In our University Admissions webinar for Fall '22 we covered all things international students need to know about university admissions for Fall 2022. There were a lot of questions asked and information discussed, so we wanted to provide a recap for any of you that may have missed out or for those who just need a refresher!
A few topics and popular questions:
Required Application Materials
There are a few important documents you will potentially need to have ready when you are about to submit college applications. You will need a transcript that is translated to English (if not already), exam results (English Language, ACT/SAT, etc.), personal statements/essays, and bank or financial statements. Many EdAgree partner universities will not require the official documents initially, but you all will be required upon acceptance.
You are required to submit your transcript in order to show the college or university what classes you took and the grades you received in high-school to determine if you qualify for admission. Some schools are no longer requiring you submit your SAT/ACT score(s), but most do. If you are uncertain, it is always best to speak with an admissions counselor or your EdAgree Advisor. Each EdAgree partner university profile will have these specific exams and scores required for your application.
Personal Essay
You will likely be asked to submit a brief personal statement, or personal essay, to further tell your story to the college or university of which you are applying to. This essay allows you to stand out as an individual and help the institution understand why you would be a valuable student. Read more here to find out how to write your personal essay!
Cost of Attendance and Scholarships
Universities need to know you can afford to attend! You will need to submit bank or financial statements showing you can finance around $25,000 USD per year. Proof of funding can look like bank statements, letters of government sponsorship, parental or guardian sponsorship statements with appropriate bank statements, etc. This does not mean you are required to pay that amount at once.
This is a good time to mention that many scholarships and financial aid are available for international students, but remember full scholarships are very uncommon. Students should expect to pay for some tuition and living expenses. The average cost for a year of study in the U.S. can range between $25,000-$45,000 USD. If you are not able to afford to study abroad you may need to consider longer term plans to study in your home country.
English Language Exam
English language proficiency exams are required by most colleges and universities. The goal is to ensure students are not faced with a language barrier if English is not their first language. The three most commonly accepted exams are: TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo. Each of our university partners profiles will list the required minimum exam score to submit an application. If you are interested in practicing your English skills, check out our English language practice suite!
Student Visa Process
The U.S. Government requires students to show they have the correct amount of funds to account for the first year of attendance (tuition) – meaning the cost remaining after any awarded scholarships. This is not a university requirement. Once you are admitted to your university, you will be provided the correct paperwork for your student interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country. Read more for a complete guide to the U.S. student visa application process!
Can I Work While Studying Abroad?
Working while studying abroad is a possibility for most students; however, there are a few things to understand before you can start. There are two main student visas: F-1 and J-1. Each visa will require students to work on-campus designated positions and follow similar guidelines limiting working hours while school is in session to 20 hours per week and 40 while school is not in session.
Keep in mind working 20 hours per week will not cover your tuition, but rather act as a supplement to paying for your living expenses. Campus jobs cannot be used as proof of funds for a student visa or for university payment purposes. Showing financial documentation and proof of funding takes place before you are able to accept student employment. You can read more here if you are interested in learning more about student visas and finding a job.
Community College as an Alternate Path
Community college is an option that many students overlook. Community colleges are similar to 4 year universities, but the key factors that make them different are very important. At community college you spend 2 years earning your associates degree, while spending significantly less in tuition than at a 4 year university. Once you have completed your associates degree you are then able to transfer to a 4 year university to finish out your bachelor's (4 year) degree. EdAgree's community college partners have a 2+2 agreement with other 4 year universities to allow your transfer to be seamless. Read more about why you should consider a community college here.
How EdAgree Can Help You Apply
There are a few steps you will need to complete when looking to apply with EdAgree.
Pick a University: Explore our world-class university partners whom have been carefully chosen for their commitment to international students. You can find their profiles on our Student Success Platform.
EdAgree Helps You Apply: After picking a university you would like to submit an application to you will work directly with an EdAgree advisor to make the application quick and easy! They will ensure you are set up for success.
Get Your Admissions Decision: EdAgree works directly with the admissions team at your university to get you a quick admissions decision!
What You Need to Do
Create your free profile on our student success platform! If you have questions email us at students@edagree.com. EdAgree is here to help international students succeed on their study abroad journey!