Q: There are so many schools in the U.S. How do I decide which schools to apply to?
A: Research your options and define your priorities. Contact the EducationUSA advising center nearest you and browse college search engines online. Check to see if the schools your are considering are accredited.
Q: What’s the difference between a college and a university?
A: Colleges offer only undergraduate degrees while universities offer graduate degrees as well, but the terms are often used interchangeably.
Q: Are there age limitations to attend U.S. universities?
A: In general, you must have completed high school and you must be at least 17 years of age.
Q: What is the academic calendar for universities in the United States?
A: The academic year usually runs from August through May with breaks for holidays. Most universities use either the semester system (two terms), the quarter system (students attend three out of four total terms), or the trimester system (three terms).
Q: What is the difference between “Undergraduate” and “Graduate” degrees?
A: Undergraduate programs follow high school and lead to an associate (two-year) degree or a bachelor (four-year) degree. Graduate programs follow a bachelor’s degree and lead to a master’s or doctoral degree.
Q: What are the different types of undergraduate degrees?
A: Associate: a two-year program that either leads to a specific vocation or transitions to a bachelor program. Bachelor: a four or five-year program where students earn credits in a wide variety of courses.
Q: What are the different types of graduate degrees?
A: Masters: two-year degree providing additional specialization. Doctorate: five to eight-year program certifying the student as a trained research scholar and/or professor.
Q: Is it possible to take a professional degree program without first earning a bachelor’s degree?
A: Yes, but they are highly selective and require a heavy courseload across a total of six years of study.
Q: Is it possible to obtain a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree at the same time?
A: In a joint-degree program, students begin a graduate program in their fourth year of college, earning both degrees upon graduation.
Q: What is the length of study for MBA programs in the U.S.?
A: MBA programs typically last one to two years.
Q: Can you work while studying in the United States?
A: With permission of the International Student Office, international students may work on campus up to 20 hours/week their first year and can apply to work off-campus in subsequent years.
