The United States of America (USA) hosts the most number of international students in the world. Quality education, unique curriculum, multicultural environment, and abundant opportunities are just some of the reasons why many Indian students want to study in the US.
How to make a successful application?
Many international students apply to American higher education institutions to enroll in full-time study programmes every year and therefore having a strong admission application is what you need to shine among the crowd. Understanding that the most important part of a student’s international education journey is their admission application, here are some basic things you need to look at when making yours:
Basic improvable factors of US student application
1. English-language proficiency test scores: To study in the US, it’s mandatory to clear English-language proficiency tests such as IELTS, especially If you aren’t a native English speaker. The International English Language Test System (IELTS) is the most accepted English language test globally and is recognised by over 10,000 organisations, including professional associations, employers, educational institutions and governments in 140 countries worldwide.
2. Undergraduate CGPA: US universities assess your scholastic abilities by GPA (Grade Point Average) as there is no official grading system to choose from or regulatory bodies to administer the student evaluation method. Most commonly, institutions follow a four-point grading system, where you are graded on a scale of 0 to 4, with 4 being the maximum CGPA (Grade Point Average). However, some universities also follow a nine or ten-point grading system as well. Do check with our ACV counsellor to understand the grading system followed by your desired university.
3. Statement of Purpose (SOP): Your SOP to study in the US is a personal essay that covers academic history, professional background, and reasons why you want to take admission in your chosen American university. You must submit a good SOP since it is an important consideration for the admission committee. 4. Letter of Recommendation (LOR): It’s compulsory to submit a LOR when applying for admission at any study level in a US institution. Depending on the course and institution, you might be asked to submit two to three LORs (academic or professional based upon your background and choice of the program). 5. Research/project work: Your desired US university may also ask you to submit a research statement along with your application especially if you apply for a graduate program leading to a PhD. Take it as a chance to talk about your academic interests, showcase your aptitude and engagement that led you to consider this study program
6. Essay: If you are applying for any MBA program or an undergraduate course then your essay is the best tool to demonstrate how much you deserve to be in the course. The admission committee gives importance to a well-drafted essay where a student can express their thoughts in a convincing, yet comprehensive manner. Besides, it signifies a crucial ῀15-20% of your chance of admission.
How to Prepare for Interview for the US F-1 student visa?
If you have chosen to study in the US, this interview guide is for you! Once you file your application and it’s accepted, your visa interview will be scheduled with the United States consulate or embassy in your country. Given this interview is one of the most important ones you’ll give in your life, it's better to be well prepared in advance for the questions that might come your way. Let’s understand a little about F-1 student visa first:
F-1 student visa
This is a non-immigrant visa for international students granted for a maximum of five years. It is issued to the students who plan to study in US-based universities, language training programs, colleges, high schools, and other academic institutions.
Eligibility requirements for F1 Visa
To be eligible for the F-1 student visa, you’ll have to keep these in mind:
Prove your intentions to return home once the program is completed, any sign of settling in there permanently might increase the chances of rejection.
Ensure that your application is accepted by your desired educational institution in the US.
Be aware that everything you possess ties you to your home country i.e., family assets, bank accounts and other significant likes.
Documents for F-1 student visa interview
Though you might not be asked for anything other than your application or appointment letter, it’s wise to keep other important documents ready before the interview. Here’s a list of documents:
Passport
Job resignation or discharge letter
Letter from previous college
Marksheets of 10th, 12th and other Degree/ Diploma Courses
Loan approval letter & Bank statment
Types of Interview questions for F-1 student visa
If you are preparing for your F-1 student visa, that means you’ve come far, and this is the point that can make or break your career. Many students tend to take their visa interview lightly which puts them at risk of rejection. We don’t want this for you, and so here’s a list of probable questions you might get asked. Remember, this is an indicative set of questions as what an interviewer asks you depends on your individual profile.
Why have you chosen this University in the US?
What are your reasons for choosing this course to study in the US?
Who is sponsoring your education?
What is your sponsor’s professional background?
What are your career goals once you complete the course?
Why do you prefer to study in the US over other countries?
Do you know someone who’s staying/studying in the US?
Did you get any scholarships?
Why don’t you study in your own country?
Why should we approve your visa?
It’s important for you to have your answers ready beforehand to avoid any nervousness during the interview.
Your F-1 student visa is your gateway to the US and if you meet all the requirements, you can complete your post-secondary education as well as take up a part-time job in the US. Just make sure that you are well-prepared for your interview. If you need to prepare for your interview or have any questions, your ACV counsellor will help you prep up for the same.