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How to Get Admission in the United States: A Guide



Whenever someone plans to study abroad, the first destination that comes to mind is the USA. The USA is one of the most popular destinations in the world for international education. According to the Institute of International Education aka IIE, it hosts more than 1.1 million international students, with India being the top contributor. If you are one of these students and would like to know more about admission in United States, you are at the right place. Let’s dive in!

Types of Intake in the USA

The USA has three intakes Fall, Spring, and Summer with Fall being the top preferred intake. Fall intake is the most common due to universities having more options for programs and scholarship to study in USA. While the Spring intake is the 2nd common, mostly for students who have missed the Fall intake. Summer intake is best if you are looking for short-term programs.

Intake

Application Period

Fall

September - December

Spring

January - May

Summer

May - August

How to Apply for US Universities?

If you are planning to apply for US universities, here are the basic steps that you should follow:

  • Research: Research thoroughly as there are various top universities in the USA. Check universities that match your criteria such as location, fees, campus culture, academic excellence, and more.
  • Shortlist: After researching, shortlist universities. Try to shortlist a minimum of 12 universities and divide them into three categories Dream, Target, and Safe.
  • Documents: Visit your university’s website and check all the documents that are required from you. Academic transcripts, English language proficiency scores, standardized test scores, essays, SOPs, and LoRs are some of the important documents for admission.
  • Submit Online: Submit your application online on the university’s official website by paying the application fee and submitting important documents.
  • I-20 Form & Visa: Once you have received your admission offer from the university, get your I-20 form and start preparing for your visa interview.

Note: The application fee for the USA typically ranges between $40 to $150 per application.

Documents Required to Study in the USA

Academic Transcripts

English Language Proficiency Scores

Statement of Purpose (SOP) / Essays

Letters of Recommendation (LoR)

Resume / CV

Work Experience Proof (if applicable)

Copy of Passport

Standardized Test Scores (if applicable)

Student Visa

Proof of Funds

Important Application Deadlines for US Universities

USA has three types of application deadlines, Early Decision (ED), Early Action (EA), and Regular Decision (RD). Here are some more details:

  • Early Decision (ED): Early Decision deadlines are in November each year. If you are one of those students who have decided that they want to attend a particular university and are certain about attending Early Decision is your best bet. ED is a binding commitment, meaning that if you are accepted, you must attend the university (and you cannot change it). If you are selected, you will hear from your university by December.
  • Early Action (EA): Deadlines for Early Action are typically in November or December. If you want to keep all your options open and would like to consider multiple universities, EA is a great choice. Unlike ED, EA is non-binding, meaning that you are free to choose your university.
  • Regular Decision (RD): Regular Decision is considered the main application window for most US universities. The deadline for RD is usually from early January and mid-February.

Types of US Student Visas

Once you have secured your admission to the USA, you need to apply for a student visa. There are different types of student visas for the USA.

Type of Visa

Details

F-1 Visa

  • Required to study any UG or PG or intensive language training program
  • Students with F-1 visas can work up to 20 hours per week while studying (full-time during breaks)
  • A $185 application fee and a $350 SEVIS fee should be paid for the visa

M-1 Visa

  • For students pursuing a vocational or non-academic program
  • Students are not allowed to work during the program, however, they can work after the program's completion
  • The I-20 Form is required to apply for an M-1 visa

J-1 Visa

  • Also known as the Exchange Visitor Visa
  • It is required for students participating in exchange visitor programs
  • Allows you to enter the US temporarily
  • After completing the program, visa holders must return to their home country

US Admission Made Easy with Nomad Credit

The USA is one of the top destinations for studying abroad, due to its top-ranking universities, diverse programs, global networking, multicultural environment, and high-quality education. However, the admission process for the USA can be a little complicated when done on your own due to its strict deadlines and competitive applications.

That’s where Nomad Credit comes in! With our experienced top experts, we streamline the entire process. With our expert guidance, you can shortlist the best universities, prepare winning applications, and navigate visa and SOP requirements with confidence. Let us handle your admission to the USA while you focus on your dreams.

Don’t Leave Your US Admission to Chance. Trust Nomad Credit’s Experts - Book Your Free Consultation Now!

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