CAN I PARTICIPATE IF I DON’T YET HAVE THE REQUIRED ENGLISH LEVEL?
Yes. English requirements vary by university and program. Some institutions offer ESL (English as a Second Language) or English-preparation options before or while beginning university studies.
IDEA evaluates your profile and helps identify universities and programs compatible with your English level, academic goals, and budget.
WHY CONSIDER STUDYING IN THE UNITED STATES?
U.S. universities offer a wide range of academic programs, internationally recognized degrees, practical learning opportunities, and access to a diverse global network. International students may also have opportunities for internships and authorized practical training, including CPT and OPT when eligible.
WHAT ARE THE MAIN BENEFITS OF IDEA’S PROGRAMS?
IDEA helps students identify and compare university and scholarship opportunities based on their academic profile, athletic background when applicable, goals, and budget. We also provide guidance through university selection, admission, I-20, visa, and enrollment.
DOES IDEA GUARANTEE RESULTS?
Yes. IDEA programs establish minimum results in writing. If IDEA does not provide the minimum results established by the selected program, the student is eligible for a 100% refund under IDEA’s Zero-Risk Guarantee.
WHEN SHOULD I START THE PROCESS TO STUDY IN THE UNITED STATES?
We recommend starting as early as possible. Students can begin the process while still in high school, after graduation, while attending university and considering a transfer, or during their final undergraduate year when exploring graduate studies.
WHAT DOCUMENTS DO I NEED TO GET STARTED?
Requirements vary by program and university, but commonly include a valid passport, academic transcripts, diploma when available, and English-language documentation when required. Athletic applicants may also need information about their sports background and performance.
CAN I RECEIVE A SCHOLARSHIP IF I AM NOT AN ATHLETE?
Yes. IDEA works with both academic and athletic scholarship opportunities. Students do not need to be athletes to access university scholarship options.
WHAT TYPE OF SCHOLARSHIP CAN I RECEIVE?
Scholarships may be partial or full and can include tuition, housing, and meals depending on the university, the student’s profile, and the specific offer. IDEA helps students compare the complete annual cost of each option.
WHAT TYPE OF VISA DO I NEED TO PARTICIPATE IN THE IDEA SHOWCASE?
The appropriate travel authorization depends on the participant’s nationality and individual circumstances. IDEA provides the documentation related to participation in the Showcase, while visa eligibility and approval are determined by U.S. immigration authorities.
WHAT TYPE OF VISA DO I NEED TO STUDY IN THE UNITED STATES?
Most international students pursuing full-time university studies use an F-1 student visa. After admission, the university issues the required I-20 documentation, and IDEA guides the student through the next steps of the visa process.
CAN I START OR CONTINUE MY UNIVERSITY STUDIES IN THE UNITED STATES?
Yes. Students can begin their university studies in the United States or explore transfer opportunities if they are already attending a university. Transfer-credit acceptance is determined by each institution after reviewing the student’s academic record.
CAN I WORK WHILE STUDYING IN THE UNITED STATES?
Yes, but specific rules apply to international students with F-1 status.
In many cases, students may work on campus while maintaining their student status. There are also authorized forms of practical experience related to the student’s field of study, such as CPT (Curricular Practical Training) and OPT (Optional Practical Training).
Requirements depend on each student’s situation, so students should consult with their university and obtain the appropriate authorization before beginning any employment.