Studying in The USA

Choosing a Study Path: Options include Undergraduate (Bachelor), Graduate (Master, PhD), Community College, and transfer programs.
Academic Requirements: Your high school diploma (e.g., Abitur) must be evaluated by the target institution and may be converted into a GPA equivalent.
Standardized Tests: Many undergraduate programs require SAT or ACT scores. Graduate programs often ask for GRE or subject-specific tests. While some universities are test-optional, most still require recommendation letters and personal essays.
Specialized Programs: Fields like medicine, dentistry, law, and the arts often require additional aptitude tests, portfolios, or interviews.

English Proficiency Tests: TOEFL iBT, IELTS Academic, or alternative tests like Duolingo English Test are widely accepted. Required minimum scores vary significantly by university and program.
Exceptions: Some universities may accept prior academic coursework or a German-language degree as partial proof of proficiency. Decisions are made individually by each institution.
Preparation Options: Intensive English courses, pre-sessional programs, and academic writing training are commonly available and highly recommended.

Visa Types: The F‑1 Student Visa is standard for full-time academic studies. Exchange students typically use the J‑1 Visa.
I‑20 / DS‑2019 Documents: U.S. institutions issue the I‑20 (for F‑1) or DS‑2019 (for J‑1), which are required for the visa application and the DS‑160 online form.
Visa Process in 2025: Visa interviews have resumed in 2025, and consulates now require complete documentation. Applicants must submit the I‑20/DS‑2019, proof of financial resources, and a correctly filled DS‑160 form.
Expanded Digital Screening: Applicants must disclose their social media profiles, which may need to be publicly accessible. U.S. consulates now conduct enhanced online screening, and private profiles may pose issues. Interview availability is regionally limited.

Tuition Fees: U.S. tuition fees vary widely between community colleges, public universities, and private elite institutions. International students typically pay significantly more than domestic students.
Proof of Financial Resources: For the visa and I‑20/DS‑2019 documents, students must provide evidence of sufficient funds. Common forms include bank statements, scholarship letters, or sponsor declarations.
Scholarships and Funding: Universities, external organizations, and funding programs offer scholarships, but competition is intense. Early applications and careful budget planning are essential.

Health and Insurance: Many U.S. universities require or offer student health insurance plans. International students should carefully review campus insurance options and supplement if needed. Institutions often require proof of vaccinations, health forms, and sometimes TB screenings, requirements vary by university.
Accommodation Options: Students can choose between on-campus dorms, off-campus apartments, or shared housing. On-campus intake periods and application deadlines should be checked early.
Enrollment and Practical Setup: After admission, students must complete formalities such as orientation, deposit payments, submission of original documents, and course registration. Key practical steps include opening a U.S. bank account, getting a local phone number, checking eligibility for a Social Security Number (SSN), and using campus support services.

Legal Work Limits: F‑1 students are generally allowed to work on-campus. Off-campus employment requires authorization through CPT (Curricular Practical Training) or OPT (Optional Practical Training), or must meet specific conditions.
Internships and CPT/OPT: CPT allows career-related internships during the study period. OPT enables up to 12 months of work experience after graduation, with possible extensions for STEM graduates.
Career Planning: University career services, networking, internships, and early planning for employer sponsorship are key to securing long-term employment opportunities.

Thinking about studying in The US?