Choosing the Right College & Securing Your F-1 Visa

Hey there!

We know you’re in the middle of receiving college admission letters, and deciding where to commit can be overwhelming. While rankings might catch your eye, choosing the right college is about finding a place where you’ll thrive academically, socially, and financially.

Here are a few key factors to consider:

• Location & Climate – Do you prefer sunny beaches or snowy winters? The environment you’ll be in for the next few years can impact your daily life more than you’d expect.

• Cost & Financial Aid – Tuition and living expenses vary widely. Check if your school offers scholarships, teaching or research assistantships, or campus jobs to help offset costs.

• Academic Environment – Some schools are highly competitive, while others focus on a more supportive learning experience. Think about what kind of environment will help you succeed.

• Internship & Career Opportunities – Schools in cities with strong job markets, active alumni networks, and robust career services can give you a head start in your career.

• Campus Diversity & Student Community – The people you surround yourself with matter. Consider schools with strong international student support and a diverse, welcoming community.

• Extracurricular & Social Life – Clubs, sports, cultural organizations, and social events can shape your college experience just as much as academics.

• Housing & Living Expenses – On-campus vs. off-campus housing, meal plans, and general cost of living in the city your school is in can impact your budget.

• Research & Innovation – If you’re interested in research, look into schools with strong lab facilities, faculty involvement, and funding opportunities. Universities known for innovation may also provide access to cutting-edge resources and startup incubators.

✅ With all these factors in mind, take your time to weigh your options and choose a school that aligns with your goals and lifestyle.

And don’t forget—securing your F-1 visa takes time. The earlier you start, the smoother the process will be.

💡 If you need help preparing for your F-1 visa interview, check out Sonia. The world’s first AI-powered F-1 visa interview mentor, we built Sonia with YOU in mind.

Sonia acts as a visa interview officer and simulates the visa interview experience. After you’re done with your ‘interview’, you will receive a feedback score to help improve your performance. You can chat or talk to Sonia as many times as you’d like for free.

📖 Want a complete guide to visas as an F-1 student? If you need help understanding everything from applying for your F-1 visa to CPT/OPT and post-grad visa options, check out our F-1 Visa E-Book for a deep dive.

Not an incoming international student? Fill out this quick survey so we can send you tailored content based on where you’re at in your international student journey.

Best,

Ansh Mundra and Amanda Binu
The Roam Growth Team