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About Offer Letters & Getting Accepted: Enrolling Into A US University

Posted on by Liyana

About Offer Letters & Getting Accepted: Enrolling Into A US University

There’s a plethora of complex emotions when it comes your study abroad application: excitement; anxiousness; self-doubt; confusion; frustration; and more.

But believe me, it gets worse when offer letters are involved, especially in the United States.

When you apply to a US university and the odds seem to be in your favor, you will either receive a conditional or unconditional offer letter.

As the name implies, a Conditional offer letter requires certain conditions to be met in order to get your admission confirmed by the university.

An Unconditional offer letter simply means you’ve met the entry requirements and you have a spot in the university!

However, students still come to our counsellors with the same question:

“How do I tell apart the two different offer letters issued by US universities?”

Let’s dive deeper into the topic to clear the confusion once and for all.

Envelope with offer letters. Image source: Pexels

Conditional Offer Letters Require Specific Documents 

These documents may include certain grades or test scores. They vary depending on the requirements of each institution and student.

Universities will only issue conditional offer letters if there are documents pending from your side, such as a passport copy, English test score, semester mark sheet, and more. You will receive the admission notice once your documents are complete and payment has been made to the university.

Conditional offer letters may affect your student visa procedure because certain requirements must be completed before you enter the US. Always ensure that the information you submit is complete and accurate. Double-checking your documents won’t hurt!

 

Carefully Check The Details Of Unconditional Offer Letters

Getting an unconditional offer letter means good news.

But don’t let your excitement override logic.

Check the offer carefully. Despite meeting the academic requirements, you may still need to provide proof of your results or meet certain financial requirements.

Mother and daughter checking offer letters. 

Image source: Pexels

Besides, accepting the offer means you’re committing to attend the university. You can no longer make an insurance choice.

In short, no more Plan Bs.

Unconditional offer letters are normally issued to students who have met the entrance requirements and are already accepted by the university.

You will receive an unconditional offer letter by the university once you submit the complete documents and have paid the fees. It is important to remember that this letter is required for student loan applications.

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To Get Accepted, Know What The University Wants 

Offer letters aside, let’s talk about getting into the university that you’ve been eyeing for since you were a high schooler.

Did you know that universities have specific requirements that they look for in potential students before they accept an application? Your determination is admirable, but you’ll need more than that to get accepted into your dream university.

To increase your chances of getting accepted, your personal essay and interview with the university matter. You should pinpoint your strengths, experience, and skills, such as:

  • Academic and non-academic achievements
  • Experience and skills to succeed in the program and at the university
  • How you showcase your enthusiasm in the subject area
  • What your references say about you

 

I Got My Offer Letter. What Next? 

1) Make Payment & Receive Your Acceptance Letter

When you receive a conditional / unconditional offer letter from the university, you’re only a few steps away to the finish line! If you receive a conditional offer letter, chances are you have to submit certain documents as requested by the university.

Next, you must be able to provide financial proof to show that you can cover the total fees stated in the offer letter. You must also submit all the remaining documents stated in your conditional offer letter and finally, pay the registration fee of approximately $300 and a deposit of $2,200.

Take note that the acceptance letter will not be released unless you complete the steps above.

2) Review Your Acceptance Letter & I-20

Once you get your acceptance letter, make sure to review all the information to ensure that everything is correct. The original copy of the I-20 document will also be sent directly to you, so you should confirm the recipient contact number and shipping address. The shipping can take up to five days or more.

3) Student Visa Application (F-1 Visa)

There’s no time to spare. You should hurry and book a visa appointment at the US Embassy in your area. Here’s a step-by step guide to help you with it.

4) Visa Interview – If You’re Prepared, You’re All Set!

An in-person interview is a common as part of the student visa application process.

Many of our students come to us full with worry, but our advice stays the same: always be prepared.

These tips can help nail your interview:

  • You must attend the interview. If you can’t make it, reschedule it ahead of time.
  • Think your answers through and reply with confidence and honesty. Don’t rush, you’ll end up stuttering!
  • The interviewer wants to see that you’re dead serious about studying in the US. To be convincing, be clear about your program, the documents you’ve provided, as well as your intentions and future plans of studying in the US.
  • Always speak in English. The Visa Official wants to know your proficiency level.
  • Clarify questions that you do not understand. Don’t just assume based on your understanding and give an inaccurate answer! Which brings to my next point..

5) Interview Questions To Expect

The most common questions are:

  • Self-introduction
  • Your education history
  • Your choice of study and university in the US
  • Program details, such as course dates and duration.

These questions may seem unimportant to you, but they help the interviewer determine if you’re a genuine student who plans to further their studies in the US.

Student interviewing before getting his offer letters. Image source: Pexels

Next, they will most likely ask about your financial circumstances. For example, the program fees, who is funding your education, and proof of your scholarship. Bring along financial documents to support your financial status.

Lastly, you should be able to demonstrate your understanding of living in the US as an international student, where your university and hostel is located, and how you will commute around the area.

6) Required Documents For The Interview

You must be able to provide the Visa official with a specific set of documents. Be sure to have all of these prepared before you attend the interview, or you will risk failing it before you even begun!

In general, you must have the following documents:

  • Original copy of the I-20 documents
  • Proof of payment
  • Completed non-immigrant visa application form (DS-160 form)
  • Acceptance letter from the university
  • Passport
  • Passport-sized photos
  • Transcripts and certificates (Translated if necessary)
  • Financial evidence

Intimidated already?

Don’t be!

As long as you’re punctual and follow every instruction given, you’re pretty much set for an unforgettable study abroad experience.

Better yet, throw your worries away by leaving the hard labor to us at Eduloco. Our counsellors are higher education experts who happen to be the pros at student visa applications. Contact us anytime, and we’re ready to help!

Ready to take charge of your future? Send your request to [email protected] or call +60 11-2069 9087.

Parents still hesitating to let you study abroad? These will help you convince them to let you go:

Jocelyn Cheng

Jocelyn Cheng

Jocelyn Cheng (JC) is an INFP writer seeking to spread inspiration and spark connections through her words. Her dedication to writing has gifted her with an ability to write for multiple platforms (e.g., website, social media, newspaper, magazine, etc) in different fields, namely Education, Travel, and Lifestyle. JC personalizes her works by adding a touch of her own experience into the mix whenever she can to relate to her readers. A self-proclaimed poet and currently a freelance writer, she's working on an untitled poetry book at home while juggling between writing for Eduloco, dancing, and keeping her only plant alive.

Are you interested to study in abroad?

Please fill up the form and our conselors will get back to you shortly.

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Overseas Education: Must-have Documents for A Successful Application

Posted on by Liyana

Overseas Education: Must-have Documents for A Successful Application

Students are traveling across nations and continents just for an overseas education.

5 million international students were recorded in 2014. Furthermore, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) predicted that the population of international students will reach 8 million by 2025!

World globe with overseas education locations. Image source: Pexels

Additionally, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, France, and Germany are top study abroad destinations among half of the international student population.

Even though the pandemic has slowed down the study abroad traffic, the situation is gradually recovering. Overseas education is blooming once again, and remains a plan worth investing among students and parents.

But why exactly is overseas education so intriguing that students are leaving the comforts of their home country to an unfamiliar land?

Here’s what you should know: it is more than just exploring new places. There are plenty of long-term advantages that can only be obtained through an overseas education.

Top Benefits Of Overseas Education

Man and woman shaking hands. Image source: Pexels

  • High employment rate
    Countries like Australia, Canada, and Switzerland prefer hiring foreign talents to build a diverse workforce. Your ability to speak several languages can also be a huge bonus if you’re planning to work overseas after graduation. Many companies are seeking bilingual speakers. Since economies in French-speaking countries are pretty huge, you have an added advantage if you speak the language!
  • High salary
    Do you know that you can earn more income if you study abroad? An overseas education opens doors to higher-paying jobs. If you’re originally from a country with a high living cost and low salary, working overseas after you graduate is a sure way to earn more income.
  • Quick and easy migration
    If you plan to migrate to your host country once you graduate, your overseas education makes it easier for you to settle down. Canada in particular gives out Permanent Residence permits to applicants after they have worked in the country for 1 year.
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  • Better quality of life
    Many study abroad destinations are chosen by students due to their safety, diversity, and better quality of life compared to their home country. For example, Switzerland has a very low crime rate (0.59 per 100,000 population as of 2018), and Canada has three cities that are in the Top 50 of best student cities to live in. Work overseas and live stress-free? Count me in!
  • Expand your network
    One of the best rewards of an overseas education is that you get to meet new people. These people can be your professors, international friends and even colleagues who can be of great help when it comes to your career growth.

Leadership skills gained from an overseas education. Image source: Pexels

  • Pick up life skills
    Besides brushing up on your language skills, you’re automatically picking up useful skills that will contribute to your career: communication, leadership, teamwork, and independence are great traits to develop when you’re studying abroad. Plus, international students are usually more confident in job interviews, which gives a good first impression!

Now that you’re convinced, check out these important documents that you must include when you apply to study abroad. Keep in mind that these requirements may vary depending on the institution and country you’re applying to, but you can use this as a generic guide to get you started.

Must-haves Before Applying For An Overseas Education 

Checklist for overseas education. Image source: Eduloco

1) Offer Letter / I20 Form (USA)

  • Application form from the university.
  • Language test scores, such as IETLS, GRE, TOEFL, SAT, or PTE.
  • Transcripts and certificates (from high school to your latest education qualification).

2) Personal Statement / Essay

Also known as a Statement of Purpose, many universities use them to gauge your analytical abilities, interests, critical thinking skills, and aspirations. You should include your education and career goals, along with your purpose of choosing the particular program and university.

But don’t worry, we gotchu covered. Here’s a guide to help you write a personal statement that actually works!

3) Reference Letter / Letter of Recommendation (LOR)

This letter is written by someone else, usually your teacher or employer, to assess your qualities and capabilities. The university may call them to confirm certain facts, so make sure to include their contact details!

4) CV / Resume (if applicable)

5) Work Experience Documents (if applicable)

6) Visa Application Documents

  • Passport
  • Receipt of payment
  • Passport-sized photos
  • Score reports (IELTS/TOEFL/GMAT/GRE)
  • Sponsor letter (if applicable)
  • Family registration form (if applicable)
  • Scholarship letter (if applicable)

The visa requirements and details vary for each country. We’ve also prepared a step-by-step guide to apply for Student Visas for these countries:

7) Documents needed on arrival

Once you get your Student Visa sorted, you’re pretty much set for an overseas education! Just remember to bring these when you travel to your study abroad destination.

  • Passport
  • Health insurance card
  • International vaccination and immunization records
  • Driver’s license (if applicable)

Choosing a destination to study abroad can be fun, but don’t get carried away – you might make careless mistakes, like missing out certain documents. Yikes!

So, why don’t you have a peace of mind by letting us do the ‘hard labor’ for you? 😉

Eduloco, Your Trusted Study Abroad Agency

Eduloco consultants are education experts who are equipped with all the information you need for an overseas education. From student visa applications to your enrolment, we make sure you get to study abroad smoothly. You’ll also get scholarships when you apply through us.

We offer 1-on-1 personalized consultations before recommending universities and programs that are best suited for you – budget, location, safety, migration opportunities, career prospects – we hear you.

And the best part – it’s FREE!

Contact us at [email protected] or +60 11-2069 9087 to speak to our consultants today.

Enjoyed the article? More good stuff right here! 

Jocelyn Cheng

Jocelyn Cheng

Jocelyn Cheng (JC) is an INFP writer seeking to spread inspiration and spark connections through her words. Her dedication to writing has gifted her with an ability to write for multiple platforms (e.g., website, social media, newspaper, magazine, etc) in different fields, namely Education, Travel, and Lifestyle. JC personalizes her works by adding a touch of her own experience into the mix whenever she can to relate to her readers. A self-proclaimed poet and currently a freelance writer, she's working on an untitled poetry book at home while juggling between writing for Eduloco, dancing, and keeping her only plant alive.

Are you interested to study in abroad?

Please fill up the form and our conselors will get back to you shortly.

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Study In US Reality Revealed – Forget What You Think You Know

Posted on by Liyana

Study In US Reality Revealed – Forget What You Think You Know

When people hear that I used to study in US, they would ask me funny (but cute) questions, like:

“Is it true that the college parties are super wild?”

“Do guy athletes only wear letterman jackets?”

“Is it true that sororities and fraternities are huge in American universities?”

Some people watch too many American movies and TV shows, don’t they?

As someone who has been to the US and spent five years studying there, my reply to their questions is- Yes and No.

American colleges do have some of the things you would see in movies, but they are not as dramatic and ~fabulous~ as depicted on screen.

Let me tell you why.

But first, here’s a little backstory about how I could study in US.

Study in US for great travel opportunities. Image source: Unsplash

My First Choice Was Never To Study In US

As a Malaysian from a humble town, my initial plan was to just earn a degree, get a decent job, and live a comfortable life. I do admire America’s amazing variety of landscapes and skyscrapers that I’ve only seen on TV and the Internet, but to be honest, because of my family’s financial constraints, I never thought I could actually study in US.

But that’s all done and dusted now.

A Single Opportunity Changed Everything

I qualified for a scholarship offered by the University of California, Riverside.

“How?” You ask.

I was initially looking for a local university with the help of an education consultant from Eduloco. She actually told me to study in US instead, since I was always curious about life in America. To be honest – I didn’t expect her to remember what I said about the US, but I was touched that she had listened attentively.

She suggested the University of California after researching an institution that best suits my current budget and preference. I even got a scholarship as an international freshman!

My American Dream Came True

Flag of America. Image source: Unsplash

Yes, I am one of the few people who could actually say that.

My study in US experience was an unforgettable one.

The learning experience in UCR was so different from the student life in Malaysia. Discussions in class were always interesting and challenging. But that’s the fun part of it, because we’re always pushing ourselves to learn beyond what’s in the books. Lecturers and professors here are so welcoming and friendly to international students as well. I adapted quickly thanks to how nice everyone was!

I even traveled to places I could only dream of visiting before I studied in the US: Disneyland, San Diego Zoo, Yosemite National Park, and even the dreamy Santa Barbara. It’s a total beach lover’s paradise!

However, when I came back to Malaysia, I noticed that there are many who still don’t understand what it’s truly like to live and study in America.

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Here’s the truth about studying in the US.

1) It’s Normal To NOT Graduate Within 4 Years 

It is completely okay to take a little longer to complete your degree.

In fact, almost 58% of students take six years or more to graduate.

Various changes may affect a student’s duration of study, such as switching to a new major, or taking a 1-year internship. I personally took five years to complete my degree in Creative Writing as I was working part-time, and that was considered pretty fast!

Study in US for five years or more. 

Image source: Unsplash

Just remember that the duration of study should not signify the quality of one’s degree.

2) University = College 

Here’s a little fun fact: University in America is called ‘college’.

While ‘college’ generally means an establishment for technical courses in most countries, it just means ‘university’ in the US. There’s simply no difference. Keep this in mind to avoid confusion when you’re in the US!

3) We Value The Freedom To Choose 

When you study in US, you don’t have to decide what to study right away.

You’re supposed to take about five subjects per semester, and you can choose any subject you want, even if it’s irrelevant to your planned major. You can then declare a major from the subjects chosen as the degree you will graduate in. Take it as a ‘trial’ phase, if you may. 😉

I loved having the freedom to take various subjects before I decide on a major, simply because it gives me a better insight into my potential majors before I settle with one. I was actually torn between Psychology and Creative Writing at first. After attending classes for a month, I ended up choosing the latter!

4) Textbooks Are Pretty Expensive, So Be Resourceful 

Ngl, my first semester nearly broke my bank.

Books are expensive when you study in US. Image source: Unsplash

Imagine my relief when I found Instagram and Facebook groups dedicated to selling second-hand textbooks. The pre-loved books I found were in good condition, so I didn’t see why you need to spend double the money for a brand-new book! 

5) It’s Super Flexible Here 

Do you know that you can change your major during your college years?

In the US, students are given the flexibility to change their course and even the college they’re attending. The best part is, you don’t need to spend extra money for it!

We sometimes discover our passion later than others, but that doesn’t mean it’s too late to take action. Changing your major can actually decrease your stress level and give you a second chance to excel in college. I’ve had friends switching their majors midway, and they performed even better ever since!

So, when in doubt, study in US!

6) Work Part-Time While You Can 

American actress Judy Greer once said, “I really believe waiting tables, and service industry jobs in general, make you a better person.”

Work part-time when you study in US. Image source: Unsplash

I worked as a part-time waitress for 2 years in a diner near the campus, and needless to say, I was humbled by the experience. I watched waitresses carry four plates of food at once and deliver them with ease. Why go to the gym when you can literally build muscles with food?

Besides, each customer had a different story to share. Listening to them really helped to develop my socializing skills!

I had the opportunity to meet with people from different walks of life; I learned to be patient; and most importantly, I’ve developed a huge respect for the job – it definitely wasn’t easy. Experience it yourself, and you’ll know why!

The mix of good (and bad) treatment from my customers taught me to be a better person. Now I tip the waiters at each restaurant I visit!

I hope you have a better idea of what it’s like to study in the US. With so many great colleges in America, I’m sure you’ll find a major that fits. And even if it doesn’t work out, you can always switch! 😁

For more information about Student Visa application and studying in the US, contact Eduloco at +60 11-2069 9087 or [email protected].

Leaving so soon? Check out these articles first! 

Jocelyn Cheng

Jocelyn Cheng

Jocelyn Cheng (JC) is an INFP writer seeking to spread inspiration and spark connections through her words. Her dedication to writing has gifted her with an ability to write for multiple platforms (e.g., website, social media, newspaper, magazine, etc) in different fields, namely Education, Travel, and Lifestyle. JC personalizes her works by adding a touch of her own experience into the mix whenever she can to relate to her readers. A self-proclaimed poet and currently a freelance writer, she's working on an untitled poetry book at home while juggling between writing for Eduloco, dancing, and keeping her only plant alive.

Are you interested to study in abroad?

Please fill up the form and our conselors will get back to you shortly.

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