Living Expenses Estimates

One of the most common questions incoming students to US have is about the living expenses. Living expenses vary from person to person and the university. Most universities are in small towns and are low on expenses. Though there might be some in the metropolis for which you will have to shell out more bucks for your living. Generally, students spend almost the same amount everywhere but the comforts vary. Students in big city get less comforts for the same amount, while there peers might have a better lifestyle in smaller cities.

In this post, I try to summarize the average living expenses of a student in US universities. Please note that the accuracy of this estimate depends on your lifestyle. I have seen students managing in $400, while some of there peers might be spending $800 in the same city.

The normal expenditure if you live your life normally and not lavishly will be as follows:
* Rents: (Varies according to places including gas, water and electricity) $250 to $350 if you have a roomy sharing room with you. $400 to $500 if you want your own room.
* Phone: $35(family plan) to $50(individual plan) per month
* Insurance: $30 to $50 per month
* Grocery: $75 to $125 per month
* Total: $500 to $600 per month. (Some places, the total amount per month can reach upto $700)

There might be more expenses if you need to buy a car (that's rare, but if you are enrolled in Ph.D. you would like to consider that) or have other typical lifestyle expenses. Also, you might spend some money eating out, shopping and going for trips etc. Most of these expenses should be around $200-$500 for most people. You might also want to save money while shopping for books, electronics, travel etc. by finding some great deals in US.

I would recommend everyone to take care of there expenses. Do keep track of all your spending and make sure you have a budget for it. Budget all your expenses and keep a reserve for emergencies.

Have a pleasant stay in the US! [...] Read more!

Earn a Degree Online

In these hard economic times, where job lay-offs are becoming common, the only way to keep an edge over others is to get a new degree to add skills to your profile. Managing a full-time degree by taking a sabatical from your job is not always a good idea. So, a degree from an online university can come to your rescue.

Selecting the best online degree is not always easy. There's a plethora of options available to do a degree online. A lot of research goes into selecting a good degree. There are a lot of services providing you info about these degress. eLearners gives you an opportunity to search for the best online bachelors degree.

They provide great information about the universities. They help you get info about the program, the university and other specific details about the degree. They also give you the accreditation information about the university. Whats more, you can also request information about that program from their website itself.

The website has an excellent serach functionality which allowa you to search degree by the field of study you are interested in. They also provide a lot of related articles on online education and help you make an informed decision. It also has blogs and forums for discussions. Also, you get information about scholorships to help you fund your education. So, start your search for online bachelors degrees. [...] Read more!

Get the best Travel Deals in US

Most international students are used to travel agents who offer the cheapest travel deals. But they find it hard to find such travel agents in US. Tripology offers a free service for you to find the most appropriate travel agent for you in US. Just submit your itinerary and get response from 3 travel experts who will give you the best possible deals.

You will be offered the best Travel Deals through travel agents to save time and money. You are matched to the best of over 6,000 travel experts who plan the trips you want to take. You can block your tickets as you did back home and pay before you travel. They also have India specific travel agents. So, next time you plan a journey home do use the service and get great results.

Its not just the international ticketing. They also provide you with best deals if you are planning for a vacation. Many of you would like to go for a vacation in US. Just fill in your destination and get the best customized vacation plan with air tickets, stay, meals and transportation. You'll get the most out of your pre-planned vacation.

For more travel related deals, visit: Great Deals @ USA
[...] Read more!

Search for FreeLance Work to Earn Money

Work at Home and Earn an Excellent Income
Imagine being able to work from your own home, doing a job you love, and getting paid handsomely for doing it. Wouldn't that be great?

Well, the good news is that this is not just a fantasy. It is a prospect that is well within your reach. Today, millions of people worldwide have established highly-successful careers as freelance professionals. Writers, designers, programmers and many other home-based consultants have discovered that freelancing offers the perfect combination of freedom, creativity, flexibility and profitability.

So do you need years of experience and fantastic qualifications to join these lucky people? Not at all. You just need a skill that you can offer to potential clients, and the willingness to learn how to run a home-based business.

Of course, the biggest challenge for new freelancers is finding enough work to justify giving up a day job. How can you be sure that you will keep yourself busy with lucrative work? This used to be a concern, but thanks to the advent of the Internet, things are now much easier.

Now there are a number of job sites dedicated to helping freelancers find work and stay busy. Freelance Work Exchange, for example, brings you hundreds of fresh freelance jobs like these:

Write for Discussion Boards: $1200 per week, plus bonus
A writer is needed for an ongoing writing project. You will need to write copy to stimulate others into joining the discussion board. The writer needs to actively encourage regular and meaningful debate on the relevant discussion board, with some moderating of the content. You must have solid writing skills and good ideas.

Administer a Web Business from Home: $4000 per month
A successful e-commerce venture is seeking a part-time virtual assistant to act as a home-based office manager. You will deal with email correspondence, update site content and deal with general admin issues. You should have your own computer and Internet access.

Transcribe Author's Notes: $80 per hour, flexible working
A publishing company is seeking a freelance with an eye for detail to transcribe authors' notes and recordings for a range of ongoing projects. You must have a good grasp of English, be able to edit content into readable form, and be able to submit work from home by email.

You can sign up for a trial subscription for just $2.95, and get instant access to all the projects in the jobs database. So if you would like to get started on the road to freelance success right now, click here to sign up today. [...] Read more!

How To Avoid A Scholarship Scam

The best way to avoid being the victim of a scholarship scam is to remember the old adage: If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. If a scholarship search service promises you a scholarship, run the other way. If someone insists that for $5 or $30 or $50, he will guarantee you a scholarship, it is definitely a scam.

Yes, there are lots of scholarship dollars available, but the truth is that no one can secure a scholarship for you but you. Only the prospective student can do the work of filling out forms, sending transcripts, and writing essays.

A legitimate scholarship search service provides information that is current and accurate; it is an information source. Take ScholarshipExperts.com for instance. They have invested the resources to explore and compile scholarship data from all over the map. A good scholarship search service has a team of research specialists that constantly updates award information.

What good is 2006 award information to a 2007 high school graduate? When looking for a valid, trustworthy scholarship search company, verify that the information you are getting is current. Look for a service like ScholarshipExperts.com that compiles their own database of awards and delivers up-to-date data.


Expert Advice provided by ScholarshipExperts.com. Visit them to find more expert advice and search for free scholarships. [...] Read more!

Port of Entry Procedures

While flying to the US, you will have to complete your customs formalities at your first port of entry. Ensure that you have sufficient time (at least 2 hours, considering the queue) between your flights at that airport. You should have the following documents available for presentation: your passport, valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected stay; SEVIS Form (I-20); Arrival-Departure Record Form (I-94); and Customs Declaration Form (CF-6059). (I-94 and CF-6059 would be provided in your flight.)

In addition, it is strongly recommended that you also hand carry the following documentation:
1. Evidence of financial resources;
2. Evidence of student status, such as recent tuition receipts and transcripts;
3. Paper receipt for the SEVIS fee, Form I-797, and
4. Name and contact information for your “Designated School Official”, including a 24-hour emergency contact number at the school.

Here is the basic procedure followed at port of entry:

• Sometime before landing the flight attendant will distribute customs declaration forms & immigration forms as mentioned below. Fill these out on the plane (you will submit them to the appropriate authorities when you land). Do not hesitate to take the flight attendant's help. You can indicate that you have nothing to declare & total value of all your things is less than $ 1500 on the customs form I-94 - fill in the plane. After seeing your documents immigration officer will indicate length of stay, Univ, etc. This will be attached to your passport.


• Important: note the expiry date and D/S (duration of status). Form I-20 ID copy - all transactions regarding your non-immigrant status will be recorded in this form. This should be retained at all times (not surrendered until when you temporarily leave the US). Your admission number will be given - memorize it & note it elsewhere.


• Just before you land the correct local time will be announced set your watch.


• Once you are out of the plane go straight to the immigration counter - rush for them to beat the queue. It might take 0.5-1 hour here. Keep your I-20, passport, admission & aid letters ready. They might ask a few questions like - is this your first time in the US? Student? F-1 visa? Which Univ? They will attach an I-94 card to your passport.


• You are now in the USA! then go to the baggage are to fetch your luggage. Pick up a cart (at some airports you get this at a machine for $1) to carry the bags. Then pick up your bags as they come out on the conveyor (suitable eye-catching labels help here). If you don't get your baggage inform the enquiry section – you may have to wait 0.5-1 hour here. Cart your baggage to nearby Customs. If asked tell them that you are a student, F-1 visa, school, dept., coming to US for the first time.


• If asked to open the baggage do so slowly - do not mess up the place.


• If asked about the masalas tell them that they are "dried Indian spices" to make traditional Indian food like curry. Rarely might they ask you to go to the agris. Dept. nearby - that is a pain. If asked about "vibuthi" tell them that it is holy Hindu powder used for prayer.


• Note: In most cases you will NOT be asked to open your suitcases at all & will be simply waved through. Now go to the counter of your airlines and give them your check-in bags that you will collect at your final destination.


• Never leave your baggage unattended. Don't go out of the airport until somebody comes & picks you up. If you have doubts about the guy who comes to pick you up, don't hesitate to ask for his ID. [All this is of course being a little extra cautious]


• Once you reach your friend's house (or other destination) call home & inform them of reaching safely.

For additional information, click here. [...] Read more!

American Idioms and Expressions

Americans have their own style and conversation lingo. Numerous idioms and expressions are used, which are typical of their style. A lot of slang is used out there. Its always good to be aware of these terms as these are commonly used in US, more frequently by the youngsters in college. You should go through this list and acquaint yourself with them. So, if someone out there says you something, you should atleast know whether you are being praised or someone is criticizing you.

Here goes the list:

Beat up : worn out, shabby (said of a thing)
Beat around the bush : avoid an issue
Been had : to have been taken advantage of
Big shot : a supposedly important person or someone who thinks he/she is
Big deal : anything important, exciting
Break the ice : make a beginning
Buck : dollar bill
Bombed : see "high"
Booze : alcoholic beverage
Bummer : a term to designate that something undesirable has happened
Cash : paying someone with currency rather than a check
Check out : look over a situation
Cool or neat : slang term denoting approval for something or someone
Cool it : calm down
Cop : slang for policeman
Cut it out : stop it
Crack up : to lose emotional control in laughter
Date : to go out with someone; also the person with whom you go
Down : to feel depressed, sad
Down to earth : practical, straightforward, (person)
Drop : to withdraw from a course on or before the set date
Drive one up the wall : drive one nuts; to make one very nervous, or upset
Fall for : take a strong liking for
Fed up : disgusted with, or tired of
Frak out : to lose control of oneself, go crazy
Give a ring : to call on the telephone
Go to pot : to deteriorate
Grass : slang term for marijuana
Gripe : to complain
Hang on : in reference to the telephone it means do not hang up the receiver
Hang in there : keep trying; do not be discouraged
Hassled : troubled by
Have a lot on the ball : to be capable, talented, or efficient
High : intoxicated ("loaded") from liquor or drugs
Hit the sack : go to bed
Hung up : to be in conflict over a problem
I.D. : identification
In a nutshell : very briefly and concisely
Jock : an athlete
Keep your shirt on : be clam, be patient
Know the ropes : be familiar with the details of an undertaking
Lemon : bad buy or purchase
Loaded : to get intoxicated
Make ends meet : budget within one's income
Make up : (1) to apologize after a fight or disagreement
(2) to do an assignment after it was due
(3) cosmetics a woman uses
Mid term : test given during the middle of the quarter
On the house : free, no cost
Old man : slang term for father
Once in a blue moon : seldom, infrequently
Out of it : (1) somebody whose mind is Far away or preoccupied, or
(2) somebody not fitting into a certain group
Out of the question : unthinkable, impossible
Over my dead body : not if I can stop it !
Out of sight : term of approval denoting something exciting or very good
Play it by ear : to respond to circumstances as they arise
Phony : someone who is insincere, also fake
Play second fiddle : be second in importance
Pop-Quiz : a test given with no prior warning
Pot : a term used for marijuana
Psyched up : to mentally prepare yourself for something; excited about something
Pull one's leg : to tease someone
Pull strings : use influence
Pull the wool over someone's eyes : deceive or mislead someone
Put someone on : to tease or try to fool. "Are you putting me on ?"
Put your foot in your mouth : say something you regret having said
Rip off : to steal; charge an exorbitant price for some item
Redneck : hillbilly
Run around with : be friends with
Screwed up : confused
Shook up : upset
Show : movie or film, cinema
Skip or cut : not go to class
Stoned : to get high on grass
Straight : one who goes along with the norms of society, conservative
Take a raincheck : to postpone an invitation, accepting it for a later date
Take for granted : to assume
Through the grapevine : through gossip
To the max : to the maximum or greatest degree
Uptight : worried, tense
Under the weather : sick, not feeling well
With flying colors : with victory or success
Wasted : an extreme lack of energy. Also can mean "high"
Ya'll : You all
Zero in on : focus or concentrate on [...] Read more!

University Selection Tips

One of the most important steps in the US admission procedure is to select the universities you wish to apply. The universities should be selected depending on your profile. Your profile includes your academic and test(GRE/GMAT/TOEFL) scores, co-curricular activities, internships, work experience, achievements, awards, research papers and lot of other thing that could add weight to your resume.

The first step should be to find out universities that offer your field of study and any relevant specializations. Once you narrow down your search to 10 to 20 institutions, you will need to compare the objective data among these institutions. Do not rely solely on rankings or ratings of institutions to do this; there is more to choosing the right department than choosing the most well-known or selective university. For any particular discipline there will be at least five or six schools that have excellent reputations. Keep in mind that a department's reputation relies heavily on the reputation of its faculty. Sometimes it is more important to study under a particular person than it is to study at a university with a prestigious name. Remember too that assistantships and fellowships are often based on the right "match" between student and faculty research interests. Good advance research can help you find the schools whose departments and faculty meet your academic and professional goals, and it may enhance your chances for obtaining financial assistance.

Make a comparison chart listing the differences among universities with respect to:

• research programs and facilities, including libraries and computer facilities;
• size of department (students and faculty) and size of institution;
• qualifications of the faculty;
• accreditation of the institution and, if applicable, the department or program;
• course and thesis requirements;
• length of time required to complete the degree;
• academic admission requirements, including required test scores, degrees, and undergraduate grade average required; of tuition, fees, books, etc.;
• availability of financial assistance;
  
• location, housing options, campus setting, climate, and cost of living;
• international student services and other needed services available on campus.

Eliminate those institutions that you cannot afford and that do not offer financial aid for which you qualify, that do not meet your individual needs, or that have admissions requirements that do not match your qualifications. Narrow your choices to those that meet your personal and professional needs, that you can afford to attend, and for which you are qualified for admission. Develop a final short list of four to seven institutions to which you plan to apply. [Learn about the application process for US universities]. [...] Read more!

Things to Carry

There are so many things one needs to carry, while going to the US for the first time. You have to make a new place to live, a "home" away from your home. If you have a friend who is going to the same university, for the same semester, it is better to share few things. This saves space as well as money.

This post lists the most common things you should carry while traveling to US. One must ensure to take along all essential items one would need for a comfortable stay in the United States. Many commodities like clothes, foot ware, leather items, and other miscellaneous things are expensive in US. Also, you would need to take your important academic and legal documents as they may be needed from time to time. Therefore it is a must that you go through the entire section and make a note of these things in the form of printout as a checklist to ensure that you don’t miss anything.


Documents:

• Passport, I-20, visa.
• Driver’s license.
• International Driving Permit, if possible.
• Medical certificates and proofs of vaccination.
• Transcripts.
• Degree certificate or provisional certificate.
• Letters from university.
• Passport size photos.

Money:

• You should have enough money to arrange for housing, etc. and to survive at least the first month (until the first paycheck, from your job arrives).
• Bring $1500 - $2000 in travelers' checks.
• Bring $100 - $150 in cash. $10 bills or the smaller.
• $1 bills will be required to pull out trolleys in the airport.
• If you cannot get cash, travelers' checks can be encashed at the airport for a fee.

Clothing:
Depends on the place where you will stay. Few common advices, no matter where your university is:

• Do NOT bring heavy winter clothes – as you won’t require that in fall and spring and it will occupy a lot of space in your luggage. You'll need to buy winter clothes in late September or early October. Winter clothing is pretty cheap here. You will get a good winter jacket in around $50.
• A raincoat and/or casual jacket, umbrella, woolen gloves, cap would be very useful.
• Get a few of pairs of shorts, towels (3-4), socks.
• You could also get traditional Indian dresses for special occasions.
• It is advisable to get around 15 pairs of undergarments as it helps in reducing your trips to the laundry (though most apartments have laundry machines right in the basement of the building).
• About three pairs of formal wears for career fairs and interviews. Two blazers will do.
• You can get a decent pair of jeans for around $20 to $30 here. T-shirts will cost around $10 to $20. Shirts will cost around $20 to $30.

Food Items:

• Indian spices of your choice, though you can get most of them here.
• Home-made items like pickles etc.
• Bring a few noodle packets. Get a few Instant food packets; these become handy many a times in first few weeks.
• You can bring few groceries – Rice, Dal, Salt, Sugar, Tea/Coffee in case you are going to move to new apartment right away just enough to survive few days so that you don’t have to run for grocery shopping the next day.
• There are many Indian stores around most of the well know universities. Then too it depends on the location. If you are able to find one Indian store around, you will get all kinds of things there. You even get Indian cold drinks and Indian chocolates there, costly though.

Utensils:

• Being with three or four roomies, you will have to cook for atleast 4 people. So try to get large vessels.
• If your roomies are decided, collaborate and bring vessels according.
• Try bringing all the vessels you need, vessels are costly here
• Bring utensils which are preferably microwave safe.

Other Stuffs:

• A few pens, pencils, ruler etc. just to get started. Stationary is pretty cheap here. Do not overload your baggage with notebooks and paper.
• A scientific calculator that you might have used in your undergraduate course.
• A small sewing kit.
• A good book for cooking.
• Don’t get many CD’s of movies and songs. You will get everything online, most of the times for free.

Things not to get:

• DO NOT GET ANY ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES FROM INDIA. It is 110 volts AC/60Hz in the US, so Indian electrical appliances does not work.
• Do not get a digital camera, it’s very cheap here.
• Do not get a laptop; you will get a good deal here.
• Don’t get too many clothes. It’s cheap here.
• Do not get too many pairs of shoes.

Remember..!!

Keep the passport, I-20, all the certificates, Marklists (your folder), medical records etc. in your handbag. Very rarely airlines misplace your luggage. Ofcourse they refund you for the same but as you can see, some documents are too important for any refund.

You will complete your customs formalities at your first port of entry. ENSURE THAT YOU HAVE SUFFICIENT TIME (at least 2 hours, considering the queue) BETWEEN YOUR FLIGHTS AT THAT AIRPORT.

Carry a few quarters (25c coins) in case you have to call anyone from the airport. [...] Read more!

GRE: Quantitative Section Strategies

This post is in continuation to the series of posts on GRE, contributed by the author of: GRE: How to Start Preparing? The author scored 1510 [Q:800, V:710, A:5.0] in the GRE. This post postulates the important strategies to be followed for each type of questions in the Quantitative section.

The quantitative section measures the test taker's ability to understand basic concepts of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis; reason quantitatively and to solve problems in a quantitative setting. Here, I discuss the strategies for each type of question in this section, viz. standard multiple choices and quantitative comparisons.

Standard Multiple Choice:
1. Read the question well. Be sure to select the best answer for the variable, value, or expression that is requested!
2. Learn in advance all of the critical definitions, formulas, and concepts that appear in common questions.
3. Remember to use the test booklet for scratch work, as well as for marking up any diagrams/graphs.
4. Early questions in this section are easier. Spend less time on them.
5. Don't get carried away with detailed calculations. Look for a trick or a shortcut if the question seems time consuming.
6. When a question contains a weird symbol, just substitute the accompanying definition when figuring out the best answer choice.

Quantitative Comparisons:
1. Don't ever guess at Choice E. There are only four choices!
2. Always consider values that are fractional (between 0 and 1), zero, negative, or non-integer.
3. Factor out, then cancel, any common expressions or quantities in both Columns A and B. Remember that you are just trying to make relative comparisons.
4. Questions are simpler and should take less time than the Standard Multiple Choice. Look closely. The answer is often apparent without any calculations.
5. Write on any diagrams to help clarify any values, angles, sides, etc.
6. Compare; don't solve!
7. Simplify one or both sides whenever possible before comparing.
[...] Read more!

Setting the Document Folder for Visa Interview

While going for a Visa interview, there are numerous documents which you need to carry along with you. The documents are of three types - legal, academic and financial. Legal documents include your passport, fee receipts, I20 etc; academic documents include your degree, marksheets and score reports; and financial documents include your CA statements and other supporting documents. [See, Documents for Visa for a checklist of required documents.]

It is suggested that you arrange these documents in a harmonium folder having 12 pockets. The pockets should be properly labeled so that you can have easy access to these documents at the moment you are asked for them. Here is a recommended arrangement for these documents:

1: Passport, HDFC Bank Receipts, DS Forms (Appointment Letter, 156, 157 158), SEVIS Receipt and I 20. DS 156, DS 158 and I 20 needs to be signed.

2: CA Statement, Bank Statement and Affidavit of Support. Bank loan sanction or pre sanction paper in case one has that.

3: Score Reports (SAT, GRE, GMAT, TOEFL)

4: Mark sheets (10th and 12th with the Passing Certificate and Bachelor’s Mark sheet with the Final or Provisional Degree. If the degree is not available then the Bonafide Certificate will do. )

5: Letter of Recommendation, Statement of Purpose and Resume (Graduate Students)

6: In case of students that have work experience, Appointment Letter, Salary Slip and also the Income Tax Papers (if paid).

7: Supporting documents for the Liquid Assets. This will include all the things that are listed in the CA documents, liquid section. E.g. – Pass Books or Bank Statements, FD’s, LIC Policies, Kisan Vikas Patras etc.

8: Supporting documents for the Immovable Assets. This will include registration papers for the property and also the evaluation report of the properties that are listed in the CA documents.

9: Income Tax Returns and also the Salary Certificate On The Sponsor or the Salary Slip.

10: Acceptance letter from the university, any financial award statement. Also, carry copies of correspondence with professors, if any.

11: Other Acceptances and Rejections

12: Certificate of Achievements [...] Read more!

GRE: Verbal Section Strategies

This post is in continuation to the series of posts on GRE, contributed by the author of: GRE: How to Start Preparing? The author scored 1510 [Q:800, V:710, A:5.0] in the GRE. This post postulates the important strategies to be followed for each type of questions in the Verbal section.

The verbal section measures the test taker's ability to analyze and evaluate written material and synthesize information obtained from it; analyze relationships among component parts of sentences and to recognize relationships between words and concepts. The most important requirement for scoring in the verbal section is by improving your vocabulary. I had discussed details about it in my previous post. Here, I list out the strategies for each type of question in this section, viz. Sentence Completions, Analogies, Antonyms and Reading Comprehensions.

Sentence Completion:
1. Before looking at the answers, try to complete the sentence with words that make sense to you.
2. Don't rush your selection. Consider all the answers to make the best choice.
3. Use the context of nearby words to figure out unknown words.
4. Don't overlook the reversing effect of negative words (like not) or prefixes (like un-).
5. If you're really stuck for the meaning of a word, try to think of other words that have similar prefixes, roots, or suffixes.
6. Eliminate choices in double-blank questions if the first word alone doesn't make sense in the sentence.
7. Let transition words (like although and likewise) help suggest the best answer.

Analogies:
1. First: create a sentence in your mind that uses the two capitalized words.
2. Learn to recognize common types of analogies.
3. Eliminate answer pairs that are clearly wrong.
4. Beware of possibly correct answers that appear in reverse order.
5. If more than one choice appears possible, analyze the words again.
6. Consider alternative meanings of words, as well as alternative parts of speech.
7. If you don't know the meaning a word, try to recall if you've ever heard it in an expression. The context of the expression may suggest the meaning of the word.
8. Beware of obvious answers! They may be there only to mislead you.

Antonyms:
1. Use word parts (prefixes, roots, suffixes) to figure out the probable meaning of unknown words.
2. Be aware of secondary meanings of words. For example, 'appreciation' can just as readily mean 'increase' as it does 'gratitude'. When no answer seems correct, look for an alternative (or 'secondary') meaning for your antonym/opposite choice.
3. Consider the 'feel' of the word. It may create a sense in you of its meaning, such as a word like 'grandiose'. It may have a positive or negative connotation, which may help you to eliminate some choices.
4. Try to think of similarly constructed words that you may recognize and that may give you a clue as to the meaning of an otherwise unknown word.
5. Think of a recognizable context for a word you don't recognize. Let the context of the word in a phrase or sentence suggest its probable meaning.
6. Think of an opposite meaning for the capitalized word, even before you look at the actual choices.
7. Read all the choices before selecting your answer.

Reading Comprehension:
1. You should base your answers to the questions solely on what is stated or implied in the passages.
2. Read the italicized introductory text.
3. Skip questions you don't know. Return to them after answering other easier questions.
4. First and last sentences of each paragraph are critical.
5. Find the right spot in a passage by using any line reference numbers that appear in the questions.
6. Answer questions on familiar topics before unfamiliar topics.
7. Read the passages before reading the questions.
8. Don't waste time memorizing details. [...] Read more!

Make Cheap International Calls

Most of you who are planning/going to USA would be making a lot of calls to seniors and university officials. The costs of these calls from normal phones is very high. But, you can make international calls at the charges of a local call through internet without any compromise in the voice quality.

Skype is the best service for making cheap international calls and is most widely used. It delivers crystal clear sound just like a normal phone. Calls to US can be made for as little as $0.021 - thats just over 2 cents, even less than Re. 1. You can buy credits for as little as $10 and use it till it gets over (though, you would need to make atleast one call in 6 months to prevent it from getting expired). You can also take a unlimited calls subscription for just $2.95 month, which also gives you a free international phone number and a voicemail box.

You will need to download a small Skype software to be able to make these calls. This software allows you to make free computer-to-computer calls and even supports video calls. You need to buy credits to make calls to landlines and mobiles in USA. You just need to connect a headphone and a mic to start talking. Also, a variety of devices(Skype phones) are available which can be configured with Skype by changing the software's input/output device settings. These devices allow you to dial numbers like from a normal telephone instrument. It is ideal to buy one for your family, so that they can get a familiar interface when they need to talk to you.

So, click here to download Skype and buy credits to make cheap international calls.

P.S.: For great telephone deals in US, visit: Great Deals @ USA [...] Read more!

GRE: How to Start Preparing?

One of the most common questions asked by MS aspirants is that how should they start studying for the GRE. Like any other examination, GRE requires thorough preparations and familiarity with the question types you are going to be asked always helps. GRE generally requires two to three months of preparation time but it varies with individual cases. You can prepare even faster if you wish.

First thing before starting preparation is to get be familiar with the GRE pattern. [All About GRE provides details about everything you wanna know about the exam]. Go through the various sections and the question types tested during the examination. Take a mock test and analyze your score. You may have scored less but don't worry, you still have to start your preparations. If you get a good score in initial mocks, you still have to work hard for the final GRE.

Now, get into the exam mode. You have to start serious preparations. Start by taking a Barron's book. Go through the word lists. Take up 1-3 word-lists a day depending on the time you have. Revise each word-list of previous days, before proceeding with new ones. Mark the words you find difficult and pay special attention to them daily. Also, make flash cards of these words and keep them with you always. You can take out these flash cards multiple times a day. If you have about 3 months or more for the GRE, I would also suggest you to go through 'Word Power Made Easy' by Norman Lewis. Complete the sessions in the book as advised by the author.

The quantitative section of GRE is quite simple (especially, for engineers). For this section, Nova is a good book to start with. It gives a basic overview of all question types and topics to be covered. Do all the exercises of this book to get a basic brush up of the concepts. Then take any good aptitude book or practice questions online.

Do practice the analytical writing section for your GRE. Try using the new vocabulary you learned. Also, device strategies to complete the writing in specified time. Most of the GRE books provide some basic tips to go about this section. Follow any good strategy customized as per your preference.

In the end, practice is the most important step for your preparation. The more you practice, the more you score. Try to do as many mock tests as you can. You can find mock tests online or on the CDs provided with various books.

Best of Luck!

(The author of this post scored 1510 [Q:800, V:710, A:5.0] in the GRE. He has agreed to contribute more posts for individual sections of GRE and would be answering all your individual queries. Post your queries in the comments section.) [...] Read more!

Increase your Chances of Getting a Visa

Every visa official looks for certain factors, which you must satisfy to get a Visa. So, how do you convince him and increase your chances of Success? Here are a few points which you must keep in mind while going for your visa interview.

A. Legitimate Student:
Show that you have a coherent plan of study. e.g. B.A. English in undergrad in India then MS in Computer Science in US is not a coherent plan. B.E. Electronics & Communications then M S (Telecommunications) is very clearly coherent. Also, try linking the plan of study to India. There should be a connection between past study and future plan.

B: Reputation of School:
The better the ranking of the school that you finally choose, the higher your chances of getting a visa. Visa officials have actually been quoted saying that they never canceled the visa application of a Harvard or Stanford student (they don't even look at anything else if he has a Harvard offer). Of course, everybody doesn't get Harvard, but then if you choose an obscure university, your chances of a visa decrease correspondingly, as suspicion about your choice rises. The official thinks, "he's going there only to get to the US, there are better universities than this in India".

C: Exclusiveness of course:
If the course chosen is not offered in India, then it is a positive sign - as long as you can still show that it is logically related to your past studies. So you can't choose Evangelism after a BSc Chem. and then say, "it's not offered in India". Well, actually, you can but you have to show compelling reason why you want that subject.

D: Evidence of having researched all options:
Show all schools that you chose (say, printouts of web sites, Photostats of brochures), show clearly which ones you short listed and why, which ones you got offers from, which ones you chose and why. Basically, show yourself as a thorough student.

E: Proper documentation of previous study:
Have original copies of Board certificates, college degrees, diplomas, extra courses, etc. Also have original results of GRE, A-GRE TOEFL, TSE and other standardized tests handy.

F: Show proof of networking (if any) with professors:
If you have sent mails to(or written to) professors, have copies of the mails ready to show, to establish seriousness of intent to study and to show that you consider your education as an investment.

G: Multiple Offers:
If you have received offers from many universities, show that. Especially if you have a scholarship offer from a lower ranked university and are still going to a higher one, then attach proof of this with your application.

H: Be Systematic:
Carry a folder with the covering letter and all these papers in order, so that (a) you don't fumble around in front of the counter window looking for the right papers (b) you look systematic and thorough.

While going for your VISA, dress properly. Wear formals.

Best of Luck! [...] Read more!

American-ism: My 2 Cents

During your stay in USA you'll encounter many situations and sayings, which you won't be familiar with. These series on American-isms will introduce with some of the most common events/sayings in America.

"My 2 Cents" an American idiomatic expression used to preface the stating of one's opinion. By deprecating the opinion to follow — suggesting its value is only two cents, a very small amount — the user of the phrase hopes to lessen the impact of a possibly contentious statement, showing politeness and humility. However, it is also sometimes used with irony when expressing a strongly felt opinion. The phrase is also used out of habit to preface uncontentious opinions.

For example: "If I may put my two cents in, that hat doesn't do you any favors." (More polite way of saying, for example: That hat is ugly.) An example of the shortened version: "My two cents is that you should sell that stock now."

"Two cents" and its variations may also be used in place of the noun "opinion" or the verb phrase "state [subject's] opinion", e.g. "You had to put your two cents in, didn't you?" or "But thats just my two cents."

The phrase "If you don't put your two cents in, how can you get change?" encourages an expression of opinion. It makes a pun on the word "change". One meaning of change is an alteration — presumably to bring someone or something in agreement with an expressed opinion. Another meaning of change is the cash equivalent of an overpayment.

This expression is also often used at the end of a statement, e.g., "Just my two cents." In this usage, there are many variations that serve the same purpose, such as "Just my $0.02 worth" or "Just my 1/50th of a dollar." [...] Read more!

Visa Interview Questions & Answers

Here is a collection of the most commonly asked visa interview questions with their answers. Do go through them before your interview.

1. How many universities did you apply to?
This is a very basic question, but linked to this is the second question that is shot at you.

2. How many admits/ rejects?
As explained in the above question, both of these are interlinked. Now if you applied to 4, were accepted in 1 and got 3 rejects..you don't have to be Mr. TRUTH. So put it as applied to 4, got 1, awaiting 2, 1 reject or applied to 4, got 1, awaiting 3.But then you have to state as in Question 3. that this was supposed to be your first choice anyhow, so even if you would have had the admit letters from any of the other 3, you would certainly have gone for this one. But if you are one of those type who offered to 1 and got just 1, don't go about saying that!!! Say you applied to 4 ,got 1, awaiting 3..put up the other univ's names;-) coz they think that someone who has applied to just one univ isn't really serious about his admissions and so isn't interested in educational purpose..which means a direct reject. If you applied to 11, got from just one..better say that you applied to just 4 or 5, and one reject, one admit and rest awaited. Many a times its better not to carry the reject letters, though some people advise so, but the thing is some univs reject on totally baseless matters.

3. What was your first choice?
The answer to this question also is dependant on the earlier one.

4. What is your GRE/TOEFL score?
As per your details. But always try to speak out the better score first. Like if you have a good TOEFL score ,say 630, and a GRE of 1750, speak out your TOEFL first and then GRE. Usually people think, they can go and lead them by answering long and sweet, like if asked for scores, the long answer might be : "Sir, I took my Computer based TOEFL and scored 270 at it, while I took the GRE and scored 800 in Quantitative, 710 in Analytical and 430 in Verbal". Well this can heat up the officer. He/She might feel you are taking him for ride ..even if you are not. So keep it short. So let the answer be : " TOEFL 270, GRE : 1940". Thats it!!..as much as he asked for. Makes his job easier and so he doesn't get pissed off at any of your leading behaviors.

5. What are your grades like?
Spell it out as it has been at your university. Say "Sir, We have a percentage system, and i scored xx% overall" IF your final year marks excel the other sems marks, spell that one out, coz usually in some universities, they look at the final year marks to grade the student in the Certificate.When later asked as to why u said XX% whereas the total marks of all your marksheets add up to XX-5/10% then clarify yourself...(They wont always go checking all your marksheets, but then you weren't lying)

6. Which was your undergraduate college?
As per your details.

7. What was your bachelor's degree in?
As per your details.

8. What is the purpose of your trip?
MS in CS/Telecommunications/EE...whatever or PhD in MEch/

9. Which university are you planning to go to?
The University of your choice and the univ you want the VISA for.

10.Who is planning to sponsor you?
As mentioned in your I-20. If you have a scholarship, say that. Else in case the I-20 says "Family funds" say that, and you may add that sir, my father and my mother are supporting me for my higher education.

11.Why do you plan to do MS?
Say that you felt that higher qualifications give a better place, a better standard in today's competitive world. You felt that you have a good know-how of your field, but a bit more technical knowledge in "the field you are going for MS in" will serve you greatly, when you come back here and join the industry of your choice

12.Why do you wish to study in the US and not in India?
The courses in the field I am interested in are not being offered (or very few institutions offer such courses). In addition to that the research going on is something I would like to be associated with. (Speak about the facilities as well). Talk about a few researches being conducted in that field. Technical words work out when other things don't.

13. Why did u select this University?
This question can be best answered when you do a bit of homework about you university. Browse the website of the University, visit the pages of the professors, go through their projects. Now remember some of the key words, like the project a professor X is working on. Mention something about the project if the officer is listening and is giving you time to explain. When you do such things, they think that you are pretty serious about your studies and are really into it. Well, some people believe in mentioning about the rank of the university, or the student to faculty ratio..well these all things don't affect how you are interested in it. You can say all these stuff such as rank and all, but you have to state what interested you and it should be something about research or academics. You can also show letters of correspondence with your University professors. If you don't have those, build some.

14. Your passbooks show that a large amount of money has recently been deposited. How would you explain that?
(NOBODY keeps huge sums of money in their savings account, so relax! If you have borrowed the money here is what you could do Its quite likely that in the past you may have received huge sums of money like selling of some property, retirement of parents etc so u could say something like) In year X we had received Rs. T and instead of depositing the amount in a bank at a low interest rate, we invested it in other sources which gave us high interest rates or we gave it to our needy friends. Now we have taken this money back to finance my education. (Of course its really dicey to answer this question, but if you are confident you shouldnt have a problem. If you have some proof of receiving a huge sum of money some years back, make sure you carry it)
You can also say that you had private FDs , i.e you invested in private firms coz they provide higher interest rates (say out figures like 16% per annum0 as compared to the mere 9% of banks. You can show a receipt and say that now you encashed that amount, coz you needed it for your educational purposes.

15. What does your father do? What if my dad has taken the VR?
Well this does have a specific reply, but then you can put it as "Sir, My father is working with a German collaborated company for the past 25 years as a Manager in XYZ department. The long reply helps over here. If your father has taken a voluntary retirement, dont mention that he has retired. Well there are two approaches to this. One, say that your father worked with this company for the last 30 years and now has his own consultancy dealing with(insert some financial or technical terms). Two, Say that your father worked as Asst Mgr./Mgr./GM with some company for the past 25 years, took a VR and now has a consultancy of his own. Never show him to be idle, coz that means your income has drastically reduced and works as a negative point. Stating about the VR often helps coz then you can assure him that most of the money you have shown is yours coz usually people get huge amounts on taking a VR. So that does help on the financial grounds.

16. Does any of your relative stay in the US?
The answers to this vary from person to person. The two basic replies being: Either "YES" or "NO". But I believe that you be truthful at this instance. I have seen many people who have been true and werent affected by that.
In fact at an USEFI seminar, addressed by the Consulate Officer.. it was said by the officer himself that," We know that most of the student will end up staying there after completing their studies, but atleast we can do our part of skimming them. We can atleast play the part of sieving across the deserving people and not every pedestrian."
This means that they evaluate you on the basis of your merits and not by what the person staying abroad is going to do for you. And the financial part is because they want to be assured that you can atleast go through your studies fully.
It just happens that many a times, they check your file..based on details provided in your passport, and if they do apprehend you lying, that might spell trouble. So, I think telling the truth is the best thing.
If your uncle or cousin or distant aunt stays there, you dont have to say "YES" coz that doesnt matter. All that matters is your immediate relatives ..i.e own brother, sister , father or mother.

17. Your brother/sister is studying there too. How will your parents support both of you?
Now, you have your chance of taking the officer for a ride here. Even if your brother/sister doesn't have an aid/scholarship, you can say he got a TA/RA there and so he need not be supported by the family any more for his educational expenses.

18.Why is your GRE score low ? (or any section score low)
This is the most preferred answer.I answered the first few questions incorrectly and I couldn't improve my score later even after performing well later. (Low = <1800 Otherwise you can say that you think your score is average and on the basis of that the university has given you the admission). You can also mention that "This score is considered to be ideal for the Engineers(if you are one)..or according to what you are. You can always build up a story , saying that the GRE Score interpretor sheet says that. Such as Engineers don't need to have an extra ordinary VERBAL Score, If the other sections complement it, you can show that the other sections are stressed upon by universities while selection for admission(Say this only when you think the situation is getting tense).
If you have a low VERBAL score, but a good TOEFL score, you can always say that "Please look at my TOEFL score Sir, I have done well at that". Besides GRE is just one of the many aspects that the universities look at for admission(Say this line only when you think you are drowning).

19. What are you plans after Graduation?
Be really well prepared for this question. This answer is not fool proof, but its you who can make it seem so. The basic things are:
Your field is what you will pursue
Your field is on a roll in INDIA
Your field has great opportunities
You get those opportunities even now
You get better opportunities once you do your MS
Show foreign companies coming to INDIA investing in your field
State some technical words expressing the advancements in your field
Make it seem, this field wont go ahead without guys like you ;)

20. Why are you changing your stream?
This generally occurs coz people having done their BE in Civil go on to pursue MS in CS. I am giving this reply specifically for transfer to CS stream, coz i dont think anyone from CS would be going to Mech ;).This is easy to get through. You can say either of the points:
Sir, during my third semester, when I was introduced to programming languages, I had a great exposure to computers. I gradually developed a liking for it and wished to deepen my knowledge in it.
I mastered a number of languages on my own, and am also into Web Designing and software debugging(push in technical words).
I always had it in my mind, that once I strengthen myself in my field, I will go on to enhance my skills in the field of Computers.
There were a vast number of options available, viz. CS, CN, CE but I chose CS as I had esteem interest in Software and its working
Always try to show that you have an interest for that subject. Never project that you are taking this up coz the market is strong. This is coz you are changing your stream..they might end up thinking that you just used your BE to get to this stage and that u dint do that on interest..they'll think you are fickle minded. Show that you do everything with your interst , you even did your BE in Civil or any other field coz you had interest in it, and now CS is your interest too.

21. What is your father's annual income?
This question often decides your ability to pay for your expenses. They think that money can be put into banks, but annual income is a proof which they heavily rely upon to decide the student's parents capability to spend for his educational expenses.
Whatever the officer asks. 1) What is your father's annual income? 2). What is your family's annual income?..The moment the words 'Annual Income" creeps in, state your complete family annual income, i.e if your mother is also an earning member, if you have agricultural income, if you ahve rental income plus the interests and dividends...State all of them together. Dont commit the blunder of stating just your father's income..many a times it hampers your chances..if it seems low to them. Obviously a sum of mother's income , your father's income, agricultural(if u have), ental will be more than a single one. And if they ask for the IT returns , hand over both of your parent's return statements, plus the agricultural papers plus the rental receipt(duplicate) at a time. And if he/she just argues(usually they dont) that you were asked about your father's income..then say" Sir, MY family is sponsoring me. Alongwith my father my mother is also an earning member and an income tax payee. Family funds is what the I-20 states, and so my family including my father and mother(opt brother, if u have one earning) are sponsoring me and here are their statements and proofs of other modes of income.

22.You look like Potential immigrants OR I dont think you will come back to India
This is a real tricky question. Many get blue when they hear this and lose their senses as how to tackle this question. Stay calm and think what all you can say like :"I am from a very well-to do family and money is not at all essential for me. I stand to inherit a lot from my parents (say this if u have lots of property) so staying and working in the US is not a criteria at all. The only thing i lack is this Masters (or whatever degree) which will make me a better software professional. As far as opportunity is concerned, because of the recession most of the US Companies are turning to the Indian companies for their software solutions. Most of the Indian companies have tie-ups with the US Companies (give some examples). So I am certain that with my degree I will get an equivalent opportunity and pay packet in India.

The Most Important Factor

Let me tell you something. The most important factor is "CONFIDENCE". Nothing can depose that. Whatever the answer be, if you are confident and show that you aren't nervous a bit, that will really help you get through. Complete Documents, Convincing Skills, Confidence and Present mindedness is what you have to invest. These are the keys to getting through the interview successfully. Many do get through because of sheer luck, when some of the casual officers just seem to be in a hurry to get through with the troop of VISA aspirants facing their counter.
But then I believe that your parents do all the job of putting together all the financial documents and stuff. The only thing you need to do is to put a confident self of yours over there.

These are not the only questions that are asked, they might come up with any other alien stuff. But then present mindedness and spontaneity is what helps under those situations. You have to be prepared with an answer the moment he shoots a question at you.

Don't make a face as if you just committed a sin. Hand over the documents and look at him. Remember , all your documents are as genuine as your Birth-Certificate ;).

All the best! [...] Read more!

Public vs. Private Universities

In the United States, universities are termed as "public" or "private". Many students are often not cognizant with these terms and relate these with the quality of the institutions. Both public and private universities offer degree programs. The terms "public" and "private" refer to the way in which universities are financially supported.

Public universities may also be called state universities, and some include the words "state university" in their title or include a regional element such as "eastern" or "northern." State universities tend to be very large with enrollments of 20,000 or more students. Since public universities obtain a part of their support from the state in which they are located, the tuition they charge is often lower than that charged by private institutions. In addition, public institutions generally charge lower tuition to state residents (those who live and pay taxes in the state) than to students coming from outside the state. International students are considered out-of-state residents and therefore do not benefit from reduced tuition at most state institutions.

Private institutions are supported by student tuition, investment income, research contracts, and private donations. Tuition fees tend to be higher at private universities than at state universities, and they charge the same tuition to all students, both state and non-state residents. Colleges with a religious affiliation and single-sex colleges are private. In general, private universities have enrollments of fewer than 20,000 students, and private colleges may have 2,000 or fewer students on their campuses.

Except for financial considerations, the public or private nature of a university should not be a factor in selecting a graduate program. High quality programs exist in both types of institutions. Of more importance is the institution's commitment to the graduate program. This commitment is found in its willingness to maintain a first-class faculty and to provide excellent facilities for advanced study, including libraries, laboratories, computers, and other equipment. Another important factor to consider in many disciplines is the presence of strong departments in other fields relevant to your interests so that you can have access to scholars and courses in disciplines related to your own. [...] Read more!

Documents for Visa

During the visa interview, you are required to carry numerous documents. While preparing the documentation, make sure your surname and given name match on all your documentation. Also, verify that all other information is correct and up-to-date.

Here is the list of documentation required for getting a F1 Visa. Make sure you follow this checklist while preparing your folder for the visa interview:

• Valid passport. You are recommended to have passport valid for at least six months beyond your interview date.
  
  
• Visa fee receipt issued by HDFC Bank and interview appointment letter.
  
  
• SEVIS generated Form I-20 in original, approved and signed by the University authority.
  
  
• Proof of payment of SEVIS Fee Receipt I-901, if applicable.
  
  
• One 2 x 2-inch photograph (not more than six months old) as per specification.
  
  
• Original signed form DS-156.
  
  
• Original Form DS-157 and DS-158.
  
  
• Evidence of financial resources: proof of liquid assets sufficient to pay for the entire first year of education and living expenses as well as proof of readily available funds to cover the remaining year(s) of studies.
  
  
• Original degree certificates along with mark sheets.
  
  
• Original Bachelor degree transcripts or high school diploma along with mark sheets from previous institutions attended.
  
  
• Relevant test scores, e.g. TOEFL and SAT, GRE, GMAT or LSAT.
  
  
• Work Experience Certificates, if applicable.

[...] Read more!

After I-20: Applying for a Visa

After getting your I-20 from the university you intend to attend, the next important step is applying for your visa. The students who wish to enter the US for full-time education purposes are eligible for an F1 visa. If you would bring along your spouse or dependents, they will require an F2 visa.

The visa dates should be taken as early as possible after you get your I-20 form. The dates run out soon during the busy season. A student visa may be issued no more than 120 days prior to the start date mentioned on your I-20. This post will elucidate the visa application process.


Paying the Visa Fees:

All applicants have to pay the visa application fees at a designated branch of HDFC bank (branch list) before applying for a visa. The fees is currently around Rs.5800 and is valid for 365 days. You will be given 2 copies of the receipts. Please retain them carefully and don't loose them. The visa fee receipt will be activated after 2 working days.


Visa Application and Interview Slot Booking:

After your receipt has been activated, you are ready to fill in the visa application and book an interview slot. The visa booking website for US consulates in India is: www.vfs-usa.co.in.
- Click on "Apply for a Non-Immigrant Visa".
- Click on continue
- Click on "NO" in the question of "DO YOU HAVE A BEP USER ID".
- Click on Create a New Application
- Follow the instructions and fill the application forms.
- Select an appointment date as per your convenience.
- You will also need to complete Form DS-156, Form DS-157 and Form DS-158.

Download and take print-outs of all the forms and the interview letter.


SEVIS Fee:

Before your visa interview, you must pay the SEVIS fee (around $100) (SEVIS I-901 fee) of $100 and obtain a SEVIS fee payment receipt. You should pay it at least before 3 working days from your visa interview date. To pay the fees, log on to: www.fmjfee.com. [...] Read more!