Is Applying to College in the U.S. as an International Student in Fall 2021 a Wise Decision?

No, it is unlikely that you can afford to study in the U.S. and no university is willing to cover all your expenses.

Career Prospects and Financial Considerations

Only if you can afford it and the education will help you launch a career in your home country would it be a wise decision to pursue a degree in the U.S. Studying abroad provides a wonderful foundation for a diplomatic or high-paying career in business, facilitating trade among different countries. However, you should not consider studying abroad simply because you believe everything in America will be free or cheap, or if you are hoping for an immigration pathway.

The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic

Despite the ongoing pandemic, I would still recommend you apply for Fall 2021 as the COVID-19 vaccine is expected to be available by then. Normalization in the U.S. and around the world is hoped for, and you have another nine months to complete the application process. This will give you ample time to assess the situation and make a favorable career-oriented decision. Many students who were admitted for Fall 2020 have already started their online classes, although universities are likely to transition to on-campus learning by this fall.

Considering an Online Program

If you are worried about the impact of the pandemic, I would suggest you consider an online program if it is applicable to your field of study. Other factors that may concern you include:

Our presidential election Social transformations City-specific factors (such as travel restrictions or local regulations)

These factors may strongly depend on your city, school, and the specific culture of the school or program you are considering. My time at ERAU had a diverse international population, and I learned a lot from everyone's experiences during discussions.

Evaluating Your Options

What are your other options, and what are you hoping for? Please provide more information for me to give you a more meaningful response. Have you had COVID-19, making its risks of no concern to you? Is high tuition a concern for you? Which schools are you considering, and why?