Eight tools for international students preparing to come to the U.S.
Applications. Visas. Money transfers. And just what is the difference between a college and a university?
Preparing to come to the U.S. for academic study can be overwhelming. At MPOWER, we hear from international students just like you.
We understand.
That’s why MPOWER has compiled a list of our top tools to help you navigate your journey. The following resources represent what we think are some of best available for international students.
1. Applications
U.S. Department of State Education USA
This government initiative provides a network of over 400 international student advising centers and serves as the official source on U.S. higher education.
2. Additional School Funding
The Institute of International Education’s Study Online tool and International Education Financial Aid website, MPOWER
The Institute of International Education’s Funding for U.S. Study Online tool and the International Education Financial Aid website both provide comprehensive lists and databases of scholarships, fellowships, and grants.
And make sure to check out MPOWER loan programs, too!
3. International Money Transfer
The RemitRight Learning Center
RemitRight offers a series of blog posts aimed at helping international students make wise decisions when choosing a service for sending money internationally.
4. Visas
MBA.com’s Quick Guide: Immigration Primer – Applying for Visa to Study in the United States
After being admitted to a university, it is crucial that you obtain a student visa. Take a look at Education USA’s website. If you would prefer a quick-start summary, MBA.com’s Quick Guide offers one of the most concise overviews on the basics of applying for an F-1 student visa.
5. Living in the U.S.
InternationalStudent.com’s USA State Guides
These detailed guides give an overview of what it means to live in each U.S. state in terms of climate, population make-up, career opportunities, and activities.
6. Being an International Student
Other International Students
In videos from Education Fundas, University of Michigan, and Georgia Tech, international students like you are interviewed about their U.S. study experiences. Each interview offers personal anecdotes and advice that will give you a realistic, first-hand account of what it’s like to be an international student.
7. Tools Available at Your School
U.S. News & World Report’s “8 Campus Resources for International Students”
U.S. News & World Report published this article a few years ago, but it remains a top resource for identifying ways your school can help you acclimate.
8. Key Lingo and Definitions
U.S. News & World Report’s Higher Education Glossary and Fulbright’s Glossary of Terms in Higher Education
U.S. higher education terminology can be very different from that of your home country. U.S. News & World Report’s Higher Education Glossary and Fulbright’s Glossary of Terms in Higher Education can help familiarize you with phrases and vocabulary that might not be intuitive.
We’re sure you have even more questions. Consider this a starting point to help you on your journey. Check out our international student guide to studying in the U.S. for a more comprehensive look at how to get started with your life as an international student in the U.S. MPOWER can also support you as you navigate the road ahead.
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