Canadian wondering if going to the US is possible

**patrickmtl** · 08-11-2010, 03:06 PM

Hi all,

I'm doing my MA this year and am wondering if its realistic to even apply to US phd programs for next year. From what I see funding is pretty common but I wonder how hard it is to get the right paperwork in order to live in the US, especially since I am married ans my wife would need to move too. Any advice or experience shared would be appreciated.

**Femiluv** · 08-12-2010, 09:35 AM

I don't understand what you mean by the right paper work to live in the US.

As far as I know, you look at potential schools, check out their admission requirements, take necessary exams, apply, get your visa, and move over here.

I don't think your wife would be able to work in the USA, if she came with you on your study visa.

**patrickmtl** · 08-12-2010, 01:37 PM

So even if I am lucky enough to get us visas since she cant work i couldnt go anyway cause phd funding barely covers one person right?

**Femiluv** · 08-13-2010, 02:36 AM

If you got a full scholarship, you will be able to go. Then, work to cover your living expenses. That's what most students I know do.

**patrickmtl** · 08-13-2010, 03:44 PM

Full scholarship only covers school fees right? I don't see how one could work enough while doing courses to support 2 people.

**Femiluv** · 08-15-2010, 03:19 AM

By your, I meant yours alone, and not anyone else - to mean that you can survive on scholarship money, and working.

**TraderJoe** · 08-19-2010, 10:35 AM

The PhD scholarship usually covers full tuition and fess and also a stipend of around $25,000 per year. Yes your wife can definitely in the USA work throughout your PhD study. She needs to get the TN visa for Canadian citizens. One of my classmates who is from Canada, his wife worked for the full 5 years while he did his PhD degree.