Study in the USA for Ukrainians

Exchange Visitor Visa J

Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to enter the United States must first obtain a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. Exchange visitor (J) visas are nonimmigrant visas for individuals approved to participate in exchange visitor programs in the United States.

Exchange Visitor Categories Include:

- Au pair and EduCare

- Camp Counselor

- Government Visitor

- Intern

- International Visitor (Dept. of State use)

- Physician

- Professor and Research Scholar

- Short-term Scholar

- Specialist

- Student, college/university

- Student, secondary

- Summer Work Travel

- Teacher

- Trainee

Exchange Visitors cannot travel on the Visa Waiver Program or with Visitor Visas - An exchange visitor visa (J) is required to participate in an exchange visitor program in the United States.  Foreign nationals may not study after entering on a visitor (B) visa or through the Visa Waiver Program (VWP)  For more information on the VWP, see Visa Waiver Program.

Acceptance in Exchange Visitor Program -  The first step is to apply for and be accepted into an exchange visitor program through a designated sponsoring organization in the United States. Visit the Department of State J-1 Visa Exchange Visitor Program website to learn about program requirements, regulations, and more.

After the exchange visitor program accepts your participation, you will be registered for the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee (except in certain cases – consult your exchange visitor program sponsor). Visit the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) website to learn more about SEVIS and the SEVIS I-901 Fee.

How to Apply

There are several steps to apply for a visa. The order of these steps and how you complete them may vary by U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Please consult the instructions on the embassy or consulate website.

1. Complete the Online Visa Application

Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 – Learn more about completing the DS-160.

You must:

1) complete the online visa application and

2) print the application form confirmation page to bring to your interview.

2. Photo – You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. Your photo must be in the format explained in the Photograph Requirements.

3. Schedule an Interview

Interviews are generally required for visa applicants with certain limited exceptions below. Consular officers may require an interview of any visa applicant.

👇🏼 Please note!

To move, travel or study safely in a new country, you will need health insurance. You can apply for an extended policy on our website here.

If you are age:

- 13 and younger

- 14 - 79

- 80 and older

Then an interview is:

- Generally not required

- Required (some exceptions for renewals)

- Generally not required

You should schedule an appointment for your visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the country where you live. You may schedule your interview at another U.S. Embassy or Consulate, but be aware that it may be more difficult to qualify for a visa outside of the country where you live. 

4. Appointment Wait Time

Wait times for interview appointments vary by location, season, and visa category, so you should apply for your visa early.

Review the interview wait time for the location where you will apply:

Check the estimated wait time for a nonimmigrant visa interview appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

To check the estimated wait time for a nonimmigrant visa interview appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate use this link, and for checking waiting time information visit following link.

5. Prepare for Your Interview

Fees - Pay the non-refundable visa application fee, if you are required to pay it before your interview. If your visa is approved, you may also need to pay a visa issuance fee, if applicable to your nationality. Fee information is provided below: 

Application fee: $160

For more information about Fees for Visa service visit link.

Review the instructions available on the website of the embassy or consulate where you will apply to learn more about fee payment.

Note: U.S. government sponsored exchange visitor (J visa) applicants and their dependents are not required to pay application processing fees if participating in a Department of State, a U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), or a Federally funded educational and cultural exchange program which has a program serial number beginning with G-1, G-2, G-3, or G-7 printed on Form DS-2019, Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status. U.S. government sponsored exchange visitor (J visa) applicants and their dependents are also not required to pay applicable issuance fees.

6. Gather Required Documentation

Gather and prepare the following required documents before your visa interview:

1) Passport valid for travel to the United States - Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay in the United States (unless exempt by country-specific agreements). Each individual who needs a visa must submit a separate application, including any family members listed in your passport.

2) Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 confirmation page.

3) Application fee payment receipt, if you are required to pay before your interview.

4) Photo – You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. If the photo upload fails, you must bring one printed photo in the format explained in the Photograph Requirements. 

5) Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status, Form DS-2019 – Your program sponsor will provide you a SEVIS-generated Form DS-2019 after the sponsor enters your information in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) database. All exchange visitors must be registered in SEVIS. Your spouse and/or minor children, if they intend to live in the United States with you, will each receive a separate Form DS-2019.

6) Training/Internship Placement Plan, Form DS-7002 – In addition to the Form DS 2019, participants in the J-1 Trainee and Intern categories require Form DS-7002 (based on Box 7 on Form DS-2019). Learn more about the Trainee and Intern programs.

Legal Rights and Protections

You must read the Legal Rights and Protections pamphlet to learn about your rights in the United States and protection available to you. Review this important pamphlet before applying for your visa.

Additional Documentation May Be Required

A consular officer will interview you to determine your qualifications for an exchange visitor visa, and may request additional documents, such as evidence of:

- The purpose of your travel;

- Your intent to depart the United States after your travel;

- Your ability to pay all travel costs.

- Evidence of your employment and/or your family ties may be sufficient to show the purpose of your travel and your intent to return to your home country. If you cannot cover all the costs for your travel, you may show evidence that another person will cover some or all costs for your travel.

Review the instructions for how to apply for a visa on the website of the embassy or consulate where you will apply.

7. Attend Your Visa Interview

A consular officer will interview you to determine whether you are qualified to receive an exchange visitor visa. You must establish that you meet the requirements under U.S. law to receive a visa. 

Ink-free, digital fingerprint scans are taken as part of the application process. They are usually taken during your interview, but this varies based on location.

👇🏼 Please note!

To ensure a safe move to a new country, we advise you to contact a specialist. Our qualified specialists with legal education will help you avoid unpleasant situations during your studies.

After your visa interview, the consular officer may determine that your application requires further administrative processing. The consular officer will inform you if this is required.

After the visa is approved, you may need to pay a visa issuance fee (if applicable to your nationality), and make arrangements for the return of the passport and visa to you. Review the visa processing times to learn more.

Two-year Home-Country Physical Presence Requirement

When you agree to participate in an Exchange Visitor Program and your program falls under the conditions below, you will be subject to the two-year home-country physical presence (foreign residence) requirement. This means you will be required to return to your home country for two years at the end of your exchange visitor program. This requirement under immigration law is based on Section 212(e) of the Immigration and Nationality Act.

Two-year Home-country Physical Presence Requirement Conditions - An exchange visitor is subject to the two-year home-country physical presence requirement if the following conditions exist:

- Government funded exchange program - The program is financed in whole or in part directly or indirectly by the U.S. government or the government of the exchange visitor's nationality or last residence;

- Graduate medical education or training - The exchange visitor entered the United States to receive graduate medical education or training;

- Specialized knowledge or skill: Skills List - The exchange visitor is a national or permanent resident of a country which has deemed the field of specialized knowledge or skill necessary to the development of the country, as shown on the Exchange Visitor Skills List. Review the Exchange Visitor Skills List .

Restrictions - If you are subject to the two-year home-country physical presence requirement, you must return to your home country for a cumulative total period of at least two years before you can do any of the following:

- Change status while in the United States to the nonimmigrant categories of temporary worker (H) or intracompany transferee (L);

- Adjust status while in the United States to immigrant visa/lawful permanent resident status (LPR);

- Receive an immigrant visaat a U.S. Embassy or Consulate; or

- Receive a temporary worker (H), intracompany transferee (L), or fiancé (K) visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

- Waiver of Two Year Home-Country Physical Presence Requirement - If you are not able to fulfill the home country presence requirement, you may apply for a waiver. Select Waiver of the Exchange Visitor Two-Year - Home-Country Physical Presence Requirement to learn more about this requirement and how to request a waiver.

8. Entering the United States

A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States. A visa only allows a foreign citizen to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry (generally an airport) and request permission to enter the United States. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at the port of entry have authority to permit or deny admission to the United States.

After you present your passport, visa, and DS-2019 at the port-of-entry, a CBP official will make this decision.  Once you are allowed to enter the United States, the CBP official will provide an admission stamp or paper Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record. 

Learn about procedures for students (with F or M visas) entering the United States on the CBP website under Arrival Procedures for Students or Exchange Visitors.  Learn more about admissions and entry requirements, restrictions about bringing food, agricultural products, and other restricted/prohibited goods, and more by reviewing the CBP website.

Extending Your Stay

See Program Extension on the Department of State Exchange Visitor Program website to learn about requesting to extend your exchange visitor program beyond the date listed on your Form DS-2019.

Additional information to maintain exchange visitor status is on the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement SEVP website under Maintaining Your Immigration Status While a Student or Exchange Visitor.

Failure to depart the United States on time will result in being out of status. Under U.S. law, visas of individuals who are out of status are automatically voided (Section 222(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. Any multiple entry visa that was voided due to being out of status will not be valid for future entries into the United States. 

Change of Status

If your plans change while in the United States (for example, you marry a U.S. citizen or receive an offer of employment), you may be able to request a change in your nonimmigrant status to another category through  U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). See Change My Nonimmigrant Status on the USCIS website to learn more.

While you are in the United States, receiving a change of status from USCIS does not require you to apply for a new visa. However, once you depart the United States, you must apply for a visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the appropriate category for your travel.

Additional Information

There is no guarantee that you will be issued a visa. Do not make final travel plans or buy tickets until you have a visa.

For information about working in the United States during your exchange program, review Exchange Visitors and Employment Authorization on the USCIS website.

Spouse and children

Your spouse and unmarried, minor children may be able to apply for J-2 visas to accompany or join you at a later date to reside with you during your J program, if permitted on your exchange program category. While SEVIS fee payment is not required, your sponsor must issue them separate DS-2019 Forms, which are required when they apply for their visas, along with a copy of the primary visa holder’s J-1 visa and proof of relationship.

Your minor children are permitted to attend school while in the United States on J-2 visas and are not required to obtain student (F) visas. 

U.S. Embassies and Consulates will adjudicate visa applications that are based on a same-sex marriage in the same way that we adjudicate applications for opposite gender spouses. 

A valid U.S. visa in an expired passport is still valid. Unless canceled or revoked, a visa is valid until its expiration date. Therefore, a valid U.S. visa in an expired passport is still valid. If you have a valid visa in your expired passport, do not remove it from your expired passport. You may use your valid visa in your expired passport along with a new valid passport for travel and admission to the United States. 

Student Visa F, M

Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to enter the United States must first obtain a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. You must have a student visa to study in the United States. Your course of study and the type of school you plan to attend determine whether you need an F visa or an M visa.

To enter the United States to attend you need the following visa category F for:

- University or college

- High School

- Private elementary school

- Seminary

- Conservatory

- Another academic institution, including a language training program

To enter the United States to attend you need the following visa category M for:

- Vocational or other recognized nonacademic institution, other than a language training program.

Students cannot travel on the Visa Waiver Program or with Visitor Visas

A student visa (F or M) is required to study in the United States. Foreign nationals may not study after entering on a visitor (B) visa or through the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), except to undertake recreational study (non-credit) as part of a tourist visit. 

For short periods of recreational study, a Visitor (B) visa may be appropriate

A visitor (B) visa permits enrollment in a short recreational course of study, which is not for credit toward a degree or academic certificate. 

Study leading to a U.S. conferred degree or certificate is never permitted on a visitor (B) visa, even if it is for a short duration. For example, a student in a distance learning program that  requires a period of time on the institution’s U.S. campus must obtain a student (F or M) visa prior to entering the United States.

Student Acceptance at a SEVP Approved School

The first step is to apply to a SEVP-approved school in the United States.  After the SEVP-approved school accepts your enrollment, you will be registered for the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee.  The SEVP-approved school will issue you a Form I-20.  After you receive the Form I-20 and register in SEVIS, you may apply at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate for a student (F or M) visa.  You must present the Form I-20 to the consular officer when you attend your visa interview.

If your spouse and/or children intend to live with you in the United States while you study, they must also enroll in SEVIS, obtain individual Form I-20s from the SEVP-approved school, and apply for a visa (but they do not pay the SEVIS fee).

Visit the Department of State Education USA website to learn about educational opportunities for undergraduate and graduate study, and an overview of the application process.  You can also visit the DHS Study in the States school search page to search for SEVP-certified schools.

💡 Tip: To ensure a successful trip to a new country, take advantage of expert advice. Our qualified specialists with legal education will help you avoid unpleasant situations during your stay abroad.

How To Apply

There are several steps to apply for a visa. The order of these steps and how you complete them may vary by U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Please consult the instructions on the embassy or consulate website. 

1. Complete the Online Visa Application

Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 

You must:

1) complete the online visa application, and

2) print the application form confirmation page to bring to your interview.

2. Photo –You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. Your photo must be in the format explained in the Photograph Requirements.

3. Schedule an Interview

Interviews are generally required for visa applicants with certain limited exceptions below. Consular officers may require an interview of any visa applicant.

If you are age:

- 13 and younger

- 14 - 79

- 80 and older

Then an interview is:

- Generally not required

- Required (some exceptions for renewals)

- Generally not required

You should schedule an appointment for your visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the country where you live. You may schedule your interview at another U.S. Embassy or Consulate, but be aware that it may be more difficult to qualify for a visa outside of the country where you live. 

4. Appointment Wait Time

Wait times for interview appointments vary by location, season, and visa category, so you should apply for your visa early.

Review the interview wait time for the location where you will apply:

Check the estimated wait time for a nonimmigrant visa interview appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

To check the estimated wait time for a nonimmigrant visa interview appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate use this link  and for checking waiting time information visit following link.

New Students – Student (F and M) visas for new students can be issued up to 120 days in advance of the start date for a course of study.  However, you will not be allowed to enter the United States on your student visa more than 30 days before the start date.

Continuing Students - Student (F and M) visas for continuing students may be issued at any time, as long as the student is currently enrolled at a SEVP-approved school or institution and in SEVIS.  Continuing students may enter the United States at any time before classes start.

5. Prepare for Your Interview

Fees - Pay the non-refundable visa application fee, if you are required to pay it before your interview. If your visa is approved, you may also need to pay a visa issuance fee, if applicable to your nationality.

Fee information is provided below: 

Application fee: $160

For more information about Fees for Visa service visit link.

Review the instructions available on the website of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you will apply to learn more about fee payment.

6. Gather Required Documentation

Gather and prepare the following required documents before your visa interview:

1) Passport valid for travel to the United States – Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay in the United States (unless exempt by country-specific agreements). Each individual who needs a visa must submit a separate application, including any family members listed in your passport.

2) Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 confirmation page.

3) Application fee payment receipt, if you are required to pay before your interview.

4) Photo – You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. If the photo upload fails, you must bring one printed photo in the format explained in the Photograph Requirements. 

5) Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (F-1) Student Status-For Academic and Language Students, Form I-20 or Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (M-1) Student Status for Vocational Students, Form I-20 – Your school will send you a Form I-20 once they have entered your information in the SEVIS database. You and your school official must sign the Form I-20.  All students must be registered in the Student and Exchange Visitor System (SEVIS). Your spouse and/or minor children, if they intend to live in the United States with you, will each receive an individual Form I-20.

👇🏼 Please note!

To move, travel or study safely in a new country, you will need health insurance. You can apply for an extended policy on our website here.

Additional Documentation May Be Required

A consular officer will interview you to determine your qualifications for a student visa, and may request additional documents, such as evidence of:

Your academic preparation, such as:

- Transcripts, diplomas, degrees, or certificates from schools you attended; and

- Standardized test scores required by your U.S. school;

- Your intent to depart the United States upon completion of the course of study; and

- How you will pay all educational, living and travel costs. 

Review the instructions for how to apply for a visa on the website of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you will apply. 

7. Attend Your Visa Interview

A consular officer will interview you to determine whether you are qualified to receive a student visa. You must establish that you meet the requirements under U.S. law to receive a visa.

Ink-free, digital fingerprint scans are taken as part of the application process. They are usually taken during your interview, but this varies based on location.

After your visa interview, the consular officer may determine that your application requires further administrative processing.  The consular officer will inform you if this is required.

After the visa is approved, you may need to pay a visa issuance fee (if applicable to your nationality), and make arrangements for the return of the passport and visa to you.  Review the visa processing times to learn more.

8. Entering the United States

A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States.  A visa only allows a foreign citizen to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry (generally an airport) and request permission to enter the United States. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at the port-of-entry have authority to permit or deny admission to the United States.  

After you present your passport, visa, and Form I-20 at the port-of-entry, a CBP official will make this decision.  Once you are allowed to enter the United States, the CBP official will provide an admission stamp or paper Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record.  

Learn about procedures for students (with F or M visas) entering the United States on the CBP website under Arrival Procedures for Students or Exchange Visitors.  Learn about admissions and entry requirements, restrictions about bringing food, agricultural products, and other restricted/prohibited goods, and more by reviewing the CBP website.

Extending Your Stay

Foreign students in the United States with F visas must depart the United States within 60 days after the program end date listed on Form I-20, including any authorized practical training.

Foreign students may request an extension through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website (see the USCIS Extend Your Stay page). Additional information to maintain student status is on the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement SEVP website under Maintaining Your Immigration Status While a Student or Exchange Visitor.

Failure to depart the United States ontime will result in being out of status. Under U.S. law, visas of individuals who are out of status are automatically voided (Section 222(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act).  Any multiple entry visa that was voided due to being out of status will not be valid for future entries into the United States. 

Failure to depart the United States on time may also result in you being ineligible for visas in the future. Review Visa Denials and Ineligibilities and Waivers: Laws to learn more.

Change of Status

If your plans change while in the United States (for example, you marry a U.S. citizen or receive an offer of employment), you may be able to request a change in your nonimmigrant status to another category through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). See Change My Nonimmigrant Status on the USCIS website to learn more.

While you are in the United States, receiving a change of status from USCIS does not require you to apply for a new visa.  However, once you depart the United States you must apply for a new visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the appropriate category for your travel.

Additional Information

There is no guarantee you will be issued a visa. Do not make final travel plans or buy tickets until you have a visa.

For information about working in the United States during your study, review Students and Employment and Form I-765 Work Authorization Instructions on the USCIS website.

Spouse and children

Your spouse and unmarried, minor children who intend to reside with you during your study may apply for F-2 or M-2 visas. Although SEVIS fee payment is not required, your school must issue them an individual Form I-20, which is required to apply for their visas. You must provide a copy of your F-1 or M-1 visa and provide proof of relationship.

Your minor children are permitted to attend school in the United States while accompanying you.

U.S. Embassies and Consulates will adjudicate visa applications that are based on a same-sex marriage in the same way that we adjudicate applications for opposite gender spouses.

A valid U.S. visa in an expired passport is still valid. Unless canceled or revoked, a visa is valid until its expiration date. If you have a valid visa in your expired passport, do not remove it from your expired passport. You may use your valid visa in your expired passport along with a new valid passport for travel and admission to the United States.

Fulbright Program in the USA

The Fulbright Undergraduate Program provides opportunities for graduate students, young professionals, and artists from abroad to study and conduct research in the United States at American universities or other academic institutions.

The Fulbright Program encourages applications from all fields, including interdisciplinary ones.

Approximately 4,000 international students are awarded Fulbright scholarships each year.

Amount/duration of the scholarship:

As a rule, the grant covers the costs of tuition, airfare, living allowance, health insurance, etc. The Fulbright Program provides funding for the entire period of study. For a full list of scholarship benefits, see the official website and the websites of specific countries.

Eligibility for the program:

Please visit the website to find information about the Fulbright Program, including eligibility requirements and application instructions.

Application Instructions:

All Fulbright Program applications are processed by the binational Fulbright Commissions/Foundations or U.S. embassies. Therefore, students should apply through the Fulbright Commission/Foundation or the U.S. Embassy in Ukraine or neighboring countries. The application deadline varies from country to country, but is approximately February to October each year.

Hubert Humphrey Scholarships in the USA for International Students

Deadline: October 1 (annually)

The Humphrey Fellowship Program is designed for experienced professionals interested in strengthening their leadership skills through the mutual exchange of knowledge and understanding of issues of common interest to the United States and the countries of origin.

Fellows are placed at one of the participating U.S. universities. Fellows cannot choose which university they will attend. Instead, they are assigned to different groups of 7-15 people to the most appropriate university based on their area of interest and professional activities.

Level/field of study:

As a non-degree program, the fellowship offers valuable opportunities for professional development through selected university courses, conference attendance, networking, and practical work experience. Areas in which you can apply for the program

- Agriculture and rural development

- Communications/journalism

- Economic development

- Education management, planning and policy

- Finance and banking

- Higher education management

- HIV/AIDS policy and prevention

- Human resource management

- Law and human rights

- Natural resources, environmental policy and climate change

- Public health policy and management

- Public policy analysis and public administration

- Education, treatment and prevention of substance abuse

- Teaching English as a foreign language

- Technology policy and management

- Policy and prevention of human trafficking

- Urban and regional planning

About 200 scholarships are awarded annually.

The scholarship provides for

- Tuition and fees at the designated host university;

- Pre-academic training in English, if necessary;

- Living allowance, including a one-time settling-in allowance;

- Accident and health insurance;

- Assistance for the purchase of books;

- One-time computer subsidy;

- Air transportation 

Eligibility for assistance:

Applicant must have:

- Bachelor's degree (first higher education),

- Minimum five years of full-time professional work experience

- Limited or no previous experience in the United States,

- Demonstrated leadership skills,

- Experience in community service 

- Knowledge of the English language

Application instructions:

Application deadlines fall between May and September each year. The U.S. Embassy or Fulbright Binational Commission submitting the nomination will notify you of its internal application deadline. Embassies and commissions must submit their nominations to the Institute of International Education office in Washington, DC by October 1.

More details here.

Cornell University Scholarships for Ukrainian Students 

A need-based financial aid program designed specifically for undergraduate students. This scholarship aims to provide financial support to students who have applied for financial aid and can demonstrate genuine financial need.

More details here.

Language courses for Ukrainians

English as a second language, or ESL, is a technique designed specifically for adults who need to learn to speak another language quickly.

Training courses in libraries are a common practice in America. Many institutions offer immigrants to learn English in interactive classes. For example, by watching movies and then discussing the plot in class. This practice is aimed at improving spoken language comprehension and developing oral communication. There are also standard lessons for learning to write and read. 

There are several ways to find courses at the library:

- find a public library in your city online

- visit the nearest library and find out about the courses

- ask at immigrant forums.

In the United States, there are many libraries that offer free English courses for Ukrainians, where you can brush up on your language skills or start learning English from scratch.

Community colleges

Most community colleges offer ESL and TOEFL exam preparation courses as non-credit courses. Many colleges offer these non-credit courses for free. You will need to check with the specific college to see if it offers these courses and if they are fee-based.

To prove your language skills at universities, you will need to pass an English language exam in order to attend classes. If you do not pass the exam at a sufficient level, you may have to take paid ESP courses before you are allowed to take other courses at the college or university. There is a fee for paid ESP courses, but you may be eligible for financial aid. Find out about refugee financial aid at your local college.

Employment centers

You can learn English while looking for a job. Many organizations offer free English language courses to help immigrants, refugees, and new Americans adjust to society more quickly. They are not like classes at an English language school: they usually take place in an informal, relaxed setting. The centers also offer advanced language training for employment.

1. We Speak NYC (New York, NY) - offers weekly courses for immigrants learning English. The program is focused on everyday life.

2. American Civic Association (Binghamton, New York) - the Association's school conducts classes all year round. In addition to free courses, they provide immigration counseling.

3. Florida Literacy Coalition (Florida) - offers language courses in the United States and webinars for employment and everyday life.

4. El Sol Neighborhood Resource Center (Jupiter, Florida) is the most popular center among Central American immigrants. It offers English classes three times a week and assistance in learning the language for work.

5. Immigrant Learning Center (Malden, Massachusetts) - offers morning and evening classes. Immigrants and refugees can learn English from the age of 16. There are also courses to prepare for the citizenship exam.

Non-profit and for-profit organizations

This category includes community centers for immigrants and refugees, charitable organizations, and church communities. Both volunteers and professional teachers help you learn English from scratch here. Sometimes these organizations cooperate with government agencies to provide migrants with jobs after graduation. 

You can find such organizations near your home:

- through an internet search engine;

- in social networks and chats of the Ukrainian diaspora

- by asking your new friends. 

There are several excellent courses offered by for-profit and non-profit organizations in the United States:

1. Institute for Immigrant Affairs (Manhattan, New York). It offers courses in English as a foreign language. There is a support service for immigrants. All classes for refugees and asylum seekers are free of charge.

2. United Mission Relief & Development (Washington, DC). Offers 12-week English language courses. Volunteers organize American cultural events and excursions to help with adaptation.

3. LSI - Luteran Services in Iowa (Des Moines, Iowa). Provides migrants and refugees with online and classroom classes. Courses are aimed at improving language and social skills for a decent standard of living in a new society.

4. International Institute of Minnesota (St. Paul, Minnesota). Provides free education for immigrants and refugees living in the state. Personal presence is required for registration. There are 4 classes where you can learn English both in person and via Zoom.

5. Heartland Alliance (Chicago, Illinois). English language courses, individual and group lessons, job preparation and digital literacy are offered for immigrants.

1. Florida universities attract not only with low tuition and living costs, but also with high rankings among American and world universities in the field of business. In addition, the warm climate and proximity to the ocean make studying in this state even more attractive. 

2. Studying in New York is chosen by those students who want to do internships in well-known companies, make useful contacts and be in the center of events. Unlike most cities in America, New York City has a very well-developed public transportation system: students will have no trouble getting to any part of the city day or night.

3. The package of documents (application, main motivation letter and essay, school grades, SAT, TOEFL test results, letters of recommendation) should ideally be ready 8-10 months before the start of the academic year. This is provided that the student's average academic level is above average.

4. Usually, international students in the United States can only find a job on campus or in their field of study, so you should start your job search with your educational institution. The staff of the student office will always help you find a job or internship, as well as tell you where and how to find a job that will allow you to do exactly what your visa type allows.

5. You can also look for a job or internship on your own, but in any case, you will have to coordinate your choice with the educational institution. In addition, different faculties of each American university have their own websites and student employment services, so students should first familiarize themselves with university offers for internships and part-time jobs of various types.

What does the path from “I want to study in the United States” to the “admitted” letter look like? Below is a plain language explanation, without unnecessary legends and with all the critical nuances for Ukrainian citizens.

Where and how to apply

There is no single government portal in the United States. For bachelor's degrees, most universities accept applications through the Common App (one application form for many universities), some through the Coalition on Scoir; the University of California system has a separate application and its own dates. A few universities (MIT, etc.) use their own offices. For creative majors, portfolios are often submitted through the integrated SlideRoom service. Before you start, make sure that the chosen institution is accredited (US Department of Education / CHEA) and SEVP-certified - only such institutions can issue Form I-20 for an F-1 student visa.

Documents: what to prepare in advance

• Certificate/diploma and transcript of grades (official, from the school/university). If they are not in English, they must be accompanied by an official translation (verbatim, format-to-format) approved by the university. Translations from the educational institution, licensed translation agencies, or through the EducationUSA network are often accepted.
• Language: TOEFL iBT/IELTS Academic; a growing number of universities accept Duolingo English Test - but conditions vary, so check program requirements.
• Tests (undergraduate): The policy varies. Some of the top universities require the SAT/ACT again (including Harvard, Yale, Dartmouth, Brown); many others leave the test-optional. The SAT is now fully digital.
• Essay (personal and supplemental questions), CV/activities, recommendations from teachers/professors. For the creative arts, a portfolio (via SlideRoom).
• Financial proof for the I-20 form (after enrollment): the university must make sure that there is enough money for a year of study/living (cost of attendance minus scholarship). Without this, the I-20 will not be issued.

About “nostrification”: the United States usually does not “legalize” foreign diplomas as in Europe. Instead, some institutions/programs ask for an evaluation of documents from NACES members (WES, ECE, etc.) - often for master's programs or when it is difficult to compare courses. The terms and conditions are at the discretion of the university.

Do I need a “preparatory year”?

There is no classic foundation, as in the UK. Instead, there are ESL / pathway programs at universities or conditional admission: you are accepted on the basis of academics, and you will start your degree program after confirming your English (sometimes after completing intensive English). Important: An I-20 for an academic program is issued only when all the conditions are met; at the pathway stage, an I-20 is usually issued for the language/preparatory track.

Deadlines - when to click “Submit”

• Early rounds: Early Action/Early Decision - usually November 1-15; responses are usually in December. ED - binding.
• Regular Decision: most often on January 1-5 (responses are in March/April). Some universities work on rolling admission - they read applications as they come in.
• UC system (California): its own application calendar (for the fall - from October to early December). Admission to the University of California
• Master's/PhD: deadlines vary widely, but for fall admission, December-February windows are popular; engineering/CS often asks for mid-December. Check the website of a particular department.

How to apply: steps that work

1. Collect a list of universities (fit by specialty/cost/state). Check accreditation and SEVP status (this is critical for a visa).

2. Create an account in the appropriate system (Common App / UC / separate portal), create draft essays. The Common App has up-to-date samples and help.

3. Official evaluations: upload translations and, if required, order a credential evaluation (NACES member). Read the “Required Documents” carefully.

4. Language/tests: upload results; if necessary, add a portfolio via SlideRoom.

5. Finances: schools may ask for bank statements/letters of guarantee for the future I-20 (to issue the document faster after enrollment). This is not about the visa - it is separate, but there will be no I-20 without financial confirmation.

6. Payment or fee waiver: in Common App, international applicants can also request a fee waiver (the decision is up to the university).

There is a simple rule: plan A is campus (dormitory + meal plan), plan B is off-campus rental.

Campus: how it works and how much it costs

In many 4-year universities, freshmen are asked to live on campus - this guarantees a place, provided that the application and deposit are submitted on time. The advantages: close to classes, support from resident assistants, a ready-made meal plan. The disadvantages are less freedom and a “package” price. The College Board study shows that the average cost of housing + food on campus in 2024/25 is approximately $13,310/year at public 4-year institutions and $15,250/year at private non-profit institutions. This is the “US average” - it will be more expensive in large cities.

Meal plan. Most campuses require freshmen to choose a meal plan; the average check in the country is about $5,600/year (there are cheaper/expensive ones depending on the number of “credits/meal swipes”).

Medical requirements at check-in. Before arrival, universities ask for vaccinations (MMR, pertussis/diphtheria/tetanus, chickenpox, meningococcal ACWY under 21) and tuberculosis screening; the requirements are confirmed by the policy of UC and other large systems. J-1s are required to have insurance with federal minimums (medical $100k, evacuation $50k, repatriation $25k, deductible ≤ $500).

Renting off-campus: what to consider

The average rent in the United States is ≈$1,640/month for an apartment (1-bedroom/studio in college towns may be lower, in metropolitan areas - higher). You can also look at HUD Fair Market Rents for your county for a guide.

Where to look. Portals such as Apartments.com/Zillow, local university Off-Campus Housing sites, student groups on social media. Check the listing for an adequate contract, a clear list of utilities, and a transparent deposit policy - this way there are fewer chances of “traps”.

Deposit and payments in advance. In most states, the deposit = 1 month of rent; sometimes 1.5-2 months (depending on local law). An application fee may be charged separately for the background check (often $30-$75, in some jurisdictions it is strictly limited, e.g. New York - $20).

Utilities and small expenses. Specify what is included in the rent: internet, water/garbage, electricity, parking. Renter's insurance is often required by the contract and costs about $15-30/month - it covers your belongings and liability.

Credit history, SSN, and guarantor. Many Ukrainians lack local credit - in this case, the landlord may ask for a co-signer/guarantor (a relative in the US) or allow a larger deposit/advance payment or a third party guarantor for a fee. This is a common practice in the student market; university guides explicitly warn about it.

Contract term and sublet. The standard is 12 months. If you are going home for the summer, look for the sublease option (permission in the contract + owner's approval). Remember: when subleasing, you are still responsible to the landlord, so check the subtenant just as carefully.

How to choose between campus and rental - in brief

• Campus - easier to get started, there is support, a transparent price for housing + food, but less flexibility. The average “room & board” already includes basic expenses.
• Renting - more space/freedom and can be cheaper in college towns, but add a deposit, utilities, insurance, and transportation; in megacities, it often costs more than a campus.

Mini-checklist before moving in

1. Compare the total cost: dormitory (room & board) vs rent (rent + utilities + insurance + transportation + furniture).

2. Check the university's immunization/medical forms; for J-1s, make sure the policy meets federal minimums.

3. Read the contract: the term (often 12 months), deposit, fees, penalties, and departure rules. Do not sign under pressure “they will pick you up in an hour”.

4. Prepare financial documents for the application (income/bank statements) or guarantor.

5. Take out renter's insurance and write down the dates of the home inspection/key handover.

In the United States, not only tuition is considered, but the entire Cost of Attendance (CoA) - tuition + fees + room and board + textbooks and incidentals. This is important: it is the CoA that the university relies on when it asks for financial evidence for I-20 (F-1) or DS-2019 (J-1).

How much does tuition & fees cost (bachelor's degree, national average)

• Public 4-year (in-state) - $11,610/year.
• Public 4-year (out-of-state) - $30,780/year (this is usually the rate for foreigners).
• Private non-profit 4-year - $43,350/year.

Average room & board on campus: $13,310/year in public and $15,250/year in private institutions. And the full student budget (CoA) on average is $29,910/year (public in-state), $49,080/year (public out-of-state) and $62,990/year (private non-profit).

If you want to save money on the first two years, consider a community college: the average “sticker price” is $4,050/year (in-district). Then you can transfer to a 4-year university for the 3rd year under a transfer agreement.

What to buy additionally (and where deadlines often “burn”)

• Textbooks/materials. On average, ~$1,300-1,400/year. We save money through e-books/rentals/used and OER courses.
• Health insurance. For F-1s, the university usually makes a mandatory student policy or requires a waiver with equivalent coverage. Realistic rates on campuses are ≈$2,400-2,800/year (ex: University of Utah - $2,765/year, ASU - $2,765/year, Colorado State - $2,407/year). For J-1/J-2, the minimum limits are set by the state (medical $100k, evacuation $50k, repatriation $25k, deductible ≤ $500).
• Mandatory “small” payments from the university: student fees, international student fee (often $100-$500/year; ASU example - $400), health service fee, faculty technical fees. Check the schedule for your campus.
• Travel, personal expenses. On average, the “other items” in the CoA are ~$5,000/year (outside of tuition and room & board). This is something that “eats up” the budget unnoticed.