When talking about higher education in the United States, it is undoubtedly labeled as the best amongst the best. Universities offer graduate-level programs with unmatched and high-quality education. The home of globally recognized institutions makes the United States the top choice for international students.
The country is wide open for international students pursuing their graduate studies. It can be overwhelming to student aspirants as there is a lot of information ranging from location, specialized master’s programs, academic and living costs, scholarships, etc. Here are some comprehensive guidelines that would aid every student aspirant looking for the best option in pursuing their graduate studies in the USA!
Master’s Degree Admission Requirements
There are numerous premier universities offering master’s programs in all disciplines in the United States. The application requirements for master’s programs may differ for every institution. It is always best to consult your chosen university about the specific documents required for admission. Although, in general, here are the following entry requirements every international student must prepare.
ADMISSIONS
REQUIREMENTS |
DOCUMENT DETAILS |
| Transcript of Records |
Aside from the undergraduate degree diploma, universities in the United States require student aspirants to present their transcript of records. This academic record shows the complete and detailed courses and grades the student has undertaken during their undergraduate studies. |
| Personal Data Form |
Another essential requirement to prepare is a duly accomplished Personal data form. Students must completely and correctly fill up all necessary information needed in the application form. Instructions must be strictly followed in the application process, as the admission committee will also evaluate this. |
| Statement of Purpose |
A Statement of Purpose is necessary when applying for a master’s program. This personal statement is an opportunity to show the admissions committee your capabilities, strengths, work experiences, and other important information that would prove that you are qualified to take up a master’s program in their institution. It is important to keep your statement clear, detailed, and concise. |
| Recommendation Letter |
International students who wish to obtain a master’s degree in the USA are also required to submit Recommendation letters. These letters are typically written by former professors, employers, and mentors affirming that a student possesses exemplary qualities and is suitable for the program they are applying for. |
Language Proficiency Tests Needed for Master’s Studies
English is the medium of instruction at all levels when studying in the United States. Students from non-native English-speaking countries must submit proof of English language proficiency before admission. Students who fail to pass the minimum score required explicitly in their chosen program are advised to take up an Intensive English Program. This program aims to improve and acquire the desired level of English proficiency needed for the student’s master’s program. This program may either be taken before pursuing the master’s program or while taking up the master’s program, depending on the institution.
International students applying for a master’s program in the USA at Princeton University must prove that they possess an excellent command of the English language, both verbal and written. Students must take one of the two recognized English language proficiency tests accepted by the university: TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System). The minimum score for admission will depend on the specific requirements of the study program. While the university has not set a standard minimum score, students admitted who have scored below 27 in TOEFL or below 8.0 in IELTS in the speaking section are required to take an English placement test. If a student is unsuccessful in passing the test, the university will require the student to enroll in the school’s English Language Program course.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) accepts English language tests from TOEFL or IELTS, although the university prefers the latter. Students taking TOEFL must attain a minimum score of 90 or higher depending on the department the student is applying for. On the other hand, the IELTS minimum score will be evaluated and decided by the department. The university conducts an English Evaluation Test a week before Registration Day for all admitted students from non-native English-speaking countries. The exam will determine if a particular student will still need to take additional English classes to improve their language proficiency.
Master’s Degree Application Process
Step 1. Research on the Master’s Study Program of Choice
The United States is the home of many globally recognized universities, and international students are primarily drawn to applying to the most prestigious schools in the country. However, it is strongly recommended that students who want to pursue a master’s degree in the USA must thoroughly research and find a university that would best suit their academic goals and personal preferences.
Step 2. Learn about Financial Aid, Tuition Fees, & Living Expenses
Studying master’s degree in the United States involves early planning and adequate knowledge in assessing the overall costs and spending throughout your stay in the country. The tuition fees in most US universities usually increase by 6 – 10 % yearly, so students need to know how to budget their education costs and living expenses while pursuing their master’s degree program. There is also a huge difference in educational costs as to what type of university you intend to enroll in, for most, public universities are cheaper compared to private universities. For example, UCLA and Arizona State University charges around $33,000 – $35,000 annually for their master’s while Stanford could go as high as $60,000/year.
While universities offer financial aid and scholarships, granting such is limited to graduate students. Some financial support or scholarships offered in graduate schools would only pay part of the student’s tuition and living expenses. It is still best to plan and save for your education as early as possible.
Step 3. Completion of Application Process
The general entry requirements in applying for a master’s program in the USA include a transcript of records, statement of purpose, personal data form, and recommendation letters.
Aside from the basic requirements, part of the application process is to take standardized tests. Admission tests in the graduate study programs vary per university. Students are advised to consult the Admissions Office on what particular admission test must be taken. In addition, international students from non-English speaking countries must submit their English proficiency test results.
Upon submission of the application, all requirements will be evaluated. The Admission Committee of the university will administer the assessment. Once the student is admitted to the study program, a notification will be sent via email.
For those wanting to study in the US but don’t want to spend as much, you can try enrolling in public universities. Here are some of the US top institutions and their admission process: UC, Berkeley, Georgia Institute of Technology, and the University of Michigan.
Step 4. Applying for A Student Visa
International students who want to study for a master’s program in the USA must first ensure that the institution they were admitted to is certified by the Student Exchange and Visitor Program (SEVP). A SEVP-certified institution will provide a Form 1-20 or DS-2019 for students who have been accepted and admitted to the master’s program in their graduate school. The said document is part of the basic requirements when applying for a student visa. The university’s International Office committee gives assistance and guidelines concerning visa processing and other additional immigration information.
Step 5. Plan Your Arrival in the United States
As a general rule, all incoming international graduate students who will enroll for a master’s in the USA are obliged to inform the university’s International Office of their expected arrival at the university. This is crucial, and all information sent to the office must be accurate to avoid inconsistencies. Also, before traveling to the United States, students must attend a pre-departure orientation in their home country to prepare students to adjust to the environment. They also provide other important information about living abroad.
Obtaining a graduate degree in the US can be a rewarding experience. If you are one of the aspiring students who want to further their studies abroad, then this country is the best place to study and live.
We hope this article will serve as a guide as you apply for a master’s in the USA. To learn more information, check out the Available Programs and US Study Guide for more study opportunities!
