1. Who is eligible to apply for admission into a US university or college?
Any one who has: · A consistently good academic record. · Sufficient financial support. · Proficiency in English. For admission into graduate study (Masters / Doctorate degrees) you must have completed 16 years of formal education. Most bachelors programs in Pakistan (with the exception of programs such as engineering, architecture etc.) are of two or three years duration. The students who hold degrees from these programs have two options: 1. They can complete a Pakistani Master's degree before applying for the US master's degree' or 2. They can apply into a US undergraduate program and anticipate two years of study in the US in order to earn that degree before going on for the master's degree.

2. When should I start the application process?
Since the application and admissions review process take almost one year, you should start the process at least 12 months in advance. As a graduate student, start the process before you start your sixteenth year of study. For example, a prospective student for Aug/Sep 2004 session should start the process anytime between April and August of the preceding year (2003). By November of 2003 the required standardized tests must be taken, recommendation letters acquired and statements of purpose written and ready. The application deadlines for Fall 2004 session might be as early as November 15, 2003.

3. Does this application process cost me money?
Yes, it does. By the time a student has sent in applications, received admissions and secured a student visa, the student would have spent anywhere between Pak Rs. 30,000 to Pak Rs. 60,000. This includes test fees, application processing fees, postal expenses and visa processing and issuance fees.

4. Do colleges and universities in the US provide Financial Aid?
Some financial aid is available to international students. Keep in mind, however, that about 30% of international students in the US receive major financial aid from the US college or university. Of the remainder, the majority of students are self-financed, while a small percentage are recipients of awards or assistance from their home country or other external sources. For details please see Financial Aid Section of FAQs

5. What are the test requirements for admission into US institutions?
TOEFL is a mandatory test requirement of all students. All doctorate student applicants must take TOEFL with TWE (Test of Written English). Students applying for a teaching assistantship at the graduate level may consider taking TSE (Test of Spoken English). TOEFL scores are valid for two years. A valid passport with a recognizable photograph is the only accepted identification document for all Pakistani students taking these exams. If the passport is old with an unrecognizable photo, students are advsied to bring a second photo ID card to the test center.

6. What kind of test scores are required for admission?
Since admission to U. S. Universities is not based on any single factor but is a process of selection, there are no cut-off scores. In general, a TOEFL score of at least 213 is expected from all students. A score of 250 is required of masters level or Doctorate applicants. An SAT score of 1200 is good for many colleges. A score of 1400 increases the chances for securing financial aid.

7. What Will Be The Average Cost Per Year For Study In The U. S. ?
The cost (Tuition + Living expenses) could range from $15,000 to $45,000 for one academic year. On an average, the estimated expenses for one year study is $25,000.

8. What Type Of Visa Will I Be Eligible For?
The most common student visa is F1, obtained with an I-20 certification of eligibility. The I-20 is issued by the institution which has given you admission.

9. How Long Does It Take To Get A Student Visa?
You are advised to apply for a visa as soon as you have received your I-20. The visa process may take up to 3 months, and in some instances longer. Security clearance is now required for all who have been accepted as eligible for a visa, and this process takes time. Normally you are informed of the Embassy's decision on your visa application on the day you apply, whether or not you have qualified. If you have, then your application must clear further security checks. The process, as said earlier, takes time.

10. Is It Very Difficult To Get A Student Visa?
It is not difficult if you possess all the necessary documents, meet the requirements stated above, and are able to convince the consular officer that you have well laid out career plans upon your return to Pakistan . The package you present of your credentials and other documents when you apply for the visa is critical, and you may wish to seek the guidance and advice of an educational adviser.

11. I have a green card or am designated as a permanent resident. Am I       considered an international student?
No. You follow all the guidelines and policies applicable to American citizens.

12. Do I have to buy any health insurance when studying in the US ?
Yes, you have to buy a health insurance policy. Usually a university or a college offers some inexpensive coverage.

13. Am I eligible for any financial support or loans from US sources?
In some cases you can obtain financial support or loans. Please take a look at Financial Aid FAQs

14. Am I eligible to work in the US during my study on F-1 status?
You can work part time or during summer vacations and receive salary or credits toward tuition fees in many colleges and universities. If after nine or more months of study your financial situation changes and you are not able to support yourself during a study in the US , you can apply to INS for permission to work part-time outside the campus. Usually the international office of the university will assist you with this.