Applying to a university in the United States as an international student can seem like a daunting process, but with the right guidance, it can be a rewarding experience.
However, navigating the complex process of applying to a U.S. university requires careful planning and attention to detail, especially when it comes to credential evaluation. International students must have their academic records evaluated by a credential evaluation service in the USA to ensure they meet the admission requirements of their chosen universities.
Currently, there are over 1 million international students are enrolled in U.S. universities, with approximately 298,705 new international students enrolling in the year 2023-2024, which matches the pre-pandemic levels.
Nearly half of them are in California, New York, Texas, Massachusetts, and Florida. These students usually come from China, followed by India, with students from over 200 countries studying in the U.S. According to a survey, the largest numbers of international students are enrolled in New York University, Northeastern University, and Columbia University.
In this blog post, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide on how to apply for a university in the USA for international students. Here are the steps involved in applying to a U.S. university as an international student:
Step 1 – Research Universities and Programs
Before you begin the application process, you need to research universities and programs that fit your interests, goals, and academic background. You can use online resources to research universities and programs, including university websites, rankings, and reviews. Consider factors such as location, size, reputation, academic programs, costs, and student life.
Step 2 – Check Eligibility and Requirements
After researching universities and programs, you need to check the eligibility and requirements for international students. Each university has its own requirements, so be sure to check each university’s website or contact their international admissions office. Some requirements that international students may need to fulfill include English proficiency, standardized tests, transcripts evaluation, and financial support.
Step 3 – Complete Credential Evaluation
One of the most important steps in applying to a U.S. university as an international student is getting your academic credentials evaluated. U.S. universities require international students to submit academic credentials, including transcripts and diplomas, to evaluate their equivalency to U.S. degrees.
This is important because U.S. universities require applicants to have completed a certain level of education to be eligible for admission, and academic credentials evaluation helps universities determine whether international students meet their eligibility requirements.
Various types of credential evaluation services are available to international students applying to study in the U.S. The most common types are course-by-course evaluation and document-by-document evaluation.
- A course-by-course evaluation provides a detailed evaluation of each course taken by the student, including course content, credit hours, and grades received. This evaluation is typically required for admission to an undergraduate program, and it helps universities determine which transfer credits they will accept.
- A document-by-document evaluation involves the evaluation of each academic document, including diplomas, transcripts, and certificates, without a detailed breakdown of individual courses. This type of evaluation is typically required for graduate programs and professional licensing, and it is less expensive than a course-by-course evaluation.
ERES is a trusted and accredited credential evaluation service that can help you with the process.
Essential documents include:
- Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
- Diploma or degree certificates
- Proof of English language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo)
- Standardized test scores (SAT, ACT for undergrad; GRE, GMAT for graduate)
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose/Personal essays
- Financial documentation
- Valid passport copy
- Resume/CV (for graduate programs)
Step 4 – Complete and Submit the Application
Once you have identified the universities and programs you want to apply to, you must complete and submit the application. Most universities have an online application process, which you can access through their website. You will typically need to provide personal information, academic background, test scores, essays, and recommendation letters. Pay attention to the application deadlines and ensure you submit your application on time.
Step 5 – Apply for Scholarships and Financial Aid
Studying in the United States can be expensive, so it’s important to research scholarships and financial aid opportunities available to international students. Many universities offer scholarships and financial aid for international students, which can cover tuition, fees, and living expenses. You can find information about scholarships and financial aid on university websites or by contacting the financial aid office.
Cost of Studying in USA for International Students
Understanding the financial investment is crucial for planning your education in the United States.
Tuition Fees (Annual)
Undergraduate Programs:
- Community Colleges: $6,000 – $20,000
- Public Universities (out-of-state): $24,000 – $35,000
- Private Universities: $35,000 – $55,000
- Ivy League/Elite Universities: $55,000 – $65,000
Graduate Programs:
- Public Universities: $20,000 – $40,000
- Private Universities: $30,000 – $60,000
- MBA Programs: $40,000 – $75,000 per year
Living Expenses (Annual)
- Housing: $10,000 – $18,000 (varies by location and type)
- Food: $3,000 – $6,000
- Transportation: $1,000 – $2,500
- Books and Supplies: $1,000 – $1,500
- Personal Expenses: $2,000 – $3,000
- Health Insurance: $1,500 – $3,000 (mandatory)
Total Estimated Annual Costs
- Budget Option (Community College): $20,000 – $30,000
- Public University: $35,000 – $55,000
- Private University: $50,000 – $75,000
- Elite/Ivy League: $70,000 – $85,000
Note: Costs vary significantly based on location. Urban areas like New York City, Boston, San Francisco, and Los Angeles have higher living costs compared to smaller cities and rural areas.
Step 6 – Apply for a Student Visa
After you have been accepted into a U.S. university, you need to apply for a student visa. The type of visa you need depends on the program of study, so be sure to check the U.S. embassy or consulate website for the most up-to-date information. You will typically need to provide your passport, visa application form, photo, SEVIS fee receipt, and other documents as required by the embassy or consulate.
Visa Policy Changes:
- Interview Waiver Removal: As of September 2, 2025, the dropbox facility (interview waiver) has been removed for F-1 student visas, requiring in-person interviews for most applicants
- Proposed Duration Limits: A proposed rule introduced in August 2025 would limit F-1 visa validity to a maximum of four years (instead of duration of status), requiring extensions for longer programs
- Enhanced Vetting: Increased screening measures have been implemented for certain student visa categories, particularly in critical technology fields
- SEVP Certification: Some universities have faced SEVP certification reviews, emphasizing the importance of verifying institutional approval status
Step 7 – Prepare for Departure
Once you have received your student visa, you can start preparing for your departure to the United States. You need to make travel arrangements, such as booking a flight and finding housing. You should also research the culture, customs, and laws of the United States to prepare yourself for the transition.
Policy Changes:
International students should be aware of several significant policy changes:
Application Process Updates
- Virtual Interviews: Many universities now offer virtual interview options for international applicants
- Digital Documentation: Increasing acceptance of digital transcripts and electronic credential evaluations
- Rolling Admissions: More institutions are adopting flexible application deadlines for international students
Empower Your Academic Journey with ERES
Now that you know how to study in America as an international student, you can start your journey today. Following these steps and getting help from trusted sources such as ERES can make the process easier and increase your chances of getting accepted into a U.S. university.
Contact ERES for reliable credential evaluation and other services that can help you with your application to study in America as an international student.
