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Ever Wondered What Studying In The US Is Like? Here's Everything You Need To Know

If you're interested, EducationUSA is a free service that guides you on applications, scholarships, and more!

Cover image via Malaysian Student Organization of MSU (Facebook)

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This Spotlight is sponsored by EducationUSA.

You've probably heard of these successful Malaysians before, but do you know what they share in common?

(From left) Dr Ong Kian Ming, Yangsze Choo, and Lewis Pragasam

Image via The Edge Markets, World Youth Jazz Festival, Harvard Magazine

Dr Ong Kian Ming has served as the Member of Parliament for Bangi since May 2018. He is a prominent political analyst in the Malaysian political scene, with published articles on Malaysiakini and The Edge.

And if you've read The Ghost Bride or watched the series on Netflix, did you know that the author of the book, Yangsze Choo, is Malaysian? Her debut novel was a New York Times bestselling book and even Oprah.com's best book of the week!

For those in the music scene, you'll definitely be familiar with the name Lewis Pragasam. One of the most highly-regarded musicians to emerge from Asia, Pragasam is a drummer and percussionist that has played at major music festivals on every continent.

Interestingly, what these three successful Malaysians share in common is their US education!

Ong got his PhD from Duke University, Choo graduated from Harvard University, while Pragasam studied and taught music at East Carolina University.

It's no wonder that students love to study in the US! Besides the quality education, experiencing the American culture is a dream come true for many.

Nevertheless, most Malaysians who want to study in the US have a lot of questions about how to get into American universities, and what uni life there is like.

"Who do I send my university applications to?"

"What kind of qualifications do I need beforehand?"

"Can I work part-time in the US on a student visa?"

That's where EducationUSA comes in. Over the years, they have helped thousands of Malaysian students successfully get into their universities of choice.

The best part is that they offer advice completely free of charge!

EducationUSA is a US Department of State network of international students advising centres and is your official source on US higher education. Supported by the US Embassy and part of the Malaysian-American Commission on Educational Exchange (MACEE), they provide free information on everything you need to know about American education.

EducationUSA offers accurate, comprehensive, and current information about accredited colleges and universities in the US, while providing guidance on how best to access these opportunities.

Besides that, EducationUSA regularly hosts orientations, education fairs, workshops, and one-on-one guidance sessions. They have also worked with local institutions like MARA, UiTM, Sunway University, Taylor's University, Bank Negara, JPA, and more.

By the way, did you know that Malaysia is one of the top 24 senders of international students to the US? There are around 7,000 Malaysians currently studying there.

Whether you just finished your SPM, or you're thinking of getting a masters degree or PhD, there are many benefits to studying in the US

1. Study at reputable institutions
The US is home to some of the top universities in the world, like Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Harvard University, and Stanford University. Besides these well-known names, there are thousands of other excellent institutions, no matter which US state you choose to study in.

2. Choose from a broad range of programmes
Not only does the US offer unique programmes like health science, international relations, and cinematic arts, many universities also allow you to combine different subjects as majors and minors. This gives you the flexibility to explore and hone your skills in the areas that you really want to.

3. Get international experience for your CV
During your student years, you have the opportunity to gain work experience through the Curricular Practical Training (CPT) programme. After graduation, you can further explore your field of study through the Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme. This gives you international work exposure, which is highly sought after by many employers.

4. Enjoy affordable overseas education and scholarships
Studying in US universities could actually be more affordable than in some other overseas countries. While tuition fees may range from RM99,000 to RM280,000 a year according to EasyUni, the good thing is that most US universities offer financial aid and scholarships. Besides that, MACEE also gives out a variety of scholarships including the prestigious Fulbright scholarship for graduate studies.

EducationUSA currently has advisors in KL and Penang, and you can schedule an advising session with them via this portal or reach out to them via social media if you have any quick questions!

The great thing about EducationUSA is that they advise prospective Malaysian and non-Malaysian students alike, free of charge. Advising sessions are currently available on an appointment basis only.

KUALA LUMPUR
Malaysian-American Commission On Educational Exchange (MACEE)
18th Floor, Menara Yayasan Tun Razak 200,
Jalan Bukit Bintang 55100 Kuala Lumpur

PENANG
Penang Science Cluster
Wisma Yeap Chor Ee
37, Gat Lebuh China,
Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang

On August 7, they will also be organising the EducationUSA Southeast Asia Virtual Fair 2021, which you can attend for free

During this virtual fair, students and parents will have the chance to meet US university representatives. For those looking to further their studies in the US, this is a great opportunity to find out more about different universities and the programmes that they offer.

Find out how EducationUSA can help you further your studies in the US today!

Visit and follow their Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for more information as well as the latest news, programs, scholarship alerts, and more.

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