Over the past few years, the U.S. has dominated the globe in being the most popular university destination for students from all over the world. Somehow, even with the growth of other English-taught options in other countries, numerous students still choose to study in the U.S.A
Why do international students choose studying in the U.S.A? To answer this question, we will run through the top five reasons students tend to always choose American universities for their international education, and what sets these universities apart.
1. U.S. Degrees Have An Excellent International Reputation
It’s hardly a secret that top universities in the U.S. continue to maintain a strong presence among the best ranked education institutions in the world. Partially this has to do with how well-funded and supported American universities are, but it also has to do with the high academic standards and rigorous requirements that they instill in their students.
With their always-changing and evolving classrooms, these universities continue to attract students from all over the world, and are courageously working every year to change the education they deliver so that foreign students from all over the world are prepared to go back home and find wonderful careers opportunities.
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2. American Universities Are Bastions Of Cultural Diversity
Nearly every university in the U.S. takes diversity to be one of their defining pillars. Historically, there has been a strong effort within the structure of these higher education institutions to increase the number of educational opportunities and make cultural diversity central to the enrollment and admission efforts.
Students often remark that their classes and dormitories are full of students from every nationality, religion, or ethnicity, and having access to and contact with so many cultural backgrounds makes the experience that much more thrilling.
If you go to a university in the U.S., you will feel immediately comfortable around people who share a similar background and who have new ideas and perspectives to share. Studying abroad, in general, is one way to Nuture your tolerance and openness to other culture; studying abroad in America adds another dimension, exposing you not only to the U.S. culture, but to the languages and beliefs of people from nationalities all over the world.
3. U.S. Universities Offer Excellent Support Facilities
In an effort to make your transition to a U.S. university smoother, these institutions offer plenty of support to prepare international students for their classes. Through various workshops, English-language practice courses, orientations, and trainings, foreign students are given plenty of help to get them ready for their classes.
Moreover, there is some effort to allow international students the ability to stay in the U.S. after they graduate, so that they can attempt to pursue a wonderful career at some of the world’s biggest companies. In 2016, a massive effort was taken to allow graduates from STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) to stay for 24 months to get work experience and extend their stay.
With this opportunity, you have the chance to look for work in fields that are always seeking ambitious and hard-working students; and with this extension, you can stay in the U.S. to find your footing at some of the biggest companies.
There Are Extraordinary Study Opportunities All Over The U.S. And They Are Available To Students Everywhere:
- Study computer science in the U.S.A
- Study an MBA in the U.S.A
- Study Mechanical engineering in the U.S.A
4. U.S. Universities Invest In Optimized Classroom Experiences
As technology continues to innovate and change the way that information is delivered, university classrooms are trying to keep in step with the rapid acceleration of ideas. By giving students more access to web-based classes, utilising computer-based tests, and allowing students to use different labs and resources, universities are able to give you the latest and most modern classroom experience that you can imagine.
With these advanced capabilities and access to all kinds of resources, American universities keep the education up-to-date, with all of the gadgets and engaging virtual experiences that this generation of students is already accustomed to. If you study in the U.S.A, you will find yourself immediately introduced to new ways of studying, learning, researching, and taking tests.
5. American Universities Offer A Flexible Academic Environment
Studying abroad in America provides an ideal environment for students, characterized by flexible methods of education and continuous development process for students in the various fields of studies.
Depending on your strengths, interests, and goals, U.S. universities deliberately shift their classroom structures and instruction methods to make learning engaging and, at the same time, relevant to your own domain.
U.S. colleges and universities are notoriously causal and relaxed. Students are under no obligation to show up to every single class, or to stay for an entire lecture. Now, just because you can avoid and skip classes, it doesn’t mean you should.
Why USA for study?
Every year, the number of international students in the US rises as more and more students choose the Unites States as the place they wanted to broaden their experience and continue their education. In fact, the US is now the most popular country for international students. Why do so many international students choose U.S. colleges and universities?
Variety of Educational Opportunities
The United States is home to several thousand colleges and universities, boasting at least ten times as many campuses as in any other country. As a result, the higher education system in the U.S. has something for everyone. Some U.S. colleges and universities stress broad educational principles; others emphasize practical, employment-related skills; and still others specialize in the arts, social sciences or technical fields. This means that no matter what you plan on studying, you will have a wide variety of programs in your particular field from which to choose.
Support Services for International Students
Studying in the United States is a rewarding experience, but navigating your way through day-to-day issues can be a challenge. Many international students find that the college and university international student office is a great resource when it comes to adapting to a culturally and academically different environment. The mission of the international student office is to assist students like you, and there is often a wide range of student services that they provide
An orientation program upon your arrival is just the start of the many programs and benefits of the university international student office – throughout your time in the U.S., they can help answer questions you may have regarding your visa status, financial situation, housing, employment possibilities, health concerns and more. If you choose to complete your degree in the United States, this office often provides resume and employment assistance as graduation nears. The international student office will be an invaluable source of information and help as you make the transition into academic and cultural life in the United States.
Global Education and Long-Term Career Prospects
Experience in an international setting is a marketable commodity. Many employers seek the wide range of knowledge, adaptability and experience that international students acquire by studying in the United States. Companies in the U.S. are increasingly seeking to become a strong presence in the global marketplace. They often look to hire employees who not only have multi-cultural language skills, but those who can also help communicate, negotiate and conduct business across different cultures.
The United States is not the only country seeking strong candidates when hiring; international students are in high demand elsewhere, as well. In recent years, international companies have become much more proactive in recruiting from the pool of strong international student graduates. Your long-term career prospects can be enhanced by your experiences through the development of self-confidence, independence and cross-cultural skills – attributes which are in high demand with employers worldwide.
Campus Life Experience
When you continue your studies in the U.S., you are making a choice to broaden not only your educational opportunities, but your cultural experience, as well. Whether you attend a small, private college in a small town or a university situated in the middle of a large urban area, most universities offer a variety of student clubs and organizations to match the wide array of student interests. You can have the opportunity to immerse yourself in American culture, meeting new people and making new friends, through different organizations and associations.
International students often find that the international student office is a good starting point for campus offerings, as well as the campus student center. Your time studying abroad can be enriched by taking part in the social and cultural scene surrounding you, and you will likely find that U.S. campuses provide rich variety academic, cultural and athletic activities that add new dimensions to your life.
If you are looking to study in the USA, check out our USA school search where you can pick your criteria and find the perfect school that meets your unique preferences.
BETTER WAY, BETTER LIFE
If you are planning to live, learn and grow in the United States, you already possess a well-known American characteristic—a sense of adventure! As an international student, you will experience many new and exciting things. In this section, we hope to prepare you for some of the adventures involved in living in the United States.
It is difficult, if not impossible, to discuss exactly what “Living in the U.S.” means to everyone. American culture has been enriched by the values and belief systems of virtually every part of the world. From an international student’s perspective, that diversity is very valuable. If you choose to live in a completely different environment, you may be challenged with new situations every day; but if you decide to live in a part of the U.S. that resembles your home country in some ways, you may find comfort in those similarities.
Learning more about yourself is perhaps the most important part of your decision to travel to the U.S. Once you know what you want to achieve, then you can identify the right place to study and live and grow in the States.
Work in USA
If you are an international student studying in the US, you have the opportunity to work part-time but remember that you are restricted by the terms of your visa. It is a MUST that you know all the requirements and restrictions concerning your visa!
Please be sure to visit our international student immigration centre to learn more about your visa and consult an immigration attorney if you have any questions.
On-Campus Employment
On-campus employment is the category most freely permitted by the USCIS, and it does not require USCIS approval. However, although F1 status includes an on-campus employment privilege, on-campus employment opportunities at most schools are limited. Even if you can obtain a job on campus, you may not rely on it to prove financial resources for the year, and often these jobs are not related to your studies. Many schools do require that you obtain permission from the International Student Office prior to accepting any on-campus employment, and may not permit such employment in a student’s first semester or year.
For On-Campus Work, An F1 Student Is Subject To The Following Rules:
- You must maintain valid F1 status
- You can work up to 20 hours per week while school is in session
- You can work full-time on campus during holidays and vacation periods if you intend to register for the next academic semester
- The employment may not displace (take a job away from) a U.S. resident
Accommodation
Here are a number of options when it comes to deciding where you will live when you are living and studying in the United States.
These Options Include
On-Campus Dormitories
Once you are enrolled in a U.S. school, the Admissions Department or International Student Office will most likely send you a “pre-departure orientation” packet. Options for where to live are generally included in this information.
Some American schools offer accommodations for international students on-campus, or near the school’s classrooms, libraries and other facilities. “Dormitories” are buildings with many rooms for sleeping and living, often with two or three people (of the same gender) per room. Dormitory residents typically share large bathrooms which include showers and toilets. Many first-year students prefer to live in on-campus dormitories because they are convenient to both academic and social activities. Another advantage is that it is not likely that you will need a car to commute to campus.
On-campus accommodations also offer close proximity to the cafeteria and other eating establishments. U.S. colleges and universities offer very flexible meal-plan programs, where you can choose to pay in advance for breakfast, lunch and dinner. On most campuses, you may also deposit a certain amount of money at the beginning of the semester for food that you may buy from designated places. Each item’s cost is deducted from the balance in your account throughout the semester. Again, your pre-departure orientation packet will probably detail your eating options.
Moving into a dormitory setting is relatively simple: utilities such as electricity and telephone connections will most likely be ready to use. Each U.S. college or university has its individual policy on paying for long-distance telephone charges; learn those policies soon after you arrive on campus.
Off-Campus Options
Some U.S. schools do not provide on-campus accommodations for international students. However, an off-campus housing office will assist you in finding an appropriate place to live. Often, the office coordinates activities to help students find a compatible roommate to share expenses; they also provide information about the local neighborhoods, including popular restaurants, shopping areas, parks and recreation, and public transportation.
Home Stays
Home stays are a viable option for students under the age of 18, especially those who are nervous about leaving home and living in a new country. In a home stay arrangement, you will be placed with an American family within 20 to 45 minutes from your campus. You will have your own room, and meals will be provided.
Living with an American family will allow you to fully immerse yourself in American culture as you adapt to the life of the family with whom you are living. You can benefit of the comforts of home and of a family life, even though you are far from home and in an entirely new country.
Transportation
America is a large place, and getting around the country may seem like a challenge, especially for international students. Whether you are living on or off campus, in a city or suburb, you are going to need to be able to get around easily and efficiently. You will probably not want to buy a car just for your time in the States, so you’ll want to learn about the many public transportation options available to you for getting around in your new country.
Trains And Subways
Subways will be found in most major cities in the USA, such as New York, Boston, and Chicago, and they are a cheap way to travel around. When moving to a big city, you will want to familiarize yourself with the subway system, as it is likely to be your most common way of getting around. Trains, on the other hand, are good for traveling throughout the USA. They are slightly more expensive than traveling by bus, but it is much quicker. If you are planning on going on a long trip, you might consider looking into train tickets. However, they are generally not the best way of travelling short distances.
Car Rentals
At least once during your time in the US, you will probably want to travel. If you and your friends are planning a road trip during vacation, you might be surprised by reasonable vehicle rentals can be. Many car rental companies are happy to rent vehicles to international students; all you need is an appropriate driver’s license. If you’re planning a long drive, it is probably a good idea to make sure that you have more than one qualified driver in the car, and that you have invested in proper insurance.
Develop Social Life In USA
Your interactions with other people—your social life—are an integral part of your stay in the United States. To make the most of it, get ready to introduce yourself in a positive way to fellow students, professors, and other people both on- and off-campus.
One of your first introductions to social life on a U.S. campus will most likely be “The International Student Orientation Program,” traditionally coordinated by the Admissions Office or the Office of International Programs. Orientation varies greatly from school to school, though the objectives are similar: to introduce the new non-U.S. students to each other, and to prepare you for campus life. Many times, topics include immigration, academic advisors, computer and library resources, telephone services, public safety, medical services, and banking and transportation options. (Be sure to see money matters for more details about money management during your stay.) During orientation, students often learn of upcoming activities such as trips to local points of attraction.
College and university campuses are abound with activities designed to foster friendships. Many schools designate a “Student Activities Center” (also called a student union) where you may learn of different activities and programs, such as student government, the newspaper staff, outdoors club, chorus, dance, and a number of athletic teams. Explore which ones may suit you best!
What After Graduation?
Congratulations on your Graduation! Now that you have completed your undergraduate degree program in the USA, you now have many options and avenues that you can go down and each option has its own merits and demerits. Choosing the right option will involve a large amount of research and will come down to personal preference – but hopefully the information in our graduate study guide will help you, and point you in the right direction to choose the next step in your international education adventure.
Visa Options
If you think that you want to stay and work in the United States after completing your undergraduate degree, make sure that you know your visa requirements and restrictions. Navigating the American immigration process is often stressful and confusing because there are as many visas as there are letters in the alphabet. The eligibility requirements and legal rulings are constantly changing, which does not make the process any easier.