USP of US

The United States of America is considered to be a 'Land of Opportunities'. The country offers one with a plethora of educational options. There are around 3,500 colleges and universities in this country.

US universities boast world-class faculty, quality programmes, latest technology, equipment and excellent research facilities. Also, there is a flexibility of choosing courses. According to the US Educational Foundation in India (USEFI), "US institutions are known for awarding financial assistance generously to the International students."

Indians have been the biggest contingent of foreign students in the US. But lately, due to different causes, there has been a steep decline.

Popular courses:
The most popular courses in USA are:

• Engineering
• MBA (Masters in Business Administration)
• Computer Sciences
• Biological Sciences

• University of Southern California
• Purdue University
• Illinois Institute of Technology
• University of Texas

Commencement of the session
Entry dates vary from one institution to another, and also from one department to another. However, standard admission begins from August or September.

Student Visa:
An F1 student visa is valid till one retains full-time student status. The candidate needs to arrange for visa at least 5-6 months before the session commences.

Scholarships:
Colleges and universities offer fellowships, scholarships and tuition fee waivers. USEFI too grants fellowships.

Accommodation Facilities
Some Colleges are residential especially for the freshman class. In general, all US institutions offer on-campus as well as off-campus housing.

Part- time jobs:
International students, with F1 visas are allowed to work for up to 20 hours a week on campus, for the first nine months. After this period, they may do off campus jobs. During the vacations, they can work as long as 40 hours a week.

Future prospects:
The optional practical training enables foreign graduates, on completing their programs to work up to a year on F1 visa. Institutions generally offer career placement services that include advising, Counselling, training for interviews and resume building.

How to apply:
The candidate has to send their application along with additional documents such as:

• Academic qualifications
• Writing samples
• Recommendation Letter
• Professional Resume
• SOP (Statement of Purpose)- interest essay to the selected institutions.

Application:
For the academic year (2008), the candidate applies anytime from November to March 2008. Institutions send admission decisions from April 1 to June/July.

Tests to be taken
There are no qualifying tests in the strict sense but general requirements include:

• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), which demonstrates adequate proficiency in English.
• For Under Graduate aspirants there is SAT -1 (Scholastic Aptitude Test)
• SAT -2 is a test, which is conducted by selective schools. It is also beneficial while applying for financial aid.
• GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) is a test for graduate aspirants in non-professional fields.
• GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is required for admission to business schools.