Study in US: Student account of application and admission process
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For those who want to study abroad, it is essential to know at least one person who has already studied abroad to help them out with the long and complicated process of getting admission. Admission to colleges abroad is a lot more confusing and multi-layered if compared to getting through Indian colleges. For those who don’t have a guiding friend or mentor to help them through the process of applying to universities abroad, here is a firsthand account of Seema Somshekar who is going to Columbia College of Journalism in New York, the US for the fall 2014 session.
In this podcast, Seema talks about applying to various Universities in the US and how she got admitted to the prestigious Columbia School of Journalism.
1. Tell us something about your education and work background
I did my post graduation in Journalism from Bhartiya Vidya Bhawan. That was followed by an internship at Star TV which ultimately turned into a full-time job. I worked there for six years.
2. Why did you decide on a journalism course abroad?
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After my job started, the plans for further studies took a back seat. After I resigned from my job, I used that time to revisit this decision. What I was seeking was a global education, as I already had an education from India. I thought an international degree will add strength to my portfolio.
3. What were your initial college choices?
Once I decided on doing my masters in journalism, I started looking at colleges that had a strong programme in this course. Few of my choices were Northwestern University in Chicago, New York University, City University of New York, and Columbia University.
4. How did you start with the college application process?
Once I decided on Columbia, I visited New York and got a chance to visit the campus and meet with the admissions officer. That helped in knowing more about the college and programme. Majority of my research was done online. The entire application process was outlined on their website. The application process to Columbia starts with filing an online application form, submit two essays, three recommendation letters, three transcripts, and TOEFL scores.
5. What was the most difficult part of the admissions process?
The most challenging part was the essays. At Columbia, you have to submit two essays. There was a word limit of 700 words, so it was difficult to decide on what I need to include about myself, and the relevant details.
6. Did you have a mentor to guide you?
Unfortunately, I did not have anyone guiding me. I really wish I had someone, who had been through the admission process themselves. That kind of made it a little more challenging. But I was open to advise from people who had studied abroad which helped me understand their point of view as well.
7. How easy or difficult was getting a student Visa?
It was pretty simple, as just a couple of years ago, I had applied for a US tourist visa. So I was acquainted with the process. You first need to fill and submit the DS-160 form, and you need to present the form I-20 which you get from the university. These documents need to be supported by proof of funds, like bank statements.
8. Were there any college interviews?
No, Columbia has no college interviews.
9. When are you leaving for the US?
My program starts on 4th August. I also have to attend the mandatory international students’ orientation. So I’m planning to leave after 20th of July.
10. What are your expectations from this course?
The whole point of applying to universities abroad was the get that global learning experience. I’m looking for something that will help broaden my worldview and provide me with a balanced perspective, which will be helpful not only professionally but personally as well.
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Q: What GPA is required for the University of South Dakota?
The University of South Dakota expects a GPA score of 2.5 from undergraduates and 3 from postgraduates on the 4-pointer scale. Along with the GPA scores, undergraduates must meet the basic eligibility and submit an ACT score of 21 or higher and an SAT score of 1070 or higher. In addition, they must submit the required documents, such as academic history, transcripts, letters of recommendation, English language scores, and more.
Q: What GPA is needed to go to Ohio State?
There is no minimum GPA score for UG admission at Ohio State. However, International students must have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale or equivalent) for graduate admission. Applicants may submit a standardized test score (GRE or GMAT) if their cumulative GPA is below 3.0 for the last degree.
Q: Is it hard to get into the UTSA in San Antonio Texas?
According to various sources, University of Texas San Antonio has an overall acceptance rate of around 87% which makes it somewhat selective for international student admissions. Some of the general requirements to be considered for admission are given as follows:
- SAT/ACT scores
- Overall Student's GPA
- Letters of Recommendation
- High School Class Rank
- Additional Academic Records
Q: Is University of North Dakota good for Indian students?
The University of North Dakota is one of the top choices for international students to pursue their higher education. The UND warmly welcomes its international students as they have contributed a lot to the success of the university. Moreover, the university offers a top-notch environment, the best academic opportunities, technical & career training, etc. The university boasts over 1000 international students who represent more than 95 countries. Additionally, international students highly enjoy the facilities provided by the University of North Dakota. The UND is one of the largest research universities in the United States for international students.
Q: How much is the application fee for Alabama University?
The Alabama University application fee for International students vary by application type. Mentioned below are the application fee for UG and PG applications at Alabama:
- UG: USD 40 or INR 3,342.14
- MBA: USD 80 or INR 6,684.28
Q: Can I get into Oregon State with a 3.5 GPA?
International students must have at least a GPA between 2.5 and 3.0 on a scale of 4.0 for UG and PG admission at Oregon State. Therefore, candidates are eligible to get admission to the university with a 3.5 GPA in their academics. Oregon State University GPA requirements are different for undergraduate and graduate admission. Mentioned below is the range of GPA required for Oregon State University admissions:
| Program | Minimum GPA Required (on a scale of 4.0) |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | 2.5 - 3.0 |
| Graduate | 2.5 - 3.0 |
Read about the Grading System in the USA
Q: What is Northwest Missouri acceptance rate?
The Northwest Missouri acceptance rate for international students is around 80%. This shows that the university follows a moderate selection criteria when it comes to admission. However, the moderate selection criteria does not imply that the university accepts every application. International students must showcase their excellent academic performance, score high GPA, submit standardized test scores and English language proficiency test scores. In addition, if a student has a history of participation in relevant extracurricular or experience, their selection probability increases by 50%.
Q: What GPA do I need to get into Northwest Missouri state?
Northwest Missouri State University expects a cumulative GPA of 2 for UG programs and 3 for PG programs on a scale of 4. GPA is one of the top factors when considering students for university admissions. Along with GPA, the university expects a student to provide high school transcripts from previously attended university or school, standardized test scores, English language proficiency test scores, and more. In addition, students with relevant experience in the chosen field are preferred over the studious students.
Aishwarya is a professional Writer currently working as a Study Abroad Expert in the Editorial Team at Shiksha. She has over 5 years of experience and is skilled at creating Online Content with leveraged knowledge i... Read Full Bio
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Statement of Purpose
Letter of Recommendation
Student Visa Application
Admission Essay Writing
Student Curriculum Vitae