batman2004

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If you are granted TA/RA, your I-20 form will indicate it. Yes, you can be granted a full tuition grant. As for the criterion and stuff like campus jobs, it's best if you contact the university which you are heading. I believe the criteria differs from one univ. to another.

Thanks. awhig!

assuming that I apply for both types of visa, do you know whether there are any risks involved in switching from tourist visa to student visa?

Has anyone tried to enter earlier than 30 days on a tourist visa and subsequently change to student visa?

Thank you, blesstse.

Hi all, I need some advice from experts out there who have applied for student visa...:p 1) Does anyone know whether it is necessary to fill in the DS-158 form? I called up the embassy and was told it is not necessary. But, it's stated distinctly on the website that the DS-158 form is one of the needed forms. As I do not wish to make a wasted trip, would really appreciated if you guys could help me to confirm. 2)Also, does anyone know what is meant by the following "has anyone ever filed an immigrant visa peition on your behalf?" Thank you!

Don't worry, gk kolluru.Your chances seem excellent, otherwise,the graduate admission coordinator would not have told you that your application is being recommended to the university. So, for now, enjoy your weekend.

I heard from my friends that contacting prof. does help one to improve chances of admit. However, this does not apply in my case( although I receive positive replies from prof.):) As to whether getting a Masters enhance the chances to get in, I agree with Quas... Unless you have a first class honors and have done exceptionally well in your Bachelors. Otherwise, I think you should pursue a Masters first.

Guys, I'm not sure whether this topic has been discussed before. If I would like to pursue an academic career after my graduate studies, should I pursue my Phd at an institution that has very high ranking or one that has professors which are very well-known in the field? The ideal situation is you manage to gain an admit into a univ. that matches both criteria. But, if you can only choose one of the criteria, which should be given more weight? If you wish to teach at a research-oriented university, are the publications that you made during your Phd studies more important than the reputation of the university that you graduate from? Advice, pls. Thank you.:)

You can check the princetonreview and usnews websites for the range of schools which you could apply. But, seriously, I think you should really push your GMAT score to a much better score since you do not have any work exp. and that you are competiting with applicants with years of experience, not to mentioned those with international exposure.

don't worry guys. I'm still waiting for a few more outcomes.

Hmm...I guess the uni. may be too busy to reply. You've a few admits, right? Unless you are so curious abt the reasons and that you wish to apply these schools again, otherwise don't waste your effort. You should call them if you still persist in finding the reasons.:)

Of course you could, gsteria! But, only if they are willing to entertain your requests... I thought I read from a thread that you were a phd student. It'll be very interesting to know why the school did not accept you into the program. After all, you are only applying for a Masters and that gaining entry into a phd is altogether a very different playing field. The latter is so much more difficult to get an admit, not to mention financial aid. At least, that's what I thought so. However, what's most important currently is to sort out all your visa, clothing stuff, etc. Provided you are an international applicant or are you not? Anyway, congrats on your superb admits, dude! Your hard work pay off.

Hi Anand, I think you ought to consider other factors too. For instance, are you happy in your current job? An additional year in the IT industry may prove useful, if you are broadening your horizon in your current job. For instance, you may be handling certain major projects, which you become more adept at certain IT skills. This will definitely boost your profile when you apply next year. Another element to consider is to what extent do you like USC? Are you looking forward to going USC and study? Do you think the 30K is worth it? It's similar to an investment- there is an element of risk involved. Weigh the opportunity cost. It does not mean that you'll also find a job when you graduate, as factors that are beyond our control will influence the job market. Do you think it is still worthwhile to pursue your studies? Only you can make the decision yourself. Of course, family support(both financially and emotional) is critically important too. Final note- once you made up your mind, don't look back and brood over it. Convince yourself that it's the best choice and work hard.