There are so many places to study abroad. So why choose to study in the United States? Here is a comprehensive guide to how you can grow personally, academically, and professionally at an American university.

Why choose to study in the United States?

A diverse country

The United States is a vast country. Here, you can see different climates, different perspectives, different cultures, and it is inclusive. In fact, most Americans have never left the state where they live in their lifetime. The vast territory and diverse perspectives have made the United States such a comprehensive country, and have also attracted many international students to study and explore.

"American dream"

The American Dream is a concept that Americans believe that anyone can start from a very low cost and improve their social status through hard work. Arnold Schwarzenegger, Oprah Winfrey, Jay Z are all real-life incarnations of the American Dream. Of course, you don't have to be a superstar to achieve this dream; you can also achieve it by studying in the United States! Many students come to the United States alone, perhaps with scholarship support, with a thirst for knowledge, to start their careers here, settle down, and their lives are completely changed.

The value of a U.S. university degree

Certificates issued by American educational institutions are highly recognized around the world, and the country's education system is well-recognized. Every year, American universities are ranked at the top of the world university rankings. Schools like Harvard, Stanford, and MIT are internationally renowned and very difficult to get into. However, the good news is that there are so many educational institutions to choose from in the United States that there is always one that is right for you!

Improve your English skills

If you want to improve your English language skills, the United States is one of the best study abroad destinations for you. You will need to reach a certain level of English to be admitted at the beginning; however, American universities will provide some support to help you further improve your English skills during your studies. Many schools also offer English language programs for specific purposes during the summer.

American Education System

The American education system may be slightly different from the Chinese education system. In any case, you need to know some basic information before applying, including: course duration and course structure. The following is a brief introduction to the American education system.

Education systems vary from country to country, and this can be reflected in the length of schooling, tuition fees, and even the technical terminology used in relation to education. Understanding the various differences can not only help you to clear up confusion during your study abroad preparations, but can also help you to answer key questions.

Here are some things you need to know about the U.S. higher education system:

• The duration of study for an undergraduate degree (such as Bachelor's or BA) is 4 years; the duration of study for a full-time postgraduate degree (sometimes also called "Postgraduate", such as Master's or MA) is 2 years. In the undergraduate stage, students will study a wide range of subjects in the first year, and in the second year, they will select a major or a sub-subject and study for another 3 years.
• Another option is to study for an associate degree at a smaller community college. This takes two years to complete. After two years, you can transfer to a university and study a related undergraduate program for another two years to get a bachelor's degree.
• The word "university" is synonymous with "college" and "school"; "going to class" does not only refer to attending lectures but also includes other types of courses.
• There are two enrollment seasons each year - Fall (starting at the end of August) and Spring (starting at the end of January). You need to contact the school to confirm the specific dates.
• You need to have a certain level of English proficiency. Most US universities require an average IELTS score of 6 (approximately). (Contact the university to confirm specific requirements)
• Course fees vary greatly based on the level of study, course and type of school. For example, medical and law degrees are generally more expensive, and higher ranked schools usually cost more. You should contact the school you are applying to for specific course fees. As a rough guide, undergraduate tuition fees are around $22,000-$28,000 per year, while postgraduate tuition fees are around $28,000-$38,000 per year.
• We recommend that you start researching study abroad materials at least two years in advance. You must confirm the exact application deadline. The fall semester usually ends around May, and the spring semester usually ends around December.

Apply to US universities

What is the right way to apply to American universities? This guide will tell you where to apply, how to write a good cover letter and the supporting documents you need. You must apply directly to the American university. Some universities also allow you to apply through the Common Application. Applying to American universities can feel a bit overwhelming, with so many things to focus on, such as GPA (usually based on your academic performance in your home country) and how to actively show your passion for the field you are applying to.

Cover letter

A cover letter is usually a personal statement or a short essay explaining why you are interested in this course. In the UK admissions system, the cover letter is an important part of the application process. You need to combine relevant examples from your life, which may have prompted your interest in this field or formed your current understanding of this field. The content can be: personal struggle, volunteer and work experience. However, this does not mean that you can simply discuss your love for this course, but also talk about why you want to study this course at this school. This requires you to do some research on a certain field, a certain university or even a specific college.

Tip: Remember, admissions officers read hundreds of applications, and you have to find a way to stand out. You can use your personality to make yourself stand out, but be sure to keep the tone of your application formal and professional.

Academic performance

You will need to provide evidence of your academic achievements to date so that the school can assess whether you meet the requirements of the course you have applied for. This process may require the translation of your documents by a qualified and credible translator.

Tip: Anything you can do to help ease the workload for admissions officers is worth a try. The number one problem for admissions officers is an incomplete application. So make sure you provide all the information they need so they can process your application as quickly as possible.

Entrance Exam

Admission test, also known as Aptitude test, tests the basic learning ability of students in higher education. Domestic students also need to take it. To study for an undergraduate degree in the United States, you need to take the SAT or ACT. You need to confirm which score the school you want to attend accepts more. For graduate programs, you need to take the GRE or GMAT. The latter GMAT is only for business courses. The GRE is for all other graduate programs. However, more and more schools also accept the GRE as an entrance exam for business courses.

Language Tests

You will need to prove that you have sufficient English proficiency to study in the United States. You will need to pass an English language test at a testing center in your home country. The most common and widely accepted English language tests are IELTS and TOEFL.

Different universities have slightly different language test score requirements, or only accept certain types of language tests. Some subjects require a higher overall score, or a higher score in a single subject. For example, if you want to study law or journalism, you will need to have a strong foundation in English. Generally speaking, the minimum IELTS requirement for undergraduate study is 6.5, and the TOEFL score is around 80. Graduate admission requirements may be a little higher. In short, before the test, you should first confirm the score required by the school so that you can prepare accordingly. If you can choose the test type, try to choose a language test that can play to your strengths.

Application Document Checklist

You will need to prepare many documents when submitting your application to an American university. Make sure you can provide the following documents:

• A valid passport (valid for 6 months after your course completion)
• Provide proof of financial support for tuition and living expenses.
• Scholarship statement, bank statement (your own or your parents’ or supervisor’s)
• guardian) and so on.
• A passport-sized photo of yourself (it is best to prepare multiple photos.
• Besides, you never know when you might need it urgently.)
• Transcripts and grades obtained
• Transcripts of entrance exams and language tests
• Personal profile/resume (depending on the situation)
• 2 letters of recommendation (at least one of which is an academic recommendation letter)

Interview for studying in the United States

Sometimes, international applicants need to be interviewed by the school to decide whether to accept your application. Don't worry if you receive such a request, it is just a normal and simple way for them to get to know you better.

The interview may be conducted face-to-face by a school representative in your home country. The school representative will then report the interview to the admissions team. It may also be conducted over the phone or via an online call such as Skype. These interviews are usually brief. You may hear questions such as why you want to study the subject you are applying for, your interests and life goals, etc.

Tip: Focus on the education aspect of studying abroad, not the immigration aspect. Focusing too much on living in the United States instead of studying in that country is not a positive message.

Applying for a US student visa

Congratulations! Now you have received your offer! However, you still need to make sure that you have the correct immigration status and that it remains valid until the end of your studies. Let's take a look at how to break down such a seemingly complicated process. The United States has strict immigration and border security controls, which have become even stricter after the 9/11 incident. Despite this, the United States is still very welcoming to international students, but you must make sure that you have the correct approval to enter the United States to study. If not, your future life may be in trouble and you may be deported before the end of your course. The following is a general process for applying for an F1 visa correctly.

During the application process

Make sure your passport is valid. You will need a valid passport when applying for a visa. Passport processing can take time and there may be delays.

After successful application

Once your visa application is accepted by the US Student and Visitor Program, they will send you Form I-20, a paper file that confirms all the details of your studies. After receiving the confirmation, you must confirm that all the information on the paper is correct.

apply for visa

You will then need to pay the SEVIS I-901 fee. Once the payment is successful, print out the receipt. You must then submit the DS-160 electronic form and print out the receipt. In addition, you will also need to pay the visa application fee and schedule a visa interview with the U.S. Embassy in China.

Your Interview

When you attend the interview, it is best to bring the following documents with you (the following documents are required for applying for a student visa):

• Valid passport (valid for 6 months from the end of the course)
• Form I-20
• I-901 Fee Receipt
• DS-160 processing fee receipt
• Provide proof of financial support for tuition and living expenses. For example: scholarship statement, bank statement (your own or your parents' or guardian's), etc.
• A passport-sized photo of yourself (it’s best to have more than one. You never know when you might need one when you’re studying abroad.)
• Admission confirmation letter from the school

Transcript

Score reports of admissions and language tests (also required upon arrival in the U.S.)

During the interview, you may be asked some questions about your plans to study in the U.S. Be honest! Make sure to focus on the benefits of a U.S. education, not the immigration aspects. You will be informed of the results during the interview, and you will receive your visa shortly thereafter.

US Student Accommodation

You need a place to relax at night and roommates to share your college experience with. So, let us briefly explain your housing options and how to sign a contract. In this way, you can study and live in the United States without any worries.

In the United States, most students live on campus during their first year, and move out of school and into nearby areas starting in their second year.

the first year

Almost all international students can apply for on-campus accommodation.

What are college dorms like?

Dormitory buildings are made up of double rooms. You will have a college roommate of the same sex. Usually, students on each floor share kitchens and bathrooms, as well as social areas. Living with others is a major feature of American college life. If this is really not acceptable to you, you can apply for a single room, but not all schools offer this. You can tell the school what type of roommate you prefer, and the school will try to meet your requirements. The best thing about sharing a roommate is that you will have someone to explore campus life with from the first day of college!

How to choose a dormitory?

Once you have accepted an offer from a school, they will send you all the information about the accommodation options. There will usually be pictures and virtual tour guides on the school website so you can browse from home. The prices of accommodation vary greatly depending on the facilities (such as catering or self-catering) and hardware. Consider your budget for rent and living costs, and then choose your preferred accommodation through the online application.

What furniture will be included in the dormitories?

Usually the accommodation will be equipped with a table, chairs, bed, and several drawers and wardrobes. You will also need to buy some additional things, such as: table lamps, storage boxes, quilt covers and pillow cases, etc.

What support will the school provide?

Most schools will have security on campus and staff on duty in halls of residence. Sometimes these staff are second and third year students who have been trained to deal with any emergencies. If you really don't like your accommodation you can request a change (but this usually depends on which beds are still available).

Subsequent years

After your first year, you will need to find housing off campus. Thankfully, after a year in the US, you will feel more comfortable and have many new friends to live with. Most people choose to find an apartment or a large house with other students. The main places to look are Craigslist and local newspapers. The university housing office will also provide you with the contact information of reputable local agents and landlords who have hosted students.

You must consider the following factors when living off campus:

• Budget – Can you afford the monthly rent and expenses?
• How to get to school – Is public transportation convenient? Or can I walk to school by bike?
• Select address – Is the location close to shops? Close to friends? Close to places you need to go more often?
• Safety rate – Is this area safe?

Other options

Homestay is another popular choice for international students. Homestay means that you live as a guest in a real American family. You can learn a complete side of American family life, which you can't experience by living with other students. In addition, you will find that your English skills will improve rapidly after you integrate into a real American family.

Financial Planning for Studying in the United States

Studying in the United States can be expensive, especially when you can't rely on your family for financial support. However, don't let money get in the way of your dream of studying abroad! With careful planning, you can achieve your dream of studying abroad and be financially self-sufficient.

As mentioned in the previous section, you will need to provide sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses. This is one of the requirements for studying in the United States. The following are some of the financial assistance you can provide before you leave and during your studies.

Before arrival

scholarship

There are many different types of scholarships available to international students, and you will need to search for them online. These scholarships can be awarded by your home government, the US government, universities, or third-party organizations. They are usually awarded to students with outstanding academic performance (students with strong academic performance). The conditions of the scholarship are usually based on the country you are from and the field you will study, among other factors.

family

Before planning to apply, you should communicate with your family to find out whether they can provide financial support for your study abroad. This way, your family will have enough time to calculate how much financial support they can provide to you and make necessary adjustments to prepare.

After arrival

part time

Under the terms of the F1 student visa, international students can work on campus up to 20 hours per week. There are strict rules and regulations regarding what is considered "campus work", so please check carefully. There are many job options on American campuses, including bars and restaurants, school offices, and bookstores. However, since there is no minimum wage in the United States, most service industry employees rely on tips for their wages. The culture of tipping is something that Americans value very much. If you don't leave a tip, he/she will sincerely ask you directly, "If everything was ok?"

University Assistant Jobs

There are some paid positions at universities that are open to students and staff. These positions are more academic (in other words, they are great for your resume). Research assistants are usually for PhD students, helping professors with their research. At the same time, you can also help classmates in the same field, such as preparing for exams.

living cost

There are many ways to save money living in the United States, depending on your lifestyle. Ask others about good ways to save money, from saving money on phone bills to saving money on rent (this is also a great social topic). Cook at home instead of eating out. Be prepared that the cost of living in large cities (such as Chicago and New York) will be higher than in small towns.

Studying and Living in the United States

What is student life like in the United States? Don't base your ideas on what you've heard and seen in the movies. We'll show you the people and culture so you can prepare, and tell you what to do when you arrive.

People and Culture

Most international students learn about the United States through Hollywood movies and TV shows. This approach may be inspiring, but you also need to understand that there are many more aspects of American life that you need to discover. If you can, try to travel to different parts of the country to discover different ways of life.

There are some terrible stereotypes that Americans are ignorant, but that's not true. You'll find many smart and educated Americans who can express their opinions clearly and logically. You'll find that Americans are generally open-minded and willing to learn new things, and that there are many different opinions and attitudes within the country. For example, Portland is known for being relatively radical in character, while Nashville is relatively more traditional to a certain extent.

Life in the US depends a lot on where you study in the country. So take the time to listen and learn what is widely accepted there. Ask questions humbly and without prejudice; Americans are usually happy to explain further, especially those you may have studied with and met at school.

Social

American universities have fraternities for men and sororities for women. These clubs or "houses" are a great way for students to bond. You can choose to live in a fraternity house with your "brothers" or "sisters." Common activities include hosting parties and volunteering in the local community. This is a great way for you to form close relationships with a group of students and feel a sense of belonging.

In the United States, the legal drinking age is 21. While there are some clubs on campus and students who can always find a way to get alcohol, there are many other ways to socialize that don't involve loud music, promiscuity, and drinking (despite how it's portrayed in Hollywood movies).

Sports are also a popular sport in the United States, both to play and to watch. In addition to baseball being known as "America's Pastime," football (rugby) and basketball are also well-loved and can serve as great icebreakers. In fact, college football is widely respected not only on campus, but across the country. Some universities have the largest stadiums in the country to host games, with thousands of people attending each week.

Can't miss

Gourmet

You can find healthy food in the United States, but sometimes you should indulge yourself. Try the Philly beef cheese sandwich, which is melted cheese poured over chopped steak and wrapped with onions on a soft roll. Although Philadelphia is famous for this, it is a food that can be eaten all over the country.

Drinking

In addition to many American beer brands that are well-known around the world and available nationwide, some local small breweries will launch some of their own original beers. Usually, there is a long history and story behind the production of these beers. When drinking, you can ask the bartender about the stories behind these beers.

place

Where you study in the US will affect what you gain. This is because the country is really big. Make the most of the opportunities in your state and, if you can, visit New York. The city that never sleeps, NYC is a world entertainment, cultural, and financial center, with many world-famous landmarks, such as the Statue of Liberty and Times Square.

Activity

Try a road trip across the United States. While you may not be able to travel very far financially as a student, it's still nice to get together with some friends and start exploring the American highways. Just like in the movies, go to a traditional roadside restaurant and get a stack of pancakes.

Preparation before studying in the United States

There are still some things you need to do before you leave for the United States. Check off the items on your list before you leave home. Did you forget anything? Did you check it out? Take another look.

Wait! Before you leave for your new life in the United States, make sure you have all the necessary things. These things will make your first few days in a foreign country go smoothly. So, double-check that you have the following items organized and prepared.

Have you opened a bank account? You can open a bank account before you leave or after you arrive. Make sure you have sufficient funds in the first few days/weeks after your arrival. Each bank has its own reward program and you need to carefully study the penalty regulations of different banks and different accounts.

What to pack? That depends on where you're studying. If you arrive in the US in late fall, most places get colder as fall arrives, so pack warm sweatshirts, jackets, and boots. Some areas of the US have their own distinct climates, such as Oregon is known for being cloudy and rainy, Louisiana is known for being hot and humid, and Los Angeles is known for being sunny. Pack accordingly.

Do you have all the necessary documents? We recommend that you prepare a "Study Abroad" folder when you start your application, and keep copies of the documents you received and will need. If you only keep electronic documents, you increase the risk of not being able to access your documents if the machine fails.(You can keep a copy at home as well as an electronic copy.) These documents include:

• Passport
• student visa
• Confirmation of university admission
• University (residence) contact information
• Proof of Financial Incentive
• Academic and language test transcripts
• Airline tickets and itinerary

Who will greet you when you arrive? Let the university know ahead of time when you will be arriving in the U.S. so they can prepare. Write down the phone number of someone who can help you (e.g. someone in the international office) if you need help. Will someone from the university meet you at the airport? Or will you need to find your own way to get to your residence or school?

Double check before you leave home! You have your passport, plane ticket, and charger, right?

Hopefully, after reading our e-guide, you will feel more confident about studying in the U.S. The best part is that you can download this guide and save it on any device, so you can always refer back to it when you need it in your future study abroad life.

Summary of Studying in the United States

You are not alone in your journey of studying abroad. Visit our website to: Search and compare courses at American universities You can search and compare courses in most popular study abroad destinations around the world. You can quickly search based on your preferences (course, study period, country, study method) to find the course that suits you best.

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