US educational system attracts applicants from all over the world. The high level of the academic base, the prestige of educational institutions, the possibility of obtaining a high-paying job - all these factors contribute to a large number of foreign citizens in the ranks of American students. In addition, the curricula in the United States are adapted for those who do not have English as their native language.
Determine the educational institution
Students who have received a certificate at home can continue their education by enrolling in college in the United States. In America, studying at the so-called Community College,or community colleges,is very popular. There are 2 and 4-year programs. At the end of two years of study, students receive secondary special education, which is enough to work in the specialty. If a student decides to continue his studies, there is an opportunity to enter the third year of the university, saving up to $ 20,000 per year.
Student advisor, or admission consultant
Many applicants use the services of special organizations that provide services in the field of education. Such a consultant, or Student advisor,provides information about:
- enrollment requirements
- criteria for upcoming exams
- tuition fees and additional costs
- list and deadlines for submission of documents.
Once you have identified several suitable educational institutions, you should submit the documents.
What documents do foreign students need to provide?
Requirements for foreign students applying for admission to US colleges differ depending on the profile, specialty, prestige of the university, competitive score for the place. Standard and mandatory list:
- notarized copy of the certificate translated into English
- letters of recommendation from teachers
- sponsorship letter and bank statement of the sponsor's account or the applicant himself with a deposit of at least $ 10,000
- motivational essay
- the result of the TOEFL language exam.
Confirmation of financial solvency is a guarantee that the student will have enough funds for rent, food and educational materials.
In the motivation letter, the applicant describes the reasons why he chose to study in the United States, a specific educational institution, reveals his personal characteristics. It is worth avoiding mentioning material benefits.
The requirements for the level of language proficiency of each college are individual. Many colleges offer programs with reduced academic workload and additional language classes.
Command of English language is usually measured in TOEFL points:
- 100+ points - excellent, you can apply for admission to almost any university (subject to other requirements)
- 60+ is also a sufficient level to guarantee admission to many colleges.
In case your TOEFL score does not reach the required one, you can take additional preparation in intensive language courses, which are available at many colleges. Such programs last about a year, give an excellent result and significant benefits for admission.
The second most popular test is IELTS, its results are also accepted in many universities. The average passing score on the IELTS system is 6.5.
Most often, American universities require to provide TOEFL results, rather than IELTS.
Terms of preparation for admission to college
- The initial collection of information about universities, programs, specialties and enrollment requirements should begin a year and a half before the start of studies.
- For 1-1.2 years, it is necessary to choose certain educational institutions, clarify the deadlines for submitting documents, the timing of the answers of the admission committee. During the same period, you should take language tests - in case of an unsatisfactory result, you will have time to retake.
- 9-11 months before the start of study, it is worth requesting from the college and filling out an application form - a questionnaire that indicates the courses and programs taken, indicates the points for them and the results of language tests. Send a full set of documents to the selected institutions. After receiving a response from the university, you should send a response letter confirming your intention to study at the selected college. If a positive answer came from several educational institutions at once, you should answer those institutions in which you do not plan to study.
- Six months before the start of study, settle financial issues. Request a bank statement with a debit balance of at least $10,000 for the first year of life in America.
- For 3 months, start a thorough preparation for the move: you need to order an air ticket, arrange insurance, decide on housing and submit documents to the consulate for a student visa.
Studying at an American college requires a lot of work, responsibility and a competent approach. However, obtaining a diploma provides a promising career with the opportunity to work anywhere in the world.
