USA
About the USA
The United States is a land of contrasts, scale, and diversity. From the skyscrapers of New York to the beaches of California, the southern hospitality to the academic hubs of Boston or Chicago, every region feels like a different country. The U.S. is fast-paced, opportunity-driven, and culturally rich — but it can also be overwhelming at first.
You’ll find excellent universities, endless extracurricular opportunities, and a strong campus culture. Whether you’re into sports, research, politics, arts, or business, there’s always a way to get involved.
Before You Go – Visa & Entry Requirements
If you’re coming as an exchange student, you’ll most likely need a J-1 visa (for exchange visitors), or occasionally an F-1 visa (for full-time international students). Your host university will guide you on which one applies.
✅ Documents for J-1 visa:
Valid passport
DS-2019 form (sent by host university or sponsor)
Proof of finances
SEVIS fee payment confirmation (220 USD for J-1)
Visa application form (DS-160)
Visa appointment at the U.S. embassy
💡 Once granted, the J-1 visa allows entry for study and often includes authorization for on-campus work or internships (check specific conditions).
🖥️ Official info:
https://j1visa.state.gov/
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/study.html
Money & Cost of Living
The U.S. dollar ($USD) is the currency, and the cost of living varies a lot depending on the state and city.
East Coast (e.g. NYC, Boston) and West Coast (e.g. LA, SF): expensive
Midwest or South (e.g. Ohio, Texas, Georgia): more affordable
Estimated monthly budget:
Rent: $500–$1,500/month depending on the city and housing type
Food: $250–$400/month if cooking, more if eating out often
Transport: $30–$120/month (depending on local transit options)
Phone plan: $30–$60/month (check: Mint Mobile, T-Mobile, AT&T Prepaid)
💳 Credit/debit cards are widely accepted, even for small amounts. Some places prefer Apple Pay or contactless.
Housing in the U.S.
Most universities provide on-campus housing, which is the easiest option for exchange students. These may include shared dorm rooms with meal plans. Prices vary by campus.
Off-campus housing:
More independence, often cheaper — but leases can be 12 months long.
Always check if your visa/sponsorship allows off-campus housing.
Useful platforms:
Your university’s internal housing board or Facebook groups
💡 Be cautious with Craigslist: it’s useful, but scams do happen — always verify.
Traveling in the U.S.
The U.S. is vast — flying is often the only efficient way to travel long distances.
Domestic flights: Cheap if booked in advance (Southwest, Spirit, JetBlue, Delta, etc.)
Trains: Amtrak is scenic but slower and more expensive
Intercity buses: Greyhound, Flixbus, Megabus for budget travel
Car rental: A good option for road trips (check if you’re old enough — most companies require age 21+ and a credit card)
Must-visit places:
New York City: The city that never sleeps
San Francisco: The Golden Gate Bridge and tech culture
Chicago: Architecture, jazz, and deep-dish pizza
Los Angeles: Beaches, film industry, and diversity
Washington D.C.: U.S. politics and free Smithsonian museums
Las Vegas & Grand Canyon: The ultimate road trip duo
Useful Apps in the U.S.
Google Maps / Apple Maps: For directions and transit
Uber / Lyft: Ride-hailing apps used everywhere
Grubhub / DoorDash / UberEats: Food delivery
Venmo / Zelle / CashApp: Money transfer between friends
Target / Walmart / Instacart: Groceries and home supplies
Yelp: Restaurant and service reviews
Mint Mobile / Google Fi: Budget-friendly phone plans
Campus Life & Culture
Campus spirit is a big deal: join clubs, go to football games, and attend events
Office hours: Professors expect students to ask questions and seek feedback — use them!
Tipping culture: You must tip 15–20% at restaurants, bars, taxis, etc.
Healthcare is expensive: You must have valid health insurance (your university usually requires it).
Academic honesty is taken very seriously — plagiarism can result in expulsion.