Student life in USA : survival Guide for Indian students

How did this all Happen?

Life in a foreign country can be a daunting task, especially if you have no friends or relations over there. The transition from high school to college is undoubtedly a stressful event, and many people get overwhelmed by the sudden change in environment. So allow us to help you survive through college life!

Studying in the USA is a dream for many Indian students, promising a wealth of academic and personal growth opportunities. However, the journey can be filled with excitement and challenges. In this guide, we will explore deeply on how to prepare for student life in the USA.

This guide is designed to help Indian students prepare their way through the complexities of student life in the USA, ensuring a smooth transition and a successful academic experience

Planning Your US Adventure

How Much Money is Needed to Live in USA as a Student? (Cost of Living)

The cost of living in the USA varies significantly based on location, lifestyle, and university choice. On average, students can expect to spend between $10,000 to $15,000 per year on living expenses. This includes:

Rent: Monthly rent can range from $500 to $1,500, depending on whether you live in a city or a smaller town.
Food: Groceries and dining out can cost between $200 to $400 per month.
Textbooks: Budget around $500 to $1,000 per academic year for books and supplies.

But yes, if you are getting full financial aid, then, I guess having $3000 is decent enough to live for one year. Oh one more! Please don’t think that you won’t need to work in USA. Because if you don’t work part time in the USA, you won’t earn money otherwise.

So keep that in your head! 🙂
Here are budgeting tips to help you up:

Can Students Settle in USA? (Student Visas)

Definitely. International students can stay in the United States after their studies if they apply for either STEM OPT or OPT. OPT stands for ‘optional practical training‘.

The only actual way a student can stay in USA is by changing their VISA status from F1 or J1 to get a Green Card. It’s a huge topic to discuss.

Securing a student visa is a crucial step in your journey. The F-1 visa is the most common for international students. Here’s a brief overview of the process:

Receive Your Acceptance Letter: Before you can apply for a visa, you must be accepted by a SEVP-approved institution.
Pay the SEVIS Fee: This fee supports the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).
Complete the Visa Application: Fill out the DS-160 form and pay the application fee.

Schedule and Attend Your Interview: Be prepared to discuss your study plans, financial situation, and ties to your home country.

Study Abroad Requirements After 12th: What You’ll Need

The first thing you need to know is that requirements to study abroad after 12th can vary depending on the destination and university. However, most universities ask for these study abroad documents required after 12th:

Transcripts and Mark Sheets: Official records of your academic performance from class 10th and 12th.
Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Written by your teachers, these highlight your academic potential.
Statement of Purpose (SOP): An essay that explains why you want to pursue a specific course abroad.
Proof of Funds: A bank statement showing you have enough financial support to cover tuition and living expenses.
Student Visa: Essential for international students to stay in the country legally.

💡 Pro Tip: Create a digital folder of all these documents and keep printed copies handy. You’ll thank yourself later!

💡 Pro Tip: Many platforms like Coursera or Khan Academy offer free test prep for SAT and IELTS. Take mock tests to improve your scores! Also check for DET. It’s relatively cheaper & affordable option for Indian students.
Join our community 😀 You won’t miss out on a lot of important discussions 🙂

Which State in USA is Best for Indian Students? (Accommodation)

There’s no right answer to this question. However, California, Utah, New York & Texas are a great choice for Indian students (Source: Yocket). But if this is a question about finding the right accommodation, then choosing the on-campus is a much better option.

Choosing the right accommodation is key to a comfortable stay. Consider the following:

On-Campus Housing: Convenient and often includes utilities, but may be more expensive.
Off-Campus Housing: This can be cheaper and offers more freedom, but requires you to handle utilities and transportation.

Here are some Resources for Finding Housing:

University housing offices
Online platforms like Craigslist and Zillow
Social media groups for international students

Safety Considerations:

Research the neighborhood’s safety.
Consider the proximity to campus and public transportation.
Look for housing with good security features.

Thriving in the American Classroom and Beyond

Are Studies Difficult in USA?

Is the American Syllabus Harder Than Indian? (Academic Differences)

The American education system emphasizes active learning and participation.

Key differences include:

Course Flexibility: Students can choose courses across various disciplines.
Classroom Environment: Emphasis on discussions, presentations, and group work.
Grading System: Continuous assessment through assignments, quizzes, and exams.

Tips for Success:

Participate actively in class discussions.
Utilize office hours to seek help from professors.
Form study groups with classmates.

Overcoming Culture Shock:

Be open to new experiences and perspectives.
Stay connected with your roots through cultural associations.
Seek support from campus resources like the international student office.

Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Your New Life

What are the Disadvantages of Studying Abroad? (Cultural Differences)

Food, communication styles, and social norms are some major issues that are faced while studying abroad by international students at first. Obviously they can’t adjust INSTANTLY. Adapting to a new culture can be challenging.

Common adjustments include:

Food: The variety of food can be different, and you might miss home-cooked meals.
Communication Styles: Americans tend to be direct and informal.
Social Norms: Understanding and respecting new social norms and etiquette.

How Can International Students Make Extra Money in USA? (Finding Support)

Making extra money in the USA is basically done by doing a part-time job. Or freelancing. It’s recommended to learn some marketable skills like video editing or copywriting or something else and then, start selling your services to clients.

Building a support network is crucial. Resources include:

International Student Office: Offers assistance with visa issues, cultural adjustment, and more.
Counseling Services: Provides mental health support.
Academic Advisors: Help with course selection and academic planning.

Can Students Settle in USA? How Can Indian Students Earn Money in the USA? (Part-Time Work Options)

International students with F-1 visas can work part-time on-campus up to 20 hours per week. Off-campus work requires special authorization.

Part-Time Job Options:

On-Campus Jobs

: Opportunities include working in the library, cafeteria, or as a research assistant.

Off-Campus Jobs: Options may include internships or working with a company related to your field of study, provided you have the necessary authorization.

Regulations to Keep in Mind:

Ensure that any off-campus work is authorized through Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT).
Stay within the allowed working hours to maintain your visa status.

Useful Resources and Tools

To effectively manage your budget and make informed financial decisions, using the right tools and resources is crucial. Here are some recommendations:

Budgeting Apps

Mint: Helps you track spending, create budgets, and get reminders about bill payments.
YNAB (You Need A Budget): Focuses on planning your expenses ahead of time.
PocketGuard: Shows how much spendable money you have after accounting for bills and savings goals.

Exchange Rate Apps

XE Currency: Provides live exchange rates and allows you to monitor currency fluctuations.
OANDA: Offers currency converter tools and historical exchange rate data, which can be useful for planning.

Scholarship Websites

Fastweb: A comprehensive database of scholarships for international students.
ScholarshipPortal: Lists various scholarships, grants, and funding options for students worldwide.

Additional Tips

University Resources: Many universities offer financial planning workshops and resources for students. Utilize these to gain better financial knowledge.

Student Support Services: Reach out to your university’s student support services for advice and assistance with budgeting.

Conclusion to Prepare for Student Life in the USA

In conclusion, preparing for student life in the USA involves careful planning and adaptation. By understanding the financial, academic, and social aspects, Indian students can make the most of their educational journey in the USA. Embrace the challenges, seek support, and enjoy the enriching experiences that come with studying abroad.

Life is meant to be lived. Sometimes there are sacrifices but it’s all worthwhile in the end.
Don’t be afraid to choose student life in the USA. Who knows, it might change your entire life after that! 😉

People Also Ask

Which is the Best US State for Students to Live In?

While almost all US states contain world-class universities and campuses to accommodate international students, students prefer some states over others. Some of them include California, New York, Massachusetts, and Texas, which are known for their high-quality educational institutions and vibrant student life. But it must also be noted that the most popular universities are located there, and there is not a straightforward answer to this question.

How Much Can I Earn Through Part-Time Jobs?

Part time jobs are really popular among students to earn some extra dough, and the amount you earn dependsd heavily on the type of job you do. Students can earn between $8 to $15 per hour through on-campus jobs. Off-campus internships and OPT positions can offer higher wages, often ranging from $15 to $30 per hour depending on the industry. You could also take on jobs for which you have skills, for example playing the piano in restaurant during weekends, or selling your paintings to a local art gallery.

Which are the Cheapest US Universities for Students?

Cheap universites are immensely popular among students, especially for those who aren’t born with a silver spoon in their mouth. Some universities with the lowest fees for international students include:

University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
California State University, Long Beach
University of Florida
CUNY Brooklyn College

Low costs do not imply lower quality of eduaction, though there is a small positive correlation between them. Scholarships can help reduce university costs too, and it imortant to thoroughly research them. Check out oour other blogs on this topic.

Which University Has a Good Placement Rate?

Universities with strong placement rates include:

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Stanford University
University of California, Berkeley
University of Pennsylvania (Wharton)

But it must be noted that it is the students themselves who land a job, and companies focus more on the student’s skills than on the university. So even if you don’t go to a top college, study well and improve your CV, and you should land a good job!

How Much Should I Spend for Student Health Insurance?

Health insurance is very important to avoid assaulting your wallet, and you should prepare beforehand for it. The cost of student health insurance varies, but you can expect to pay between $1,500 to $2,500 per year. It’s essential to have comprehensive coverage that includes medical, dental, and mental health services. Accidents happen in life all the time, and it is better to be safe than sorry.

For more information on health insurance, visit our Health Insurance blog.

Is the USA Good for Indian Students?

The USA offers a diverse and inclusive environment, making it a great destination for Indian students. It is the most popular education destination for Indians in the world and with good reason. With top-tier educational institutions, extensive research opportunities, and a multicultural atmosphere, Indian students can thrive both academically and personally. However, the experience can vary based on individual preferences and adaptability. But not to worry, there are innumerable student groups on campuses to help international students thrive in a new environment and our guides on the subject matter.

Safety Measures for Students in the US

Though crime rates are extremely low in the US, safety should be a priority for international students. Here are some tips to stay safe:

Familiarize Yourself with Campus Security: Know the location of emergency phones and campus security offices.
Stay Informed: Sign up for campus alerts and stay updated on safety information.
Personal Safety: Avoid walking alone at night, and always be aware of your surroundings.
Health and Wellness: Make use of campus health services and mental health resources.

How Much Does a Student Earn in the USA?

As we said earlier, earnings from part-time jobs can vary widely. On-campus jobs typically pay between $8 to $15 per hour. Internships and OPT opportunities can offer higher pay, especially if they are related to your field of study. Managing your finances wisely can help you make the most of your earnings.

Abroad For Better Future is an amazing study abroad community for Indians.

We don’t ask MONEY for the information we provide. We aim to help other Indian students in fulfilling their study abroad dreams by providing the right info. If you are a prospective Indian student, you can join our cohorts (WhatsApp groups, it’s FREE) to get access to:

Fill up this form and we will let you know if you are abroad. And if you know anyone interested but confused about how to go abroad, kindly refer us. We would really appreciate your support.

In case you are in doubt about Can You Beat the High Cost of AP Exams?

Feel free to read this: Guide to Indian Government Scholarships for Studying Abroad After 12th Grade

Hope your study abroad dreams get fulfilled and you stay connected with family for Indian students