Living Abroad
Edu4US - Your Guide to the World of Studying in the USA and Canada!
Work During Studies YES!
In the USA, for international students, a student visa is not only the key to a campus adventure, but also cool options for extra cash. There are many opportunities that you can take advantage of while staying within the visa rules. Here are a few interesting options
This is one of the most popular options chosen by EDU4US students with an F-1 visa. Work on campus, e.g. in the library or cafeteria, is available to you without the need for additional permission. Working hours are limited to 20 hours per week during studies and 40 hours during vacations.
Students can apply for pre-completion OPT before completing their study program. Under this option, students can work up to 20 hours per week during their studies and full-time during intersessions (40 hours).
After completing their study program, students can apply for post-completion OPT, which allows them to work full-time in a field related to their study program for up to 12 months. Students with degrees in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics may qualify for an additional 24 months of post-completion OPT as part of the STEM OPT Extension program.
For students who would like to gain practical work experience before completing their studies, there is also the CPT option. It allows you to legally take on paid internships related to your study program, which is an excellent opportunity to develop professional skills.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN OPT AND CPT?
Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT) here are the main differences between them:
Optional Practical Training (OPT):
- Work Period:
- Pre-Completion OPT: Students can apply for pre-completion OPT before completing their studies, which allows them to work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during intersessions.
- Post-Completion OPT: After completing their studies, students can apply for post-completion OPT, which allows them to work full-time in a field related to their study program for up to 12 months, and in the case of STEM fields there is an option to extend for 24 months (STEM OPT Extension).
2. Work Permit:
- Students must obtain permission from USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) before starting work under the OPT program.
- The work does not have to be strictly related to a specific course of study.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT):
- Work Period:
- CPT allows students to take on paid internships before completing their studies.
- Internships are offered as part of a specific course or program of study.
2. Work Permit:
- To take advantage of CPT, students must obtain approval from their university before starting their internship.
- Work under CPT must be related to the program of study and be an integral part of the curriculum.
Summary:
- OPT allows you to work before and after graduation, not necessarily related to your study program.
- CPT allows you to work while you are still studying, but is strictly related to a specific course or program of study.
In both cases, students must obtain the appropriate approval, and the work must be in accordance with immigration laws. Before starting work under these programs, it is recommended to consult with the international student office at the university to obtain full information and support.
With Pre-Completion OPT and Post-Completion OPT, students must obtain permission from USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) and approval from their educational institution before starting work under the OPT programs. Additionally, work under OPT must be consistent with the student’s field of study.
Finance and loans
Financial Aid for Studies in the USA: What You Should Know
Studying is a time of intensive intellectual development, but unfortunately it is often also a period of financial challenges. At the academic level, there are several forms of financial aid that can significantly reduce the cost of education. It is worth knowing the differences between merit-based and need-based aid.
Need-Based Financial Aid
Need-based financial aid is a form of support that takes into account the student’s financial situation. This assistance may include tuition discounts and a campus work guarantee. However, not all universities offer this support to international students. It is worth consulting the university’s financial aid office to see if such assistance is available. The application process usually involves submitting a separate application, e.g. using the CSS Profile.
“Need-based” refers to the difference between the full cost of tuition and the amount the university estimates the student and their family can afford to pay (expected family contribution). It should be noted that this does not always reflect the family’s actual financial capabilities.
Need-Blind and Need-Aware
In the USA, two approaches to assessing financial need are common: need-aware and need-blind. The need-aware approach means that the university takes into account the student’s financial situation, but lack of funds does not automatically lead to rejection of the application. The need-blind approach, on the other hand, means that the university evaluates applications without considering the availability of funds.
However, both need-blind and need-aware do not guarantee automatic receipt of full financial aid. Only universities that declare “meet the full demonstrated need” commit to providing financial aid in full, even up to 100% of costs.
Merit-Based Financial Aid
Merit-based financial aid is a form of assistance that takes into account academic, artistic, musical, athletic, and social or extracurricular involvement. The assessment may include high school GPA, SAT or ACT scores, and essays or letters of motivation.
It is worth noting that some universities offer merit-based financial aid only from the second year of studies, based on the results of the first year. The award of this support may be automatic or require the submission of an additional application, sometimes even before the main application for studies.
Finding the right form of financial support can be key to achieving your academic dreams. Remember to carefully review the financial offer of the chosen university and tailor your application to the specifics of the offered support.
Student Loans for International Students Studying in the USA
A student loan is a popular form of education financing in the USA for international students. However, it is important to remember that not every student can get a loan. Every year, 600,000 students from different parts of the world come to the United States, and most of them apply for financial aid. Ultimately, however, not everyone will receive a loan.
The most important information about student loans:
- A cosigner is required – to obtain a loan, most financial institutions require a “US Co-Signer” – a permanent resident of the United States who will cosign the loan and sign a contract, guaranteeing that they will repay the student’s debt if necessary.
- The loan is repaid after graduation – the repayment of a loan for international students can be suspended for the entire period of study and up to six months after their completion. Then the student is obliged to repay the loan within 20 years, paying monthly installments. If possible, there is an option of early repayment.
- The loan covers the costs associated with studies – The loan amount can be used for tuition fees, dormitory accommodation, maintenance, etc. The maximum amount depends on the calculation of the university where the student intends to study, but is usually around 30 thousand dollars per year, and in some cases even 50 thousand dollars per year.
Here are a few other financial institutions that offer student loans for international students studying in the USA:
- Prodigy Finance
Prodigy Finance specializes in providing student loans for international students studying abroad, including in the United States. They do not require the presence of a US guarantor.
- MPOWER Financing
MPOWER Financing offers student loans for international students, including those studying in the USA. They take into account the student’s creditworthiness, and some programs do not require a cosigner.
- Prodigy Education Loans
Prodigy Education Loans provides financing for international students, including those studying in the USA. Some loan offers do not require a cosigner.
- Wells Fargo
Wells Fargo is one of the largest banks in the US that offers student loans for international students. They require the presence of a US cosigner.
- Discover Student Loans
Discover Student Loans offers student loans for international students studying in the USA. They require the presence of a US cosigner.
- Sallie Mae
Sallie Mae is a well-known financial institution that offers student loans for international students in the USA. They require the presence of a US cosigner.
I hope this is helpful!
Cost of living while studying
Cost of living for Students in USA
A considerable number of students flock to the United States every year with aspirations to pursue their dream careers. The student living cost in the USA encompasses accommodation expenses, room and board, food, travel, textbooks, weather-appropriate clothing, and entertainment. The overall student living cost in the USA is greatly influenced by individual choices. For international students, the cost of living in the USA can be roughly estimated based on the city of residence. The projected living cost in the USA is approximately $10,000 to $18,000 per year, averaging around $1,000 to $1,500 per month.
Food Cost in the USA
Living on-campus can be a cost-saving measure for students when it comes to food expenses, but those residing in private rentals need to factor in the cost of food. Monthly food expenses in the USA typically range between 150 – 200 USD. The cost of restaurant meals in the USA varies between 15.00 USD and 50.00 USD. Opting for dining out might escalate your budget; however, using grocery store cards can help trim expenses and allow for peaceful shopping. Seeking suggestions from locals is always a good idea. Creating a grocery list, establishing a meal plan, and shopping for the right items at the right places can contribute significantly to cost savings. While occasional dining out can be enjoyable, preparing your meals at home offers the best opportunity to cut costs.
Sample Grocery Prices in the USA can vary significantly depending on the region, store, and current market conditions. Below are approximate prices for some grocery items in standard units of measure:
Milk (gallon): Approximately 2-3 USD
Bread (loaf): Approximately 2-4 USD
Eggs (carton, 12 eggs): Approximately 1.50-3 USD
Rice (1 pound): Approximately 1-2 USD
Boneless, skinless chicken breast (1 pound): Approximately 3-5 USD
Apples (1 pound): Approximately 1-2 USD
Coca-Cola (6-pack, cans): Approximately 3-5 USD
Tomatoes (1 pound): Approximately 1.50-3 USD
Cheese (1 pound): Approximately 3-6 USD
Ground coffee (12 ounces): Approximately 5-10 USD
Transportation Cost in the USA
Public transportation serves as a prevalent and efficient means of getting around the United States. Whether conducting research, house-hunting, job-searching, or commuting to and from work, students are encouraged to utilize public transport, considering it a cost-effective mode of transportation in the USA. For those students who are drivers, obtaining a driving license can also contribute to budget-friendly transportation in the USA.
Here is a breakdown of Transportation Cost in the USA:
Average Cost:
- Gasoline (1 liter / 0.25 gallon): $0.69
- Monthly bus/transport pass: $60 – $119
- Bus ticket, single use: $2 – $2.75
- Taxi tariff for an 8km/5-mile journey: $15
- International students must be acquainted with the shopping landscape in the USA, as they often need to purchase a variety of items, ranging from books to groceries. For those who solely rely on a clothing subscription service for new attire, the expenses may fluctuate based on individual preferences. On average, clothing expenses in the USA can vary between $100 and $161 per month for international students.
Accommodation Costs for International Students in the USA
One of the key considerations for international students in the USA that requires attention is accommodation costs. Below, we outline the accommodation costs for students from outside the USA.
1. Apartment Rental Prices: Renting an apartment is one of the main issues that international students must contend with. Rental prices vary significantly depending on the location. When renting an apartment, students should also consider additional fees such as a security deposit and utility charges.
Examples of apartment rental prices in the American market:
- One-bedroom apartment: $1200 – $2500 per month
- Two-bedroom apartment: $1800 – $3500 per month
- Three-bedroom apartment: $2500 – $5000 per month
2. On-Campus Housing: Many students opt for on-campus housing, which can be a more economical solution. On-campus housing prices vary depending on the university, but they usually include both the room and meals.
Examples of on-campus housing prices:
- Basic dormitory (double room): $600 – $1200 per month
- Student apartment (one-bedroom): $800 – $1500 per month
- Dormitory with meals included: $1000 – $2000 per month
3. Sharing Housing Costs: Edu4US encourages students to consider the option of sharing housing with others. For example, renting an apartment together with fellow students can significantly reduce costs. It’s worth being a member of local student groups on platforms like Facebook, where students often look for roommates.
4. Alternative Accommodation Options: In addition to the mentioned accommodation options, there are also less common choices such as student houses or foster families. Edu4US provides support in exploring these alternative housing options.
Below is a table with average cost of accommodation:
Przewodnik
TO CZYM RÓŻNI SIĘ OPT OD CPT?
Optional Practical Training (OPT) i Curricular Practical Training (CPT) oto główne różnice między nimi:
Optional Practical Training (OPT):
- Okres Podejmowania Pracy:
- Pre-Completion OPT: Studenci mogą ubiegać się o pre-completion OPT przed ukończeniem studiów, co pozwala na pracę do 20 godzin tygodniowo podczas semestru i na pełny etat w przerwach międzysemestralnych.
- Post-Completion OPT: Po zakończeniu studiów, studenci mogą ubiegać się o post-completion OPT, który umożliwia pracę na pełny etat w dziedzinie związaną z programem studiów przez do 12 miesięcy, a w przypadku kierunków STEM istnieje opcja przedłużenia o 24 miesiące (STEM OPT Extension).
- Zezwolenie na Pracę:
- Studenci muszą uzyskać zezwolenie od USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) przed rozpoczęciem pracy w ramach programu OPT.
- Praca nie musi być ściśle związana z konkretnym przedmiotem studiów.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT):
- Okres Podejmowania Pracy:
- CPT pozwala studentom na podjęcie płatnych praktyk zawodowych jeszcze przed ukończeniem studiów.
- Praktyki zawodowe odbywają się w ramach konkretnego kursu lub programu studiów.
- Zezwolenie na Pracę:
- Aby skorzystać z CPT, studenci muszą uzyskać zatwierdzenie od swojej uczelni przed rozpoczęciem praktyki zawodowej.
- Praca w ramach CPT musi być związana z programem studiów i stanowić integralną część planu nauczania.
Podsumowanie:
- OPT umożliwia pracę przed i po ukończeniu studiów, niekoniecznie związaną z programem studiów.
- CPT pozwala na pracę już w trakcie studiów, ale jest ściśle związane z konkretnym kursem lub programem studiów.
W obu przypadkach studenci muszą uzyskać odpowiednie zatwierdzenie, a praca powinna być zgodna z przepisami prawa imigracyjnego. Przed podjęciem pracy w ramach tych programów zaleca się konsultację z biurem ds. zagranicznych studentów na uczelni w celu uzyskania pełnych informacji i wsparcia.