Life of Indian Students in the USA

Starting your journey as an international student in the U.S. can be both exciting and overwhelming—here's a guide to what you can expect during orientation to help you settle in smoothly.

Before leaving for the U.S., virtual pre-departure sessions are typically held to cover essential topics such as packing tips, travel arrangements, and what to expect at the airport. IDP conducts Pre departure sessions every intake in their office all around India and also our partnered universities also conduct sessions in different cities , which IDP will keep you updated about.

• Airport Pickup: Some universities offer airport pickup services. These shuttle services transport international students from the airport to the university. Be sure to check with your university before traveling to confirm availability.

• Temporary Accommodation: If you arrive before your dorm or apartment is ready, temporary accommodation options are usually available.

• Welcome Sessions: These sessions provide an overview of the university, including available resources and support services.

• Immigration and Visa Information: Sessions focused on maintaining your visa status and understanding immigration policies.

• Health and Safety: Information on medical services, health insurance, and campus security.

• Academic Orientation: An introduction to the U.S. educational system, including class schedules, library usage, and academic expectations.

• Social Integration: Opportunities to meet and interact with other students through workshops and social events.

• Technology Setup: Assistance with setting up online portals, connecting to Wi-Fi, and accessing your university email.

• Tour of the Campus and Neighbourhood: Guided tours to help you familiarise yourself with the campus and its surrounding areas.

• Banking: Assistance with opening a bank account and managing your finances.

• Mobile Phone Plans: Guidance on selecting a mobile phone plan and obtaining a local phone number.

• Social Security Number (SSN): If you plan to work on campus, you will need to apply for a Social Security Number.

Here’s what you need to keep in mind as an international student in the USA:

1. Medical: Healthcare in the USA requires insurance, and most universities mandate basic coverage. Visits involve filling out legal health forms and ensuring the doctor is in-network to minimise costs.

2. Public Transit: Public transit in the USA is less developed compared to India, often necessitating the use of personal vehicles. Obtaining a driver's license is essential if you plan to buy a car.

3. Food: Initially, you may enjoy American fast food, but you'll soon crave Indian cuisine. Learning to cook can help maintain a healthy diet and provide a sense of comfort.

4. Time Management: In the USA, students juggle multiple responsibilities, including rent, utilities, cooking, laundry, and part-time jobs. Effective time management is crucial for balancing these tasks and academic commitments.

5. Weather: Unlike India's predominantly warm climate, the USA experiences varied weather conditions. Checking weather forecasts becomes a daily routine to dress appropriately and stay safe during extreme conditions.

6. Credit History: Building a credit history is essential in the USA. Use credit cards responsibly to establish creditworthiness for future financial transactions like loans or renting an apartment.

7. Lack of Roadside Small Shops: In the USA, you may need to travel further to find large retailers. Unlike the convenience of local shops in India, this requires more planning and possibly a vehicle.

8. Networking with People: Academic excellence alone won't secure internships or jobs. Networking through conferences, career fairs, and campus events is vital for learning about opportunities and making connections.

9. Obeying Laws: Adhere to local laws strictly to avoid fines or deportation. Always carry legal documentation and be cautious about exceeding permitted work hours.

10. Utilities and Living Conditions: Living arrangements often involve sharing apartments with other students, and utilities like internet, electricity, and gas are typically split among roommates. Ensure to coordinate access keys and manage shared spaces efficiently.

11. Commute: Students usually live close to campus and share commuting costs. Most schools provide affordable transportation passes, but safety during late commutes can be a concern.

12. Online Study Options: Universities offer both live and recorded classes. International students must attend in-person unless there are valid reasons for remote participation.

13. Access keys: There aren't many spare keys and making more costs money. There are buildings where the main gate key is unique, so if you plan to leave the building, you'll need to work with your roommate to make sure you're not locked out.

14. Attendance: Typically, you choose for nine credits per semester. That is nine hours of instruction per week. There are no set hours, such as 9 to 5. In order to accommodate working men, many classes are offered late into the night. Also, nine hours a week equates to, say, three to four lectures. which ultimately comes down to the fact that you don't attend school very much.

Here’s a breakdown of the academic system in the USA, covering class structure, grading, and assessments:

• Class Structure: Lectures, debates, and occasionally lab activities are all part of a regular class. In certain cases, participation is mandated and frequently encouraged.

• Grading System: A is the highest grade, and grades are typically represented by the letters A, B, C, D, and F. A pass/fail system may also be used on some courses.

• Tests and Assignments: You should prepare for final tests, midterm exams, and regular assignments. Academic integrity regulations should be understood since plagiarism is a serious offence.

Follow these steps to easily get a SIM card as an international student in the USA:

Managing your finances wisely is crucial for a smooth and stress-free experience as an international student in the U.S.A.—here are some essential financial management tips to help you stay on track.

1. Establish a Budget: Keep tabs on your earnings and outlays to prevent going overboard.

2. Look for Discounts: Take advantage of student discounts on entertainment, software, and transit.

3. Work Part-Time: To get extra cash, think about applying for internships or working on campus if your visa permits it.

Depending on your lifestyle and location, your total annual living expenses as an international student in the USA could range from USD 8k to USD 15k .Careful planning and budgeting will enable you to effectively control these costs.

As an international student, the cost of living in the United States varies greatly between states, which may have an effect on your entire budget. The following is a summary of some of the variations you may experience:

You can select a place that suits your lifestyle and budget by being aware of these variations. You might further refine your budget expectations by investigating institutions and cities in advance.

Total Projected Annual Costs

• States with High Costs: $40,000 - $70,000/year

• States with Moderate Costs: $30,000 - $55,000 annually

• States with Low Costs: $25,000–$45,000 annually

Managing tuition payments as an international student can be challenging—here are some key tips to help you cover your tuition costs efficiently and avoid any last-minute issues.

• Pre-planning: Begin the payment procedure well in advance of the deadline to account for any potential delays.

• Currency Exchange Rates: Keep an eye on exchange rates to determine the best time to send money.

• Transaction Fees: Consider the costs involved in your chosen payment method and set aside money for these fees.

• University Guidance: Contact the financial office at your university for specific payment instructions or suggestions.

Explore these payment options to manage your tuition effectively as an international student:

1. Bank Wire Transfer

• Description: Transfer funds directly from your home country's bank account to your university's bank account.

• Pros: Secure and widely accepted by universities.

• Cons: Better to make the payment or transfer on weekdays rather than weekends because it might take 2 days to reflect in account if its weekends.

Steps for Bank Wire Transfer:

1. Create an account with a service provider (e.g., Flywire, Western Union Business Solutions).

2. Get a quote for the exchange rate and fees.

3. Provide your university's bank details.

4. Fund the transfer through your bank account or card.

5. Visit your bank to initiate the transfer if needed.

2. Online Payment Portals

• Description: Many universities use platforms like Flywire or Western Union Business Solutions tailored for international students.

• Pros: Competitive exchange rates, lower fees, and online payment tracking.

• Cons: Availability may vary by country.

Steps for Online Payment Portals:

1. Access the payment portal via your university’s website.

2. Follow the provided instructions to complete the payment.

3. Credit/Debit Card

• Description: Pay directly using an international credit or debit card.

• Pros: Convenient, quick, and often directly accepted on the university’s payment page.

• Cons: High transaction fees, less favourable exchange rates, and potential daily transaction limits.

Steps for Credit/Debit Card Payments:

1. Log in to your university’s student payment portal.

2. Enter your card details to process the payment.

4. Checks or Demand Drafts

• Description: Pay using a bank check or demand draft in U.S. dollars.

• Pros: A secure option if electronic payments aren't available.

• Cons: Longer processing times and the risk of the check getting lost in the mail.

Steps for Checks or Demand Drafts:

1. Request a bank check or demand draft payable to your university.

2. Mail the check or draft to the university’s financial office.

5. Scholarships and Financial Aid

• Description: Utilise funds awarded through scholarships, grants, or financial aid to cover tuition and other expenses.

• Pros: Reduces the amount you need to pay out-of-pocket.

• Cons: The application process can be competitive and time-consuming.

Steps for Scholarships and Financial Aid:

1. Apply for scholarships and financial aid opportunities.

2. Ensure that the awarded funds are disbursed directly to your university.

6. Education Loans

• Description: Obtain loans from banks or financial institutions in your home country or the U.S. to cover tuition and other expenses.

• Pros: Can cover a significant portion of your tuition and living costs.

• Cons: Requires repayment with interest and may require a co-signer or collateral.

Steps for Education Loans:

1. Apply for an education loan from a suitable bank or financial institution.

2. Disburse the loan funds to your university according to their payment process.

7. Payment Plans

• Description: Some universities offer instalment plans that allow you to spread out tuition payments over the semester.

• Pros: Helps manage large payments by breaking them into smaller, more manageable amounts.

• Cons: This may involve an additional fee for using the payment plan.

Steps for Payment Plans:

1. Enrol in the payment plan through your university’s financial office.

2. Make payments according to the agreed schedule.

Combining several approaches can also be helpful. For instance, you might pay for the majority of the tuition with a wire transfer and use a credit card for the remaining amount. Always inquire about the preferred payment options and any special instructions from the financial office at your university.

Indian students may also have a trans-formative experience while studying overseas. It provides exceptional chances to widen your horizons, explore other cultures firsthand, and get priceless global experience. Even if there could be difficulties, there are huge benefits. Academic counsellor and the friendly campus communities can help Indian students succeed academically and psychologically. Through accepting the chances and difficulties, you can develop into a well-rounded person who is able to make a significant contribution to a world that is becoming more interconnected.

Also, if you want to know more about studying in the USA, get in touch with international education experts at IDP. They will help you with the end-to-end admission process.

Iram Naaz is a Senior Counsellor at IDP, specialising in USA counselling and study abroad guidance. With a rich understanding of the education landscape, Iram has been empowering students to achieve their academic and professional aspirations since joining IDP in April 2021.

Her expertise lies in providing personalised advice to help students select the right courses and universities aligned with their career goals. She is dedicated to ensuring seamless admission and visa applications while resolving student queries with precision and care.

Iram’s commitment to excellence and student success makes her a trusted guide in the study abroad journey, helping countless students turn their dreams into reality.