Here are questions asked by our South African audience. Please scroll down to view the answers.

While there are excellent universities here in South Africa, one of the highlights of U.S. universities however, is greater choice. There are approximately 5,000 to choose from.

1. I want to study in the United States. How do I get started?
2. At what age do you start college or university?
3. How long does it take to be accepted into an American university?
4. How much does university cost in America? Can you work?
5. Can I get bursaries to study at university in the United States?
6. What are SEVIS fees?
7. How is the security on campus compared to South Africa?
8. What are the "Ivy League" universities like? What difference does it make to get into a top ranked university versus a middle ranked, or lower ranked one?
9. What are the required subjects to study abroad?
10. What is a GPA? How do we calculate it from a South African school record?
11. What about a student job? If I am in the USA for study may I work to pay for my living expenses?
12. I would like to do my PhD in the States but I would need full funding - what are the chances of getting a full scholarship?
13. Where can I get the GMAT or GRE preparation books, the exams of which are requirements for graduate and business school in USA?
14. In a couple of years I would like to study at Cornell University, will I need to do any community hours to help me get accepted?
15. Is it best to say that you do not require financial aid when you apply to the US Universities? I heard that it affects your chances of being accepted. If you don't request financial aid will you still be eligible for merit based funding?
16. I would like to know if there are services available to match a student's desired study direction with suitable institutions in the United States?
17. If, as a PhD student, I get a teaching fellowship, would that be enough to live on?
18. I would like to find out how Universities in the U.S. differ from those in South Africa academically?
19. I would like to study medicine in the U.S. Which universities offer financial aid to foreign students?
20. How does one apply for scholarships?
21. If a college offers me a full scholarship, does it mean that it’s going to cater for all of my expenses like travel tickets, visa when am still in my home country and also other expenses when I have reached the host country?
22. What is the pass mark required to obtain a scholarship?
23. As I am from South Africa and I don't know the lifestyle in the U.S., do you have systems that help foreigners to get used to life in the U.S.?
24. Do America and South Africa ask for the same requirements when applying to a university?
25. Does the Fulbright program limit the degree that you can study? For example, financial engineering?
26. How is campus life at U.S. Universities?
27. What do I need to do in order to transfer to American University? Do I still have to do SAT tests?
28. I would like to know why the SAT tests are a must for everyone who would like to study in America?
29. What is the average mark one can score in the SAT test so as to be admitted?
30. Please explain what the TOEFL Score is/means?
31. I am wondering about the English testing that is compulsory when studying overseas. Where would I take the test, when should I take it in regards to school acceptance dates?
32. What are you tested on in the TOEFL exam?
33. Why is it that some universities in the USA may not ask for SAT/TOEFL results when it comes to admitting international students?
34. Is it compulsory to sit TOEFL exams when you are from countries like Uganda where English is a foreign language, and is displayed in academic certificates of levels of education attended?
35. What is the average score I will need to get in the SAT that will help me be accepted into a university in the USA?
36. What exactly is an associate certificate?
37. I want to do a doctorate in mathematics at one of the top universities like Columbia or MIT. I want to know if these universities would accept a B.SC. honours degree gained from UNISA? Noting that UNISA is open distant learning.
38. What are the requirements to study mechanical engineering in the U.S.? Where can one apply?
39. Is doing a course you’re not interested in harmful to some ones future? What is your advice on this?
40. Is it possible to make late decisions on what to study?
41. I would like to know if I applied for the fall 2011 intake and fail to meet the deadline of submission of the requirements can I be cancelled out, or considered for the next intake without applying again?
42. To get a bursary for swimming, what would be viewed as a good SAT result? How do we know if the school/college bachelor degree is internationally recognized? Would you suggest I contact swimming coaches or the education institution itself?
43. Will I need to apply for a green card, if I go study in the USA?
44. Is there a good website with all the colleges listed?
45. How important is a good score on the GRE for admission if the rest of your application is really strong?
46. How good is MIT for students in the field of Information Technology?
47. I have tried my best to apply for MBA courses at a U.S. university and I would like to know, if a university has given you an assistantship which does not cover all your costs at the institution, are you allowed to go to the US and start, and in the meantime look for other sources of funding?
48. I have heard that USAP program is for high School students only. Is there a similar program targeting postgraduate students?
49. I'm a good softball player and an average student. Will I be considered for my great potential in sport?
50. I would like to know how to apply for a masters’ degree in Linguistics?
51. Is distance education through a US university possible or practical for an international student?

1. I want to study in the United States.  How do I get started?

Go to www.educationusa.info and follow the links to learn about the high quality, flexibility, great choice of programs, and value for money offered by US universities. Under the Students link you will find information on: Research and tests; How to apply and be admitted; Financing your studies; Applying for a U.S. student visa; Getting ready to go. 

2. At what age do you start college or university?

Most students start at about 18 years old, but some much later, and some younger.

3. How long does it take to be accepted into an American university?

That depends on which universities you are applying to. Some universities have earlier deadlines than others, and some have rolling admissions which means they accept applications until they are full.  Universities with a regular decision deadline usually respond to students in the end of March and students must confirm their admission by May 1.  It is wise to begin the application process toward the end of grade 11 and plan to have submitted everything except your final Matric results by December 31 of your Matric year.  In the United States the university academic year is from August-May.

4. How much does university cost in America? Can you work?

It is expensive to study in the US - at least $20,000 per year including cost of living.  This is why it is important to assess your suitability for the programs and also, if needed, for scholarship applications.  Student visas do not allow employment except part time on campus, and that income cannot be factored into the visa application

5. Can I get bursaries to study at university in the United States?

Many U.S. universities offer scholarships as well as financial aid (bursaries is not a term used in the U.S) that are open to international students. Scholarships are usually grants for which repayment is not required, and they are based on academic or sporting merit.  All types of academic scholarships are extremely competitive and require outstanding academic records (80% aggregate).  Sports Scholarships require good grades and demonstrated excellence in sport, usually at the provincial or national level. Financial aid is based on financial need, but may also be based on academic merit.  These funds may be grants but more commonly are either work/study funds (payment in return for work on campus), or loans that must be repaid.  Loans usually require an American citizen co-signer, and can become a larger burden than expected due to the fluctuation in the dollar/rand exchange rate.    
 
6. What are SEVIS fees?

The United States uses a web-based data base to monitor the entry, presence and exit of international students, exchange visitors and their dependents.  Currently, the school which accepts you will enter the necessary data into SEVIS, the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, and will issue you a Form I-20 which allows you to apply for student (F-1 or M-1 visa) or exchange visitor (J-1) visa.   SEVIS data is used by many government agencies which you will encounter in your journey to the United States:  the US embassy or consulate where you will apply for your visa, the US Customs and Border Protection which will review your documents when you apply to enter the US at a port of entry, and the colleges, universities and programs where you will study. SEVIS fees are currently $ 200.00 for F and M visa categories.  See http://www.ice.gov/sevis/index.htm for more information.

7. How is the security on campus compared to South Africa?

The security in the US has become quite strict in recent years.  There are very careful systems to control access to the residences and buildings.  In general, crime rates are very low in the US, especially outside of the big cities. Of course, one must always be careful and not leave oneself vulnerable to petty theft or other crime, as in anywhere in the world.  But to answer your questions, the security on campuses is much tighter than on campuses in South Africa.

8. What are the "Ivy League" universities like?  What difference does it make to get into a top ranked university versus a middle ranked, or lower ranked one?

The Ivy League universities are very academically rigorous, with a rich history of research and scholarship.  Top students apply in great numbers, so your classmates would all be very accomplished academically and also in extracurricular activities.  But there are many, many excellent universities in the U.S. and the best approach to applications is to find the universities that are the best match for you.  This requires some long thinking and research, and help from EducationUSA!

9. What are the required subjects to study abroad?

Generally, selective US universities want students who have taken the most challenging academic load available at their high school. If you are going for a short-term exchange program you would have to check with the exchange organization.

10. What is a GPA?  How do we calculate it from a South African school record?

GPA stands for grade point average.  It is a cumulative figure, based on points assigned to the marks (A,B,C etc) on the academic transcript (record) from grade 9 through 12.  It is not really necessary to calculate an exact GPA from South African school records, because grades here are not weighted for classroom hours or academic rigor of the coursework.  However, a rough calculation is possible.  Take the aggregate of all your coursework over the four years (or up to the present) and translate that figure into a letter grade.  For example, a 75% aggregate is a middle- to high-range B for high school in South Africa.  An 82% aggregate is an A. (Don’t worry that the US uses a different scale for their grades—90% for an A, 80% for a B, and so on.  South Africans work just as hard for their A’s!) Just use the letter symbol for the percentage or number (1-7) mark earned here. US GPA values are as follows:  A = 4.0B = 3.0C = 2.0D = 1.0F = 0

11. What about a student job?  If I am in the USA for study may I work to pay for my living expenses?

International students are allowed to work part-time during the semester and full-time during holidays, on campus. You are not allowed to work off campus until after your 1st year and then only with special permission.  You are allowed to apply for limited amount of practical training related to your field of study but would need to speak with the International Student Advisor at your university for details.

12. I would like to do my PhD in the States but I would need full funding - what are the chances of getting a full scholarship?

Many Graduate students work on campus to pay for the cost of their education.  Teaching assistantships and research assistantships are the most common means of financing graduate study and are offered by most universities to their strongest applicants.  Other awards made by graduate schools include fellowships for the most outstanding students. Outside agencies also offer funds such as the Fulbright Program through the U.S. State Department: http://southafrica.usembassy.gov/wwwhfulbright.html

13. Where can I get the GMAT or GRE preparation books, the exams of which are requirements for graduate and business school in USA?

You can order GRE and GMAT prep books from on on-line bookstore such as www.amazon.com or you can purchase one from our advising centers. See our website for details: http://southafrica.usembassy.gov

14. In a couple of years I would like to study at Cornell University, will I need to do any community hours to help me get accepted?

Community Service is a good way to demonstrate a true commitment to giving back to society, which is a strong recommendation for schools like Cornell, but it is even better to initiate some community project that you are passionate about and see it through.

15. Is it best to say that you do not require financial aid when you apply to the US Universities? I heard that it affects your chances of being accepted.  If you don't request financial aid will you still be eligible for merit based funding?

In some cases schools will take your financial need into account in the admissions process, but it is not advisable to leave information out if you truly need financial aid.  The highly selective universities do offer merit based scholarships.  So, rather give the full story at the outset, I would advise.

16. I would like to know if there are services available to match a student's desired study direction with suitable institutions in the United States?

To match your study goals with U.S. universities, you can start on the EducationUSA website and also these free search facilities can assist: www.collegeboard.com, and www.petersons.com.  It is advisable to also attend a group session at the nearest EducationUSA center to better assess yourself for US study at the outset. 

17. If, as a PhD student, I get a teaching fellowship, would that be enough to live on?

Yes a teaching assistantship, as they are called in the U.S., is usually designed to support a student lifestyle adequately.  It will not leave you cold and hungry, but will you will be expected to budget wisely with the funds made available.

18. I would like to find out how Universities in the U.S. differ from those in South Africa academically?

There are excellent universities here in South Africa.  One of the highlights of U.S. universities however, is greater choice.  There are approximately 5,000 to choose from.  In addition most universities do not require students to declare their major area of study until after their first year of university.  Also, many U.S. universities allow students to have a double major (e.g., Physics and Creative writing), or to complete a double Bachelor's degree in 5 years. What this means is that there is a lot of flexibility. Students are also required to take electives in subject areas outside their major.  A U.S. Bachelor's degree is 4 years, not three, and there is no honours year.

19. I would like to study medicine in the U.S. Which universities offer financial aid to foreign students? 

Medicine is a post graduate degree in the U.S., and is very competitive and costly. International students wanting to study medicine in the U.S. must complete a Bachelor's degree first (preferably in the US) and then apply to Medical Schools.  Go to www.educationusa.info for more information.
 
20. How does one apply for scholarships?

To apply for scholarships you will be filling in financial aid forms for each university you apply to.  Scholarships are usually sourced from the institution at which you enroll, and not from outside bodies or philanthropies.  There is very little aid available through such sources for individual applicants, and it is usually earmarked for advanced graduate (Master’s and PhD program) students.  Looking for aid for undergraduate study from these sources is probably a waste of time.

21. If a college offers me a full scholarship, does it mean that it’s going to cater for all of my expenses like travel tickets, visa when am still in my home country and also other expenses when I have reached the host country?

It depends on the scholarship. Very few cover EVERYTHING.

22. What is the pass mark required to obtain a scholarship?

There is no set pass mark. US universities admission process is more holistic - looking at what courses you've done, your grades, extra-curriculars, etc. Having said that, if you are hoping for a full scholarship you pretty much need to have an A aggregate, and you will be competing with students from around the world. There is never a guarantee that even a straight A student will get a full scholarship.

23. As I am from South Africa and I don't know the lifestyle in the U.S., do you have systems that help foreigners to get used to life in the U.S.?

We offer a pre-departure orientation to all students going to the US for the first time. In addition, there are many books and info online about cultural adjustment. You can also visit our American Library in the U.S. Consulates and Embassy.

24. Do America and South Africa ask for the same requirements when applying to a university?

US universities want to see academic records that demonstrate academic preparation for university, but they also ask for letters of recommendation and a personal essay, so it is a bit more involved. 

25. Does the Fulbright program limit the degree that you can study?  For example, financial engineering?

No, the only limit is on fields of study that require patient contact.  Keep in mind that the spirit of Fulbright is to promote educational exchanges and on-going collaboration.

26. How is campus life at U.S. Universities?

That is a big question, as there are over 4000 campuses!  Life on campus varies according to whether the school is in a city or a rural area, and what the weather is like.  At a residential campus, there will be plenty to make students feel at home and everyone in their first year receives a great deal of support.  But it is important to read websites and come to the Advising Center where you can look at books with students’ views on campus life, too.

27. What do I need to do in order to transfer to American University?  Do I still have to do SAT tests?

No, if you are applying as a transfer student you usually don't have to take the SAT's. Generally, it is more difficult to gain admission as a transfer student, especially if you need funding. You may want to consider completing your Bachelor's degree and going to the US to complete a Master's.

28. I would like to know why the SAT tests are a must for everyone who would like to study in America?
 
Not all universities require the SAT. For a list of these universities go to www.fairtest.org

29. What is the average mark one can score in the SAT test so as to be admitted?

It depends on the university. An average score is about 525 on each of the three sections, but some universities expect much higher scores, some will accept lower, and some don't require the SAT at all.

30. Please explain what the TOEFL Score is/means.

The TOEFL score indicates non-native speakers’ English ability at university level.  Their website www.ets.org/toefl explains scoring.

31. I am wondering about the English testing that is compulsory when studying overseas. Where would I take the test, when should I take it in regards to school acceptance dates?

The TOEFL is required for many admissions processes. To register, go to www.ets.org/TOEFL and follow the prompts for your country. Preparation is available online, but also from the EducationUSA offices.  This preparation should be relied upon to familiarize yourself with the format of the test, however, and not to learn English!

32. What are you tested on in the TOEFL exam?

The TOEFL tests reading, speaking and listening skills in the English language, and expects a certain level of proficiency as a starting point.

33. Why is it that some universities in the USA may not ask for SAT/TOEFL results when it comes to admitting international students?

There are a number of reasons: not all universities consider the SAT a good predictor of student performance.  Others are not as selective, and some will accept good SAT English scores in place of the TOEFL.

34. Is it compulsory to sit TOEFL exams when you are from countries like Uganda where English is a foreign language, and is displayed in academic certificates of levels of education attended?

International students whose home language is not English generally are required to take the TOEFL or the IELTS.  For undergraduates this is sometimes waived if SAT English scores are high (above 570).

35. What is the average score I will need to get in the SAT that will help me be accepted into a university in the USA?

The SAT scores range from 200 to 800 for each section, and universities that are highly selective never name a score requirement as they take the SAT into account only in conjunction with school marks and other factors.  The mid 50% range for highly selective schools tend to be in the 700 range, but there are many other schools with lower averages.

36. What exactly is an associate certificate?

An associate degree or certificate is usually either the first two years of a bachelor's degree, or more technical in nature.  Depending on whether it leads to study at a four year institution, it may or may not be a good choice for study in the U.S.

37. I want to do a doctorate in mathematics at one of the top universities like Columbia or MIT. I want to know if these universities would accept a B.SC. honours degree gained from UNISA?  Noting that UNISA is open distant learning.

UNISA is an accredited institution but the universities would have to see what your B.Sc. consisted of, course descriptions, etc. so I cannot give you a definite answer. Admission is on a case-by-case basis.

38. What are the requirements to study mechanical engineering in the U.S.? Where can one apply?
 
There are hundreds of universities that offer this degree in the US!  It is best to work with the EducationUSA advisor to assess your academic level and which schools would suit you from that list.  You must keep in mind that scholarships are not available from most public universities, as well, so all these factors must be considered in where you would apply.

39. Is doing a course you’re not interested in harmful to some ones future? What is your advice on this?

It is best to study something that interests you. If you truly don't have a choice, then do your best where you are and it will open other doors for you in the future.

40. Is it possible to make late decisions on what to study?

It is not necessary to declare your major until after your first year of study in the U.S.  This allows you to explore across the disciplines in the first year.  On average, students change their minds about five times each, I've read!

41. I would like to know if I applied for the fall 2011 intake and fail to meet the deadline of submission of the requirements can I be cancelled out, or considered for the next intake without applying again?

Check with the university you applied to. You would need to request that your application be carried over and it would be best to add supplemental material explaining what you are doing in the mean time.

42.To get a bursary for swimming, what would be viewed as a good SAT result?  How do we know if the school/college bachelor degree is internationally recognized?  Would you suggest I contact swimming coaches or the education institution itself?

I suggest you visit our website http://southafrica.usembassy.gov/services and contact an advisor for details.

43. Will I need to apply for a green card, if I go study in the USA?

No, you will need a student visa (unless you are applying for permanent residency)

44. Is there a good website with all the colleges listed?

Check out www.EducationUSA.info, where there are several links with university listings.  Note that these will list accredited universities only.

45. How important is a good score on the GRE for admission if the rest of your application is really strong?

If you are hoping for funding such as a Graduate Assistantship, the GRE score is important. If it really is low, I'd advise you do more preparation and retake it.

46. How good is MIT for students in the field of Information Technology?

MIT is an excellent institution.  It is also extremely competitive, accepting less than 10% of its applicants! There are many other U.S. universities that offer excellent IT programs. Remember to do your research and broaden your horizon! Try a search engine like www.collegeboard.com

47. I have tried my best to apply for MBA courses at a U.S. university and I would like to know, if a university has given you an assistantship which does not cover all your costs at the institution, are you allowed to go to the US and start, and in the meantime look for other sources of funding?

No, we do not recommend this, and you will not be able to obtain a student visa without being able to show that you have sufficient funds for your studies.

48. I have heard that USAP program is for high School students only.  Is there a similar program targeting postgraduate students?

No, but there is more funding available at the post grad level such as the U.S. government Fulbright Program, and university assistantships.

49. I'm a good softball player and an average student. Will I be considered for my great potential in sport?

Sports scholarships are a wonderful way to attend university in the U.S., and some schools award these directly.  Other schools factor sporting merit into the application. Check out www.NCAA.org for more information on how to qualify for sports scholarships and to locate schools that have women's softball teams

50. I would like to know how to apply for a masters’ degree in Linguistics.
 
To apply for a master's degree, it is best to start by looking at your own undergraduate qualifications.  Do you have a four year bachelor's degree? If so, did you obtain high enough marks to pursue further study?  This would generally mean a B average minimum.  If yes to both these questions, you should take the GRE and see what score you obtain, and then begin to look at programs in your field of study. Ask the linguistics professors at your university what they would recommend, and also look through journal articles for current research and where it is being produced.  Then, begin to contact the universities.  As you read up and get replies, you will find some suit you better than others.  The applications are on their websites.

51. Is distance education through a US university possible or practical for an international student?

Visit these websites: www.geteducated.com, www.elearners.com, www.petersons.com/distancelearningwww.chea.org (guidance on diploma mills) as well as www.educationusa.info