Most aspiring international students have experienced the US college experience before they set foot on US soil. Thanks to movies and popular culture. But that is just a one-sided representation of the real thing. Let’s find out the what it is actually like to study in the USA

Education System

Students from Sri Lanka mainly pursue undergraduate studies in the USA. There are six degree levels available in the states – associate, bachelor’s, first-professional, master’s, advanced intermediate, and research doctorate.postdoctoral research programs. Undergraduates usually study a wide range of subjects before specialising in one area. This gives them the chance to sample different areas before settling on one.Students are also allowed to change their specialisation many times. Universities give students the freedom to transfer to another college based on credits without extra payment.

Learning Style

Also university courses in the USA promote applied and creative learning. Students are encouraged to apply knowledge in roleplays, simulations and group projects. They are made to challenge their own thinking through feedback and constructive criticism. You will also find yourself in after-class study groups. Lectures further focus on research oriented activities. The on campus atmosphere is mostly laid back in the US. However assessment marking is strict. So double check and triple check your assignments and make sure that they conform to guidelines before handing them in.

US Universities

The top 5 ranking colleges in the US are Harvard, Stanford, MIT, Berkeley and Columbia. Some of these also fall into the Ivy League Schools list. This means that they boast a prestigious history. They are not all necessarily the best performing schools. Heads up: the word ‘university’ means the same as ‘college’. US universities are some of the best around and will offer an unmatched college experience. Even the top 100 universities in the US are some of the most recognised in the world.

Applying To College

Applying to a US college is not simple. The entire process will take nearly 1 1/2 years. Preparation well ahead of time will pay off. Complete Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) a year ahead. The application for most universities is usually in January. This will be seven months before university starts. Your application must include an application form, personal essay, references, academic achievement transcripts and financial statements.

Student Visa

You can apply for a F1 visa if you will be studying in one of the colleges in USA. To apply, you must have already been accepted into the college. The Visa is granted on the expectation that you will return to your country within 60 days of completing the course. This Visa allows students to work while studying. Graduates who want to stay for work can stay for upto 12 months on the F1 Visa – provided they find employment. Science, technology, mathematics or engineering students can stay a further 6 months.

Living In The US

The cost of living for international students is high. Expenses may average between $700-1000 a month. The highest expenses will be for accomodation and groceries. Stay in a youth hostel or ask the housing office of your college to connect you with a local family while you find permanent accommodations. Rent costs will vary
from region to region. Sharing an apartment will make it more affordable. But make sure that all parties formally agree to share rent and utilities. Maximise the use of public transport. Use car pooling when public transport is unavailable.

Part-Time Work

There is not much part-time work for international students. International students are allowed to work only on-campus in their first year. This may look like a university bookstore, cafeteria or library. Students can work upto 20 hours a week and unlimited hours during holidays and vacation. Students can only work off campus if they have completed their first year. Students who can prove that they have a qualifying hardship or an emergent circumstance may be able to work off campus in their first year.. Speak to your designated school official (DSO) – person specifically assigned to international students- for help in finding part time work. Getting an internship in your second year will be an advantage when seeking employment after graduation.

Studying in the US will be an unforgettable adventure. Apart from all the skill and experience you will acquire there will also be memories to last you a lifetime