Taking Short Cuts In Your Education May Cut Your Education Short

As the cost of an American university education continues to increase each year, it becomes more of a challenge for current and potential international students to find the money needed to complete their education from good, reputable schools. With this increased challenge, comes an increased need to seek maximum value at minimum cost. If you are an international student trying to start or complete your university program in the USA, be careful to avoid taking risky short cuts that might jeopardize both your investment and your future goals. Here are some things to watch out for:

1) Schools with VERY low tuition fees - Low-tuition schools do not always equal low-quality, but always compare the prices of schools you are considering with 2-3 other similar schools/ programs (same school type, degree program, accreditation type, number of program hours, etc.). If everything except price is equal, find out what current and former students say about the school.

2) Schools that do not provide important information on their websites -  Schools that do not show basic information like fees, admissions requirements, course descriptions, campus photos, etc. that you need to make an informed decision may be trying to hide something. If you are required to call or give your email address to get this information, it is a sign that the school is very heavily sales-driven and want to get as many students as quickly as possible.

3) Schools that guarantee job placement or future immigration status to international students - Paid work opportunities for international students are possible through certain U.S. government-approved programs, but any school that promotes job placement or a pathway to immigration status as one of its main selling points is probably less concerned about the quality of its academic program and support services and may actually be in violation of U.S. government regulations. 

4) Education short-cut advice from your friends - It may be difficult to ignore trusted friends, but we've seen far too many disastrous results when international students to try take short cuts or "work the system" in order to finish their education program to faster or more easily. Such short-cuts may be difficult or impossible to reverse and could result in losing your student visa status and ability to remain in the United States.  
Here is a link to a video clip that shows a private university that was recently shut down by the U.S. government over allegations that it violated several laws and was a "sham" school: 
http://www.mercurynews.com/top-stories/ci_17151508?nclick_check=1

An investment in an American education is one of the most important investments you can make in your future. When done the right way, students are rewarded with valuable knowledge, skills, and cultural experiences that will open doors to many great opportunities in the future.
If you are planning an American education program or the next step in your American education, American Education Partners (AEP) can provide reliable information and support from our U.S.-based staff or one of our many overseas representatives. Contact AEP by email: info@americanedpartners.com to find out how we can help.