It is the world’s 3rd largest country in terms of population and area. Officially known as The United States of America, Republic and North America, it consists of 50 states and one federal district. Most of the population is urban, and largely of European descent. Due to its large immigrant population and varied multiculturalism, the country is known for its diversity. Americans are known for their love towards processed, convenience foods and are largely known for their hamburgers and hot dogs. Their diet is high in salt, carbohydrates and fast foods. Thus,more than half of the American population is obese.Americans are highly informal and do not bother to wear even formals to work, until and unless they work in a big corporation.
The currency used is the United States Dollar. Paper money is issued in the following denominations: $1, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100. Coins are made in six denominations: the penny, or 1¢; the nickel, or 5¢; the dime, or 10¢; the quarter, or 25¢; the half-dollar, or 50¢; and the dollar, or 100¢.
Education System – A brief overview
The US is known for its extremely diverse and complex education system. It consists of private and public ‘schools’ (which include from kindergarten to University). Americans are well known as educated, concerned citizens of the world. Around 85% of Americans complete their high school education and also boasts of the world’s highest number of graduates – 55% of the population. Full time education is compulsory in all States of America for around minimum of 8 years, starting from 6 years till 16 or 16 years of age. It is also compulsory for foreign nationals residing in the US.
The Universities in the US are unarguably some of the best in the world. Home to the best Universities like MIT, Columbia University, Harvard, etc., America is a top student destination.
There are two different visas for students wishing to apply for education:
However, you must note that America does not allow foreign nationals to study at an elementary public school or a publicly funded adult program.
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F1
Visa
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- If
a person wishes to engage in U.S at an approved school such as an
accredited college or university or approved English language program,
then he need an F1 type visa.
- It is also
required if a course of study is 18 hours a week.
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M1
Visa
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- If a person
plans to engage in non-academic or vocational study or training to U.S
institution then he needs an M1 visa.
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Nonimmigrant
Visa
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- These
visas are used by tourists , business people, students or specifically
workers who wish to study for a particular time in U.S.
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Procedure:
1. Choose a college or University of your choice:
Choose a college or University appropriately and prove to them your financial status that you can pay for your fees and living while in the US. While you may get financial aid, it entirely depends upon the college or University you have applied to. Generally in the US, once you submit an application for admission you are automatically considered for a scholarship if you fulfill the requirements for the same. Once the college is satisfied with your financial status, it will provide you with an i20 form.This form is proof that your admission has been done in the college or University of your choice and you will be provided with the expected date of commencement of your classes.
NOTE: i20 form is one of the most important documents you require for an American student visa.
2. Documents Required :
• Form i-20 which you received from the college.
• Form DS-156, which you can get from the U.S state departments website www.evisaforms.stategov and form DS-158 and form DS-157 (for males only) which you can get from your local U.S embassy or consultant.
• A passport that is valid for at least the next three months.
• A passport size photo.
• A receipt that shows payment of the visa processing fees.
REMEMBER: By the US Law, it is the consular officer’s job to deny you a Visa to the US. He will automatically assume you are going to live there forever. Prove the officer wrong. You must have following documents ready with you:•Academic Record till date•TOEFL/GRE/SAT Score•Letter of admission and financial aid from your college.•Bank statements and details showing you have enough finance to support yourself in the US OR Documents showing financial help, organizational or scholarships•Business registrations if your family owns a business•Evidence that you have strong ties, a job offer, property, etc. in your home country to prove you will come back.
3. Interview :
All candidates must undergo an interview with the officer at the US consulate. Time and date for the same will be different, so confirm it with the Embassy. You will be asked a variety of questions including your career plans, education and finance plans. Be well prepared, answer the questions to the point and be as honest as possible.
4. Post Interview :
After the interview, the consular will inform you about the processing of your application. You will also get information regarding how and when your passport will arrive to you with the visa (generally by post).F1 and M1 visas can be issued up to 120 days prior to the commencement date of your classes but you may only enter the country 30 days prior. The 30 day limitation does not apply to students returning to resume studies – they may enter the US at any time provided they have a valid visa.
5. If your visa is postponed or not approved:
If your visa is postpones, there is an equal 50% of being rejected or accepted. Be patient. Wait for an answer or consult the consulate. If your visa is refused, you can always appeal, re- apply and schedule another appointment. Important Points to Note:The visa fee is non-refundable and non-transferable.Students who leave the U.S for a break in studies of 5 months or more may choose F1 or M1 statue unless their activities overseas are related to their course of study.
