Got a US Grad School Offer? Here's What to Do Next

US grad schools usually release decisions between February and April,
but some schools send results early!
If you've already received an offer,
then while you celebrate, start on the following as early as you can 💪

📌Pay the deposit by the deadline

If you're still waiting to hear from other schools, it's a good idea to email the school yourself and ask for an extension on the deposit deadline!
Give a reasonable explanation and ask politely, and there's a chance it'll work.

The deposit can usually be applied toward tuition but is non-refundable, so think it through and make your decision before you pay it.

📌Apply for a student visa

Latest rules:
2023/03👉Visas can be issued up to 365 days before the program start date on your I-20.
2024/01 👉All first-time F-1 visa applicants must attend an interview in person.

So request your I-20 from the school as early as possible, and once you have it, start on your visa!!

📌Housing applications

Let's bust a myth: campus dorms aren't necessarily a better deal than off-campus housing!

But because living on campus is convenient, the more popular dorm room types can be snapped up fast, so apply early.

For off-campus housing, check how safe the area is and read the lease carefully. The school website usually has related information, and asking upperclassmen is also a good way to find out.

📌Keep up with news from your school

The school will usually email you about the following over time:

1. Course registration information. It's a good idea to reach out to your Academic Advisor about choosing courses.

2. Requests to send complete official transcripts
(So if you're still in school, don't slack off in your final semester either; the school will still look at those grades)

3. Submitting proof of vaccination

4. How and when to pay tuition

5. Orientation notices

📌Plane tickets

Note that you can only enter the US on an F-1 student visa within 30 days before the program start date on your I-20, so don't book your flight too early!


Quick tip ✍
Rules vary slightly from school to school, so keep a close eye on updates from the school you'll attend, and contact the school if you have questions!



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