Frequently Asked Questions about Studying in the USA
What is the difference between graduate and undergraduate?
The undergraduate phase consists of the first four years of study at a college or university after high school and leads to a Bachelor's degree. During the first two years, students are introduced to a broad academic program in order to decide on their major. The last two years consist of taking classes related to heir specialized field. The graduate phase is a specialized program that can take from 1 to 6 years, leading to a Master's (1-2 years) or PhD (4-6 years) degree.
What is the difference between a 'university' and a 'college' in the U.S.?
Colleges generally only offer four-year undergraduate programs, whereas universities also offer graduate programs. Whether an institution is called a college or a university has nothing to do with the quality of the school.
What is a junior or community college?
This is a locally oriented institution of higher education, offering two-year programs leading to an Associate's degree. Admission is generally less competitive, tuition is cheaper, and there is often more individual attention for students. In certain cases it is possible to transfer to the third year of a 4-year institution after completion of the Associate's degree.
Does the American government give financial aid to foreign students?
Yes. The Fulbright Program is funded by the American Government together with the government in the partner country.
Is it possible to study medicine right after high school?
No, medicine is always a graduate program. American students first do a four year undergraduate degree, often in a field related to medicine, before entering medical school.
Is it possible to study law right after high school?
No, law is always a graduate program. American students first do a 4-year general undergraduate program before entering law school.
