Studying
in the US can involve the following:
Test:
Appearing for your tests like GMAT / GRE / SAT / TOEFL / IELTS. You must know
which test is applicable for you and should appear for it timely
University
Selection: Selection of right course at the right Universities is the key since
US has over 4000 Institutions and every application costs money (like
- application fees which can be between $ 50 to $ 150 in most cases,
- courier charges (of sending your application documents to each University which could be Rs 1000 to Rs 1500 per School),
- Sending your GMAT, GRE, SAT, TOEFL, IELTS, SAT II subject test scores to each University, where applicable).
This can
be as much as spending Rs 6000 to Rs 7000 per University while only making
applications.
Editing
Essays and Personal Statement (Statement of Purpose): US
Schools often will have typical essays as a requirement especially for
undergraduate studies and MBA. Many MS (Masters) courses in the USA also have
this as a requirement. If not, at least a Personal Statement (popularly known
as SOP) is compulsory. To add, remember scholarship essays are very important
too and can get you better value for your studies.
Financial
Documents: You need to gather the correct financial documents (may include bank
statement, bank balance certificate, solvency certificate) while applying to US
Schools. They need to check if you have adequate finances to join them and live
in the US. Generally, the liquid and other assets you must show through appropriate
documentation should be equivalent to your total cost of studying in the US
(tuition + living) for the total course duration.
Scholarship
Application: USA has been generous in providing scholarships
to deserving students. Rather, should we say that most students who apply to
the right US Colleges and Universities will secure some kind of scholarship, or
bursaries, or even financial aid. Ensure that you are aware of any scholarship
and funding announcements in Advance.
Sending
Applications: Making out online or paper applications and
sending the correct documents is the key if the University should have any
intention of giving you admissions. Remember, US Universities have deadlines
and documentation must reach the admissions office in time.
Liaising
with Universities and Securing Admission Decision: You
must track the progress of your applications. Many Universities email you about
some requirements and the chances are you would not check your emails, there is
a chance of losing your Admission.
Final Decision: Once you have collected your I-20s from the Universities you have applied to, it’s time to make the final decision. Sometimes these decisions have to be taken even when you are awaiting a reply from some Institution. You must make this timely decision.
