The United States is a highly sought-after destination for international students, thanks to its prestigious universities, diverse academic offerings, and rich cultural landscape. This vibrant and multicultural country provides a wide array of opportunities, from the dynamic metropolitan areas on the East Coast to the sun-drenched beaches on the West Coast.
For Nepali students aspiring to study in the United States, the process encompasses meeting university admission standards, securing a student visa, and factoring in additional expenses and planning. With diligent preparation and a clear understanding of the necessary steps, studying at an American college or university can become a realistic ambition.
Start exploring your options now to begin your journey towards a successful future in the USA! Many universities in the country are eager to welcome international students like yourself, whether you're interested in pursuing an undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral degree.
Applying to American universities is relatively inexpensive, unlike in many other countries, where you must pay the universities upfront before obtaining a visa. This makes the application process very straightforward and affordable. Additionally, you only need a balance certificate and your legal documents, without the requirement of a balance statement.
Furthermore, American universities are among the largest and most prestigious in the world. As a vast country, the USA offers more job opportunities compared to Nepal.
Beyond employment prospects, the USA also provides a wealth of other opportunities, diversity, renowned beaches, and an easier path to improving one's lifestyle.
The English language proficiency test score (such as TOEFL or IELTS) is a fundamental requirement for admission to top international study programs, and the United States follows this guideline strictly. International students must achieve a minimum TOEFL score of 78 to be considered. Even if a student has already passed one of these language tests, some universities or colleges may still require them to take an additional English assessment as part of their admission process.
All United States universities require international applicants to submit a Statement of Purpose (SOP) as part of their application process. An SOP is an essay-like document that outlines the applicant's purpose for studying in the US, their reasons for choosing the university and the specific program, as well as why they prefer this course over related options. Additionally, the SOP serves as the primary communication between the university and the international student, enabling the institution to assess the applicant's abilities, skills, and ambitions.
Having a valid passport is essential for entering the United States. Furthermore, if your passport is not current, the university you are applying to will be unable to provide you with the necessary I-20 form, which is required before you can obtain your student visa. If you do not have a passport or if your existing one has expired, be sure to start the renewal process immediately, as the process can be time-consuming in some countries.
As part of the student visa application, international students must provide evidence demonstrating their ability to pay tuition fees and cover their living costs throughout their stay in the United States. Some universities request this proof of financial (PoF) documentation prior to making an admission offer, while others ask for it shortly after extending an acceptance letter.
Most US universities expect applicants to submit either SAT or ACT scores. The SAT comprises sections on reading, writing, essay, and math, while the ACT includes reading, writing, essay, math, and science.
Although both tests assess a student's college preparedness and academic achievements, there are notable distinctions: the SAT emphasizes analytical skills, particularly in mathematics, whereas the ACT places greater emphasis on verbal abilities.
The GPA requirements can differ across universities and colleges. As a general trend, more prestigious institutions tend to have higher GPA expectations. Typically, a GPA above 3.75 is considered strong, while a GPA in the range of 2.75 to 3.75 is considered average.