 |
More than 2,500 U.S. colleges and universities offer online degrees -- and you don't have to be a U.S. citizen to get one.
With an online program, you can avoid the hassle of the student visa process as well as an international move.
While U.S. education can be expensive, an online degree is a more affordable and flexible option.
Stay at home and learn at your own pace with an online degree from an accredited U.S. college or university. After that, the sky's the limit!
Keep reading to learn more about U.S. online degrees so you can decide if this path is right for you.
Why Pursue an Online Degree?
There are several benefits to getting your degree online, in or outside of the U.S.
Consider the following benefits of taking the online degree route:
- No student visa required: Since you're staying in your home country, you don't need to deal with immigration.
- Learn at your own pace: Schedule your classes when it's convenient for you so you don't get overwhelmed.
- Improve your English skills: Taking online courses from a U.S. school helps you practice English at a high level.
- Pay less than you would in person: Most schools charge lower tuition rates for online degrees than for in-person degrees.
- Access world-class educational opportunities: You have more flexibility when you're studying from the comfort of your home.
Choosing an Online Degree Program
With so many different degree programs to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you.
Take the following questions into consideration:
- Accreditation: Is the university accredited by a nationally recognized accreditation organization in the U.S.?
- Degree granted: Will your degree be recognized by educational institutions and employers in your home country?
- Average time of completion: How long does it take the typical international student to earn their degree?
- Total cost of degree: How much will it cost to complete the credits necessary to earn a degree?
- Online-only or hybrid: Does the program require you to complete any hours on campus to earn the degree?
- Employment assistance: Will the university help you find job opportunities after graduation?
Read over student evaluations of the program. Focus on evaluations written by international students, especially in your home country.
Many U.S. universities have 'global' online programs. That word alone tells you they place international students front and center.
Financing Your Online Degree
You know you can get an online degree from a U.S. college or university, but how are you going to pay for it?
Luckily, there are several options for international students hoping to complete a U.S. degree online.
Scholarships
Many schools offer scholarships for international students participating in their online degree programs.
When you start the application process, be sure to ask what financial assistance opportunities are available.
The U.S. State Department offers a searchable database of scholarship opportunities for international students.
Scholarships can be competitive. Apply for every opportunity you think you might qualify for to maximize your chances.
Institutional Incentives
In addition to scholarship opportunities, many schools have financial incentives for international students.
You typically don't have to apply for these incentives. They're available to you automatically just because you're an international student.
Typical incentives include discounted tuition and waivers of various fees, including application fees.
Employer Assistance
Want to pursue a degree in a field where you already work? Talk to your employer about educational assistance opportunities.
Many companies offer tuition assistance and other benefits that allow their employees to pursue higher education.
University Payment Plans
Many universities offer affordable payment plans for their online degrees. Make smaller monthly payments rather than paying all at once.
These payment plans mean you don't have to worry about saving up a lot of money before you start your studies.
If you're working full-time in your home country, a payment plan means you can get started on your degree more quickly.
Learn More about Getting Your Online Degree as an International Student
If you or someone you care about is ready to start pursuing an online degree from a U.S. school, our team is here to help.
Call our helpline today to get more information about online degree options for students in other countries.