1.1 million international students navigate US higher education largely alone. This site exists to change that.
Authoritative guides on F-1 visas, university selection, scholarships, OPT/CPT, and life in America - written clearly, verified monthly, completely free.
Where Are You in Your Journey?
Jump to exactly what you need right now.
Researching US universities
Compare schools, understand costs, find programs with strong OPT outcomes.
Got my acceptance letter
Get your I-20, apply for the F-1 visa, find housing, and prepare for arrival.
Studying in the US now
Navigate CPT, on-campus jobs, taxes, health insurance, and maintaining F-1 status.
Finishing my degree
Apply for OPT on time, find H-1B-friendly employers, prep for US job interviews.
Everything You Need to Know
6 core pillarsVisa & Immigration
12 guidesF-1, J-1, CPT, OPT, STEM OPT, DS-160, SEVIS, and maintaining status.
Explore guidesChoose Your University
200+ schools200+ profiles with tuition, OPT rates, scholarships, and career outcomes.
Explore guidesScholarships
150+ scholarshipsMerit, need-based, and country-specific scholarships with deadlines.
Explore guidesJobs & Career
8 guidesOn-campus work, CPT, OPT job search, H-1B lists, interview prep.
Explore guidesEssays & Applications
6 guidesSOP, personal statement, and scholarship essay frameworks.
Explore guidesLife in America
10 guidesBanking, health insurance, taxes (1042-S), housing, and culture.
Explore guidesGuides by Country
10 countriesCountry-specific visa tips, scholarships, and practical advice for the top 10 sender nations.
Explore guidesTop Universities for International Students
F-1 Student Checklist
From application to arrival - in order
- 1Research universities and choose programs
- 2Take TOEFL / IELTS + SAT / GRE if required
- 3Apply and receive acceptance letter
- 4Request I-20 from your Designated School Official
- 5Pay SEVIS fee (Form I-901)
- 6Complete DS-160 visa application
- 7Schedule visa interview at US consulate
- 8Attend visa interview with required documents
- 9Book flights and arrange housing
- 10Arrive and attend mandatory orientation
Monthly Visa & Scholarship Update
Visa rule changes, OPT deadlines, scholarship openings, and H-1B updates - delivered once a month. No spam.
Visa rules and university data cross-checked with USCIS, SEVIS, and official university sources
Revenue comes from optional premium tools - not from compromising the information we give you
Every guide reviewed by international students who have personally been through the process