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Education System
The institutions of higher education such as colleges or universities in America function independently. They run their own curriculum, programs, create their own fee structure and admission criteria. Each institution provides a variety of courses and extra-curricular activities for its students.
A common difficulty applicants face is choosing an institution. Applicants should base their decision on the accreditation of the institution. Non-governmental institutions are usually well accredited. These ratings are based on their staff, facilities such as libraries or laboratories, the standard of instruction and student to teacher ratios.
The various types of educational institutions in the US are :
Schools: Education up to twelve years.
Post-secondary community colleges: offer the initial 2 years study of an associated degree or a certification program and then transfer to an institute of higher education.
Community colleges: offer technical courses, job training or specific interest programs.
University: offer degrees for both undergraduate and post-graduate levels.
Admission Procedure
In order to simplify the application process applicants can use the Common Application. This website has information on most public and private US universities. It helps students understand universities individual requirements and gives you details about their application forms. If you plan to apply to more than 1 university you can add them all to your account and keep track of the various application dates and forms.
- Decide which colleges or universities you will be applying to and which term you will be enrolling in.
- Take the SAT/GRE and TOEFL/IELTS. (These scores will be sent to the various universities electronically.)
- Fill out the application form and submit application at least 3 months before the due date.
Scholarships
Most institutions offer scholarships to international students but they are highly competitive. They are need-based or awarded for academic excellence in a felid of study, performing arts or sports. Applicants should also research other sources of funding such as the Indian Government, private corporations or other institutions.
Research other funding opportunities with the Indian Government, private corporations or other institutions.
Cost
The table below is an indicative financial summary of the expenses per year.
Tuition
| University Type | Avg. Tuition Fee (per Year in USD) |
|---|---|
| Private Institutions (High Cost) | $ 35,000+ |
| Private Institutions (Low Cost) | $ 18,000+ |
| State Institutions (High Cost) | $ 25,000+ |
| State Institutions (Low Cost) | $ 12,000+ |
Post Education Opportunities
F-1 students may not work off-campus during the first academic year, but may accept on-campus employment subject to certain conditions and restrictions. There are various programs available for F-1 students to seek off-campus employment, after the first academic year. F-1 students may engage in three types of off-campus employment, after they have been studying for one academic year. These three types of employment are:
- Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
- Optional Practical Training (OPT) (pre-completion or post-completion)
- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Optional Practical Training Extension (OPT)
