Sources to Help You Choose

EducationUSA Advising Centers
EducationUSA centers in Indonesia have a library with directories, university catalogs, introductory guides, handouts, and reference books to assist you in applying to programs of study in the United States. Most centers offer Internet access and have computer-based search packages to help you choose the best programs for you. We have trained staff who can answer your questions in person, by telephone, or by e-mail.

Printed Directories
There are several general directories available and directories that are published by professional associations that may help you decide on a program. University catalogs provide the most specific information about institutions and their programs. You can find these directories and catalogs at EducationUSA advising centers and in some university libraries.

Contacts
Contact universities in the United States directly with questions about their programs or to communicate with international students currently enrolled in the programs you are considering.

College Websites and E-mail
Almost every U.S. University has a website with information about degree programs, application procedures, academic departments, facilities on campus, and other topics. Many sites include a copy of the college catalog and e-mail addresses for current students (including international students) who can answer your questions. If you don’t find this information on the website, ask the admissions office.

Web-based Search Tools
Some websites are independent of colleges and universities and allow you to search for programs by subject area, by geographic preference, or by a range of other criteria that you specify -- the Find-a-School search engine (run by Peterson’s) located on the EducationUSA website is one such site. Remember that you will be receiving a degree from and spending most of your time with students and faculty from within your graduate program, so you should decide on the type of program you need first, then consider the criteria described below.

Before beginning an online search, think about the kind of experience you are looking for in the United States: Do you want to live in a big city, or do you prefer a more rural or suburban location? Do you want to attend an institution that has tens of thousands of students, or are you looking for a small or mid-size college or university? (Keep in mind that individual graduate programs can be quite small or very large, regardless of the size of their host institution.) Do you need access to facilities that could supplement your academic studies, such as museums, other universities, or places to conduct field research? By answering these questions and others you can refine your search criteria and generate a list of schools closely matched with your needs.

Social Media Tools
Students can access information about U.S. graduate programs through a variety of technological tools and formats. Online videos, social networking groups, podcasts, and blogs about life on U.S. campuses offer genuine stories and experiences directly from students. EducationUSA advising centers can assist you in finding these resources.

U.S. College/University Fairs and Visits
If you cannot visit the United States, university representatives may come to visit you. Your nearest EducationUSA advising center can tell you about upcoming fairs or other types of visits that give students an opportunity to speak with admissions officers face-to-face. A list of fairs around the world is available on the EducationUSA website.

Campus Visits
If you are able to take a vacation to the United States before you begin graduate studies, this could be a great opportunity to visit the programs you are considering. Many schools organize tours led by current students; check with the admissions office for further information. Visit the academic and housing facilities, the student union, and the library to get a good sense of the campus. Talk to current students in the programs you are considering.

Educational Consultants and Recruiting Agents
In many parts of the world, private agents or agencies work to recruit international students into U.S. universities. There are also private educational consultants who charge a fee to assist students with the process of choosing programs and compiling applications. It is important to check the credentials and past performance of educational consultants or agents before using their services. If you do decide to use the services of an agent, be actively involved in the process, and be sure to understand what that person or company is realistically able to deliver.

If you have found a recruiting agent or consultant, look for verifiable signs of the agent's or consultant's past success with students from your country. Ask for a list of names and addresses of references, particularly current students. Write, e-mail, or telephone some of these students to get their opinion of their program and the services they received from the agent or consultant. Such precautions are especially important if the agent or consultant charges expensive fees for his or her services. Always check with an unbiased source (such as an EducationUSA advising center) to ensure the legitimacy and accreditation status of the programs you are considering.