Every year, thousands of students from Mexico choose to study abroad. For those interested in pursuing an undergraduate or master’s degree, the United States of America is an excellent option. With so many incredible universities, you can find the right educational environment to meet your child’s unique aspirations and needs. However, applying to these programs can be daunting for those outside the US. Great College Advice is a leading team of university admissions consultants who assist international students and their families with navigating the university admissions process in the United States.
Key Steps for Applying to US Universities From Mexico
Research Your Student’s Educational Interest
The first step to acceptance at a US university is research. What type of education is your child interested in pursuing? Focusing on the major they’re most interested in pursuing is important because not all US universities offer the same majors. Also, consider other preferences, such as geographic location, university size, and faculty/student ratios. The professional university admissions counselors at Great College Advice can help uncover the universities with the right environment to match your student’s educational interests and preferences.
Hire a University Admissions Counselor
Now that your family knows what they hope to find, hiring a university admissions counselor is the next step. At Great College Advice, our admissions counselors are experts in the admissions process. Whether you’re looking to create a general strategic approach, find the best match for your student’s interests, or aim for the most competitive universities in the US, Great College Advice can tailor a university admissions plan for those specific needs. From building a university list to developing an application strategy to writing the perfect essay, we’ll be with your family every step of the way!
Start the Application Process
With the help of your admissions counselor, you can narrow down your student’s top US university choices and begin the application process. The application process involves several critical steps:
Standardized Testing
Depending on the university’s requirements, your student may need to take one or more standardized tests like the SAT, ACT, TOEFL, or IELTS. Our experts can help your student prepare properly by creating a standardized testing strategy.
Personal Essays
Some universities don’t require an essay, while some may require as many as five! Personal essays can showcase your child’s unique qualities, experiences, and motivations for studying in the U.S. Great College Advice offers a range of essay-only packages to ensure your student gets the best help possible when crafting essays for the universities of their choice.
Recommendation Letters
Secure recommendation letters from teachers or professionals who can attest to your child’s academic and personal attributes.
Application Forms
Complete the application forms for each university your student is applying to. Pay close attention to deadlines and required documents. Great College Advice can help eliminate stress by keeping your child on track so that they stay ahead of deadlines.
Financial Documentation
Prepare to submit proof of financial resources, as universities will require evidence that your child can cover the tuition and living expenses.
How to Get a Student Visa for USA from Mexico
For students in Mexico who gain admission into a US university, you’ll need an F-1 visa to enter the United States. The F-1 visa allows academic students to enter the US as full-time students at an accredited university, college, seminary, conservatory, elementary school, academic high school, or other academic institution or in a language training program. Students must be actively enrolled in a course of study or program that culminates in a diploma, degree, or certificate. Also, the US government must authorize the school to accept international students. It’s important to note that the F-1 visa is only temporary and should not be considered a permanent residency visa.
Qualify For the F-1 Visa
- Get accepted to a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-approved school in the United States.
- Provide sufficient financial funds to support their time in the United States.
- Your child must be a full-time student at the institution.
- Students must be enrolled in courses that lead to English proficiency unless they are already proficient in English.
- Your student must be able to prove an intent to return to their home country once their education is completed in the United States. Again, the F-1 visa is only a temporary visa.
Requirements for the F-1 Visa
- Valid Passport
- Form DS-160 nonimmigrant visa application
- Form 1-20: the university you enroll in will supply you with this form. It states the amount of funds needed for your education in the US. The form will also ask for supporting documents, such as tax records, pay stubs, or bank statements.
- Proof of health insurance
- University acceptance letter
An Essential Travel Checklist
Studying abroad in the United States will be a thrilling adventure! Once your child is enrolled in their university and has all their documents in order, they need some essential items for the journey. Here is a checklist of important things to send with your student to the United States:
- Health Insurance: It can be challenging being far from home, so you want to ensure they carry health insurance documents should they need medical attention. If they need health insurance, check in with the university; they may be able to help.
- International Phone Plan: Ensure they can reach you while out of the country.
- Bank Account: Find out how they’ll be able to access funds while abroad.
- Copies of Important Documents: Be sure to copy documents that are difficult to access outside of Mexico, such as their passport.
- Seasonal Clothes: Their new home at the university may be in a different climate than they’re accustomed to. Be sure to plan ahead and pack the right clothes!
- Spirit of Adventure: Being accepted into a US university is a big accomplishment. Send them off with your blessing and support as they embark on a new, exciting adventure!
Let’s Embark On Your University Journey Together!
Great College Advice offers comprehensive, personalized counseling services to students worldwide, including Mexico. Here are some of our exceptional service offerings:
Road Map Planning Session
Our team efficiently and effectively gathers the most pertinent information from students and their families. Once we analyze this information, we develop a personalized strategy to put your student in a position to succeed in the university admissions process.
University Admissions Planning and Advising
We offer four all-inclusive packages of university planning services.
- Essentials Package: for families who want a strong foundation and some strategic guidance
- The Premium Package: for families of 10th and 11th graders
- The Elite Package: for students in 8th grade and up who are aiming for the most selective schools
- The Senior Package: for students in the final year of the university process
Intensive Prep Coaching
Your child will receive one-on-one university admissions coaching and mentoring to help them achieve a high level of excellence.
University Essay Guidance
We offer three great essay package options to ensure your child gets the exact type of essay help they need!
Advantages of Working with U.S. University Advisors
When you work with Great College Advice, you get professional counseling that fits your student’s specific needs, abilities, and aspirations. Our holistic approach ensures that the university you choose is the right fit. The counsel we provide has given 97% of our students placement within the top three universities of their choice! Connecting with us is easy. We can provide counsel via teleconferencing technology, phone, email, and our web-based platform. If you’d like to learn more, contact us for a free consultation today!
