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Step by Step Guide to apply for MS in US (www.msinusblog.com)

Note: some of the information might be outdated, please do your own research on the side. Why study in the USA? Well Students prefer USA because a degree from a US university is recognized globally. It gives you a platform for excellent career growth. There are various factors. The academic world in the US is far more diverse in terms of educational resources. The educational system exploits the student's strengths and abilities to the fullest. Thousands of students go to the US annually for higher education. Many students who consider an education in US fail to get sufficient information and advice based on their individual needs and abilities, as well as the many differences in American universities.As a result they may secure admission in a university with expectations that cannot be fulfilled. To avoid finding yourself in such a situation plan well in advance and obtain all the information you need. The procedure to apply to the universities in USA.
1. Give your GRE and TOEFL exams. If possible decide on at least 3 or 4
universities before u give the exam. This will help you save a lot of money: (15 * 4 = $60) on GRE score reports and (17*4 = $68) on TOEFL score reports. ETS sends official GRE score reports to 4 universities and official TOEFL scores to 4 universities free of cost.
2. For the GRE exam solve as many papers as possible. 3. If you are applying for the fall semester (starts in August) then send your pre-
application (request the university to send the form and brochure) by May or first week of June.
4. Once you receive the forms and brochure, decide on the universities that you are
going to apply to. The choice of the university should be made based on the following factors: *The university should offer the field of your choice. *The ranking of the university should suit your needs. *If you need aid, it is normally the highly ranked universities that have funds.
msinusblog.com reference blog for international students who want to apply to graduate schools in US
Choose universities that have sufficient funds i.e. the university should be known to have offered many scholarships in the past. *Choose universities where you have seniors (performing academically well there) so that they are positively disposed towards you (and other students from your college here).
5. Once you have decided on the universities, take recommendations from 2 or 3
professors as per the requirement of the university.
6. Apply for official transcripts from college. 7. Preferably finish the recommendation and transcript work in October because
professors tend to go on vacation towards the end of the semester (i.e. November).
8. Write your Statement Of Purpose (SOP). 9. Fill the application form and also send a resume with each application 10. The financial document is not a necessity for admission. It can be submitted after
the admission is received.
11. With each application the following documents should be present even though
not explicitly mentioned in the form :
*Statement of Purpose *Recommendations *Resume *Photocopies of certificates (if applicable) *Photocopy of GRE and TOEFL score report *Checklist stating the list of items in the packet *If you aren't sending the financial document, then write a letter stating that you will send it later. *If you have undergone training then make a separate list of courses done *Emphasize on the work experience
Application Time Table June-August * Think about your educational future and career prospects at home * Talk with your family about financial resources * Read the section on Selecting a University * Visit an educational advising center and become familiar with the application process. * Register for tests such as the TOEFL, SAT, SATII, GRE, or GMAT August-November * Take entrance tests * Attend university fairs * Research universities and identify between four and ten that meet your needs December-March * Pay careful attention to deadline dates. * Submit a winning application to at least three universities April-May * Letters of acceptance or rejection arrive. * Read acceptance letters carefully. Many institutions require a separate application for housing. * Choose the university you want to attend. * Send letters of regret to universities you will not attend. * Seek information about applying for a visa June-July * Apply for a student visa * Make travel arrangements * Attend a pre-departure orientation program at your school or at an educational advising center. August * Arrive in time to attend the universitys orientation program for new students * Be prepared for an excellent academic experience
What is Graduate Record Examination (GRE) ?
The GRE is one of the most important examinations to be taken by a student aspiring to go for further studies abroad. The GRE is a Computer Based Test (CBT) . You need to know about the testing style which is vastly different from the paper based testing format .The CBT is an adaptive test and the level of difficulty increases with each correctly answered question. The first few questions are supposed to be very important from the scoring point of view. The score does vary a lot on account of later questions but the initial questions are make or break. Some important points about the GRE: 1. It is required for admission to most universities in the USA. 2. Take it once and properly. Not only is it costly but also time consuming to go through the rigours of taking the GRE. 3. Some Universities consider the latest score, some the best score and some the average of all scores. So don't take a chance with the GRE. Take it when you are really well prepared. 4. The GRE score is valid for 5 YEARS. When to appear for the GRE? 1. The best time to take the GRE is 5TH SEM / 6TH SEM. 2. The last you can take the test and be in time for deadlines is 7th sem. 3. Register for the GRE well in advance so not to miss the test during the intended period and also to avoid going too far off cities such as Bangalore to take the test. The Official GRE Page Click Here
GRE preparation Tips You need to prepare sincerely for at least 3 months. Actually it also depends on the individual taking the test. If you are good at the word lists (VERBAL) then it would take you much less time. But the verbal section is the one which makes the difference between a good score and an excellent one. So do all the 50 word lists from BARRON'S properly. It sure goes a long way in improving your GRE score. For analytical sections , practice as much as possible. Take as many tests / sections for this. It would help to take both the paper based and CBT for practice. Though the scoring would be certainly different on the paper based tests , the practice is invaluable . Also many CBT tests would not be easily available so the CBT alone would not be sufficient practice. Nowadays, the Quantitative section is becoming tough . Questions on probability , statistics are appearing on every test . It would be advisable to ask friends who have appeared for the CBT before on the type of questions that appeared on the test. GRE Preparation Tips http://www.petersons.com/testprep/default.asp?id=880&path=gr.pft.gre
What is TOEFL?
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) Most of the Universities also make the TOEFL a compulsory test. The TOEFL is a very simple exam for most students from an English medium background. Compared to the Verbal section of the GRE, the TOEFL is a cake walk. Most universities require a score of 80 / 120 in TOEFL iBT and 213/300 in TOEFL CBT. It is easy to score much more than this. When to appear for the TOEFL? 1) The best time to take the TOEFL is 6TH SEM / 7TH SEM. 2) The last you can take the test and be in time for deadlines is 7th SEM. 3) Register for the TOEFL well in advance so not to miss the test during the intended period and also to avoid going too far off cities such as Bangalore to take the test.! TOEFL preparation For the TOEFL, the preparation required is meager. Most students just take all the tests from the Barrons. Other preparatory material is Princeton's The Official TOEFL page Click Here TOEFL Preparation Tips http://www.petersons.com/testprep/toefl.asp?id=3567&path=ug.pft.toefl
TOEFL iBT Pattern and Details. I wrote TOEFL iBT and before taking the test I had two options, either to take TOEFL CBT or TOEFL iBT. All my friends recommended me to take CBT since they said that the new pattern has speaking section and so the old pattern in much easier. But I still went ahead and gave the iBT pattern. Well to be true the new format is quite easy and
you can score high with a little bit of preparation. The speaking section is not that tough. The only tip which I would like to give you guys is that don't try to speak differently. They are not looking for American accent. Since you are speaking into the microphone the only thing you have to do is speak slowly and clearly, yes I would emphasize on the word clearly and you will end up with a high score. Well don't get tensed by seeing other speaking really fast English. Be relaxed and take your time. Well for more details on the TOEFL iBT pattern and details go to http://www.petersons.com/common/article.asp? id=1149&path=gr.pft.advice&sponsor=1 Tips and Strategies http://www.petersons.com/testprep/tips.asp?id=3569&sponsor=1&path=gr.pft.toefl http://www.petersons.com/ugchannel/file.asp?id=1073&sponsor=1&path=gr.pft.toefl Test Info http://www.petersons.com/testprep/test_info.asp? id=3570&sponsor=1&path=gr.pft.toefl
Tips for Statement of Purpose (SOP) The SOP is one of the most vital components of your application packet. The SOP is a personal essay which is to be written by each applicant. The SOP is supposed to give a clear idea to the admissions committee about your goals and academic interests. The SOP is generally one page long made up of 4 - 6 paragraphs. The SOP must address the following issues: * Reason for pursuing higher studies. * Research and academic interests * Goal in life * Personal strengths and weaknesses * Academic and other achievements * Related experience / projects undertaken * Reason for applying to the university It is a good idea to go through the SOPs of your seniors and other students applying to other departments .Get your SOP checked for errors and grammatical mistakes.Such errors will create a bad impression and may prove costly. Start working on your SOP by September end try and get it done by October. Also Check out these websites http://www.statementofpurpose.com/ http://www.infozee.com/application-issues/sample/sop-engg.htm http://www.desigrad.com/~desigrad/desi_grad/sop.php http://www.desigrad.com/sop.php http://www.achieverspoint.com/apply/samplesop.htm http://www.infozee.com/channels/ms/app-issues/sop.htm
Tips for Letters of Recommendations (RECOS)/ Recommendation Lettters The Letters of recommendations are a vital part of the application package. These RECOS are letters from your professors who have taught you during your under graduate course. All most all the universities require that you send 3 recos. The recos should ideally be from professors who have taught you core subjects in your field of specialization eg Operating Systems, TCS . You can also ask professors who have taught you subjects such as Applied Mathematics and Discrete Structures, for recos. A recommendation letter from the HOD of your major field is very vital and would definitely be an edge over the completion. Do all professors write their own recos? Well, some professors write the reco themselves while some ask the students to write it themselves according to a pattern. If the professor writes the reco himself, it saves you the trouble. But if you have to write it yourself you have to be very careful. Remember that many of your class-mates might take recos from the same profs and also might apply to the same places.So you must be extra careful while writing the reco. You can ask some of your friends or family members to write a reco for you. One you can write on your own.The aim should be to try and see that the 3 recos sound as if written by different people and not written by the same person. You should also try and highlight your plus points and academic achievements in the 3 recos. Try and focus on different aspects in the 3 recos such has programming skills, team work , motivation for future studies , academic performance with respect to the class ie top 10 % of the class ,etc. Some Universities have their own reco formats? Some universities send recommendation forms in their own format. They have columns where the recommender compares the student with his batch mates on various grounds . These could be mental ability, team work , motivation for higher studies , verbal skills , expressiveness etc. Basically the same things which are written in the reco by the professor or rather by you! If possible you must ask the professor to fill these forms as well. Some professors may not fill them. Generally these are optional and the university says so in the brochure. Whenever in doubt you must contact the college by email and clear your doubt.
The recos are also to be sent in sealed envelopes with the signature of the recommender on the flap. When do I ask for recos? Since the whole application procedure is so lengthy and time consuming, you should try and be on your heels throughout the application stage. Many professors may not give recos to all students or if they have already given a lot of recos. Approach the professors well in advance and let them know of your academic pursuits and that you would like them to write a reco for you. Even if you take the actual reco much later , once the prof assures you of a reco , he wont refuse you later. If you plan to get the college reco forms filled as well as sending a typed letter, then you will have to finalize your univs first. Also ask the prof if he would be filling in the college forms as well. Thus, how quickly you get the recos done in this case , depends on how fast you finalize you univs. But just with the intention of doing this first or early, don't compromise on the effort that you put in shortlisting your univs. This is crucial. On the other hand if you intend to send only the typed letter then you can get the recos done a little earlier. Also Check out these websites http://www.statementofpurpose.com/recos.html http://www.dickinson.edu/career/files/lettersofrecforfaculty.pdf http://career.berkeley.edu/Grad/GradLetter.stm
Sample Resume for MS in US Application TIPS FOR RESUME The purpose of a resume is to disclose your accomplishments and qualifications to the admissions committee. Think of your resume as a promotional brochure about you. You need to show the committee what you have accomplished and where your experience lies. Your strategy should be to emphasize the experience and skills that a particular school is looking for. Your resume is also an example of your communication and organizational skills. Selecting the right format. There are several acceptable formats for a resume. Based on the amount of your work experience, you can use one of the following formats: Chronological: This is the most common resume style for people with significant work experience. In the Chronological format, the emphasis is placed on employment experience. The applicant's job history is presented in reverse chronological order, with the most recent jobs placed at the top of the list. Functional: In this non-linear format, your skills and achievements are emphasized. Your employment history is summarized and linked to your skills and achievements. Your skills and previous relevant experience (including educational experience) are presented at the beginning of your resume. The Functional resume can be particularly effective if you've held a number of similar positions; it will allow you to highlight your skills rather than itemize what might be a redundant looking job history. Combination: The Combination resume is simply a Functional resume with a brief employment history added. Educational qualifications are listed first, skills and accomplishments are still listed next; the employment history follows. You need to reveal where you worked, when you worked, and what your job position was. Emphasize your talents and show how you used them at the job.
School Specific: Some schools specify the format for the resume. In most cases, you will be asked to include all part-time and full time work experiences, research and project activities, extracurricular interests and community/civil activities. Resume writing tips: Keep it concise Resumes should be one page, if possible, and two if absolutely necessary to describe relevant work experience. Make your words count. Your use of language is extremely important; you need to sell yourself to a committee quickly and efficiently. Avoid large paragraphs (over six or seven lines). Use action verbs such as "developed," "managed," and "designed" to emphasize your accomplishments. Don't use declarative sentences like "I developed the..." or "I assisted in..."; leave out the "I." Avoid passive constructions, such as "was responsible for managing." It's not only more efficient to say "Managed," it's stronger and more active. Make the most of your experience The admissions committee is looking for future business managers and leaders. They need to know what you have accomplished to have an idea of what you can add to the program. Don't be vague. Describe things that can be measured objectively. Telling someone that you "improved warehouse efficiency" doesn't say much. Telling them that you "cut requisition costs by 20%, saving the company $3800 for the fiscal year" does. Employers will feel more comfortable hiring you if they can verify your accomplishments. Be honest. There is a difference between making the most of your experience and exaggerating or falsifying it.
Don't neglect appearance Your resume is the first impression you'll make on the committee, and a successful resume depends on more than what you say; how you say it counts as well. Check your resume for proper grammar and correct spelling - evidence of good communication skills and attention to detail. Nothing can ruin your chances of getting an admission more than submitting a resume filled with (easily preventable) mistakes. Make your resume easy on the eyes. Use normal margins (1" on the top and bottom, 1.25" on the sides) and don't cram your text onto the page. Allow for some breathing room between the different sections. Avoid unusual or exotic font styles; use simple fonts with a professional look. Eliminate superfluous details Unnecessary details can take up a lot of valuable space on your resume. Don't mention personal characteristics such as age, height, and marital status on your resume. This information is either irrelevant or is taken care of in other parts of the application. List your hobbies and interests and extracurricular activities if these are not covered elsewhere. For Sample Resumes go to http://www.i20fever.com/samples/resume/index.html For Sample Resume for Master of computer science http://www.asher.com/pdf/ENGRESUME.pdf
Sample Cover Letter for MS Application Covering Letter ABC B.E Computer Science XXXXXXXX XXXXXX XXXX XXXXXX INDIA. Dear Sir/Madam, Subject: Submission of application form to Graduate School for MS (Computer Science) for fall 200X. I am aspiring student to have further studies at your esteemed university. In regard with this I am applying for your graduate school for M.S Degree in Computer Science for the Fall 2003. I am sending all the necessary documents along with filled application form. Enclosures are as follows: 1.Application DD ( if not payed online) 2.Filled Application form (if not submitted online) 3.An official bank statement and a copy of Affidavit of Support given by Sponsor 4.A copy of Resume(Bio-data) 5.A Statement of Purpose(SOP) 7.Copies of 11th+12th Marks list- Attested by institution head.(2) 8.Copies of B.Tech Memos- Attested by Institution head and University Registrar.(2) 9.Recommendation letters given by HOD and Lecturers.(3) 10.Copies of GRE and TOEFL score reports. Miscellaneous Documents 1.Prabhava-Paper Presentation certificate (Software Architecture) 2.Service Certificate- Loyola Academy. Please take note of the following: My university (univ name) does not have the practice of sending Transcripts directly to universities, so in order to authenticate my transcripts I have requested them to seal and sign across the envelope. I have not produced the Recommendation letters in the format given by you. My Professors have given their Recommendations on their own letter pads. I request you to accept my Recommendation letters, which are in a different format.
University Expenses including Tuition Fee, Living Expenses etc. Tuition Fees US Universities fall under two major categories: public (state supported), and private (independent) institutions. International students tuition expenses at state schools are based on nonresident costs, which are still usually less expensive than those of private universities. Its important to note that the cost of a program in a US school does not necessarily affect its quality. A brief idea can be had from the following : University Type Tuition Fees (annual in U.S. Dollars) Private Institutions (High Cost) >$ 25,000 Private Institutions (Low Cost) >$ 16,000 State Institutions (High Cost) >$ 17,000 State Institutions (Low Cost) >$ 9,000 The tuition fee is different for different universities and varies widely with courses. It can vary from as low as $ 9000 a year for state universities to as much as $ 30000 per annum for some private universities. For more specific details, please contact the universities. Living Expenses The approximate annual living expenses are about $10,000, which includes accommodation as well as other daily expenses. However, the expenses are different for different people depending on the lifestyles and this is just a rough idea. So, about $1000 per month is a good estimation. Most people can survive with $700$1000 a month. The key here is to share apartments/houses so that you save on the utilities, fixed charge portion of phone and to some extent on groceries. Financial Aid & Scholarships Financial aid is an important factor to consider for students applying abroad. Careful planning is both necessary and wise. Foreign nationals are required to show proof of sufficient funds to cover at least the first year of their college education to apply for a student visa. To compare the total cost of studying in various countries, check out Cost of Education The burden of securing necessary funding can be challenging, and sometimes frustrating. Your savings (or your family's) may be the only reliable source of funding
you have as you begin your program of studies abroad. Important: University funding is easier to get in the United States than in U.K., Canada, Australia or New Zealand. Most students who go to Australia and U.K. are self funded students.
All about Financial Aid What is financial AID? AID is not free money, one need to work to get money! The following form of support is what I refer to as financial AID GRA-Graduate Research Assistantship Task: work under a prof , research GTA-Graduate Teaching Assistantship Task: Help a prof in class, grading, Lab GA-Graduate Assistantship Task: Work for department eg:webmaster Fellowship (rare) Task: Paid for research to very talented guys And NOT SCHOLARSHIP of $3000 or $5000, partial waivers given by some schools, this is not AID. This is a trap! Fee? International students are expected to take 9 credit hours (3 courses) and the general fee for this will be Out sate fee: $ 6000 to $ 12000 per SEM Instate fee: $3000 per SEM to $6000 per SEM International students are supposed to pay out state fee but with a TA or RA from the university you pay instate fee; some Univs even waive instate fee for RAs or TAs What do we get if we have TA, RA or GA? University will waive the students out-state fee and pay you salary- if you get a 10 hour RA the general salary is 600-700 per month and a 20 hour RA/TA makes 1200-1500$ a month. (Based on the pay rates of the school). If you get a RA for 10 hours, if you want you can work for 10 hours in library or anywhere in the campus, International students are allowed to work for 20 hours a week. I got waiver of $ 3000, I got AID- NO (Why scholarship is not AID)? Partial waivers are given generally in schools (low ranked schools), which dont have money/grants/resources to conduct research and thus no money to pay the students as a RA/TA/GA Generally students who get a partial waiver never end up getting an RA or TA, in other words you are given 3000 and made to pay 20,000. Fee per semester in such schools is generally high, say 10000 per SEM @ 4 sems will be a total fee of over 40,000 USD. Now these schools attract the students by offering a
waiver of $ 3000-5000, but the truth is you are paying the remaining $ 35,000. Trust me this is how it works. Education Sector in the US Is a big business, these guys are here to make money, the Education sector in US makes close to 15 billion dollars which is more than what India makes on IT per annum (we call ourselves as the IT capital of word, huh) Naveen you are wrong my school said I got 3000$ waiver now I may get RA/TA also after I come to US? These schools first of all dont have many Assistantships (TAs or RAs), they will have some but Look when every student is given 3000$ waiver, every student who applied to this school and got an admit come here because of that waiver, so result more competition. Finally you wont get AID? Not Convincing! Ok, let me defend --What are top ranked schools? Schools that have research money and grants and places where there are many Undergraduate students attending. We are masters- Graduate students, why are we bothered about undergrads- TA or teaching assistant positions are given based on the number of undergrad students, if school is a good school and more number of Americans attend it; we have more number of TAs and more number of Campus jobs- Also federal grants to schools and the other Govt agencies also depends on number of undergraduate students, if school has good number of UGs they good federal grants. Bottom line Department and profs have money to do research and they hire us to work. Just think: So now your school has not many Under-grads where will it create the TA positions? General Trend 80 % of students in top 60-70 ranked schools get some form of support or the other 40-60 % of students get financial aid in first semester and the remaining get financial aid after second semester. Getting funding from India is hard/ rare as a professor cannot decide if you a good match for his research
MS in US Application and Admission General FAQ'S What are the MS requirements? For masters you have to take courses and do a project. Usually MS requires anywhere between 30 & 36 credits. For thesis option you take less courses and do a big thesis project and for non thesis you take more courses and do a small project. So say in a thesis option you have to do 9 credit hours of research (project) you either take it from the first semester you come here or hence forth. You can also take 3 credit hours of
research in one semester and remaining in other semesters. And along with the research credits you have to take courses. What you can also do is finish your course requirements and then take research credits. If you are funded from the beginning, then your advisor might want you to spend some time on research, so he will say take 3 research credits from now along with the courses. So it depends in which situation you find yourself in. This might sound complicated to you, but do not worry as soon as you go to US you will understand it. Is work experience essential for MS ? For MS generally work experience is not required. I think if you do (very) well in GRE and your academics, your chances of getting financial aid increases. What are credit hours/credit points/ degree credits? (Very Important) Usually students do not bother to understand this term. But it is very essential that one knows what exactly this means. Every regular subject/course is scheduled for 1 to 5 hours/week. That number is the credits (nothing but the number of hours you put in a week) you get for that subject. A Masters program consists of a required number of credit hours, which varies from University to University. Want to know about the grading system in US? Universities use alphabets to grade the quality of the students academic performance. A(4=excellent), B(3=good), C(2=average), D(1=below average) and F(0=fail). You need to score grade B or more to continue your graduate study. What is the Grade Point Average (GPA)? A system of recording academic achievement based on an average, calculated by multiplying the numerical grade received on each course by the number of credit hours studied. :-) Ok stop cursing us for that definition. Here is an example that will put the smile :-) back on your face. Suppose you have taken 3 courses: X, Y & Z each with a credit hour requirement of 3. Assume your grades in the 3 courses are A, B & A respectively. Then your GPA will be calculated as : X : 4 * 3 = 12 Y : 3 * 3 = 9 Z : 4 * 3 = 12 Total = 12+ 9 + 12 = 33 GPA = 33 / (3+3+3) = 3.66 That should have made things clear!! What's a major? The area of studies in which you wish to concentrate. This is usually EE (Electrical Engineering) or CS (Computer Science) or CE (Computer Engineering). Mind you, the area of specialization differs from a major in that, it is the field in wish to do some
research viz. VLSI, Computer N/W, Parallel Computing, DSP etc. How many years does it take to complete MS ? Masters takes time. On an average it takes 2 years. You have to be very good to finish it in 1 year. 1.5 years is possible but its safer to think that it will take 2 years. Many Universities offer a 1 year accelerated course which may sound tempting. But think carefully before you decide to go for this. It is extremely hectic. Some students have found even 2 year a tough job. What to write in an SOP ? The SOP is supposed to identify to the Univ. what your (1) Interests are in the field you plan to major in. For e.g.. one can write that he/she is interested in Software Engineering and Networking. You need to mention why you are interested in these areas. Maybe you did a project and found yourself drawn to those aspects of the project. (2) Future plans are. Do you want to get into academia or industry. Either answer is OK. What role do you see yourself playing wherever you land up (are you going to be a technical person, a researcher, a teacher). You don't have to get very specific, but you should think about these things carefully. Is TOEFL necessary for admission? If your native language is NOT English and/or you do not have a degree from a university in an English-speaking country, you will be asked to provide evidence of English proficiency. Most universities require scores from TOEFL while some universities administer their own test upon arrival on campus, and a growing number of universities are accepting the scores from the IELTS. TOEFL-The Test of English as a Foreign Language measures the ability of nonnative speakers of English to use and understand North American English as it is used in college and university settings. Many universities have a minimum score required entrance to the academic program. Students with lower scores will be required to take an intensive English language program. The test is offered on computer throughout most regions of the world. In areas where access to computer-based testing is limited, a supplemental paper-and-pencil version of the test is administered. For further information, visit www.toefl.org. IELTS-International English Language Testing Systems tests the complete range of English language skills which will commonly be encountered by students when studying or training in the medium of English. All candidates take the same Listening and Speaking Modules. There is an option of either Academic or General Training Reading and Writing Modules. The Academic option is suitable for candidates planning to undertake higher education. For further information, go to www.ielts.org. Why study in the U.S.? Worldwide recognition of U.S. degrees Employers favor U.S. degrees Wide range of
educational programs U.S. universities spend $20,000 per year on each student compared to $7,225 in Britain, $11,572 in Australia, $12,217 in Canada Outstanding facilities, libraries and laboratories Diverse student body Opportunity to spend an additional year in the U.S. getting valuable, relevant work experience
How to Calculate Expenses? Calculating expenses Tuition the cost of instruction is generally charged as a single amount for the term (semester/quarter). Some universities, and many graduate programs, based their fees on the number of credits students take Fees health insurance student activity fee that gives students access to the library, health center and campus activities out-of-state fees charged by public universities to ALL students who cannot prove they are residents of that particular State. Living Costs room and board transportation books and supplies How to obtain a Student Visa? To obtain a student visa, you must demonstrate that you: Have the ability and intention to pursue a course of full-time study. This can be demonstrated by official acceptance from the college or university that you wish to attend. Some visa officers will also want to see transcripts and test scores or discuss your plans further. HINT: Be prepared to tell the visa officer what you want to study, where you want to study, how you are going to finance your stay in the United States, and what you intend to do with your degree when you return to your home country. Be prepared to do this clearly and quickly. Possess adequate funds to cover all of the costs listed by the university on the I-20 or IAP-66 form that they will send to you when you are accepted. These costs include tuition, fees, living expenses, and incidental expenses. As a general rule, the consular official will want to see a bank draft in the amount of the first years expenses and documentation showing how the money will be found for future years. Have sufficiently strong social, economic, and other reasons to leave the United States upon completion of the projected program of studies. Such reasons can be shown during the visa interview (if an interview is required), by such means as showing strong family ties in your home country and/or excellent employment prospects when you return home with a U.S. degree. Are able to articulate your reason for studying at a specific institution For more Faq's go to http://www.educationusa.state.gov/faq.htm
How to select universities for US? Well it's a very difficult question and not a easy one. Most people go to consultancies. But this is not a solution, consultancies can help you but it is always better to do some research yourself. There are lot of resources available on the internet. Well to star with I ll lay down some guidelines for you. 1. Set your priorities like field of interest, money, state, city, on campus job, funding, food etc. 2. Depending on your priority search for universities. By far the most accurate and update information available is at petersons.com Well this website gives all kinds of information like research, tuition fees, university info, faculty info, student info, department info etc......... The other site I would recommend is princetonreview.com. 3. Once you finalize your list to 30 universities. You can go to a consultancy for further assistance. The official consultancy for US education is USEFI. They give basic consulting free of charge. for more info on USEFI go to http://www.msinusblog.com/best-us-education-consultancy-in-india/ for info on shortlisting depending on GRE score go to http://www.msinusblog.com/category/application/shortlisting/
Do's and Don'ts of MS in US Application Procedure 1. Prepare for GRE and TOEFL at least 3 months in Advance. Don't Wait till the Last Moment. 2. Always get original transcripts from your college or university. It should be sealed in a college/university envelope. 3. Get Recommendation Letters from Professors who taught you the respective field of study for which you are applying. 4. Apply at least a year before the term begins. It gives a good opportunity for you in getting scholarships. 5. Never Copy the Statement of Purpose from a Sample SOP or Someone else's SOP. It is always better to write your own SOP. It helps the Admission Committee to know you better. 6. Contact your department professors by email before coming to US. This may lead to the professor giving you Teaching or Research Assistantships. 7. Stay in touch with the admissions department through email or phone after sending your application package. 8. Fax a copy of any additional documents required by the admissions department.
F-1 VISA Documents Checklist Page Students leaving for the United States need to hold a F-1 visa. This indicates that you are a single student, with no dependents The following is a checklist of papers you need for your visa interview. When ALL documents are ready, e-mail us OR call us for your mock interview. We can either do a MOCK on the PHONE OR send you Mock Questions on the E-MAIL. All of the following documents must be in separate clear plastic folders and NOT in files and all in ORIGINAL Prepare the following Documents: 1. VISA APPLICATION - These form/s are available at the US Application Center or check with our office. Xerox the form and fill it to the best of your ability, keep the original one for later. Please get it checked by us. DS 156 This form has to be filled by all the applicants. DS 157 This form has to be filled by the male applicants less than 45 years of age. DS 158 This form has to be filled by all the applicants applying for F, J and M Visa. 2. PASSPORT - Must be valid for at least 6 months from the day you apply for your visa 3. COLOUR PHOTOGRAPHS 50mm by 50mm. Confirm this size from the Visa Application form (or call & check this at the US Consulate) 4. I-20 FORM - When you receive this form and have it checked by us immediately. In the event of any errors, this form must be returned to the University and a new one has to be obtained, all this is very time consuming, so work on it immediately. The I-20 form has to be signed by YOU in the required space. 5. ACCEPTANCE LETTER - Admission letter from the University 6. LETTER OF FINANCIAL AID - Scholarships if any 7. BROCHURES - Catalogs of the University 8. LETTERS/ EMAILS of ADMISSION and REJECT of all the colleges you have applied. 9. TOEFL/GRE/GMAT/SAT - Original mark sheets
10. SCHOOL/COLLEGE MARK SHEETS - You may take certified true copies only if you have handed in the previous mark sheet and degree certificate for college admissions. Otherwise CARRY the ORIGINALS. 11. INCOME TAX ORDER FORMS & CHALLANS (If your parents pay any taxes in India.) Parents originals of last two years. Take yours too if you file taxes. 12. SALARY/EMPLOYMENT CERTIFICATE - Letter of Appointment and/or Salary Certificate from your Parents Company/ Employer. If tax is deducted at source by the company, then your parents have to include the TDS certificate as well. 12b. BUSINESS DOCUMENTS If your parents have business then please carry following documents Income tax papers of the company for the last 2 years Partnership / Ownership deeds Balance sheets of the company (Highlight Turnover and Profit) Bank Pass books of the company 13. PROOF OF FIXED & LIQUID ASSETS - in your name, as well as those of your parents. With a summary of the assets you and your family holdings. Example: UTI, Life Insurance, Stocks, Bonds, Fixed Deposits, Property Deeds, any paper which indicates that your family has money. 14. BANK ACCOUNT - Your 1st years fees must be currently in the account. Hence proof of this in the form of a Pass Book entry/Bank Statement Printout. 15. VISA FEES - PLEASE CHECK WITH OUR OFFICE 16. SEVIS REGISTRATION FEE Students whose I 20 were issued after September 1, 2004, are required to pay $ 100 as SEVIS Registration fee. We recommend paying the fee electronically, by completing Form I-901 through the Internet and using a credit card. Persons submitting the fee electronically will be able to print a receipt at the time of payment. Receipts must be presented to a consular officer at the time of taking the Visa Appointment, at the time of the visa interview, and again to an immigration officer at the port of entry into the U.S. The SEVIS fee is nonrefundable. However, if the visa is denied, the fee will not have to be repaid if a subsequent visa application is submitted within 12 months of the initial denial. SEVIS Registration Website - https://www.fmjfee.com/index.jhtml IMPORTANT NOTES msinusblog.com reference blog for international students who want to apply to graduate schools in US
1. Dress Code: Remember that you are a student and hence must not look like you are appearing for a formal business meeting at the US Consulate. You need to be neat, but casually dressed. Wear western dress, NOT Indian. 2. Students appearing at the Mumbai US Consulate: You DO NOT require any Chartered Accountants Statement, since you will be actually carrying your Originals, and you will prepare the Summary Statement as outlined above. 3. New International students may ENTER United States to begin studies ONLY 30 days prior to the start on I 20. 4. You can APPLY for the Student Visa not earlier than 90 days before the date mentioned on I 20. If your sponsor is a US Citizen or "Green Card" holder: 1. FINANCIAL AFFIDAVIT - also called the I-134 form filled, this must be signed and notarized by your sponsor. This form is available at any US consulate or post office 2. SPONSORS LETTER OF EMPLOYMENT - on the employer's letterhead. For example, "Mr. X. has served as a Production Engineer with our organization for nine years, beginning January 03, 1982. His annual earnings currently stand at US $ ............ 3. BANK LETTER - verifying the sponsor's credibility. This must be on the bank's letterhead. For example, "Mr. X. has held a Savings Account with this bank since January 04, 1982. His average balance stands at US $.......... To the best of our knowledge, his account is in good standing." 4. A LETTER FROM YOUR SPONSOR - stating his willingness to sponsor you.
How to prepare for the F1 Visa interview? Preparing for the interview Schedule an appointment: This should be done through the Visa Facilitating Service (VFS) for obtaining an F1, viz. student visa. This can also be done online by logging on to: www.visa-services.com, an independent website maintained by VFS. Documents required: Passport: Along with two copies of the front, one copy of the address page and one copy of the observations/remarks page.
Demand draft fees: These keep changing, hence check with the consulate in advance. Photographs: One 2 x 2 inch photograph against a light background (since your ears should show in the photograph). I-20 form: Plus one photocopy. Application forms: Duly filled in. Not allowed in the consulate: Cell phone, cigarettes, briefcases, etc; though a plastic bag or womans handbag is allowed. Facts about F-1 Visa & Application Process Your visa will be issued for the duration mentioned on your I-20 form; however in practice, most students get 5 year visas, irrespective of the time duration mentioned in the I-20. If youve been refused a visa, you can always reapply. Theres no limit to the number of times one can reapply. Having relatives or family in the USA does not disqualify you for a US visa. List of documents to take along 1. Passport, I-20 form, appointment letter. 2. Asset statement outlining your liquid and fixed assets. 3. Proof of all assets, including original bank statements, PPF account passbooks, fixed
deposit receipts, etc. 4. Income tax returns for the past 3 years. 5. Original GRE/GMAT/SAT/TOEFL score sheets. 6. Your past education certificates, diplomas and/or degrees. 7. Property papers. Top 5 Visa Interview Questions 1. Why have you chosen this university? 2. What do you plan to do after you graduate? 3. Who is paying for your education and what is his/her income? 4. How do I know youll come back after your education? 5. Why dont you do this course in India?
What Things to carry while traveling to USA for MS? Please note that the information presented below may not be applicable to you. It has been provided for general guidance only. This is for a person wanting to go fairly well equipped from India. If you have some sort of support in the place of your destination [e.g.: relatives, friends etc.], you can definitely prune this list. Almost everything listed below, and more, is available there [often better quality and cheaper and more appropriate for local use]; but you'll take a while to discover where to buy them; and you may also take a while to save up for them. Sooner or later, you'll replace many things you take from India, with their local equivalents. This list assumes that you'll cook yourself, which otherwise may not be the case, if you are going to stay in a dorm [hostel]. The estimated budget for the items listed below, could range from Rs. 20,000 to 40,000. In addition, you are likely to spend approximately Rs. 40,000 [which will vary from one airline to other] on an ECONOMY ONE-WAY air-ticket. You'll need some cash for your deposit and rent on your housing. It is recommended that you take at least $1000 as it may take a month's time for you to encash your first scholarship/pay check. Apply for all local scholarships/loan fellowships to assist with travel [if required]. THIS LIST MAY BE BIASED TOWARDS A MALE SINGLE STUDENT ON SCHOLARSHIP; MAKE APPROPRIATE CHANGES IF YOU ARE NOT. I. Things to do after getting aid and offer letters: *Apply for "complete" transcripts from the Univ. that you last attended. *Return all borrowed material and take back all the things that you lent out to friends and the like. *Get in touch with the USEFI [United States Educational Foundation in India], if that's possible and get the latest info about documents needed for applying for a F-1 visa. You must present following materials to the Consular office at the time you apply for visa. *SEVIS I-20 [obtained directly from the University you will attend] *Visa application form [available at the consulate] *Two passport size photographs [posses around 10; won't do any harm] *Valid Passport *Evidence of financial support *Visa fee [as applicable] If the University has awarded financial assistance, please enclose a letter from the University to that effect.
You may apply for the visa days prior to the reporting date mentioned on the I-20. II. Things to be taken with you when you go for the visa: *Signed I-20 form. DETACH THE STUDENT COPY OF THE I-20 AS SOON AS YOU SIGN BOTH OF THEM. KEEP IT AWAY FROM THE ORIGINAL ONE, SAFELY WITH YOU IN A FOLDER. *Filled visa application form. *Two passport size photos [TAKE GLUE WITH YOU, JUST IN CASE...] *Aid and admission letters *TOEFL and GRE scores [Original + Xerox copy] *Xerox copy of grade cards. Go along with a friend or a relative who has a vehicle [just in case you have to go and get something]. Send your acceptance letter to the Univ. by fax and airmail. III Travel booking and tips: The next thing to do is blocking tickets [this implies no financial commitment]. This can be done via travel agents. Make sure that the agent/agency is good. As far as possible, avoid change of airline [which in most case is not possible]. A direct flight is the best. [E.g.: Lufthansa: India to Frankfurt and from Frankfurt to JFK]. If change of airline can't be avoided, leave at least 4-6 hrs gap between the scheduled arrival of one flight and the scheduled departure of the connecting flight. Baggage is usually safe with a single airline. Change of airlines sometimes leads to misplaced baggage. Some airlines don't take care of baggage transfer you may have to personally carry it [check this while booking]. IV. Getting the Visa: When you go for visa, dress decently. "AVOID ANY AMERICANISMS". Speak slowly and clearly LOOKING DIRECTLY INTO THE EYES OF THE CONSULAR OFFICER -EVEN IF HE/SHE IS NOT LOOKING AT YOU. V. Emigration clearance: Get this after visa. This is usually not required: ECNR [Emigration Clearance Not Required]. But the emigration officers at the airport of departure may create some issue about this. So don't take any chances. For this you'll need the following: *Passport and Visa [of course].
*ECNR application form [available from the pass port office] *Original and Xerox copies of the provisional degree certificate. [If you've the original, then it's well and good]. *Required fee. VI. Getting your $$$$ dollars: Nowadays this is pretty easy -- from Thomas Cook or American Express. Even a Nationalized bank would do this job for you. But Thomas Cook, I've found, is by and large the most preferred. For this you'll need to take the following things along: Passport + copy; air-ticket; I-20 [student copy]; grade cards + copies; Provisional Certificate +copy; 12th standard mark/pass sheet + copy; aid and admission letters + copies; bank draft/check [for the source of Indian currency for buying the required dollars]. VII. Things to be done in advance: [as much as possible] *Learn typing *Learn driving *Learn to cook *Apply for bank loan [if necessary] *Make passport valid for 6 months more than your stay indicated in your I-20. *Make outstation purchases [sweater, thermal underwear, cassettes etc.] *Get medical check-up done: dental; fresh check-up, if you have a major ailment [DO NOT BE UNDER THE IMPRESSION THAT "I' LL GET THESE TESTS DONE WHEN I LAND IN THE USA". ITS VERY EXPENSIVE IN THE USA] *Get prescriptions and medicines *Get your eyesight checked; get an extra pair of eyeglasses. *Write to the ISA PRESIDENT, giving your COMPLETE ITINERARY incl. flight #, date and time of arrival, enclosing your most recent photograph [passport size] if you need assistance with pickup and temporary accommodation *NOTE YOUR PARENTS' BANK ACCOUNT NO. VIII. Packing: Start your packing well in advance. Buy two good boxes [suitcases] -- they should be able to withstand a lot of mishandling. They should be as large as possible within the size limitations. Put identification marks and labels both inside and outside the boxes [apart from these, the airline itself will provide sticker labels and baggage tags]. Also write down what your suitcases look like -- just in case the luggage gets lost in transit. IX. Things to be kept in the boxes: *Copy of all certificates/documents [originals in cabin baggage].
*Important application materials [SOP, Recos etc.] *Necessary books/notebooks [note: there should be no hassles taking Xerox copies of books -- but don't flaunt them to others] *Copy of important addresses *Indian postal stamps -- for sending letters through someone coming to India *Medical history files *Non-technical books [fiction/religious] [ note: second-hand story books/novels are pretty cheap in the US] *1 pair of leather chappals and hawai chappals [with extra straps] etc. X. Clothes: Usually clothes are machine washed once a week. Hence one week supply of clothes [+ one week back up] is needed. Get all clothes a little loose -- clothes may shrink in the drier and you may/WILL "GAIN WEIGHT". *14-15 sets of undergarments, socks, handkerchiefs *5 sets of good shirts, pants [bring a lot of T-shirts, which are cheap in India] *a good swimming trunk + few shorts *1-2 ties and 2 belts *3-6 ordinary towels *a bed sheet and woolen blanket *woolen sweaters *a leather or thick woolen jacket [important] *woolen socks/thermal underwear *do not take Indian files/folders or punching machines [filing system in the US is different :3 holes; A4] *buy a good leather wallet *Wear your shoes to save space in the box. If needed buy only leather shoes [sports shoes are cheap in the US] Don't worry if you can't bring any of the stuff listed above -- most of them are available pretty cheap in the US [Made in China]. In a month's time you'll be able to buy most of the above. XI. Food Stuff: Below are some north/south Indian food stuff that may be taken as per your preferences: *Masalas etc. [usually OK with US customs, if sealed in original packing with label] *Tea/Coffee powder -- 0.2 kg [it may take some time to get used to the US stuff] *Dhania-jeera powder -- 0.25 kg *Red chilli powder -- 0.25 kg *Turmeric powder -- 0.25 kg *Small quantities of each of the following: cloves, cinnamon, elaichi [cardamom white and black], cumin seeds [jeera], mustard seeds, asafoetida powder, pickles, papad
[appalam] *Different dhals in small quantities for initial phase *Sambar powder -- 1 kg *Rasam podi -- 0.5 kg *Paruppu podi --1 packet and tamarind paste *Cook book -- e.g.: "Cook and see" by Meenakshi Ammal Note: most of these items are available in the Indian stores in major cities like Dallas. The above may all seem very silly and worth mocking. But these will help you beat the "craving" during the initial few weeks. But, be realistic: if you think the list is exhaustive, prune and takes the most important things only. XII. Vessels: *A pressure pan [with spare handle, safety valves, weights, gaskets] [note: big pressure cooker is not needed as you can buy a rice cooker in the US] *Dinner plates -- 2 *Bowls -- 2 *Table spoons -- 2 *Teaspoons -- 2 *Fork -- 2 *Dinner knives -- 2 *Kitchen knife -- 1 *Cooking tongs --1 *Tea strainer --1 *Ladles for serving rice --1 *Ladles for serving dal -- 1 *Tumblers -- 2 *Rolling pin and board --1 [for making chapatis] Note: Most Major cities have these items in Indian stores, so make your decision wisely XIII. Things to be kept in the cabin baggage: *Some medicines [including those for air-sickness] *Sweater *Original important documents [I-20, visa, tickets] *Novels/books/magazines for reading. *Enough money [little cash and traveler's checks]. *Address and phone book [Indian and US]. *Copies of your photo [passport size]. *Keep some clean clothes, and the most essential basic items required for sustaining yourself for a couple of days, in case your luggage gets misplaced in transit. *Keep inventory of all items that you have in a particular suitcase. XIV. Things to be kept on person:
*Shorter extract of contact address -- especially of people coming to pick you up. *Receipt got along with traveler's checks in case you misplace them. *Remaining amount of cash. [a belt-bag would be a perfect place to keep it] XV. Things to be kept at home: *List of addresses /phone nos. at which info about you can be obtained. *One copy of all your important documents. *A copy of all relevant parts of medical history files. *A few signed blank papers so that your parents can be authorized to look after anything on your behalf. *Your tailoring measurements. XVI. Things to be done in the last week before the flight: *Call up and find if there's any change of schedule of the flight [INFORM THE PEOPLE COMING TO PICK YOU UP OF ANY SUCH CHANGE] XVII. On the day of flight + in-flight + later: *Be at the airport 3-4 hrs before flight departure *Relax during flight; sleep as much as possible *For vegetarians: watch out before you eat you may get NV even if you had asked for veggie. [before ordering anything onboard, check if you have to pay for it separately] *Don't hesitate to ask questions. If required don't hesitate to spend money. *NOTE: as far as possible ask an official only: airhostesses, airport authority, cops etc. XVIII. Port of entry procedures: *Sometime before landing the flight attendant will distribute customs declaration forms and immigration forms [I-94] as mentioned below. Fill these out on the plane [you'll submit them to the appropriate authorities when you land]. *Do not hesitate to take flight attendant's help *You can indicate that you have nothing to declare and total value of all your things is less than $100 on the form *Form I-94 -- fill in the plane. After seeing your documents the immigration officer will indicate length of stay, Univ., etc. This'll be attached to your passport. *Form I-20 [student copy] -- all transactions regarding your non-immigrant status will be recorded in this form. This should be retained at all times [not to be surrendered when you temporarily leave the US]. Your admission number will be given -- memorize and note it down somewhere. *Just before you land the correct local time will be announced -- set your watch [dual time watch will come handy here] *Once you are out of the plane go straight to the immigration counter. Keep your I-20, passport, aid and admission letters ready. They might asks a few questions like: Is this your first time in the US? Student? F-1 visa? Which Univ.? they will attach an I-94 [arrival/departure record card]
*Then go the baggage claim to fetch your luggage [Eye-catching labels help here]. Pick up a cart [you may have to use $1-2 here] to carry bags. Try and find a free cart. *Cart your baggage to the nearby customs. If asked tell them you are a student, F-1 visa etc. If asked to open the baggage do so slowly -- don't mess up the place. [Note: in most cases you won't be asked to open the baggage at all and will simply be waved through]. *Now go and wait at the nearest exit for the guys who would come to pick you up. *If they do not show up [within 1 hr], make a call to 1. ISA president/contact number given, 2. International Students' Office. Tell them your exact location [e.g.: the terminal number in the airport]. Try to get help from an airport official. People in the US are usually very helpful. *DO NOT LEAVE THE AIRPORT UNTIL SOMEONE COMES TO PICK YOU UP. DO NOT LEAVE YOUR BAGGAGE UNATTENDED AT ANY TIME. MOST IMPORTANT: DO NOT GET PANICKY. XIX. List of medicines recommended by a doc: Note: all the medicines should be accompanied by a valid prescription from a certified doc. *Crocin tabs -- 3 strips. For fever, body aches etc. *Erythrocin 500 mg tabs -- 2 strips. *Sporadix 500 mg caps -- 2 strips. *Actifed tabs -- 3 strips. For common cold and cough. *Avomin tabs -- 1 strip. For airsickness. *Digene tabs -- 30. *Baralgam tabs -- 2 strips. For abdominal colic pain, backache etc. *Electral powder -- 2 packets. For dehydration/stomach upsets. *Isogel [Glaxo] -- 1 box. For constipation. *Brufen 600 mg tabs -- 2 strips. For pains, swellings etc. *Avil tabs -- 1 strip. For allergy. *Relaxyl ointment -- 1 tube. To be applied as pain balm. *Antiseptic Burnol -- 1 tube. Note: Once you come to USA, you will start taking Advil/Tylenol for everything, so these medicines are not mandatory Alternate Link http://sdsusanskriti.org/checklist.htm Good Luck and Bon Voyage

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Step by Step Guide to apply for MS in US (www.msinusblog.com)

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What is Graduate Record Examination (GRE) ?

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