FAQs: Studying in the USA

1. What is the difference between a college and a university?

Colleges in the U.S. offer only undergraduate degrees, whereas universities offer both undergraduate and graduate degrees. However, the terms are often used interchangeably.

2. What is the academic calendar for universities in the United States?

The academic year usually runs from August to May. Universities may follow different systems such as:

• Semester System: Two terms per year
• Quarter System: Students attend three out of four terms
• Trimester System: Three terms per year

3. What is the credit system in U.S. universities?

A credit is a value assigned to each course, reflecting the number of hours the class meets with the professor each week.

4. What is a GPA?

Grade Point Average (GPA) is a numeric indicator of a student’s academic performance, calculated on a scale of 4.0.

5. How can we decide which schools to apply to in the U.S.?

It’s essential to explore your options and set priorities based on factors like course offerings, rankings, scholarships, and location.

6. Can you work while studying in the United States?

• First-year students: Allowed to work on-campus up to 20 hours per week.
• After the first year: Eligible for off-campus work under Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT) with approval.

7. How can I find out which universities are best for a specific major?

The best way is to refer to university guides and rankings that highlight institutions renowned for particular fields of study.

8. What is a liberal arts college?

A liberal arts college offers a broad education in humanities, languages, math, social and natural sciences, with students taking 25-50% of their courses in their major.

9. What are the English Language Proficiency requirements?

Most U.S. universities require an English language proficiency test. The most common are:

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
• IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
• PTE (Pearson Test of English)

10. What are the other standardized tests for studying in the USA?

• Undergraduate Level:
  • SAT: Tests written, verbal, and mathematical skills.
  • ACT: Assesses English, Math, Science, Reading, and Writing.
• Graduate Level:
  • GRE: Required for graduate-level studies.
  • GMAT: Essential for business school admissions.
  • MCAT: Required for medical school admissions.
  • LSAT: Required for law school admissions.
  • DAT: Required for dental school admissions.

11. What is the difference between F-1 and J-1 visas?

• F-1 Visa: For students enrolling in academic programs at U.S. universities.
• J-1 Visa: For exchange students coming to the U.S. for temporary studies.

12. Do I need immunizations to study in the U.S.?

The U.S. government does not mandate immunizations, but individual universities may have requirements. It’s best to check with your institution.

13. What is CPT?

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) allows students to gain practical work experience through internships, cooperative education, or practicums as part of their course requirements.

14. What are the popular courses in the USA?

• STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) are highly preferred.
• Other popular courses include Business Administration, Psychology, Economics, Political Science, and Education.

15. Are scholarships available for international students in the USA?

Yes! Scholarships and grants are awarded based on merit, financial need, sports achievements, cultural contributions, or community service. Each university has its own scholarship criteria.

16. Do standardized test scores impact scholarships?

Yes, high standardized test scores (SAT, GRE, GMAT, etc.) can increase chances of receiving scholarships.