How College Life is Affected by Greek Life

There are a lot of factors that can affect the impact of the Greek system on a college campus:

• The type of Greek system
• The size of the overall college campus
• The percentage of students in fraternities and sororities
• When rush takes place

Greek houses can play very different roles in college life. We encourage you to examine carefully what type of college will work best for you, and whether the presence or absence of a Greek system is a factor in your decision.

What is Greek life?

Greek systems consist of co-ed and, mostly, single-sex fraternities and sororities. Most of them use Greek letters, such as Sigma Phi Epsilon, to designate the name of the house. Some also go by school-specific nicknames. Depending on the school, they may or may not play a large role in student life.
Many fraternities and sororities are part of national, privately run organizations, such as the Delta Delta Delta ("Tri-Delt") sorority. Others were established locally on campuses, or left the national group to become independent. Often these houses split off from their national system due to differences over racial integration, social policies, or other issues during the latter half of the twentieth century. Some local houses rejoined their national system when the nationals changed their policies to become more progressive.

Campus housing and Greek life

Greek houses are so-called because they often serve as residential living and social environments for members. This was part of their original purpose in a time when many colleges did not maintain campus housing, including their own dormitories or dining halls. Fraternities and sororities offered a place for students to live, study, socialize, and eat. Often they hired cooks and housekeeping staff, paid for by members' dues.
Many houses no longer have in-house cooks or dining and some Greek organizations are not residential. Members live in college housing or off-campus, but belong to what is essentially a social and service organization. In some cases, colleges will own the house of a Greek organization; in others, the fraternity or sorority, or its national corporation, will own the house and be responsible for maintaining it.

Evaluating Greek impact on college life

Students shaping their college list or heading off to college need to watch for the pitfalls and benefits of Greek houses. You should be concerned about rushing a house too early in your first year. You should ask about non-Greek social opportunities on and near campus, and about the overall percentage of students affiliated with a house. You should look for student life alternatives to Greeks, such as social clusters built around college residence halls, as have been instituted in various forms at places like Bowdoin and Colby Colleges.
Look carefully at systems that might not be Greek in name, but which in many respects are similar, such as the Eating Clubs at Princeton. Think about how a fraternity or sorority could help make college life friendlier for you and provide a niche at a big university such as the University of Michigan. But think also about how you will feel if you enroll at Michigan and are not offered a bid by a house. Would you still want to be there, and could you deal with the social outcomes of being non-affiliated?

Is Greek life right for you?

There is no absolute right or wrong when it comes to fraternities and sororities; we encourage you to ask good questions and make as informed a choice as possible in building your college list and deciding whether you will join a house when you enroll in college.
By Howard and Matthew Greene, hosts of two PBS college-planning programs and authors of the Greenes' Guides to Educational Planning series and other books.

Read More

The Best On-Campus Jobs for Making Some Money

Greenbacks. Bucks. The bacon. The dough. Moolah. Scratch. Bread. The big green. Pecuniary notes.
I'm talking about money here, folks.

If you're a college student, in all likelihood, you don't have much of it. Whether that's because it's going to pay for your college education directly, without even stopping for a visit in your palm, or because you're spending it on any of the cavalcade of other money sinks out there in the college world, it doesn't matter. You're almost certainly going to be looking for ways to get some more clams into your wallet. (Quite an image, isn't it?)
Good news! College campuses are riddled with job opportunities, if you know where to look. Read on to find out about some of the best job opportunities available on college campuses.

Website Manager

You're here, so you already know that the Internet is a cornucopia of valuable writing. That's not likely to change any time soon, and as a result, nearly every organization that wants to have any kind of significant presence needs its own website. If you've got the skills to make one, then you can be of great value to your college, or really to any on-campus organization in need of a website manager. What's more, you can learn how to use content management systems and how to do crazy and wonderful things with a website that'll make you all the more valuable as a potential employee down the road. Huzzah for websites!

Tour Guide

Can you walk backwards like a pro? Can you talk while you walk backwards? Can you smile and make jokes even when it's snowing and you're walking backwards and taking at the same time? Then you've got a perfect campus job waiting for you in tour guiding.  This is an important job, too; if you're a tour guide, you're nothing less than the face of your college or university to prospective students. You've got to convince them that your college is by far the best choice they can make, by showing it off in all its glory. It's a social job, so you have to be up for being charming and talking, but it's good, important work on any campus. 

Library Assistant

At any college or university, there's one building which will be critical to nearly every student: the library. Even if you don't necessarily have to pick up books or do research in the library, the place is still a refuge of silence and solace for studying, and most likely has plenty of computers and printers for use, too. So, your school's library is almost certainly going to need some help. You can get a job at the library, doing things like putting the books back on the shelves, helping your fellow students to find whatever they're looking for, and keeping track of rented out books and other resources. It may  not be terribly glamorous, but it's helpful, doesn't involve a lot of stress, and might even give you resources and skills that you can use when trying to do your own work.

Alumni Center

Every college or university is likely to have some kind of alumni center, to keep in touch with and track alumni and (most importantly) implore them for donations. If you get a job with the alumni center, you'll most likely be calling up alumni and other individuals associated with the college and informing them of important campus news and information, as well as asking them for donations. Sometimes, this job can be pretty stressful, but when you successfully contribute to some major charity project your school is running by getting donations from hundreds of people, then the whole thing will be worth it. 

RA

Everyone living at college has a residential adviser, or a resident assistant. RAs are the students who fill leadership and administrative rolls in and around their dorms. They're the people you go to when something breaks in your dorm room, just as much as they're the people you go to when there's a major emergency and you need immediate help. Being an RA will give you a lot responsibility, but you'll be helping people, and you'll be getting paid for it. Some schools even give RAs a pretty good selection of rooms, at no cost to them. TAs, SAs, Lab Assistants, and the other RAs
These three sort of go together, due to the similarities in work you'd be doing in any of the three roles. TAs are teaching assistants; SAs are student assistants; and these RAs are research assistants.   Each role is pretty much some form of assistantship position for a faculty member.
Teaching assistants would, as their name suggests, help professors to teach their courses, likely by providing extra sessions to lower-level students, or even teaching classes themselves. Student assistants, depending upon how the role is interpreted, might work similarly to TAs, or they might help professors with their more administrative tasks, like getting books or distributing documents online.
Research assistants would help professors in their own research, focusing likely on specific topics. Lab assistants might help to run labs for when students are performing their own work, or they might help professors in lab work in the same way that research assistants might.
Any of these roles is likely to come with pay and with good, experience-growing work. Plus, you might get to help your professors with important research, or even wind up teaching your peers! How awesome is that!

Writing tutor

Know how to write? Count yourself lucky, because there are plenty of other students out there who don't. If you're feeling magnanimous with your skill, then you can become a writing tutor at your college's writing center. Peer writing tutors help their fellow students with essays, research papers, and more. We're talking about more than just grammatical editing, too; we're talking about the whole shebang. Argument structure, discussion, reasoning, and stylistic choices are all subjects that a writing tutor might help with, among others. So if you've got some skill in writing, lend your fellow students a hand and earn some cash for your efforts by becoming a writing tutor. 

Newspaper writer/editor

Not every college has a newspaper that pays its writers, but plenty do, so if you've got printer's ink in your veins, then there's no better place for you to get a job than at your college newspaper. Obviously, you'll need to know what you're doing, from a writing standpoint, a journalistic standpoint, and an editorial standpoint, but this is one of those jobs that can pay you back in spades if you work hard. If your college paper doesn't pay its writers, you might want to see if there are any administrative roles in or around the paper that might offer up any kind of small-scale payment, too. 

Post Office

Email is replacing the paper letter, sure, but everybody still needs a way to receive packages from Amazon, right? Campuses still have their own post offices, where mail comes in for students and has to be sorted between mailboxes, or distributed in some other fashion. There are plenty of jobs for students looking to earn a few bucks who are willing to help out with the post. Not terribly glamorous, but a good way to make some money on campus without adding too much onto your workload. 

Career Services Assistant

A great many campuses have career centers focused on helping students plan out their career paths. These centers provide advice, assistance, and information year round. If you've got the skills needed to help your fellow students in thinking about their futures, then you could probably secure a position for yourself as a career services assistant. At some colleges, this position might mean directly meeting with students and talking to them about their goals. At others, this might mean just helping out with the more administrative tasks of the career center. Either way, it's a good place to get some experience with giving advice and planning your own career, all while earning some money.

User Assistant or IT Guy

Are you the one that everyone on your dorm floor comes to for technical expertise? Then…uh…could you fix my laptop? It's been showing me this message, "TERMINATE THE HUMANS," ever since Thursday. Oh, also, you could probably get a job as a user assistant or an IT assistant at your college. Most colleges have their own on-campus IT centers, and they probably need all the help they can get, what with the problems students are likely to cause. (Stop that, computer! No, I will not submit to your will!) Working at the IT center will help you hone your own skills and give you some great experience if you want to go into technology. And, of course, you'll make some money, and potentially avert an apocalypse.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I think my laptop is trying to steal the nuclear launch codes from the White House. I'm going to apply some brute force repairs to its software. With a hammer.

Read More

Fees, Timing, and Interviews for American Universities

An application fee is usually required to cover the cost of processing your application to American universities and colleges. Fees vary from about $15 to $40 and are typically payable in U.S. dollars only. Some U.S. colleges will waive this fee for very needy students. A complete application that is ready to be evaluated by the admission committee contains the following:

• The fully completed application form
• Teacher recommendations (if required)
• Secondary school report (if required)
• Transcripts and academic records (official copies, with translation into English if required)
• TOEFL or other English language proficiency test scores (if required)
• Standardized test scores (SAT, ACT, and/or SAT Subject Tests, if applicable)
• Nonacademic information, as required by the U.S. college or university
• Financial aid application (if applicable)

When applying to U.S. colleges, timing can be difficult

Timing can be one of the most difficult problems that international students face when applying to colleges in the U.S. Make sure that you have carefully read all of the information provided by each institution. You should make a list of all the deadlines for the various steps in the admission process—and for each institution that you are applying to. Make sure to send all correspondence by air mail, and mail them as far before the deadlines as possible. Most schools will send a card acknowledging receipt of your application and will also inform you if any required items are missing from your application package.

U.S. colleges sometimes require interviews

A final step in the application process may be an interview with a college representative. Sometimes the interviewer is an admission officer or a graduate of the institution who is living in your area. These interviews provide an excellent opportunity for you to learn more about the American colleges that interest you. They also give the interviewer a chance to get an impression of you and how your abilities, goals, and interests match those of the institution. The interview is generally informal. Be sure to check with each institution to determine its policy regarding interviews and to find out if an interviewer is available in your area.
Some American universities use what are called "third-party" representatives or recruiters to interview prospective students in other countries. When these individuals are not actual staff or faculty members or part of the alumni of the U.S.A. university or college, you must be extremely careful in evaluating the information you receive from them. If this is the case, you should seek additional information about the institution before making a final decision concerning your application to the respective U.S. college.

Read More

Attending American Universities: Entering and Leaving the U.S. on a Student Visa

So, you obtained your visa and have permission to enter the United States to study at a U.S. college. Are you wondering what happens next?

When heading to American universities, first things first

For starters, you can finally start making your travel plans and packing your bags for school. However, don't plan to arrive in the U.S. more than 30 days prior to the start of your program or you may be turned away at the border. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security precludes new students from entering the country and going to American universities more than 30 days prior to the start of school. (Continuing students may enter the U.S. at any time before their classes start.)
Colleges in the U.S. often do not mind if you wish to arrive earlier, but you'll need to obtain a visitor visa in addition to your student visa, and it will need to clearly note your intention to study in the U.S. later on. However, before you start school, you'll also need to change your visa classification by submitting a Form I-539 (Application for Change of Nonimmigrant Status) and a Form I-20 to the Department of Homeland Security. Doing this will cost you an additional fee and you won't be able to begin school until the change of classification is approved.
Assuming you choose to arrive in the United States on your student visa, make sure that you take all of your paperwork with you, including your visa, your copies of the I-20 that the school sent you, and your passport. Make sure before you leave home that your passport is up to date and valid for at least 6 months AFTER you are scheduled to finish your studies.
It's a good idea to keep a photocopy of your passport in case you lose it. The photocopy will make it easier to replace your passport if you need to do so. You should also have your proof of financial support and permanent residence abroad in case you are asked to show them. Keep this paperwork with you at all times while you're traveling—don't stow it away in your checked luggage!

When traveling to a U.S. college, you have to cross the border

Even if you have a visa in hand, you could still be turned away at the border. The Department of Homeland Security has the authority to permit or deny admission into the U.S. If you don't have the proper documentation or don't comply with procedures, you may be refused admission.
American colleges want you to feel "at home" in your new surroundings, but there are some restrictions. You'll need to fill out a standard Customs Declaration form (CF-6059) to disclose any items you're bringing into the country that must be reported (the form will identify the types of things you need to disclose). You'll also need to provide the address where you'll actually be living in the United States (NOT the address of the school), your passport, and your I-20.
You'll then be issued an Arrival-Departure Record (an I-94) that will have your arrival date recorded in it. Your I-94 keeps track of your comings and goings in and out of the United States. It is a very important document that you should keep with your passport, I-20, proof of permanent residence, and proof of financial resources. Each time you leave the country and come back, you'll likely need to show all of these documents.

Smile for the camera, you're enrolled in a U.S. college

Depending on where you enter the country, the customs agents may use a digital scanner to scan your fingerprints. Your digital photograph will also be taken, and both your fingerprints and your photo will be matched with those on your visa to verify your identity.
These procedures, known as biometrics, will eventually be in use at all entry points as part of the Department of Homeland Security's goal of an automated entry/exit procedure under its U.S. Visit program.

While attending American colleges, you can leave the country

With a student visa, you can leave the country for short periods of time to go home, attend conferences, etc., but your absences cannot exceed 5 months. If you leave the country for more than 5 months, your F-1 or M-1 visa becomes invalid, even if it has not expired; you'll need a new visa to re-enter the country. The exception is if you have left the country to pursue studies overseas while still enrolled at a U.S. college. In those cases, you may leave for longer than 5 months and still have a valid visa.
Once you've completed your studies at American universities, you have 60 days to make your preparations and then depart from the U.S. under an F-1 visa. If you have an M-1 visa, you only have 30 days to depart. After that, your visa will no longer be valid. If you haven't yet returned home, you could find yourself in a bit of trouble.
If your visa expires while you are still enrolled in U.S. colleges and you leave the country temporarily, you will need to get a new visa in order to re-enter the U.S. Since you can't renew your visa while you are in the U.S., make sure you've checked its expiration date and plan accordingly. Even though you have permission to stay in the U.S. through the duration of your studies, your visa can still expire before then. If you don't leave the country, it may not present a big problem, but if you do leave and find out at the border that your visa has expired, it could put a big dent in your studies.
Also make sure that your passport is up to date so that everything is in place when it's time to return home. (You may want to renew your passport before you leave the U.S. It will be easier than getting it renewed while abroad.)

You might experience biometric exits during your U.S. college experience

Depending on where you leave, you may experience biometric exit procedures (scanning fingerprints and taking a digital photo) to verify your identity. Your exit from the United States will be confirmed and added to your travel records. Eventually, these procedures will be in place at all U.S. ports of entry.
United States immigration rules and procedures can be pretty complicated. So if you want to attend a U.S.A. university, make sure you check with your local U.S. Consulate for guidance on what you need to do to obtain your student visa.

Read More

To Attend American Universities, Student Visas and Passports Are Necessary

To attend American universities and colleges, students must first get permission to enter the country. To do so, they must meet certain requirements. They must be healthy, law abiding, financially self-sufficient, and prepared to leave once they have completed their studies.

To attend American colleges, international students must apply for a visa

The rules and regulations governing the entrance of international students into the U.S. for study at U.S. colleges are somewhat complicated. To be sure there is enough time to get everything ready, begin your applications to U.S. colleges and your visa application process as early as possible. Because world events may cause changes in some procedures, so you should always check for current requirements.
If you are not a citizen or permanent resident of the United States, you must submit to the U.S. consular authorities a Form I-20 for an F-1 or M-1 student visa, or Form DS-2019 for a J-1 exchange visitor visa. You must also provide a valid passport from your home country.
The F-1 and J-1 are the most commonly used visas by international students attending colleges in the U.S. F-1 visas are for full-time students in an academic or language program. J-1 visas are for people participating in an exchange visitor program (educational or cultural) in the U.S. M-1 visas are for students attending trade or vocational programs at a U.S. college.
The I-20 or DS-2019 forms will be sent from your college after you have been admitted to a full-time academic program at the U.S.A. university and have demonstrated that you have sufficient financial resources to cover all expenses. Before granting the entrance visa, American consular officers may request additional information. They must be convinced that you are a student who plans to return to your home country upon completion of the program.

Don't forget that you need a valid passport to attend a U.S. college

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the amount of time you plan to spend in the U.S. It is a good idea to keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place. Having the photocopy will make it easier to replace your passport if you happen to lose it. If you do lose your passport, you should contact the police and your embassy immediately.
If you have any questions about matters related to immigration rules, work permits, health insurance, etc., you should check with the international student adviser at the U.S. college you plan to attend. It is your responsibility, however, to maintain your immigration status by obtaining your forms at the correct time, keeping your passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of completion of your program, and maintaining enrollment with a full course load at your U.S.A. university.

Read More

Tips for Completing Your Application to American Universities and Colleges

There are a lot of details to remember when you're applying to colleges in the U.S., and it can be easy to overlook something. Here are a few things to remember or to look for while you're putting your application together:

No photocopies of school records
Don't send photocopies of your school records in with your application. U.S. colleges require that "official" records and transcripts from any previous schools you've attended be sent directly to them on your behalf. Anything you send yourself will probably not be considered "official," and you will then have to make the proper arrangements. This delay will cost you time and, perhaps, a chance at admission.
Translate academic records into English
If your academic records aren't in English, they need to be translated into English before being sent. Both the original-language records and the translation must be sent directly to the school. Pay particular attention to the instructions regarding translations. Some American colleges and agencies might allow you to do the translation yourself if you are sufficiently proficient in English. However, others might require an official translation or one done by an authorized or licensed translator. Follow instructions carefully to avoid unnecessary delays.
Submit copies of external national examination scores
If you were educated in a system that uses external national examinations, such as the Baccalaureate from France or "Ordinary" or "Advanced" level examinations from the United Kingdom, you will need to submit copies of those scores. If you are applying as a first-year student at the undergraduate (bachelor's degree) level you may also need to take certain standardized tests, such as the SAT or the ACT. If you're applying as a graduate or professional student, you may need to take one of several tests such as the GRE, GMAT, MAT, MCAT, or LSAT. Check with the U.S. colleges you're considering to find out which test or tests you need to take and how to make arrangements for testing.
Submit results of English language proficiency test
If English is not your native language, or if you have not been educated in a country or region where English is a native language, you may need to submit the results of an English language proficiency test, such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). If you're applying to graduate school, you may also be required to take the Test of Spoken English (TSE) as evidence of your ability to teach in English.
Pay attention to deadlines
Deadlines are extremely important! Pay close attention to any dates listed on the application forms. As an international student, admission to a U.S.A. university or college takes more time than it does for American students and most schools have an earlier international application deadline. U.S. colleges and universities receive thousands of applications from international students each year. In order to be considered for admission for the term you want to begin your studies, it is essential that your application and all materials be received before the deadline.
Studying in American universities and colleges can be an exciting and rewarding experience. To start off in the best possible way, carefully follow the instructions of each school that you are considering. If you have any questions about the application process, get in touch with U.S. college to get the information you need. They will be glad to help you!

Read More

On-Campus Support for International Students at American Universities

Making the decision to attend a U.S. college is a big step, but rest assured that you won’t have to go it alone. An attractive feature of U.S. higher education is the support and counseling that students receive, and at most schools this includes special services for overseas students.

Most colleges in the U.S. offer international or foreign student advisers

Most U.S. colleges and universities have an international office with trained professionals available to counsel students from other countries on a broad range of matters, including:

• Orientation to campus and community life in the U.S.
• Immigration and visa matters
• Employment and practical training
• Off-campus social activities and opportunities
• Personal and health concerns
• General academic planning
• Financial problems

As you adjust to life in a new setting at a U.S.A. university, these counselors will be able to help you get situated. If you’re looking to connect with other international students, they can also provide information about special clubs or events for international students.

Most American colleges feature faculty advisers

At most schools, you will be assigned a faculty adviser based on your field of study. Academic advising can help you with the following:

• Requirements for degrees
• Selection of academic courses
• Academic performance and progress

When you get to campus, meet with your adviser as soon as possible. They’ll be able to help you make sure you’re on track with your courses and requirements.

Peer counselors offer help at many U.S. colleges

In addition to faculty counseling, many colleges in the U.S. have developed a system of peer counseling that is conducted by upper-class students. This provides international students at a U.S. college a student viewpoint on academic and personal matters.
It can be overwhelming to adjust to life at a new college, let alone in a new country. The people mentioned above will be able to help you along as you adjust to life at American universities and colleges.

Read More

Find the American Universities That Are Right for You

With so many U.S. colleges and universities to choose from, the application process can be confusing. However, there are steps that you can take to create a list of American colleges that best suit you. It is best to start the entire college selection process about 16 months before the date you intend to enter college. This way, you’ll have enough time to research your many options.

 

For any U.S. college: First things first

Begin your search by looking for colleges in the U.S. that offer the type of degree you wish to pursue in the field that you wish to study. Once you’ve done that, it’s time to look a little more closely at each school. As you review your options, think about what’s most important to you. Things to consider include the type of college, its location, the costs involved, financial aid, entrance difficulty, housing options, availability of ESL programs, and library holdings.
Think carefully about the environment in which you’ll be most comfortable. For example, are you interested in an urban, suburban, or rural environment? Will you be comfortable on a large campus with thousands of students or would you prefer a smaller, more personal campus? Are you looking for particular climate conditions? Do you want to attend a school where there are special dorms for international students? These questions do not really have "right" answers—you should simply decide what’s important to you and look for schools that match.
Thoroughly review the details about each U.S. college you have chosen, and decide which of them best suit your wants and needs. After carefully considering the factors listed above, eliminate those schools that do not offer what you are looking for. From the remaining list, select seven to ten institutions to which you think you might want to apply.

Get more information about the American colleges that interest you

Next, write to the institutions you have chosen and request application materials, catalogs, and information about financial aid, housing, fields of study, etc. You can also get this information on the schools’ Web sites.
This is also a good time to find out what standardized admission tests are required by each school. Most schools require the SAT or ACT. In addition, the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is generally required from international students who do not speak English as a native language. Register for these tests as soon as possible and have your test scores sent directly to each U.S.A. university.

Decide which U.S. colleges will receive your application

Review all the materials you receive, and reduce your list to three to five U.S. colleges. In doing so, you should consider the following:

• The overall academic program
• Specific course offerings
• Information about the faculty members in your area of study
• Academic facilities (libraries, computer labs, etc.)
• The campus and surrounding community
• Housing, financial aid, and ESL (if needed)
• Extracurricular, cultural, and religious activities
• Travel time and expense to and from the school

Once you have your final list, you’re ready to apply to one or more of the American universities you feel are right for you!

Read More

Tips for Completing Your Application to American Universities and Colleges

There are a lot of details to remember when you're applying to colleges in the U.S., and it can be easy to overlook something. Here are a few things to remember or to look for while you're putting your application together:

No photocopies of school records
Don't send photocopies of your school records in with your application. U.S. colleges require that "official" records and transcripts from any previous schools you've attended be sent directly to them on your behalf. Anything you send yourself will probably not be considered "official," and you will then have to make the proper arrangements. This delay will cost you time and, perhaps, a chance at admission.
Translate academic records into English
If your academic records aren't in English, they need to be translated into English before being sent. Both the original-language records and the translation must be sent directly to the school. Pay particular attention to the instructions regarding translations. Some American colleges and agencies might allow you to do the translation yourself if you are sufficiently proficient in English. However, others might require an official translation or one done by an authorized or licensed translator. Follow instructions carefully to avoid unnecessary delays.
Submit copies of external national examination scores
If you were educated in a system that uses external national examinations, such as the Baccalaureate from France or "Ordinary" or "Advanced" level examinations from the United Kingdom, you will need to submit copies of those scores. If you are applying as a first-year student at the undergraduate (bachelor's degree) level you may also need to take certain standardized tests, such as the SAT or the ACT. If you're applying as a graduate or professional student, you may need to take one of several tests such as the GRE, GMAT, MAT, MCAT, or LSAT. Check with the U.S. colleges you're considering to find out which test or tests you need to take and how to make arrangements for testing.
Submit results of English language proficiency test
If English is not your native language, or if you have not been educated in a country or region where English is a native language, you may need to submit the results of an English language proficiency test, such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). If you're applying to graduate school, you may also be required to take the Test of Spoken English (TSE) as evidence of your ability to teach in English.
Pay attention to deadlines
Deadlines are extremely important! Pay close attention to any dates listed on the application forms. As an international student, admission to a U.S.A. university or college takes more time than it does for American students and most schools have an earlier international application deadline. U.S. colleges and universities receive thousands of applications from international students each year. In order to be considered for admission for the term you want to begin your studies, it is essential that your application and all materials be received before the deadline.
Studying in American universities and colleges can be an exciting and rewarding experience. To start off in the best possible way, carefully follow the instructions of each school that you are considering. If you have any questions about the application process, get in touch with U.S. college to get the information you need. They will be glad to help you!

Read More

USA Student Visa Requirements for Indian Students

Many Indian students, along with other international students, make plans to go to American universities for college-level education, as some colleges of the U.S.A. are ranked among the top universities in the world.

But coming to colleges in the U.S.A. involves more than being accepted academically as a student; it also involves dealing with the legal and governmental aspects of traveling to the U.S.A.

(Though, if you need more information about that "being accepted academically" part, be sure to check out the rest of Petersons.com. For essay assistance, be sure to head to EssayEdge and determine if the expert essay editing services available there are just what you need.)
As an Indian student intending to study in the U.S.A., you will need to acquire a U.S.A. student visa from a U.S. Embassy near you. The U.S. Embassies in India are located in New Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Chennai, and Mumbai.
The process for obtaining a U.S.A. student visa from one of these embassies might seem long and complicated, but the more you are prepared and the faster you put together your documentation, the quicker you will be able to start your adventure at a U.S.A. university.

Types of visas
The type of visa granted to you will depend on the purpose of your visit to the U.S. For academic purposes, students will need to obtain an F-class U.S.A. student visa. These visas cover students planning to pursue full-time degree programs at either the undergraduate or graduate level.

What to do before the visa interview for study in the U.S.A.
Make sure that you complete Form DS-160 before the interview for your U.S. student visa. After completing Form DS-160, print out the confirmation page with the barcode on a laser printer. Then, go to an approved HDFC bank in order to pay the visa application fee. Save the receipt from the payment.
You should also make sure that you have the I-120 form, which is a form issued by colleges in the U.S.A. for affirming enrollment, and you should make sure to pay the I-901 fee online through the U.S. Immigration and Customs enforcement website. Save the receipt.
Finally, make an appointment for a U.S.A. student visa interview through the VFS website. This will require you to have your DS-160 barcode number and your HDFC fee receipt.

What to bring to the U.S. student visa interview

When interviewing for your U.S.A. student visa, make sure not to arrive earlier than 15 minutes before your appointed time, and bring the following documents with you:

• Valid passport and previously issued passports
• Recent passport size photograph with a white background (50mm x 50mm)
• DS-160 confirmation page with barcode
• HDFC visa application fee receipts
• VFS appointment letter
• SEVIS receipt and I-120

While the above list from the Consulate General of the United States' Mumbai, India website is up-to-date, always check to see if changes were made to the required list by visiting the website of the U.S. Embassy near you.

What happens if your U.S.A. student visa is postponed or not approved?

Postponement of your U.S. student visa just means you have to wait longer for an answer from the consulate about your case. There still may be a chance that your visa will be refused, but there is also a fair likelihood that you will be approved. Waiting for further response or action, or contacting the consulate, should be your next step.
Even if your visa application is refused, it's not the end of the world. While you cannot appeal your case, you can reapply, pay the visa processing fees again, and schedule another appointment. You will be given information from the U.S. Embassy on what to do.

Getting to colleges in the U.S.A.
Once you have arrived in the U.S. at your point of entry, your passport, U.S. student visa, and I-94 will be verified by an immigration official to see if and how long you can be admitted. The process is detailed in an easy to understand format on the U.S. Department of Homeland Security website regarding admission to the U.S.
In general, make sure you have all documentation, including the information for your visa, and photocopies of your passport, just in case. Not having the proper documentation is one of the most common ways for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to conclude that you should be sent back to your home country

Read More

Bringing your dependents: USA Student VISA

Bringing your dependents

The Spouse and/or unmarried children (under the age of 21) who wish to accompany or join the student in the USA, need to apply for a dependent visa. The type of dependent visa will depend on the type of student visa the student has been granted. For more information visit: http://www.ustraveldocs.com/in/in-niv-typefandm.asp#supportingdocsdependents

Work rights for your spouse

The spouse of a student cannot work if they have travelled to the USA on a dependent visa. If seeking employment, the appropriate work visa will be required.
For more information visit: http://www.ustraveldocs.com/in/in-niv-typefandm.asp#supportingdocsdependents

Read More

Work rights during studies: USA

International students studying in the USA on F-1 status visa are eligible to work on campus up to 20 hours a week while school is in session, and can work full time during vacations / scheduled breaks. Students are eligible to begin employment immediately upon being admitted to the United States in F-1 status.

Work rights for your spouse

The spouse of a student cannot work if they have travelled to the USA on a dependent visa. If seeking employment, the appropriate work visa will be required.
For more information visit: http://www.ustraveldocs.com/in/in-niv-typefandm.asp#dependents

Read More

Post study work rights: USA

Student visa [F-1] holders are eligible for a total of 12 months Optional Practical Training [OPT] per educational level completed.
To get the Additional 17 months OPT extension [total of 29 months which includes 12 months OPT as stated above], student must complete a degree from STEM Majors. STEM refers to degrees in science, technology, engineering, mathematics.

Read More

Some important related information about Student VISA for USA

Can I enter the United States more than 30 days in advance?

Students are not permitted to enter the United States earlier than 30 days before the start date of their program. If you wish to enter earlier than 30 days before your start date, you must qualify for a visitor (B) visa. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials may admit you to the United States on the visitor (B) visa, but you must apply to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for a change of status to student (F-1or M-1) status. You may not begin your course of study until the change of status is approved, and you may encounter lengthy processing times.

Optional Practical Training

 

Students who are authorized Optional Practical Training (OPT) must have a Form I-20 endorsed for OPT, and apply to USCIS for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). When authorized, OPT is temporary employment that is directly related to the eligible F-1 student's area of study. To learn more about OPT, please visit the USCIS Website and the ICE International Students webpage.

Attending Public Secondary School

There are restrictions on student F-1 visa holders attending public school in the United States. Select Foreign Students in Public Schools to learn more.

Visa Denial and Ineligibility

Review Visa Denials for detailed information about visa ineligibilities, denials, and waivers.

I was refused a visa, under section 214(b). May I reapply?

Yes, if you feel circumstances have changed regarding your application. Review Visa Denials to learn more. 

 

Misrepresentation or Fraud  

 

Attempting to obtain a visa by the willful misrepresentation of a material fact, or fraud, may result in the permanent refusal of a visa or denial of entry into the United States.
Review Ineligibilities and Waivers: Laws.

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda

 

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda do not require visas to enter the United States as students, although they must present a valid Form I-20 at the time of admission. For more information see information for Citizens of Canada and Bermuda.
Additional resources for Canadian visitors to the United States can be found on the U.S. Embassy and Consulate websites in Canada 

 

 

Further Questions

 

• Case-Specific Questions - Contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate handling your visa application for status information. Select U.S. Embassy or Consulate for contact information.
• General Questions - review Contact Us.

 

 

 

Read More

Student Visa: USA (Step by Step)

Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to enter the United States must first obtain a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. You must have a student visa to study in the United States. Your course of study and the type of school you plan to attend determine whether you need an F-1 visa or an M-1 visa.

To enter the United States to attend:	You need the following visa category:
University or college	F
High School
Private elementary school
Seminary
Conservatory
Another academic institution, including a language training program
Vocational or other recognized nonacademic institution, other than a language training program	M

Students cannot travel on the Visa Waiver Program or with Visitor Visas

Citizens of Visa Waiver Program (VWP) participating countries who intend to study cannot travel on the VWP or on visitor (B) visas, except to undertake recreational study as part of a tourist visit. Students must travel to the United States with student (F-1 or M-1) visas. For more information on the VWP, see Visa Waiver Program.

For short periods of recreational study, a Visitor (B) visa can be used

Enrollment in a short recreational course of study, which is not for credit toward a degree or academic certificate, is permitted on a visitor (B) visa. Learn more about Visitor Visas.
Study leading to a U.S. conferred degree or certificate is not permitted on a visitor (B) visa, even if it is for a short duration. For example, distance learning which requires a period of time on the institution’s U.S. campus requires an F-1 visa.
Student Acceptance at a SEVP Approved School
Before you can apply at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate for an F or M student visa, you must first apply to and be accepted by a SEVP approved school. Visit the Department of State EducationUSA website to learn about educational opportunities for undergraduate and graduate study, opportunities for scholars, admissions, and more.
When you are accepted by the U.S. school you plan to attend, you will be enrolled in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). You must pay the SEVIS I-901 Fee. The U.S. school will provide you with a Form I-20 to present to the consular officer when you attend your visa interview. If your spouse and/or children intend to reside with you in the United States while you study, they must obtain individual Form I-20s, but they do not pay the SEVIS fee. Visit the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) website to learn more about SEVIS and the SEVIS I-901 Fee.

How to Apply

There are several steps to apply for a visa. The order of these steps and how you complete them may vary at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you apply. Please consult the instructions available on the embassy or consulate website where you intend to apply.

Complete the Online Visa Application

• Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 – Learn more about completing the DS-160. You must: 1) complete the online visa application and 2) print the application form confirmation page to bring to your interview.
• Photo –You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. Your photo must be in the format explained in the Photograph Requirements.

Schedule an Interview

While interviews are generally not required for applicants of certain ages outlined below, consular officers have the discretion to require an interview of any applicant, regardless of age.

If you are age:	Then an interview is:
13 and younger	Generally not required
14-79	Required (some exceptions for renewals)
80 and older	Generally not required

You must schedule an appointment for your visa interview, generally, at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the country where you live. You may schedule your interview at any U.S. Embassy or Consulate, but be aware that it may be difficult to qualify for a visa outside of your place of permanent residence.
Wait times for interview appointments vary by location, season, and visa category, so you should apply for your visa early. Review the interview wait time for the location where you will apply:

Appointment Wait Time

New Students – F-1 and M-1 student visas can be issued up to 120 days in advance of your course of study start date. However, you will not be allowed to enter the United States in F-1 or M-1 status earlier than 30 days before your start date.
Continuing Students - May renew their visas at any time, as long as they have maintained student status and their SEVIS records are current. Continuing students may enter the United States at any time before their classes start.

Prepare for Your Interview

• Fees - Pay the non-refundable visa application fee, if you are required to pay it before your interview. When your visa is approved, you may also pay a visa issuance fee, if applicable to your nationality. Fee information is provided below: 

Review the instructions available on the website of the embassy or consulate where you will apply to learn more about fee payment.

Gather Required Documentation

Gather and prepare the following required documents before your visa interview:

• Passport valid for travel to the United States - Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay in the United States (unless exempt by country-specific agreements). If more than one person is included in your passport, each person who needs a visa must submit a separate application.
• Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 confirmation page
• Application fee payment receipt, if you are required to pay before your interview
• Photo – You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. If the photo upload fails, you must bring one printed photo in the format explained in the Photograph Requirements. 
• Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (F-1) Student Status-For Academic and Language Students, Form I-20A-B or Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (M-1) Student Status for Vocational Students, Form I-20M-N – Your school will send you a SEVIS-generated Form I-20 once they have entered your information in the SEVIS database. You and your school official must sign the Form I-20. All students, their spouse and minor children if they intend to reside in the United States with the student, must be registered in the Student and Exchange Visitor System (SEVIS). Each person receives an individual Form I-20.

Additional Documentation May Be Required

Review the instructions for how to apply for a visa on the website of the embassy or consulate where you will apply. Additional documents may be requested to establish that you are qualified. For example, additional requested documents may include evidence of:

• Your academic preparation, such as:
  • Transcripts, diplomas, degrees, or certificates from schools you attended; and
  • Scores from tests that your U.S. school required, such as the TOEFL, SAT, GRE, or GMAT;
• Your intent to depart the United States upon completion of the course of study; and
• How you will pay all educational, living and travel costs. 

Attend Your Visa Interview

During your visa interview, a consular officer will determine whether you are qualified to receive a visa, and if so, which visa category is appropriate based on your purpose of travel. You will need to establish that you meet the requirements under U.S. law to receive the category of visa for which you are applying.
Ink-free, digital fingerprint scans will be taken as part of your application process. They are usually taken during your interview, but this varies based on location.
After your visa interview, your application may require further administrative processing. You will be informed by the consular officer if further processing is necessary for your application.
When the visa is approved, you  may pay a visa issuance fee if applicable to your nationality, and will be informed how your passport with visa will be returned to you. Review the visa processing time, to learn how soon your passport with visa will generally be ready for pick-up or delivery by the courier.

Additional Information

• We cannot guarantee that you will be issued a visa. Do not make final travel plans or buy tickets until you have a visa.
• For information about employment, review Students and Employment and Form I-765 Work Authorization Instructions on the USCIS website.
• Students who are outside the United States, and who have not been attending classes for five (5) months or more, should apply for a new student visa to reenter the United States.
• Spouse and children
  • Your spouse and unmarried, minor children who intend to reside with you during your study may apply for F-2 or M-2 visas. Although SEVIS fee payment is not required, your school must issue them an individual Form I-20, which is required to apply for their visas. You must provide a copy of your F-1 or M-1 visa and provide proof of relationship.
  • Your minor children are permitted to attend school in the United States while accompanying you.
• Unless canceled or revoked, a visa is valid until its expiration date. Therefore, a valid U.S. visa in an expired passport is still valid. If you have a valid visa in your expired passport, do not remove it from your expired passport. You may use your valid visa in your expired passport along with a new valid passport for travel and admission to the United States

Read More

Student VISA procedure for USA

Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to enter the United States must first obtain a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. You must have a student visa to study in the United States. Your course of study and the type of school you plan to attend determine whether you need an F-1 visa or an M-1 visa. Students should schedule their visa interviews as soon as they are accepted to a university.
Once applicants are accepted to a university, they will send you a SEVIS-generated Form I-20. You and your school official must sign the Form I-20. Each person receives an individual Form I-20 which s/he must bring to the Embassy at the time of interview.  
All students, their spouse and minor children if they intend to reside in the United States with the student, must be registered in the Student and Exchange Visitor System (SEVIS).
Intent to return:

Before a non-immigrant visa may be issued, an applicant must establish to the satisfaction of the consular officer that he/she is not an intending immigrant. Applicants can do this by showing evidence of their own family, economic, property and/or other social ties to a country outside the U.S.
In addition to establishing that he/she is not an intending immigrant, each student must also demonstrate that she/he is a bona fide student and has access to financial resources.
Bona Fide Student:
In order to demonstrate that he/she is a bona fide student, applicants are encouraged to be prepared to tell the consular officer about the college search and application process, reasons for choosing a school, reasons for studying in the United States, commitment to completing the degree being pursued, etc. To this end, students are encouraged to bring school transcripts, copies of applications, TOEFL and SAT scores, etc.
Financial Assets:

In order to qualify for a student visa, the applicant must show that he/she has funds available to pay for the first year of study and a continuing source of funds for the remaining years of study. Applicants should present full and complete financial documentation to show that they have sufficient funds to cover the cost of their educational fees and living expenses while in the U.S. Current bank statements for all accounts should be presented.
Student visa applications will be refused if you are unable to show proof of ability to pay for all educational expenses at the time of your visa interview. 
Initial Entry into the US:
Please be aware that United States Department of Homeland Security regulations state that holders of student (F1) non-immigrant visas will only be admitted to the United States thirty days or less before their class start date, as given on form I-20. This rule does not apply to the continuing students.
SEVIS Registration & Fee:
Persons applying for a student visa must pay a SEVIS fee. This fee covers the cost of administering the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).  This fee must be paid before the person applies for a visa.  Derivative applicants do not have to pay a SEVIS fee. For further details and information on how to pay the fee, please visit www.fmjfee.com

Read More