Check whether you are eligible
Before you apply to a particular program, check whether you meet the eligibility criteria. Some US Universities require four year undergraduate degrees while others don’t. Many US universities have now begun to accept the three-year bachelor degrees from India. Some programs will need SAT/GRE/GMAT scores. All programs need the TOEFL iBT score.
Choosing the right university
Don’t choose a university by its ranking. The most prestigious universities are also the most difficult to get into. Focus on those universities where you have a fairly good chance of securing admission. Other factors that need to influence your decision are the availability of scholarships, acceptance rate and the international student population on campus.
Apply online
If possible complete the basic application online. Many universities now waive off application fee or charge less fee if you apply online. You need a credit card to apply online.
Recommendation letter and transcripts
The recommendation letter should be in the format specified by the University. You may also include a letter from your recommender on how highly he/she thinks of your abilities. You also need to get your examination mark sheets and transcripts attested by the head of your institution.
The Statement of Purpose
The statement of purpose should show the real you beyond your mark sheets. Be candid and let your thoughts flow. What motivates you? What are the major influences in your life? How others can benefit from their interactions with you? What are your goals in life? Why do you want to study in the US? Your Statement of Purpose should clearly answer all of these questions.
Contact the faculty
Be sure to contact the faculty in the department of your choice. Tell them that you are interested in applying for all available forms of financial aid. For instance, international students are eligible for fellowships, graduate assistantships and tuition fee waiver.
Contact the International Student Services
Contact the International Student Services department in your chosen university and tell them that you are interested in a campus job. If you are interested in off-campus housing options you may state that as well. Note that living in residence hall or dorms on campus is much costlier than off-campus housing options.
Education loans
To get an education loan from a bank in India, visit your nearest branch and talk to the respective manager. As per RBI norms banks should sanction education loans of up to Rs 4 lakh without any collateral or security. You can get an education loan of up to 25 lakhs. You will need to repay the loan about a year after you graduate. It can be paid in up to a maximum of 84 EMIs over a period of seven years.
Campus jobs
An international student studying in the US is allowed to work for a maximum of 20 hours per week on campus jobs. During the summer vacation you are allowed to work more hours.
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