institutes of fashion, institutes of art and design, and so on.

    Each college or university is further divided into different schools, such as the school ofarts and sciences or the school of management. Each school is responsible for the degreeprograms offered by the college or university in that area of study.

    http://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/application-process/timeline/http://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/application-process/timeline/http://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/application-process/standardized-tests/http://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/application-process/standardized-tests/http://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/application-process/standardized-tests/http://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/application-process/timeline/
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    number of credit hours are allotted for each course that a student undertakes. Usually,

    there is a course load of 6 to 12 credits per semester.

    The scale most widely used is a 4 point scale. At the bachelors level, the minimum

    passing grade is C, while at the masters level, it is B.

    Grade GPA (Grade Point Average) Undergraduate Graduate

    A 4 Excellent Excellent

    B 3 Good Average

    C 2 Average Passing

    D 1 Passing Fail

    F 0 Fail Fail

    Apart from these grades, there are some specials grades, as well. These special grades

    are mentioned below:

    An IP (In Progress) grade means that the student has not completed all the portions ofthe subject that is taken over multiple semesters to earn the regular grade. The IP is

    changed to a regular grade once all the portions are completed.

    An NC or NIC (Not Complete Or Incomplete) grade indicates that the student hasmissed some exams, assignments or homework that are important to evaluate

    performance.

    A W (Withdrawn) grade indicates that the student has decided not to enroll for thecourse after attending the classes for more than a predetermined period.

    The final GPA that a student graduates with, is not a simple average of scores, it is a

    weighted average. The weight is the number of credit hours. It is predetermined by the

    faculty, based on the course contents and is displayed in the course schedule.

    The final GPA = letter grade value * credit hours/ credit hours.

    For International Students, who get percentage scores, there are many ways to convert

    it into a GPA score. Some of the most common ways have been mentioned below:

    Method 1 to convert percentage score into GPA70 -100 = 4.0 (A)

    6070 = 3.0 (B)

    5060 = 2.0 (C)

    40 to 50= 1.0 (D)Less than 40 = F

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    Method 2 to convert percentage score into GPADivide by 100 and multiply by 4.

    For Example, if someone gets 90 percent, then, the GPA is, 90 divided by 100 and

    multiply by 4, which comes out to be 3.6

    Method 3 to convert percentage score into GPAMany Universities take the percentage score as the GPA score, with the only difference

    that they change the scale. So, if you get 8 points out of 10, your GPA would be 8, and

    scale would be 10. Similarly, if you get 80%, your GPA would be 80 and the scale would

    be 100.

    BS Application Procedure in USAThe students who go to pursue an undergraduate degree in Engineering are awarded

    with a Bachelors in Science (BS), unlike in India, where Engineering graduates areawarded with Bachelors in Engineering or Bachelors in Technology.

    For admission to an undergraduate program in the US, taking the SAT and the TOEFL

    is mandatory. Some universities may also ask the prospective students to take SAT2.

    You have to take the TOEFL and SAT for admission to an undergraduate course in the

    US. Some universities may ask you to take the SAT2 for certain courses.

    Download the application form: Most applicants first choose about 10 universities,download the application material or have it mailed, then, they narrow down to 5-6

    universities.

    Selecting a University: Selecting a university can be a tough task. Primarily, it dependson 2 major factors. Your scores and assessing how much you can spend.You can know about the score requirements of a certain university, by mailing the

    admissions office.

    The BS program in the US is a 4 year course. The course duration for associate degrees

    like Associate of Science (A.S.) is 2 years. The total expenses incurred by you can be

    anywhere between US Dollars 10000 to 30000 per year. So, for a 4 year course, it can be

    from anywhere between US Dollars 40000 to 120000. The expenses vary for different

    universities.

    There are very few scholarships at the undergraduate level, in the US.

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    The Factors to be kept in mind while short listing a university are:

    SAT, TOEFL, Class 10 and Class 12 scores. The program: There are 100s of undergraduate programs on offer, in the US. you

    should go for the one you find suits your needs.

    If 2 universities offer a similar course, look for factors like the popularity of thecourse, the faculty, acceptance ratio (number of students who applied to the

    number who actually got in)

    Cost Location Ease of admission Facilities for International Students

    Complete Your Application Form: Check the application form and fill out a photocopy ofthe form to ensure you don't make an error while filling out the application form that

    you have to send out.

    Attach all the documents: Make a checklist of all the documents to be attached alongwith your application form. For most BS program, some of the most common documents

    that you need to send are:

    Class 10th and 12th Mark sheets, attested by the school Principal Copies of your TOEFL and SAT scores Documents to prove your financial capability. Recommendation letters by your school teachers. The letters must describe you

    as a person, your strengths, weaknesses, your academic standing, motivation,

    leadership qualities, and personality and should be an honest assessment about

    you.

    Application feeBear in mind that the mailing the documents could take about 8-10 days, so do mail the

    documents accordingly.

    Prepare and apply for a visaYou will need to put together a list of documents before going for a visa. These are

    normally, your I-20 Form, financial documents, Affidavit of Financial Support, Passport,

    Visa application form, among other things.

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    An SOP asking you to explain the reasons why you seek transfer to a USuniversity, your performance during your course of study and other personal

    details.

    Application feeYou also have to mention whether you are applying as a fresher (1st year student) or

    continuing your education from where you left in your home country. For continuing

    your education, you need a minimum number of credits, which vary from one university

    to another. To know more about the top universities in the US, click here.

    Please note that while the process of transfer itself is easy, it is difficult to get through

    to the best universities because of the competition. Hence, it becomes essential for you to

    make your application strong.

    BA Degree in the USApart from aBachelors degree in Science (B.S. or S.B.), the universities in the US offer

    a Bachelors degree in Arts (B.A.) as well. The Bachelors degree in Arts, like the B.S.

    degree, has many foreign takers. There are a few differences in the B.A. degree offered

    in the US and that offered in countries like India. Through this article, we have tried to

    list those differences and have tried to bring to light the curriculum and course

    requirements for the B.A degree offered in the US.

    The B.A. course, in most cases is comprised of general education, core, major, and

    elective requirements. In many programs, students can select specific concentrations

    within a degree program or they can opt for a general program. Students seeking a

    Bachelor's degree may also elect a "minor". Any course that is not used to fulfill core or

    major requirements is known as a minor. So, you can study more subjects than just

    completing your degree.

    Some of the B.A. programs in the US are: Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration Bachelor of Art in Education Information Technology Legal Studies Management Psychology Sociology Travel and Tourism Management

    Another difference between the B.A. program in the US and that in countries like India

    is the course duration. The B.A. program in the US in four years in duration, while that

    in countries like India, it is three years in duration.

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    The course curriculum is divided into General Education and Core subjects. A student

    must earn the minimum number of credits in both, General as well as Core education to

    obtain a degree.

    General Education in the B.A program in the US includes subjects like: English Composition Social Sciences Mathematics History Humanities Literature Political Science

    While the core courses vary, depending on the course that one has undertaken.

    Best Engineering Colleges in the USU.S. News surveyed 198 programs and used the information to rank the top engineering

    schools.(US. News Ranking of Top Engineering Colleges 2010)1.Massachusetts Institute of Technology2.Stanford University2.University of California Berkeley4.California Institute of Technology5.Georgia Institute of Technology5.University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign7.Carnegie Mellon University7.University of Michigan Ann Arbor9.Cornell University9.Purdue University West Lafayette9.University of Texas Austin

    http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/web.mit.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/web.mit.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/www.stanford.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/www.stanford.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/berkeley.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/berkeley.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/www.caltech.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/www.caltech.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/www.caltech.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/www.gatech.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/www.gatech.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/www.gatech.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/illinois.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/illinois.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/illinois.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/www.cmu.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/www.cmu.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/www.umich.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/www.umich.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/www.cornell.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/www.cornell.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/www.cornell.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/www.purdue.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/www.purdue.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/www.purdue.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/www.utexas.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/www.utexas.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/www.utexas.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/www.utexas.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/www.purdue.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/www.cornell.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/www.umich.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/www.cmu.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/illinois.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/www.gatech.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/www.caltech.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/berkeley.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/www.stanford.edu/http://www.indiaeducation.net/studyabroad/USA/web.mit.edu/
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    Academic Calendar in the USThe Academic Calendar in the US is almost the same for all universities, but initially, a

    foreign student might take time to adjust to the schedule. Normally, the academic year

    runs from early September to the end of May. The year maybe divided into 2 halves of

    18 weeks each, called the semesters, or 3 parts of 12 weeks each, called the trimesters.Midway through the course, many teachers post mid-term grades so that students can

    gauge their progress.

    In addition to this, universities have six- to eight-week summer terms, which are

    optional. These terms help students get through their course faster, or reduce the

    workload during the term or help complete courses that they could not complete during

    the regular term.

    Some of the activities that keep the students occupied are:

    Selecting courses Securing and settling into housing Joining fraternities

    There are 2 term breaks. One, at the time of Christmas (Two-to-Four weeks), and the

    other, around March-April (One week).

    International Nights and mixers, where both, foreign and U.S. students are invited,

    can be a great way to meet new people and learn more about your surroundings.

    Students should apply early enough to give themselves ample time to complete the

    formalities. Students should note that the Embassies and Consulates are able to issue

    your student visa 120 days or less, in advance of the course of study registration date.

    The Department of Homeland Security regulation requires that all initial or beginning

    students (students just joining a course) enter the U.S. 30 days or less in advance of the

    course of study start/report date as shown on the Form I-20.

    In case a student wishes for an early entry into the US, he must obtain a visitor visa. A

    prospective student notation will be shown on his/her visitor visa and the traveler will

    need to make the intent to study clear to the U.S. immigration inspector at port of entry.

    Before beginning any studies, he or she must obtain approval for a change to Exchange

    Visitor status, filing Form I-539.

    The different programs in the US namely, Bachelor in Science (BS), MBA and Master'sin Science (MS) follow a more or less similar calendar.

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    Funds for Higher Education in the USSince the tuition fee is higher as compared to that in the Indian Institutes, most people

    look for fee waivers of some kind. The most common ways of fee waiver are associateship

    (TA/RA/GA), tuition waivers and fellowships.

    1. Fellowships: Fellowships are grants given to graduate and post-graduatestudents. They are awarded by universities/institutions private organizations

    and even by the government.

    2. Associateship: Associateship normally consists of teaching and researchactivities. Students can work for a maximum of 20 hours per week. Teaching

    associateship largely consist of taking classes, whereas research associateship

    deal with research related work.

    3. Scholarships: Scholarships are granted to students based on academic excellence,or, in some cases, factors like ethnic background or even financial need. The

    amount for each scholarship varies. Scholarships can be awarded through the

    university or a private source.

    4. Tuition Fee Waiver: This means that the tuition fee is waived off for students.However, fees for the use of university facilities like the laboratories, library and

    other activities have to be paid my the student. A tuition waiver is frequently

    awarded in conjunction with a scholarship or teaching/research Associateship.

    5. On campus Jobs: Apart from the above funding opportunities, you can even earnmoney while you are at the university by taking up an on campus job, like

    writing for the campus magazine. On campus jobs don't have a tuition waiver.

    US Visa Application ProcedureLike with every country, a visa is a must for foreign nationals, traveling to the US.

    Different types of visa are available for people with different needs. People who want to

    study or conduct research at an accredited U.S. College or University must apply for an

    F-1- Student Visa, at a US Embassy or Consulate. You can apply for a student visa for

    the US, only after you receive the requisite I-20 or DS-2019 form from the US accredited

    institution/university that you have been accepted to. Also, you need to present a

    sufficient proof of financial support. The F-1 visa holders may stay in the US for the full

    length of their academic program plus 60 days. F-1 holders cannot work in the United

    States.

    Application Procedure To apply for a US Student Visa, you need to book an interview at a US

    Consulate.

    At the entrance, you need to show your HDFC bank receipts At the next counter, you need to submit your I20, GRE/TOEFL/GMAT/Other

    Accepted Scorecard.

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    After you enter the main Hall, you will be sent to the Finger Print section, whereyou need to give your finger prints.

    Next, you will be sent to one of the visa counters, where you will be interviewed.There will be a glass wall separation between you and the interviewer. The

    candidates have to stand (no seating) at the time of the interview, which may last

    from 5-30 minutes.

    List of Sponsors: An applicant cannot sponsor their own Primary Education and their education in

    Private Institutions but can sponsor their education in Under Graduate Courses,

    Vocational Courses, Masters, Doctorates and Foundation Courses.

    An applicant's parents can sponsor them for Primary Education, PrivateInstitutions, Under Graduate Courses, Vocational Courses, Masters and

    Doctorates and Foundation Courses.

    An applicant's grand parents can sponsor them for Primary Education, PrivateInstitutions, Under Graduate Courses, Vocational Courses, Masters and

    Doctorates and Foundation Courses.

    An applicant's spouse can sponsor them for Independent Schools, MastersPrograms and Doctorates only.

    An applicant's brother or sister (by blood) cannot sponsor Under Graduate andPG certificate courses, but can sponsor their Primary Education, Education in

    Private Institutions, Vocational Courses, Masters and Doctorates and

    Foundation Courses.

    An applicant's uncle or aunt can sponsor their Primary Education, PrivateInstitutions, Masters and Doctorates and Foundation Courses.

    An applicant can take bank loans for any course other than Vocational Courses. An applicant's employer can sponsor their Vocational Course and Foundation

    Courses.

    Extended Familycan only sponsor an applicant for masters and doctorateprograms.

    US Visa Requirements for Indian StudentsIf you have received your appointment for visa interview at an US Consulate for the

    purpose of studying in any US college, then you need to remember to carry some

    important at the time of the interview. We, at NNE have compiled a list of important

    documents that you might need to produce at the time of the interview.

    Appointment Letter Visa Appointment Letter which you can get by getting visa appointment on the

    web

    HDFC bank Receipt

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    Signed DS-160. Barcode Printout CEAC Barcode printout. SEVIS fee Proof Proof of payment of SEVIS Fee Receipt I-901, if applicable. (You can carry the

    print out taken of I-901 form. In case if you receive the original I901 form, you

    can carry that.). Read article on How to pay SEVIS fee?

    2X2 inch photograph (not more than six months old) Passport that is valid for at least six months beyond your interview date I20 and Letter of admission (sign on your I20 on the specified place) Original Bachelor degree transcripts or high school diploma, along with mark

    sheets from previous institutions attended.

    Test Scores GRE / TOEFL / IELTS / GMAT score sheets Work Experience certificate Financial Documents

    Proof of your financial situation can be anyone of the following:

    Financial aid from the university in the form of a scholarship, fellowship,assistantship (TA/GA/RA), grant or a loan. In case the applicant chooses

    to show this, they shall require a confirmation that a similar financial aid

    will be available for the entire duration of the program.

    Financial aid from the student's home government if the govt. issponsoring for your studies.

    Financial aid from employer/private organizations. Applicant's personal resources. Funds from close family members. Bonds, Bank balances, Lands, Fixed assets like agricultural lands, houses,

    plots. Fixed assets will give very positive impression to visa officer

    Work Permit for Non Resident Students in USAn F1 visa holder is legally allowed to work 20 hours every week. F1 visa holders,

    suffering from economic hardships can secure off-campus jobs by acquiring an

    employment authorization document (a work permit) before taking up any off-campus

    employment.

    The Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is issued by the USCIS, which

    authorizes a non-resident to work in the US for a specific period of time.

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    F1 Visa Holders are allowed to apply for an EADwhen Foreign Students with F-1 status seeking Optional Practical Training (OPT) in a

    job directly related to their studies.

    F-1 students looking for off-campus employment owing to economic hardships.EAD Application Process The EAD applicant must fill Form I-765 via mail and send it to the USCIS center

    that serves the location where he/she resides.

    The applicant must also submit other documents like, photos, copy of form I-94,copy of last EAD (in case the applicant holds one) and fee

    The applicant must apply for a new EAD, six months prior to the termination of his

    original EAD. If the USCIS does not approve an EAD application within 90 days (within

    30 days for an asylum candidate), the applicant may ask for an Interim EAD document

    A Student's Guide to Adjusting in a Foreign EnvironmentAmerica has over 2,500 universities, which educate many students, every year. Because

    of the facilities available, and large number of universities and programs on offer, no

    wonder it is one of the most preferred places to study. In the academic year 2008-09,

    more than 2,00,000 students from India and China alone went to the US to study.

    Because of this diversity, the American culture has been enriched by the values of

    almost all cultures. This diversity helps an international student adjust to theenvironment, since everyone can find something or the other similar to his country, for

    example there are temples, mosques, ethnic restaurants, so that one finds a part of his

    homeland in the US.

    Most universities conduct orientation sessions for new students to help them getacquainted with the new surroundings. International students can always seek help

    from the admissions office or the international student office at the U.S. University you

    with to attend.

    Many Universities have full time therapists who have been trained to work withInternational students, to find a solution to the challenges these students might face.

    To adjust to the new environment, observe things and be prepared to learn, both, inside

    and outside your classroom. Interact with people, introduce yourself, make friends and

    discover as much as you can.

    International Nights and mixers, where both, foreign and U.S. students are invited, canbe a great way to meet new people and learn more about your surroundings. Many

    times, topics include immigration, academic advisers, computer and library resources,

    telephone services, public safety, medical services, and banking and transportationoptions. Universities also plan trips to local attractions. The Student Activities Centers

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    are the places where you may learn about a lot of different activities and programs, such

    as the college editorial staff, outdoor clubs, chorus, athletic teams and a lot of other

    things. You may choose things as per your liking.

    Some Common Differences in British and American EnglishBritish English AmericanEnglishPetrol Gas

    Lift Elevator

    Flat Apartment

    Chips Fries

    Jumper Sweater

    Wardrobe Closet

    Trainers Sneakers

    Number Plate License PlateTap Faucet

    Football Soccer

    Estate Agent Realtor

    C.V. (CurriculumVitae)

    Resume

    Autumn Fall

    Dinner Jacket Tuxedo

    Canteen Cafeteria

    Holiday Vacation

    First floor Second floorStaff Room Teachers Lounge

    Caretaker/porter Janitor

    Knowing yourself is very important. You should know who you are, what you arecomfortable with, how you might react to a situation and how much are you willing to

    learn. Develop new friendships. It has been found that the International Students like

    you must be more assertive if a friendship is to develop.

    In many places in the US, a simple hi is considered very friendly. Americans feel that

    it is very outgoing and welcoming. These greetings are a social custom which has littleto do with friendship. The person may become your friend eventually, but it is important

    not to misunderstand the nature of your verbal exchange.

    The easiest and the most preferred way to communicate in the US is through e-mails.E-mails and the Internet are considered the cheapest and fastest way to transfer

    information. However, try to resist the urge to spend too many hours in front of the

    computer; keep in mind that your visit to the U.S. may not last forever, so go out and

    socialize with others to get a full American experience. Make sure you are open to new

    experiences!

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    Socialization is one of the most important aspects of your international experience. It isessential for the development of individuals who can participate and function within

    their societies, as well as for ensuring that a societys cultural features will be carried on

    through new generations. Socialization continues throughout an individuals lifetime,

    and your experience in studying abroad will challenge you to develop your "people skills"

    even further.


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