It’s no surprise that the United States is one of the top countries in the world for higher education. Over one million associate’s degrees and two million bachelor’s degrees were conferred in just the 2020-2021 school year alone according to the most recent data from the National Center for Education Statistics. These numbers include many international students seeking the benefits of a college degree from an accredited U.S. school.
There are many higher education options in the U.S., including for international students. Earning a bachelor’s degree from a traditional four-year university or college path is one common path. However, the admissions process to a four-year school can be especially difficult as an international student due to competition, cost, foreign transcripts and test scores, and language barriers. Thankfully, there are other opportunities to get a U.S. education and kickstart a successful career. Students can earn an associate’s degree from a school like Taylor Business Institute (TBI).
Regardless of the path you choose, EducationUSA recommends five steps to studying in the U.S. as an international student. Step one is to research your options and decide if a bachelor’s degree, associate’s degree, career certificate program, or an English as a Second Language (ESL) program is best for you. An ESL program from a school like TBI can help international students improve English-language skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
Next, you should look into financial aid opportunities to help cover the cost of whichever program you pursue. After that, it’s time to submit your school applications. The fourth step is applying for the right student visa to match your program. The F-1 Student Visa is the most commonly awarded visa, however students must be enrolled full-time at an accredited academic institution or language training program. Finally, it will be time to prepare for your entry into the country, ensuring that you have everything you need for immigration and starting your academic journey in the U.S.
Pursuing an associate’s degree is one of the best options for international students in the U.S. Associate’s degrees are typically two-year programs offered by community colleges and other academic institutions like Taylor Business Institute. Students earn either an Associate of Arts (AA) or an Associate of Science (AS) degree and specialize in a field of study.
By earning an associate’s degree, international students can benefit from the 2+2 model. The 2+2 model allows students with a completed associate’s degree to transfer to a four-year college or university, where they will undergo two more years of study to earn a bachelor’s degree. This path is much more affordable than directly attending a four-year college. Two-year schools also frequently offer ESL programs and additional support for international students transitioning to life in the U.S. International students who wish to work while earning an associate’s degree are also eligible for an extra year of Optional Practical Training (OPT) compared to students at a four-year school.
If you want to become an international student in the U.S., consider Taylor Business Institute . Located in the heart of Chicago, one of the most culturally diverse cities in the U.S., Taylor Business Institute has been educating students from around the world since 1962. The school offers four associate’s degrees in applied science: Accounting Technician, Electronics Engineering Technology, Medical Billing and Coding Specialist, and Criminal Justice and Security Administration.
“Taylor Business Institute’s Associate Degree Granting Programs have proven to be a valuable educational step for the wise consumer and academic searcher when seeking an affordable, quality education that prepares the graduate with workplace skills and transfer credits into senior-level colleges and universities.”
—Janice Taylor, CEO, Taylor Business Institute
Taylor Business Institute offers a variety of support and resources for international students. For example, the ESL Program helps international students improve English language capabilities through a multi-level, integrated-skills approach. International students also benefit from low tuition, quick processing of I-20’s for F-1 Visas, TOEFL test preparation, a diverse learning environment, Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT) opportunities, and the ability to transfer credits to senior-level colleges. All students additionally benefit from an accessible downtown campus, a welcoming and supportive environment, flexible class schedules, mentoring and tutoring, and much more.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your academic and professional journey by earning an associate’s degree, contact Taylor Business Institute today. There’s no better place to be an international student in the U.S.