cost of education

Received an Admission for Fall 2025! What to Do Next?

Dilip Oak's Academy

Many Students have already submitted their applications for Fall (August) 25. Of course, many universities are still accepting applications since their deadlines are available until March 31, 2025. However, since universities process applications on a rolling basis, students have already started receiving admissions and will continue getting decisions till May/June 2025.

Congratulations on receiving admission offers for Fall 2025. Having achieved this huge milestone, you are now entering the crucial phase of planning your next steps till your Visa is approved.

Selection of Final University

Once you have received an offer, here’s what you need to do next:

  • Evaluate the university’s ranking, course curriculum, job opportunities, and tuition fees before making a decision.
  • Consider factors like location and cost of living.
  • Check for merit-based scholarships and assistantships (RA/TA positions) at your university.
  • Part-time on-campus jobs can help cover living expenses.

Types of Admission Offers

Each university follows a different process when it comes to issuing admission letters and the I-20 form, a crucial immigration document that is necessary for obtaining a student visa. Here are the most common types of admission offers you might receive:

1. Admission Letter with I-20 Form

  • Some universities issue both the admission letter and the I-20 form simultaneously.
  • This is the most convenient scenario, as you can accept the admission and still wait for responses from other universities before making your final decision.

2. Admission Letter Without I-20 Form

  • In some cases, universities send an acceptance letter but will not issue the I-20 until you formally accept their offer.
  • You can accept their offer, request to issue the I-20 form and keep your options open while you wait for decisions from other universities.

3. I-20 to be issued Based on Financial Documents

Some universities require proof of financial capability before issuing the I-20. Students must submit a bank certificate or a letter of a sanctioned education loan to demonstrate sufficient funds.

  • The required amount should cover two semesters of tuition, one year of living expenses and other costs, if any.
  • You can include funds in Savings Bank account, Fixed Deposits and Public Provident Fund. Some universities also accept funds in the General Provident Fund.
  • Students can also temporarily borrow funds from family or friends to obtain a bank certificate and repay the amount immediately after issuance of the bank certificate.
  • Since students apply to multiple universities, it is advisable to get around eight copies of the bank certificate, which is valid for three months. The bank certificate should be equal to the cost of the most expensive university among your options so that it can be used for all the universities you have applied.
  • If personal funds cannot be arranged, a loan sanction letter from a bank or non-banking financial institution (NBFC) can be submitted instead.

4. Non-Refundable Deposit Requirement

  • Some universities require a non-refundable deposit (ranging from $100 to $750) as a confirmation of admission before issuing the I-20.
  • If you are unsure about enrolling at that university, it is better to delay the payment.
  • However, if the university is your preferred choice, paying the deposit within the deadline is advisable.

Cost of Education:

Studying for a master’s in the USA is a significant financial investment. Unlike domestic students who may qualify for in-state tuition, international students must pay out-of-state tuition fees, which are typically higher.

For example, if the annual in-state tuition fee is $10,000, the out-of-state tuition fee can go up to $25,000 or more. Additionally, due to the appreciation of the USD and increasing living costs in the U.S., education costs have risen further.

On average, a master’s degree from a decent university can cost between ₹45–50 lakhs, including tuition, living expenses, and other fees.

Education Loans for MS in the USA

Due to the high cost, many students choose to fund their education through education loans. These loans can be obtained from:

  • Nationalized Banks (State Bank of India,Bank of Baroda, etc.)
  • Private Banks (HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, Axis Bank, etc.)
  • Cooperative Banks (Cosmos Bank, Saraswat Bank etc.)
  • NBFCs (Non-Banking Financial Institutions) (Credila Financial Services, etc.)

Interest Rates and Loan Benefits

  • Education loan interest rates generally range between 8.50 to 12%.
  • Nationalized and Cooperative banks usually offer lower interest rates compared to private banks and NBFCs.
  • Female students can benefit from a 0.5% interest rate discount at Nationalized and Cooperative banks.

Loan Sanction Process
To get your loan approved, you need:

  • Admission letter from the university
  • KYC documents (passport, ID proofs)
  • Academic transcripts and test scores (GRE, TOEFL/IELTS)
  • Income proof of co-applicant (if applicable)
  • Collateral (for secured loans)

However, before the loan is disbursed, the student must submit the I-20 form issued by the university and a photocopy of the F1 Visa approved by the US consulate.

Apply for Your Student Visa (F-1 Visa)

  • Once you receive your I-20 form, pay the SEVIS fee ($350) and fill out the DS-160 visa application form.
  • Schedule your visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate.

For a detailed guide on Student Visa, wait for our next blog.

If you need personalized guidance on university selection, loan applications, or visa preparation, our counseling team is here to help!

Stay tuned for more updates and expert tips on your study abroad journey with one of the best abroad educational consultants!

As India’s leading Study Abroad Consultant, Dilip Oak’s Academy offers a comprehensive suite of services, including TOEFL, IELTS, GRE coaching, as well as GRE Self Prep. Furthermore, our admission counseling services can guide you through the entire process, from Shortlisting Universities to Visa Counseling. With our expertise, we have successfully sent 32,000 students to various prestigious American universities like MIT, Stanford, Cornell, and Carnegie Mellon. To enroll in our comprehensive overseas education consultancy services, book a free consultation or call us at 91-20-67444222.

December 2024-January 2025: The Final Countdown to Fall 2025 Applications!

Dilip Oak's Academy

For those applying to U.S. universities for Fall 2025, the months of December 2024 and January 2025 mark the final stretch of the application process. Here’s a focused guide on what you need to accomplish during these critical months:

1. Complete Your Standardized Testing

  • Ensure you take the GRE (if applicable) and the language proficiency tests (TOEFL/IELTS) exams latest by mid-January.

2. Review and prepare a list of Target Universities

Following points are to be considered:

  • Your academic performance in bachelor’s degree
  • GRE and TOEFL/IELTS scores
  • Any minimum cut-offs with respect to GRE and TOEFL/IELTS scores
  • Whether courses of your choice are offered at the University
  • Cost of Education

If you are looking for study abroad consulting or USA admission counseling services. Visit our site https://www.dilipoakacademy.com/ or email us at support@dilipoakacademy.com for personalized support.

3. Perfecting Your Application Materials

  • Personal or Academic Statement of Purpose (SOP):
    • The Academic Statement of Purpose is critical to your application, as it showcases your motivation, career goals, and your preparations for attending the program.
    • Pay great attention to this document to present yourself as extremely focused on a future career in specified fields, and support your interest with relevant studies, experience, and a keen awareness of related technology trends in relation to your goals.
  • Letters of Recommendation (LORs):
    • You should contact professors or employers/professionals who can evaluate your skills and achievements essential for attending the program. Focus on evaluation rather than disproportionate praise and factual statement of coursework or projects.
    •  Ensure that the letters do not appear too similar.
  • Resume:
    • Admission Committees value concise, well-organized resumes that focus on accomplishments in academic, professional, or extracurricular activities.
    • Tailor your resume to highlight all relevant experience, skills, projects, and any research publications.
    • A resume will be a one-page document, and if it is a CV, don’t exceed two pages.
    • Write in bulleted points, avoid narration and repetition.

Besides the above, the applications may require a few other statements, such as a Personal/Personal History Statement, Diversity Statement, statements about career goals, etc., and answers to a few other questions. Please ensure that these statements/answers are in line with the prompts provided by the universities.

The Crucial Final Stage: Narrow Down Your Final Shortlist & Prepare for final applications

Next, aim to have a final list of 8-10 universities that best align with your academic and career goals.

1. Submission of Application Documents:

  • Following documents are required for sending the application: University transcripts, degree certificates/passing certificate (if available), test scores, Statement of Purpose, Resume, names and email Id of the recommenders, copy of passport and any other document specifically required by the university.
  • All these documents are required to be uploaded on the university website. A very few universities demand hard copies of these documents (official) by courier.  
  • Verify everything is complete to avoid delays.

2. Submit Test (GRE/TOEFL/IELTS) Scores to Target Universities

  • Sending TOEFL/IELTS score is mandatory for all the universities. For TOEFL score, use the correct code of ETS prescribed for university (which is called as Institute code by ETS). Also you should select the department code prescribed by the ETS for that university. For IELTS score, there is no code. But, you have to select the name of the university.
  • For universities which need a GRE score, use the correct code of ETS prescribed for university (which is called as Institute code by ETS). Also you should select the department code prescribed by the ETS for that university.
  • Fees for additional score reporting for GRE, TOEFL and IELTS are $35, $25 and Rs 250/- respectively per university.

3. Final Checks

  • Application Deadlines:
    • Universities have different deadlines, starting from 15th December 2024 to 15th April 2025.
    • Make sure to check the deadline and aim to submit application well on time to avoid any last-minute technical issues.
  • Financial Aid and Scholarships:
    • Check whether your target universities offer any scholarships, assistantships, or other forms of financial aid for international students.
    • Some scholarships may require separate applications or additional documents.

Post-Submission: Important Steps

This completes the application process; however, there are further steps to be taken:

  1. Track Application Status:
    • Track the status of your application on your status page of the university’s website.
    • Though universities generally communicate decisions or requirements by either email or post, it often happens that the only source of information is your status page.
  2. Fix Deficiencies Quickly:
    • If there are any missing documents or issues with your application, act immediately to address them.
    • Non-receipt of test scores, missing recommendations, or other gaps can impact your application review.
  3.  Respond to Offer Letters
    • When you receive an offer letter from the universities (or when an admission decision is indicated on your status page), email your acceptance.
    • This is very important, especially when you are offered funding.
    • Some universities send the I-20 form after you receive an offer. But, some universities send the I-20 form immediately along with your admission letter.
  4. Verify Your I-20
    • When you have accepted the university’s offer of admission and the documentation formalities are complete, the university will send you the I-20, an immigration document which is essential for obtaining a visa.
    • When you receive the I-20, check that it is correct in all respects:
      • Your name and date of birth should be exactly as in your passport
      • Your course and course duration are correctly specified
      • The financial sources indicated exceed the costs, etc.
  5. Prepare the visa documentation.
    • Study the visa application formalities specified on the websites of the U.S. Consulate and the VFS (Visa Facilitation Services)
    • Apply for a visa interview date.

Additional Tips for a Smooth Application Process

  • Create a Timeline: A checklist or timeline can help you track each part of the application process.
  • Stay Organized: Keep all your documents organized so they are accessible whenever you need them.

Admission Counselling offered by Dilip Oak’s Academy

Our team of overseas education consultants in Pune simplifies the challenging application process to US universities.

Our study abroad counseling offers personalized guidance right from selection of universities to visa assistance. We are one of the leading study abroad education consultants in Pune, with a proven track record in helping 33000+ students gain admission to top American universities.

When choosing a university for your MS program in the US, focus on institutions with strong expertise in your field, robust alumni networks, career services, and ensure they align with your financial and career goals​. Read our blog on Guidelines for Choosing the Right University for an MS Program in the US

U.S. Economic Outlook and Its Effect on STEM Students

Dilip Oak's Academy

In August 2024, the U.S. annual inflation rate dropped to 2.4%, the lowest since February 2021, when it was a staggering 7%. This marked a significant economic improvement after two difficult years in 2021 and 2022, with rising inflation and elevated unemployment rates. The high inflation during this period resulted in substantial increases in the cost of living, affecting essential expenses like housing, transportation, food, and even university tuition. For students, especially those pursuing degrees in STEM, these financial pressures have added stress to their academic journeys as they grapple with higher costs while completing their education. Despite these improvements, the U.S. unemployment rate in 2024 remains at 4.2%, slightly higher than last year’s 3.8%, indicating that recovery is ongoing.

Recent Fed Rate Cuts and Economic Conditions

The Federal Reserve has responded to the economic challenges by cutting interest rates by 0.5%, signalling a strategic shift to support employment and stimulate economic growth. By lowering interest rates, the Fed aims to make borrowing more affordable for consumers and businesses, which should encourage spending and investment. This move comes after years of prioritizing inflation control, with the Fed now focusing on reducing unemployment and promoting growth. The rate cut reflects the Fed’s confidence in managing inflation, and this shift is expected to create a more favourable environment for job seekers and businesses alike, offering relief to students and recent graduates entering the job market.

Positive Impact of the Growth in Stock Market on Employment

Financial markets have responded positively to the Federal Reserve’s rate cut, with stock prices rising as a result, especially in the tech sector. Lower borrowing costs enable tech companies to take on affordable loans, boosting investment in research, development, and expansion. This is especially beneficial for STEM students, as technology-driven companies are likely to increase hiring to support their growth. The tech sector’s reliance on debt to finance innovations means that rate cuts create opportunities for businesses to expand their operations, providing more job openings for graduates with the right skill sets in STEM fields.

When choosing a university for your MS program in the US, focus on institutions with strong expertise in your field, robust alumni networks, career services, and ensure they align with your financial and career goals​. Read our blog on Guidelines for Choosing the Right University for an MS Program in the US

Increasing Job Prospects for STEM Students

Even amid broader economic uncertainties, job prospects for STEM students remain promising, especially in high-growth industries. The continuing digital transformation across various sectors ensures that professionals with expertise in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and software engineering are in high demand. These skills are becoming essential as industries increasingly rely on digital tools and automation to stay competitive. However, greater competition for entry-level positions comes with the growth of job opportunities. STEM students must be proactive by gaining additional certifications, completing internships, and working on hands-on projects to differentiate themselves. Despite the competition, tech-driven sectors like AI and machine learning continue to thrive, providing ample career opportunities for those with the right skills.

Conclusion

In 2024, the U.S. economy is gradually stabilizing, aided by the Federal Reserve’s recent rate cuts that aim to boost economic activity and reduce unemployment. While inflation and rising living costs still pose challenges for students, STEM graduates stand to benefit from expanding job opportunities in the technology sector. High-growth fields like AI, machine learning, and cybersecurity offer promising career paths for students who continue to build their expertise and adapt to the evolving demands of the job market.

As India’s leading study abroad consultant, Dilip Oak’s Academy offers a comprehensive suite of admission counseling services that can guide you through the entire process from Shortlisting Universities to Visa Counseling. With our expertise, we have successfully sent 32,000 students to various prestigious American universities like MIT, Stanford, Cornell, and Carnegie Mellon. We also offer classroom and online coaching for GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS, as well as GRE Self Prep. Book a free consultation or call us at 91-20-67444222 to explore our services.