Admission to the USA

The USA is a prestigious destination, with world-class universities, a flexible course-selection system and the chance to stay for 1–3 years after graduation (OPT).

Visa types

An F-1 student visa for academic programmes, or an M-1 for vocational and language courses. Processing takes 4–12 weeks.

Language requirements

TOEFL iBT 61–80 or IELTS 6.0–6.5 for a Bachelor's degree, and TOEFL 80–100 or IELTS 6.5–7.0 for a Master's. Leading universities expect TOEFL 100+.

Academic requirements and documents

For a Bachelor's degree you'll need a secondary school certificate, and often the SAT or ACT. A Master's requires a Bachelor's diploma, and often the GRE or GMAT. Your document pack: passport, diplomas with translation, language certificate, essays, references and proof of funds.

Financial requirements

Proof of funds to cover the entire first year of study.

Admission

Apply through the Common App or directly to the university. Deadlines fall in November for early applications and January–February for regular ones.

Visa application

Secure an offer and Form I-20, pay the SEVIS fee, complete the DS-160 and attend an interview at the embassy.

Work for students

Up to 20 hours a week on campus. Off-campus work is permitted after the first year, with authorisation.

Admission plan (over 12–18 months)

18 months out — choose a university. 15 months out — prepare for TOEFL and SAT. 12 months out — sit the exams. 10 months out — gather documents and write your essays. 8–9 months out — submit your application. 5–6 months out — receive your I-20. 3–4 months out — apply for your visa. 1 month out — visa and flight.

Common mistakes

A low TOEFL score. A poor SAT result. Insufficient funds for the year. A weak essay. A disappointing embassy interview.

How Edunation can help

We'll choose a university free of charge, help you with TOEFL, SAT and GRE, support your essays and documents, arrange your I-20 and visa, prepare you for the interview, and organise transfers and accommodation.

With Edunation, a place in the USA is well within your reach. Start with a free consultation.