Setting your sights on a journey to study abroad is an exciting adventure filled with new experiences and opportunities. It is crucial to ensure you have all the pre-departure essentials in place to make your transition smooth and hassle-free. From essential documents to necessities, this article will walk you through the pre-departure checklist for your exciting academic journey in the land of dreams.
Studying abroad is a unique experience in itself and choosing the right destination matters a lot. Therefore, you need to select the right study destination so that it adds feathers to your cap and helps to shape your career in a better way.
Ever thought of studying in the world’s largest economy and one of the world’s superpowers? Gives chills in the spin, right? The USA is one the top countries where international students get the best of the openings to study in some of the world-class universities and explore their potential to the best of their abilities.
Since the USA focuses on the growth and development of the country it has always been one of the leading global influences. It provides excellent opportunities and education for international students to excel in numerous fields. The USA is renowned for its diverse academic programs, and excellent research contribution.
Intrigued to know more about this wonderful study destination? Let’s shed more light on the 5 top reasons to study in US.
Top 5 Reasons to Study in the USA
- Top-ranked Universities with Academic Excellence
As we all know that the USA has long been recognized as one of the global leaders in higher education and it is home to some of the most prestigious universities. Its academic world has consistently earned popularity among international students due to its elite standard of education and the diversity in the number of courses to choose. - Best Research Prospect
One of the most interesting aspects that benefits a lot of international students is that the universities in the USA provide opportunities for research and training programs to upskill the student’s capability. - Flexible Education Approach
You read it right, Flexibility in the education system becomes one of the popular reasons for international students to choose the USA as their study destination. The universities in the USA offer a wide range of courses to choose from as per the student’s interest, they provide flexibility to students to pick subjects as per their preferences.
- Ample Scholarships
As we all know, education in USA and the living expenses are slightly on the higher side, but not to worry. Universities in the USA provide their international students with numerous scholarships that help them to manage their education expenses. - Incredible Part Time Work Opportunities
For international students managing their financial expenses abroad can be a matter of concern, but what if the student gets a chance to work part-time and earn a good sum? Part-time work opportunities in the USA assist international students with funding for their overall expenses.
Pre-departure Checklist for Studying in America
- Passport and Visa: Your Gateway to New Beginnings
Your passport and visa are magical keys to unlocking your American dream odyssey. To avoid any complications, ensure that your passport is up-to-date and valid for the entire duration of your stay in the United States. Also, double-check your visa’s expiration date before you set off to a foreign land. If facing any challenges related to passport and visa, aspirants can check details with the official representatives.
- Form I-20: Your Academic Identity
Form I-20 isn’t just a piece of paper, it’s an essential document issued by your US educational institution. It confirms your acceptance and enrollment, detailing your program’s duration. Keep it secure, as it is a crucial document for your visa interview and your entry into the United States of America.
- Checklist of Important documents: Charting Your Path
Some of the important documents that validate your academic journey and serve as the foundation for your pursuits to study in USA are,
- Original Marksheets
- Acceptance Letter
- GRE/TOEFL/IELTS score sheets
- Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVIS) fee receipts
- Recommendation Letters
- Proof of Accommodation: Setting the Stage for Comfort
Beyond just a requirement, having proof of accommodation is your vital step to a comfortable settling-in process. Whether you’re residing in university housing, off-campus housing or private rentals, securing your living arrangements beforehand is essential for a smooth and hassle-free transition into American land.
- Travel Arrangements: Golden Tickets to Opportunities
Plan your travel meticulously by booking your air tickets well in advance. Strategic planning will not only help you grab the best deal but also convenient flight options. Choose your travel dates wisely, considering your program’s start date and orientation sessions before you touch down in the US.
- Basic Essentials: Navigating Everyday Life
Transporting essential belongings from your home country to the United States not only cuts down your Cost to Study in USA but also facilitates to a significant and comfortable daily life. Additionally, this prudent strategy ensures a smoother transition as you try to settle down slowly but steadily into a foreign environment. International students should pack up daily essentials that should last for a week or two. Now that your academic essentials, documents and travel tickets are sorted, Let’s shift our focus to list some of the basic essentials for international students traveling to America.
Categories of Basic essentials to keep in mind while you pack for the States
Wardrobe Essentials
- Pairs of T-shirts and Jeans
- Pairs of Shirts and Trousers
- Lose cash
- Personal care products
- Toiletries
- A set of Formal suit
- Undergarments
- Night wears
- Warm clothes
- Pairs of Shoes
- Formal and Casual etc.
Medication for symptoms
- Cold and Fever
- Body Pain
- Gastric Problems
- Infections and Allergies
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Stomach pain
- Sprain etc.
- Other prescribed medicines. (Carry prescription)
It is suggested to make a first-aid kit with all the necessary Medications
Essential Electronics
- Laptop
- Smartphone
- Chargers
- Hard drives
- International Sim Cards
- Universal Adaptors
- Headphones
- Other study-related electronics
Kitchen Basics
- Home-made food (that should last couple few days)
- Ready to Eat packets
- Utensils
- Other kitchen basics as per your preference
Ensure that the combined weight of your items remains below the 23kg limit for your suitcase. Different airlines may have varying requirements, but aiming for approximately 23kg is a good guideline. Additionally, note that the weight range allowed for a handbag is between 5kg and 10kg.
As you gear up for this transformative journey, remember that preparation is the greatest asset to a smooth transition. Stay organized, safeguard your documents and approach this new chapter with optimism. Adventure awaits at every corner and your journey to studying in the USA is a canvas waiting for your vibrant strokes of experience, full of learning, growth and a lifetime of memories to cherish.
Wishing you all the best on this remarkable expedition to the Land of Opportunities!
