International Student Guide

*This is a general guide to aid international students in preparing to study abroad in the U.S.

Be sure to contact your chosen institution for exact steps and requirements.

1. Research Colleges and Universities

Identify colleges and programs that suit your interests, budget, and career goals. Consider rankings, course offerings, and campus facilities.

Useful resources:

- Compare Schools: 🔗UTC Comparison

- Education USA: 🔗Education USA

- College Board: 🔗College Board

- U.S. News College Rankings: 🔗US News-College Rankings

2. Prepare for Standardized Tests

Most U.S. colleges require standardized test scores. Check each school's requirements.

Common tests:

- TOEFL/IELTS (for English proficiency - ESL)

- SAT/ACT (for undergraduate programs)

- GRE/GMAT (for graduate programs)

Useful links:
* ESL = English as a Second Language

- TOEFL (ESL): 🔗Language-Testing

- IELTS (ESL): 🔗IELTS

- SAT: 🔗College Board

- ACT: 🔗ACT.org

- GRE: 🔗ETA.org-gre

- GMAT: 🔗MBA

3. Apply to Colleges

Complete applications early to ensure completion on-time:

- Common App: 🔗Common App

- Coalition App: 🔗Coalition for college

Required documents may include:

- Academic transcripts (translated into English)

- Standardized test scores

- Letters of recommendation

- Personal statement/essay

- Proof of financial support

4. Apply for Financial Aid and Scholarships

Research financial aid for international students:

Submit the CSS Profile for need-based financial aid: 🔗CSS Profile

- International Student Scholarships: 🔗International-scholarships

- FastWeb Scholarships: 🔗Fastweb.com

5. Obtain Your I-20 or DS-2019 Form

Once accepted, the school will issue an I-20 (for F-1 visa) or DS-2019 (for J-1 visa) form. Pay the SEVIS fee: 🔗I-901 fee

6. Apply for a Student Visa

Apply for the appropriate visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your country.

Visa Types:

- F-1 Visa (academic study)

- J-1 Visa (exchange programs)

Prepare for the visa interview and gather the required documents, such as:

- I-20 or DS-2019 form

- SEVIS fee receipt

- Passport (valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay)

- Proof of financial support

- Admission letter

More information: 🔗U.S. Department of State

7. Plan for Travel and Housing

Before booking any travel, speak with your school about housing options, such as on-campus or off-campus housing. Again, contact the school for any advice from international students on the next steps.

Click to explore Student Travel Guide and other travel links:

🔗Cost of Living
🔗Google Maps
🔗Google Flights

8. Attend Orientation and Enroll

Participate in international student orientation, settle into housing, open a U.S. bank account, and enroll in classes.

Important Deadlines

- Standardized Tests: 6–12 months before applying

- College Applications: Applications are subject to each schools calendar check w/ admissions office

- College Notifications:

• EARLY ACTION DECISION - December/January

• REGULAR DECISION - February/March

• COLLEGE DECISION - May 1st