From
placement tests to visas to learning local customs, the logistics of
studying overseas can be overwhelming. Fortunately, some international
admissions advisors are helping to simplify the process by offering
their best pieces of advice. Keep these essential tips in mind, and the
rest will fall into place.Admissions
“Apply early! This leaves plenty of time for an I-20 to be issued and mailed, an appointment to be made at the embassy, and any last minute paperwork or travel arrangements to be made.” —Meghan Hoyos, academic and international student advisor, Northwood University (Florida campus)
“Take
the SAT/ACT and the TOEFL® before traveling to the United States. This
will help the U.S. school determine your level of placement in math and
English class without you having to take more tests upon arriving in
the United States.” —Meghan HoyosAcademics
“A clear definition of plagiarism and how to write acceptable papers in this country would truly help new students to do well and reduce the anxiety of getting this information at orientation.” —Gail Maday, international student advisor/academic counselor, Northwood University (Michigan Campus)
“…Look
at the academics of [your] school of choice. We had some Canadian
students this year that were 'surprised' that we require a 2.0 to
graduate.” —Gail Maday “Use
your international student office as your most important resource. Not
only is the international student office the most knowledgeable office
on campus for immigration and status-related matters but they
understand the special needs of international students and can help you
with other questions, problems, or concerns.” —Laurie Cox, associate director, Office of International Services, University of Southern California “If
your international student office has a Web page, take some time to
scan it and see what the office wants you to know. If your
international student office sends a weekly e-mail newsletter to you,
read it consistently and stay up to date with the information the
office is trying to provide to you…” —Laurie Cox “Have your immunizations updated and bring an accurate immunization record (in English) when you travel.” —Meghan Hoyos “Purchase
health care coverage for the entire time you will be in the United
States, whether the insurance be based in another country or in the
United States.” —Meghan Hoyos “Bring a few extra official transcripts with you (high school and college).” —Meghan Hoyos “Before
leaving home, photocopy all of your documents, leave one copy with your
parents, and pack the other copy into your luggage. When you arrive to
the United States, make sure the PSDO (primary designated school
official) makes a copy for your school file. Think about purchasing a
safe-deposit box at a local bank, or determine a safe place in your
dorm or apartment to store the original documents.” —Meghan Hoyos “At
first it's OK to seek out other international students of a similar
background (South American, European, etc.), but after the first
semester try to immerse yourself in the American culture by spending
most of your time with Americans.” — Meghan Hoyos “Comparing
U.S. life to your life back home is inevitable, and there will be some
things that you like in the United States, others that you don't. Try
to remember that when comparing cultures (social, academic,
professional, etc.), the differences may make you uncomfortable because
they are strange and unknown to you, but that doesn't necessarily make
them negative. It's like comparing apples and oranges...” —Meghan Hoyos “Oh, yes...the drinking age is 21!” —Gail Maday Support
Health Care
Important Documents
Student Life
