Guiding students and scholars towards a better tomorrow

For many aspiring students trying their luck abroad, higher education in foreign universities isn’t a distant dream anymore. The US, in close collaboration with India, is conducting regular workshops, seminars and fairs in the country to boost higher education ties.

Every year, at least 20 per cent of Indian students go to the US to pursue higher education. As US remains the first choice for Indians, both the countries are taking serious steps to shape up the pursuits of millions of youngsters.

It is to be kept in mind that studying in the US or any other foreign country needs systematic planning and thorough research on the subject as well as the college. 

Helping students in this regard, the US-India Educational Foundation (USIEF) organised the EducationUSA University Fair 2016 in Kolkata at the Oberoi Grand Hotel on Saturday. US Consul General Craig Hall inaugurated the event and spoke on how ambitious students can avail the best of resources to move ahead with their applications, in the presence of representatives from prominent accredited American Universities and a huge number of students.

“Relations between India and United States have never been this close before, and we are delighted because of the growing educational ties between us,” said Hall.

A total of twenty-five universities participated in the fair and their representatives briefed students on their respective universities, admissions requirements, programmes offered and financial aid facilities.

Besides individual interactions, breakaway sessions on undergraduate and postgraduate application processes and visa information sessions were held. New York University, Rochester Institute of Technology, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, University of South California, Milwaukee School of Engineering and George Washington University were some among the many reputed varsities

There are several varsities, such as Arkansas Tech University, Bradley University, California Polytechnic State University, Marist College, Milwaukee School of Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, New York University Tandon School of Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, and University of Southern California Viterbi School of Engineering which offer specialisation in subjects like Engineering, Finance, Management, Computer Science, Business and Commerce, Pharmacy, Informatics Energy and Sustainability among others. Students trying to pursue any one of these courses can check their websites for details.

On the other hand, universities such as NYU School of Professional Studies, George Washington University, Knox College, and State University of New York at New Paltz among others offer specialisation in Integrated Marketing, Global Affairs, International Relations, Human Resource, Public Policy, Economy and Finance, Fine and Performing Arts, Journalism, Arts and Educational Studies. 

Although students need to find a university that best fits their needs, the cost of studying and living in the US shatters dreams of many. With several universities providing scholarships and loans to distinguished students, finance is a lesser problem now. Fees of many universities (including tuition, room, board, books, supplies, and other expenses) start from Rs 13 lakh and run up to Rs 40 lakh, depending on the programmes and courses one chooses.

Besides these, registration fees, which are paid per semester, start from Rs 33,000 and go up to Rs 70,000, depending on the number of units. As a result, it is beneficial for aspirants to start financial planning as early as possible. Most importantly, students must apply for financial aid while filling up application forms for admissions as almost all universities promise outstanding students with grants up to Rs 10,000, alongside federal loans, private loans, and departmental scholarships.

Representatives from the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and Educational Testing Service (ETS) also attended the event, conducting parallel enlightening seminars. The primary purpose of the cooperation was to provide students with a common platform for direct interaction.

In addition to hosting the EducationUSA program, USIEF encourages mutual understanding between Indians and Americans through the educational exchange of distinguished scholars, professionals, and students under the umbrella of Fulbright, Fulbright-Nehru, and other prestigious grants & scholarships.