When should a student start the application process? 

At least 18 months in advance of your intended date of enrollment at a U.S.  university. For example, if you wish to enroll in August/September 2011, you should start the process around April 2010. Be sure of the deadlines of the programs.

How much does it cost to apply to U.S. universities?

Approximately Rs. 50,000 would have to be spent for applying to an average of seven universities. This includes standardized admission test fees, application fees, telephone, faxing and mailing expenses.

What is the average cost per year for study in America?

The cost of tuition and living expenses could range from $25,000 to $50,000 a year.

What are the employment opportunities for Indian students in America?

Employment opportunities for international students are limited. One should not plan on earning substantial money from a part-time job to help pay for your studies.

On campus:

Though international students are allowed to work on campus, these jobs are often difficult to obtain and do not provide sufficient funds to sustain education costs. On-campus jobs may not necessarily be related to the field of study one is pursuing. Students can work for 20 hours per week on campus.

Practical training:

There may be opportunities for practical training which entail a period of

authorized employment, designed to allow foreign students to have professional

work experience related to their fields of study. For specific details, one should contact the foreign student adviser at the university, after you are enrolled. There are various on-campus as well as off-campus internship opportunities available at U.S. institutions that are normally listed on the Web site of the school. The student should consult an adviser at the institution’s career center to ensure that the internship position meets eligibility and legal requirements.

Optional practical training:

Recently, the United States extended the period of Optional Practical Training by certain employers from 12 to 29 months after completion of degrees in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. This training provides qualified students substantial hands-on experience in a professional environment.