Preparation for stay at the US

Careful planning is the key to making your time abroad a success. Since there are many things to plan, you need start planning early. Along with your application process and selecting a school, you need a list of things to make your stay in the US easier.

Plan the following things before you leave the country:

Student visa

F1 Visa is issued for academic studies. It is issued to students who are attending an academic programme or English language programme at the US. This is the most common form of international student visa in the US.

This visa status allows part-time and on-campus employment. Students are expected to complete their studies by the expiration date on the I-20 form (Certificate of Eligibility for Non-immigrant Student Status).

Living with Student Visa in the US

For funding your education and living expenses in the United States, you cannot count on working the US, unless you have been granted assistantship permit. Rules of immigration are very strict. Careful planning is necessary to ensure a rewarding educational experience in the US.

Being realistic about your financial needs will let you enjoy the academic and cultural experience of living and learning in the US.

Health Care in the USA

US does not provide socialised health care, unlike many other countries. Health care in the US can cost hundreds and thousands of dollars. Therefore, most Americans have health insurance to minimize the costs.

Most college and university campuses offer general medical care. The cost of which is normally not very expensive. If you prefer to visit a medical practitioner off-campus, you have several choices, though the the cost is generally higher.

Many colleges and universities have their own health insurance plans for their students. If health insurance is not provided, the International Student Office at your new institution will be able to help you find a suitable plan that fits your needs, or visit International Student Insurance for more information.

Communications

It is best to try and find communication solutions before you arrive in the USA. When you land in the USA you will have access to either call people or for people to call you. However the cost of calling abroad from mobile phones is still very expensive, so a combination between using your mobile phone and calling cards is often the best strategy.

Travel arrangements

It is important to plan before you leave your home country. If you want a proper budget and take advantage of lower costs, purchase your travel tickets in advance.

Try to use a combination of airplanes, trains, buses and automobiles to get the most out of your travels and budget.

Temporary accommodation

Once you decide where you'll go and how you'll get there, consider your accommodations options. Perhaps the best option for student travelers is a youth hostel. Like most places around the world, lodgings situated a few miles out from a U.S. city are generally less expensive than the ones in the heart of downtown.