US Graduate Studies 101: What you need to know

When thinking about study abroad destinations, have you ever not thought about the United States? The US has always been considered one of the frontrunners in education, technology, research, and other aspects crucial to human development, which is why it is home to about 1 million international students looking to obtain a degree from one of its most respected universities. These international students enroll in US universities to complete an undergraduate degree or continue a graduate or postgraduate degree. The US remains a top choice for graduate students because of its many competitive programs aimed at enhancing one’s expertise. If you are a prospective international graduate student in the US, here are some helpful tips you need for your journey.

Tips for International Graduate Students in the US

Graduate school scares many because of misconceptions that it is too complex and demanding. Specifically, graduate schools in the US can be intimidating to those who are not certain about taking on further education. While this may be the case at the beginning, you would be relieved to know that there are ways to reduce anxiety around graduate school education. After all, it is a significant milestone that can open up new doors and opportunities for you.

In searching for a graduate school in the United States, check if it has been accredited by an outside authority, such as the following:

US Department of Education
Council for Higher Education Accreditation
American Psychological Association (for postgraduate psychology programs)
American Bar Association (for law programs)
National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (for education programs)
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (for nursing programs)
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (for business programs)
New England Association of Schools and Colleges
Middle States Association of Schools and Colleges
Northwest Commission of Schools and Colleges
North Central Association of Schools and Colleges
Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Southern Association of Schools and Colleges

Check for each university’s graduate degree programs.
Understand how the graduate program in your chosen university works. Some universities may offer choices for online programs, campus-held programs, and hybrid programs. Choose one that will best suit your learning style. For further details on each US university, check out our list of Best Universities in the US.
Review the university’s location. You have to consider whether it is located in an area that suits your preferences, where you can get the most of your study abroad experience. Read our Best Student Cities in the US to help you make a choice.
More than proficiency, you have to be equipped with English language competency, since most activities in graduate school will require you to submit research papers, conduct interviews and group discussions, and read long texts and academic papers.
Prepare your best Statement of Purpose (SOP). The SOP should include your objectives in enrolling for a graduate program, as well as your justification for why you should be accepted in your chosen program. You can seek help from your mentors or other professionals, but make sure your voice stands out. Most importantly, be honest but shine a spotlight on your accomplishments.
Take an English language test, i.e. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), as it will be a requirement for your university admission and student visa applications.
Take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), as most universities require one of them for admission. Although the GRE may be taken several times, aim to do your best on the first attempt, so that you can save on cost and time expended.
As with all application preparations, you must have a working financial plan for the duration of your studies.

Requirements for Graduate Studies in the US

Getting admitted into a US graduate school can be a tedious process that requires sufficient preparation from your end. Before you submit an application to your chosen graduate program, take the time to review and secure the following general requirements:

GRE or GMAT score (or a graduate admissions test score)
Statement of Purpose
Letter/s of Recommendation
Language Proficiency Test Results
Research Proposal (for postgraduate applicants)

Most universities ask for an application fee of about $50 to $100, so it would be cost effective if you send in your admission applications to a limited number of universities. Typically, universities in the US accept applications from March until April. However, some universities accept applications as early as December or January. Nonetheless, it is always best to plan early.

How much will graduate studies in the US cost?

The cost of living in the US can be quite high, depending on the city where you will be based. Moreover, universities impose high tuition fees. Whether you are seeking to enroll in a public or a private university, you should know how much it will cost you to study in a graduate or postgraduate degree program in the US. Usually, graduate degree programs in the US are completed in one to three years depending on the institution and the program.

International students pay more than local students.
A graduate degree in business administration, medical science, or law costs higher than other study programs.
Studying in US universities can range from $8,000 to $120,000 per academic year depending on the institution. Of course, public universities have lower fees compared to private universities.
The most expensive universities in the US for master’s degrees are Columbia University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Duke University.
More than tuition, you also need to consider your living costs, which are almost $25,000 per year on average. This will cover student accommodation, textbooks, food, and transportation.

Each university website has a financial aid calculator to help you explore the relevant fees for your program. In case you are looking for financial assistance for your studies, you can also apply for scholarships provided by the US government, private organizations, or universities. Most scholarship programs in the US are for graduate and postgraduate international students like you, so don’t hesitate to send in your application. You may check How to Get a Scholarship in the US article to help you begin.

Obtaining a graduate or postgraduate degree will guarantee a boost in your professional career. Are you ready to begin your journey?.