THE US EDUCATION SYSTEM

The US has the world’s most developed educational system. Apart from the attributes listed above, students have the freedom to choose their subjects, change their majors or apply for multiple specializations. Although many programs have specific requirements it is possible for students to design their course work to suit their specific needs.

The US system also offers students the opportunity to gain valuable experience in their field through teaching and research fellowships. Many graduate programs provide opportunities for students to work as teaching/research assistants to undergraduates. Apart from the practical experience gained, the stipend from these teaching or research positions helps students to finance their education.

All US universities have international student support programs. These programs help international students to adapt to life in the US. The services offered, include: orientation programs, student socials, career support, and English and academic writing courses.

TYPES OF INSTITUTIONS

 PUBLIC/PRIVATE:

Institutions often feature a variety of “colleges” within them that can include areas of concentrations, providing both large and small classroom experiences.

 LIBERAL ARTS:

Colleges are generally smaller than public institutions and focus their offerings more on the humanities and sciences.

 IVY LEAGUE:

Schools are among the oldest and most famous in the US and stress undergraduate liberal arts education, but have notable graduate and professional schools.

 TECHNICAL INSTITUTES:

Are generally for those International students who are at the graduate level, where the focus is primarily in engineering and science.These institutes are noted for their research and graduate programs.

DEGREES OFFERED

 ASSOCIATE DEGREES:

Are generally offered at two-year institutions and are designed for students seeking practical (applied) courses, and also for those wanting to enter a four-year program in the future.

 BACHELORS DEGREES:

The Bachelors degree or undergraduate degree is a four-year course. It is usually structured to have four general areas of study – major, cognates, general education courses and electives. Although certain specifications have to be met, these programs are flexible and allow students many options. Some universities also accept international students who have completed a part of their undergraduate degree as a transfer student.

 GRADUATE DEGREES:

A master’s program can be taken upon completion of 16 years of education. Certain universities accept students with a three-year bachelors degree into some programs, but in most cases, students who have not completed 16 years of education are required to complete one year of a masters program or a post graduate diploma. GMAT/ GRE and TOEFL/ IELTS exams are compulsory for admission.

Graduate programs can be research-based, coursework-based or a combination of both. Master’s programs are usually one or two years in duration, depending on the university and the course. Successful graduates are awarded a Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Science (MS).

 DOCTORATES:

Doctorates or PhD’s are awarded after advanced study beyond the bachelor’s and master’s degree;they can take anywhere from three to five years to complete, depending on a range of factors.

EMPLOYMENT IN US

Students must obtain a US work visa in order to work. There are different types of American work visas which include the Employment based preference visas (E1-E5), the F1, J1 and M1 student visas, the H1B Visa and the L-1 Visa. International students are eligible to apply for an F, J1 or M1 student visa depending on the type of study program they have chosen and their nationality. Universities usually have international student centers that provide advice on obtaining work visas. Please visit the US visa services website for more information.