Student Visa for USA from India: How Does the Process Work?
The U.S. is popular amongst many students across the world for the excellent education that American institutions consistently provide. According to a 2017 Report on International Exchange Data that was released by the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and the IIE, the number of international students in the U.S. has increased by 3 percent. The report shows that the number of Indian students studying aboard has increased to a record level, over 185,000.
The process of Indian Students Studying Abroad in the U.S.A
The requirements for studying in the USA vary between levels and study programs. However, all courses require Indian students to meet minimum English requirements. You will also be required to have a minimum academic record of 65 percent and above for all humanities and 70 to 80 percent and above for commerce and science subjects.
Additionally, you should be over 18 years of age for you to join a degree program. Keep in mind that while these are some of the standard requirements, they may vary from institution to institution.
You may also be required to submit the following documents:
- Attested copies of your class X, XII, and bachelor’s degree (when applicable) mark sheets
- Academic reference letters from tutors that have taught you recently
- In case you have work experience, then you should submit two letters of recommendations from your employer or manager who can comment on your professional abilities.
- Resume
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Other certificates or achievements and extracurricular activities
- Your portfolio if you’re applying for art and design courses or architecture programs.
- Photocopies results of your IELTS/ GMAT/ GRE/ TOEFL
- Proof of funds
What you Should do to Start Studying in the US
As an international student, you have to complete four compulsory steps for you to study at American universities. Your first step is to determine the university you want to apply to. There are universities that offer accelerated degree programs and you can complete your associate’s degree in as little as 15 months and your bachelors in as little as 2.5 years. This can be a good option for those who don't want to spend four 4 years in school for a bachelor's degree.
After you have chosen the most suitable schools for you, your next step should be to contact the Admissions offices of each school and request for an admissions application. The application form will include all the required details for each school. While waiting, it is a good idea to take the TOEFL and other examinations that most schools require.
The next step is to complete the application forms for the courses you want to pursue and arrange for your documents including secondary and other records sent to the schools you selected. Send your application including the application fees as per the instructions in each application form.
The last step requires some patience. You have to wait for the institutions to make their final decisions, which can take some time. Therefore, be patient and apply early. If you are accepted, you will be sent an I-20 form which is the documentation that you will need to apply for your student visa. Take this form to a U.S. Consulate or Embassy near you. Remember to carry your passport and proof of funds, which can be in the form of scholarship awards or bank statements. The student visa is usually an F-1 visa.
You will then be interviewed before your visa application is approved. When approved, your visa will be stamped. Now you’re ready to travel to the U.S. and begin your study. Ensure that you make your travel arrangements as early as possible to avoid last minute disappointments.
Important Things you should know about Coming to the U.S. to Study
The U.S. is very welcoming to students from India who want to study here. However, this doesn’t mean that you will just come to the United States. You will need a visa to come and study in the U.S. which means that you should first be accepted into your college program.
Regardless of whether you’re part of the (VWP) Visa Waiver Program or you have the visitor B visa, you won’t be able to study in the U.S. for an extended period. You will need either an F-1 or M-1 visa to attend the university you were accepted to.
Are you interested in studying aboard? If you want to live and study in America, ECPI University offers degree courses in a variety of fields with a focus on hands-on training. For more information about our international program, connect with an admissions counselor today.
It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!
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