Most students start planning 9 to 12 months before the semester begins. The main steps are choosing universities, applying, receiving an admission letter, getting the I-20 form, attending the F-1 visa interview, and travelling. See the six steps and the document checklist.

• Total cost: tuition plus living costs, health insurance and one-time fees. Use our cost calculator.
• Proof of funds: the university asks to see that the first year can be paid for. Bank balances, fixed deposits and an education loan sanction letter are commonly used.
• Education loans: Indian banks and lenders offer loans with or without collateral. Compare interest rate, processing fee, moratorium period and repayment terms.
• Paying fees: tuition is paid directly to the university, usually by international wire transfer or the university's payment portal. Never pay university fees in cash to anyone.
• Part-time work: F-1 students may usually work on campus up to 20 hours a week during the semester. Plan your budget without depending on it.

Before paying any deposit, check three things:

• It is accredited by a recognised US accreditor. Check the US Department of Education database.
• It is SEVP-certified to admit F-1 students. Check Study in the States school search.
• The admission letter came from the university's official email domain.

• Every university has an international student office with a Designated School Official (DSO) who helps with visa status questions.
• Health insurance is required by most universities. It covers doctor visits and emergencies.
• Campuses have security offices, emergency phones and counselling services.
• Ask your child to share their address, roommate details and the international office's phone number with you.
• Most universities have Indian student associations that help newcomers settle in.

Ask these to anyone helping your child, including us. A trustworthy consultant answers every one clearly.

1. What exactly will you charge, and is it in writing? You should know every fee before you start.
2. Do you receive any payment from the university? Ask us and we will tell you plainly.
3. Is this university accredited and SEVP-certified? You can check both yourself using the links above.
4. Why is this university right for my child? The answer should be about the course, cost and outcomes.
5. Do you promise admission or a visa? If yes, be careful. No one can guarantee either.
6. Who will be our point of contact? You should know who to call and how.

With your child's agreement, we can include you in key updates: shortlist, admission decisions, I-20 and visa interview dates. Register and mention that a parent would like updates.

Most universities ask for an English test. Many accept several tests, and some waive the requirement for students taught in English. Common minimums for graduate programs are around:

The GRE (or GMAT for business) is optional at many universities now, but a good score can help with admission and scholarships. Always check the requirement for your exact program.

• CPT (Curricular Practical Training): work or internships that are part of your study program, approved by your DSO.
• OPT (Optional Practical Training): up to 12 months of work in your field, usually after you graduate.
• STEM OPT extension: graduates of STEM-designated programs may apply for 24 more months.
• STEM designation: check the program's CIP code on the I-20 or ask the university.

• Merit scholarships: given by universities based on grades and test scores, often automatically when you apply early.
• Graduate assistantships (GA, TA, RA): paid campus jobs that may include a tuition waiver. More common for PhD students.
• External scholarships: from foundations, trusts and companies in India and the US.
• Apply early: scholarship deadlines are often weeks before the main application deadline.

• Secured loans: backed by property or fixed deposits, usually at lower interest.
• Unsecured loans: no collateral, usually higher interest, often based on university and course.
• Compare: interest rate, processing fee, margin money, moratorium period and repayment period.
• Timing: a sanction letter is often used as proof of funds for the I-20, so start early.

• Housing: on-campus housing or shared apartments near campus. Never send a deposit for housing you have not verified.
• First week: attend orientation, check in with the international office, open a bank account and get a US phone number.
• Social Security Number: you need one only when you get a job, such as an on-campus job.
• Staying in status: enrol full-time, keep your I-20 valid, and tell your DSO before you change address, program or travel plans.
• Driving: you will need a US driver's licence or state ID. Rules differ by state.