So you have made the decision to study in the USA. This could, however, bring about mixed emotions because, on one hand, you would be exploring the vast benefits of studying in the USA, and on the other hand, it can feel quite overwhelming. In this article, we would be looking at everything you need to know before applying to study in the USA.
- Average Tuition Fees to study in the USA
- 5 things you need before applying to study in the USA
- Further Tips
Average Tuition Fees to study in the USA
Based on data gotten from usnews.com, the average tuition fee to study in the USA is about $10,423 for 2022-2023 academic sessions.
And 74% of public colleges are ranked with this average price compared to private colleges. This could range from about $6,000 up to $40,000.
This means if you are thinking of coming to the USA to study and do not have adequate funds, it’s best you research colleges that are affordable or universities that offer scholarship programs.
5 things you need before applying to study in the USA
In this section, we would be looking at some of the things you need to have before applying to study in the United States.
Application Fees
Most international students outside the US are oblivious to the fact that you need to pay a certain amount to apply for academic study at any university in the USA.
This is a standard for universities in the USA. Application fees can range in price depending on the school. Some schools can charge as low as $30 while some charge as much as $120.
You are required to pay this non-refundable fee to the university when applying. You would not be able to complete your application until this payment has been made and verified.
Another thing you need is financial proof or proof of funds.
Financial Eligibility
Students are required to show proof of their financial eligibility which increases their chances of getting admitted.
The university would require a copy of your bank statement or other documents that can prove your financial eligibility.
If you are unable to provide proof of funds and would require financial aid, contact your school admissions office.
Passport
A passport is needed for all international students or individuals who are not a citizen of the United States. You would need a passport to study in the USA.
One of the documents required of you during your application process is your passport number. Without this number, the school would not able to issue the necessary forms you need for your student visa.
Once you have been approved and issued a student visa, this visa is valid for about 6 months.
Student Transcripts
Universities would require you to provide your previous academic transcripts. These transcripts can either be for your high school program, college transcripts, or bachelor’s degree transcripts (if you are pursuing a master’s degree).
Furthermore, you need to have finished from an accredited learning institution before your transcripts can be validated.
This is why you would need to make certain plans ahead of schedule and prepare to spend for each application process.
Once you have obtained your previous school transcripts, you would need to upload them digitally to the document you would be sending during your application.
Test Scores
Every university in the USA has its various requirements in terms of test scores. Some schools would require you to have completed an SAT or ACT before you can be granted admission.
Others may just require the basic IELTS, TOEFL, or GMAT. The best thing to do is visit their official websites to check the requirements needed for the course or program you are applying for.
Although there are some schools in the USA that do not require you to have an IELTS or a TOEFL score. These schools are listed below:
- University of Alabama
- University of Arkansas
- Arizona State University
- Foothill and De Anza Colleges
- Irvine Valley College
- Los Angeles Valley College
- University of Delaware
- University of Iowa
- Lewis University
- North Central College
- University of Minnesota
- University of Missouri, Columbia
- Felician College
- Berkeley College
- College of Southern Nevada (CSN)
- The University of Findlay
- University of Dayton
- Temple University
- Clark College
- University of Washington Bothell
- Olympic College
The above-listed schools would allow you to attend their programs without the need to take the IELTS or TOEFL test. You would however need to complete the school’s English language program.
Further Tips
During your application process, always try and stick to using one profile. If your documents do not correspond to your online profile submitted during your application, it could render your admission null and void.
Make sure all the documents you upload are correct and accurate as it could damage your chances of getting admission if any loopholes are found.