Study in the USA as a South African: A guide
The United States has one of the largest and most diverse education systems in the world. Whether you’re studying towards your undergraduate or postgraduate, studying in the US opens doors to world-class academic programmes, diverse faculties and research opportunities that may not be available at home.
Sable International’s study abroad and sports recruitment teams will be at the Global Citizenship and Emigration Expo from 28 October to 7 November. Book your complimentary ticket here.
Every year around 12,000 South Africans venture abroad to study. Of those, around 2,700 (22.5%) choose to study in the US.
The US is keen to attract more South African students. The US Consulate’s Public Affairs Officer Stacey Barrios said in a recent interview that South Africans brought “awareness, ideas, perspectives and experiences” to US campuses that American students didn’t have.
Barrios said that there were several universities and colleges in the US that were interested in South African students and who would offer financial assistance directly.
Benefits of studying in the US
The US has around 4,500 universities and colleges which offer a wide range of courses and specialisations. Apart from traditional subjects, there are options to take niche majors such as Ethical Hacking, Digital Currency or Comic Art which will give you skills that few people have, making you competitive in the workplace and opening up more global opportunities.
Unlike in many countries, choosing a major in the US is a decision that does not need to be made right away. If you are not 100% sure of what career path you want to follow, you can start a major or minor programme and declare your major at the end of your second year. You can also switch if you realise you’d prefer to go in another direction.
It is common for students to study subjects that seem unrelated. For instance, if you are majoring in medicine or engineering, you can also minor in dance or visual art, depending on where your interests lie.
Admissions criteria
Every US university has its own admissions criteria. Good grades and high SAT scores are important, but universities are also interested in individuals who exhibit leadership skills, and who will get involved in student governance and community service.
See also: How to take the SAT in South Africa – our guide
Associate degrees
A common path into some of the more competitive universities is through an associate degree. An associate degree is an undergraduate academic qualification more advanced than a high school certificate or matriculation but not as advanced as a bachelor’s degree.
Many academic institutions in the US have credit transfer agreements with other institutions so that you’re able to count the academic credits obtained during your associate degree towards your bachelor’s.
For example, you could do an associate degree at an affordable community college that has an articulation agreement with a well-known university. You would then study the first two years of your bachelor’s at the community college before transferring and completing your second two years at the university.
Pre-masters
If you have completed your undergrad in South Africa, getting admitted to a US graduate or master’s programme can be difficult. You can enrol for a pre-master’s, which is a support program that helps students with a bachelor’s degree make an easier transition towards their master’s studies.
Visa requirements
Once you have been accepted by a university, you will need a student visa. Non-EU/EEA students need to obtain an F-1 Student visa.
You will need to prove you have a good understanding of English. Usually, your matric English results will be enough. However, most institutions in the US will accept tests from large testing companies such as IELTS, TOEFL and PTE if they cannot test your English themselves.
Students must also show strong ties to their home country.
Athletic scholarships in the US
College sports in the US is a billion-dollar industry and top international rising stars are always sought after.
Winning a US sports scholarship can mean financial support for tuition and living expenses and gives student-athletes the chance to compete at a high level while earning a degree from a prestigious institution.
For talented student-athletes, this path can lead to professional sports or international career opportunities.
The recruiting process can be complicated and frustrating so if you aspire to be the next Katie Ledecky, Scottie Scheffler or Sha’Carri Richardson, it is important to do thorough research or get help from those who have experience in the process.
Sable International’s sports recruitment team can link you with the USA’s best universities, assist with the daunting admissions process and offer scholarship application assistance.
US post-study work options
After graduation, the US offers Optional Practical Training (OPT) for international students on F-1 visas, allowing up to 12 months of work, and an extra 24 months for STEM graduates.
During this period, you can find a job that qualifies for a work visa, such as the H-1B, which can lead to a Green Card and permanent residency.
Are you interested in exploring study abroad options for yourself or your children? Sable International’s study abroad and sports recruitment teams will be at the Global Citizenship and Emigration Expo from 28 October to 7 November. You will be able to talk to them directly about your options. Book your complimentary ticket here or stop by on the day – walk-ins are welcome!
Alternatively, get in touch with an international study adviser at study@sableinternational.com or by WhatsApp at +27 81 710 0460 or speak to one of our immigration consultants at +27 (0) 21 657 2180 or email us at immigration@sableinternational.com.