How can international students prepare for study in the US?

I'm an international junior exploring the idea of studying college in the US, but I'm unsure about the visa process and admission requirements. Any tips on scholarships or specific prep steps would be greatly appreciated!

First, it's essential to familiarize yourself thoroughly with the Standardized Testing requirements. Most universities require the SAT or the ACT. Dartmouth College, Harvard University, Purdue University, Brown University, Yale University, The University of Texas at Austin, and California Institute of Technology will be requiring all applicants to submit an SAT or ACT score, as of the 2024-2025 application cycle. Other highly selective schools like Columbia University, Princeton University, Stanford University, University of Pennsylvania, Johns Hopkins University, New York University, and the University of Chicago continue to be test-optional. You should look at the admissions requirements for the schools you're interested in to confirm their test policies.

In addition to these tests, you'll need to demonstrate proficiency in English, usually through tests such as the TOEFL or IELTS. Different universities have varied score requirements, so check each school's admissions details.

As for the visa process, once accepted into a U.S. university, you’ll be issued an I-20 form to apply for an F-1 student visa. You'll need this document to schedule a visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country. Remember to start this process early, as it can take some time.

Financial aid opportunities for international students can be limited, but still exist. Certain schools offer financial aid packages to international students, while others may offer merit scholarships. You might also consider private scholarships that are open to international students. Keep in mind that many scholarships will require separate applications, and these can sometimes be quite extensive.

Cultural preparation is also crucial. Familiarize yourself with the academic culture in the U.S., housing options, monetary system, social etiquette, etc. This can include researching your school's local area and culture, as well as understanding what daily life might be like for you.

Start researching and preparing your application as early as possible. Pay close attention to deadlines and remember that it might take longer to collect all the materials you need as an international student, like certified translations of your transcript, for example.

Lastly, reach out to international student services at the colleges you’re interested in. They will often have valuable resources for navigating these processes. It's also beneficial to connect with students who have followed a similar path, if possible.