6.0 Applying to universities

6.1 Applying on-line

In order to avoid delays and to minimize the possible manual errors, it is encouraged by the universities to submit the application on-line. After the application is submitted on-line a reference number is allotted to you. All the supportive materials such as official transcripts, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, financial statement etc. should be send by post/courier to the university and the reference number must be coated. In majority of the on-line application sites the application fee could be enclosed in the form of cheques or drafts along with the supporting materials. But in very few universities it is a must to apply using an international credit card (optional in most cases).

6.2 Precautions to be taken while applying

Make sure to check if all materials are enclosed as per the university requirements. A checklist can be enclosed along with the application packet for the reference of the university. These jobs are to be done meticulously and laxity would lead to unnecessary delays in your admissions.

Note:

1. It is very important to write your name and date of birth in pencil behind your draft/cheque and staple it along with the application.

2. Make sure to fill in all possible details asked for in the application with out any error. In case you are skeptical about any part in the application, e-mail the university and ask them.

3. The American date format is mm/dd/yy and to avoid misconception as far possible use the format 1st January 2000 [Make sure you use this format in your Bank statement and evaluation letters].

4. Don't send any extraneous materials to the office of admission. If you want to send such materials (like your paper that you presented), contact a faculty (preferably having same research interest as yours) and send it directly to the department.

5.Ask one or two people to cross check your applications and supporting materials before you send them.

6.3 After sending you applications

Most universities send an acknowledgement letter or acknowledge through e-mail. In case they have not received any required material, it would be indicated to you. If don't receive any acknowledgement you could e-mail the admission office and ask about your application (mail after 30-45 days). Then wait for 2 to 3 months for a decision from the university. In some universities along with this decision letter the I-20 is send, but in others the I-20 is sent at a later date.

Note:

1. Some universities require an acceptance fee to be paid before the I-20 is dispatched. In most case this fee is completely refundable once the admission is taken up.

2. In case you don't receive any acknowledgement letter mail the university and ask them after a month. In most cases this delay will be because of the delay receiving official test score report.

6.4 Checking your application status on-line:

Most universities have the facility to check the status of the application on-line. This is very helpful to keep track of your progress. Look into the university website to see if you have this facility.

6.5 What is an I-20?

I-20 is a document issued by the university to the students who have been granted admission. It is a strictly confidential document and in most cases it is issued only to the student directly i.e., it will not be handed over to any relative or friend of yours in the US. A copy of this I-20 is send to your nearest US consulate also. Only after receiving this I-20 you are eligible to appear for VISA in students category (F-1 Visa).

Note : Students who visit US on exchange programs (usually for a very short period) to study shall get an IAP-66 instead of an I-20 and can appear for VISA under J-1 catagory.