Rankings are easy to compare, which is why everyone uses them. They leave out a lot of what matters to international students: cost, visa rules, where graduates actually work and how much support you’ll get.
Check these first
- Accreditation by a recognized accreditor
- SEVP certification, which is required for the school to issue an I-20
- Whether your program is STEM-designated
- Total cost of attendance
- Graduate employment data for your program
Location
Big cities offer internships and networks but cost more. Smaller college towns are cheaper and close-knit. Think about climate, distance to an international airport and whether there’s a community from your country nearby.
Support for international students
Look at the international office, orientation, career services that understand CPT and OPT, and how many international students are on campus. Ask current students on social media what the support is really like.
Money
Ask admissions directly what scholarships and assistantships are open to international students, and when to apply.
