Everything about USA

American culture:

In its beginnings, the United States was founded by immigrants from Western Europe alongside indigenous peoples. A continuous stream of immigrants from around the world has seen the United States grow into a large and diverse country where virtually all nationalities and ethnicities are represented. Given its physical size and geography, one can find every type of climate and landscape in addition to different lifestyles and cultures.

Many students who arrive in the US will probably have a preconceived image of American culture, either positive or negative, from what they've observed on television and in movies. However, American mainstream culture is extremely diverse and complex, and varies from one geographical region to the next, between rural and urban areas, and can be particularly influenced by the ethnic communities found in each region.

Today, regardless of one's ethnic, religious or social background, American culture values individuality, where independence and self-reliance are taught from a young age, competitiveness is encouraged and achievement praised.

Getting around the US:

If you are travelling large distances within the US, you'll be best served by domestic air carriers. Low-cost airlines have made this relatively inexpensive and convenient. The long-distance bus service, Greyhound, is also very inexpensive, but travel time will take you sufficiently longer. Interstate train service is provided by Amtrak, although due to the geographic size of the country, it is mainly used in the heavily populated north-eastern states, where distances are substantially less. Car rentals are another popular option, especially for travel to neighboring states.

About US institutions:

Higher education in the US is well known for its top quality, easy accessibility, variety and flexibility. It's a diverse mix of public and private institutions, some of which are autonomous.

State universities

State universities are founded and subsidized by the US government. Tuition is lower than private universities, and in-state residents (those from that state) pay significantly lower than out-of-state residents. Total enrolment is usually over 20,000 students. International students are classified as out-of-state residents and may have to fulfill higher admission requirements than in-state students.

Þ     Private institutions

Private institutions are funded by endowments, tuition fees, grants and alumni donations. Tuition fees tend to be higher than at state universities and no distinction is made between in-state or out-of-state residents. These institutions tend to have a smaller enrolment than state universities. Religious-affiliated institutions, which are numerous in the US, are private.

Þ     Community colleges

Community colleges offer two-year associate degrees as well as technical or vocational programmes. They can be either public or private, but often have strong links with their surrounding community stakeholders. Tuition is generally less at a community college, and many have links with universities to allow students to transfer to the third year of an undergraduate degree.

Þ     Technical and vocational colleges

Technical and vocational colleges offer short-term programmes to train students for a specific vocation or how to use specific skill and usually last two years or less.

Þ     Academic calendar

The university year usually starts in September and ends in May. It is often divided into two semesters as well as a shorter, more intensive summer term. The summer term allows students spread out their course load over the year, or complete their undergraduate degree in less time.

 

 

 

 

Education terms:

 

University vs. college

In the US, the terms 'university' and 'college' are often used synonymously. Colleges grant bachelor's degrees and may also grant master's degrees and/or doctoral degrees, while universities typically grant bachelors and masters degrees and often offer doctoral degrees. Community colleges, sometimes called junior colleges are two-year schools that provide affordable postsecondary education as a pathway to a four-year degree.

 

Graduate vs. postgraduate

In the US, the term 'graduate' is used for master's and PhD studies. Commonly known as 'grad school', these institutions award master's and doctoral degrees, other graduate qualifications and professional degrees.

Traveling to the US:

Students need to keep baggage rules to the USA in mind while planning their travel.

A student traveling from India to the USA is normally entitled to carry two pieces of baggage, each weighing not more than 23 kgs each. Apart from this, cabin luggage and a laptop are allowed, but rules vary from one airline to another. Some airlines also offer extra baggage capacity for students going abroad on an F-I visa. Students are advised to contact the airline directly to avoid excess baggage problems at the airport.

 

Accommodation:

Almost all US universities and colleges offer on-campus housing to students and are called residence halls or dormitories (dorms). These are usually equipped with basic furniture and can be shared or private rooms.

Some universities have apartment houses on campus. Priority is usually given to graduate students or those who are married or with families.

Off campus, you can choose to live in private rented accommodation which can be furnished or unfurnished. Most universities have a housing registry and local classified ads are also a good source of finding private accommodation. Home stay (living with a local family) is another popular option for international students, especially when they are first adapting to the American style of life.

Although averages do not necessarily reflect what all students pay, room and board annually ranges between USD 7,000 and 9,000 a year.

 

Financial assistance:

Most institutions offer scholarships and grants to international students, although these are highly competitive. These are usually needs-based or are awarded for outstanding performance in a field of study, sport, performing art or other category. Check with your institution regarding the funding they have available for international students. Research other funding opportunities with the Indian Government, corporations or other institutions.

 

Part-time work in US:

Students who enter the US on an F-1 visa are permitted to work on campus for 20 hours a week and full time during holidays. Typical on-campus jobs include working in the university library, help desk or canteen.

After one year of study, you can apply to the US Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) for a special work permit to allow you to work off campus. Your international office on campus should be able to provide you with more information on the application procedure. If you are approved, you will still be limited to working 20 hours a week and full time during holidays.

Top 7 reasons why you should study in USA:

1.    Around 630,000 international students, of which over 60,000 are Indian students, chose to study in the US last year. The sheer number of world-class institutes of higher learning is one of the key factors that have made the US the premiere destination for Indian students from all over the world.

2.    The reputation of American universities coupled with the comprehensive curriculum offered at these institutions is valued by students and employers alike.

3.    In a recent survey conducted in every country on global basis, it was found that USA ranks first in departing Specialized Management Education to its students.

4.    Another major reason that draws international students in large numbers to study in the US is the array of courses on offer: from highly academic programmes like nuclear physics to very creative courses like art and film direction.

5.    For graduate students, probably the number one factor in choosing a US university is the amount of funds spent on research. The US tops the list of money spent on research, followed by the UK.

6.    The qualifications and credentials earned by studying in US colleges and universities are recognised in every part of the world.

7.    Traditionally securing top positions on global university ranking lists are the Ivy League institutions, eight private institutions located in the north-eastern part of the US, as well as other top American institutions like MIT, University of California and Stanford, among others.

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