Thinking about studying in the U.S. may seem difficult and impossible to some students, but let me tell you that it is not! Just by being determined that you want to study in the U.S., you have made the most important step. As an international student who is finishing her master studies in the U.S., I would like to give you some tips when considering studying in the U.S.
International Connections Lounge in the University of Arkansas’ Student Union
Tip 1: Plan ahead
In some countries, you can apply for admission as late as one week before the official start date. However, if you want to study in the U.S., you should plan ahead. Because of visa procedures, the application deadlines are earlier for international students. I suggest starting to plan one year before you intend to start your studies.
Tip 2: Before you take the tests, learn about them
If you plan to study in the U.S., you should probably take at least one standardized test. I am not going to tell you what you need to learn for the TOEFL, GRE, GMAT or other tests, but I would like you to consider that knowing about the test is a component of good preparation.
Tip 3: When you apply for admission, apply for a scholarship
Funding studies in the U.S. is not an easy task for many international students. Hence, once you apply for admission, apply for a scholarship. Students applying for graduate studies can also apply for assistantship positions, which not only make the funding easier, but also give a chance to students to get working experience while they are studying.
Tip 4: Take the best of ‘it’
Getting a degree in the U.S. is a wonderful thing. However, do not forget that there are many other things that you can get along with that. Just by being open and excited to meet new people from different cultures you’ll get to learn that values in this world are universal.
-Marigona, M.Ed. ’16
