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Panduan Kuliah di USA

Anna Nurhasanah
Anna Nurhasanah

This document provides a study guide for living and studying in the United States. It covers country information including time zones, weather, languages, currency, security, dining, shopping, postal service and banking. It also discusses accommodation options, transportation, and costs of living. The guide is broken into sections on country info, accommodation, transportation and cost of living. It provides details on various topics to help students prepare for studying in the US.

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Panduan Kuliah di USA
STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS..........................................................................................2 #1 COUNTRY INFO ..........................................................................................3 1. TIME AND WEATHER..............................................................................4 2. LANGUAGES...........................................................................................6 3. CURRENCY ............................................................................................. 6 4. SECURITY ............................................................................................... 7 5. DINING...................................................................................................8 6. SHOPPING.............................................................................................. 9 7. POSTAL SERVICE................................................................................... 11 8. BANKING SERVICE ................................................................................ 11 #2 ACCOMMODATION ................................................................................. 13 1. Living in United States of America........................................................ 13 2. Property & real estate.......................................................................... 14 #3 TRANSPORTATION................................................................................... 15 #4 COST OF LIVING ....................................................................................... 17 th
STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 3 #1 COUNTRY INFO The United States of America (also known as United States, U.S., USA, America, or the States). It is a federal constitutional republic that consists fifty states and a federal district. United States of America has 3.79 million square miles (9.83 million km2 ) and with over 314 million people, it become the third- or fourth-largest country by total area, and the third-largest by both land area and population. It is one of the world's most ethnically diverse and multicultural nations, the product of large-scale immigration from many countries. The States is a multicultural nation, just like home to a wide variety of ethnic groups, traditions, and values, and the American cultural is considered as the most individualistic in the world. The development of the culture at United States of America has been marked by a tension between two strong sources of inspiration: European ideals, especially British; and domestic originality. Besides, the American culture do encompasses traditions, ideals, customs, beliefs, values, arts, folklore and innovations developed both domestically and imported via colonization and immigration from the British Isles. The government of the United States of America is the federal government of the constitutional republic of fifty states that constitute the United States of America, as well as one capitol district, and several other territories. The federal government is composed of three distinct branches: legislative, executive and judicial, which powers are vested by Share This Ebook!
STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 4 the U.S. The country is situated mostly in central North America, where its forty-eight contiguous states and Washington, D.C., the capital district, lie between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, bordered by Canada to the north and Mexico to the south. The state of Alaska is in the northwest of the continent, with Canada to the east and Russia to the west across the Bering Strait. The state of Hawaii is an archipelago in the mid-Pacific. Other than that, the country also possesses several territories in the Pacific and Caribbean. 1. TIME AND WEATHER United States of America Time Zone The United States uses nine standard time zones. From east to west they are:- Atlantic Standard Time (AST) Eastern Standard Time (EST) Central Standard Time (CST) Mountain Standard Time (MST) Pacific Standard Time (PST) Alaskan Standard Time (AKST) Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST) Samoa Standard Time (UTC11) Chamorro Standard Time (UTC+10) The United States of America operates Daylight Saving Time which begins at 2:00 a.m. local time on the second Sunday in March. On the first Sunday in November areas on Daylight Saving Time return to Standard
STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 5 Time at 2:00 a.m. The names in each time zone change along with Daylight Saving Time. Eastern Standard Time (EST) becomes Eastern Daylight Time (EDT), and so forth. Whilst, Arizona, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, U.S. Virgin Islands and American Samoa do not observe Daylight Saving Time. United States of America Weather United States of America consists wide variety of climate types due to its large size, range of geographic features, and non-contiguous arrangement. Temperatures reach both extremes of the scale from freezing cold 80尊F in Alaska to a piping hot 135尊F in Californias Death Valley (hence the name). In general the climate is temperate. Winter (December April): the northern states are the coldest, experiencing bitter, freezing temperatures. Low temperatures in January and February are made slightly warmer by the Chinook winds originating from the Rocky Mountains. The southern states, known as the sunbelt are quite the opposite, with temperatures rarely falling below freezing. Summers (June - September): hot in the US but for New England, Oregon and Washington which tend to be rainier and less predictable. The Pacific Northwest states are generally temperate while the south, east coast and Midwest are more humid. Heat waves are common in the Southwest. Spring and autumn are generally mild, warm and sunny with the exception of some wet areas, the Pacific Northwest in particular. Tornado season typically arrives in the Midwest between April and June, and hurricanes are common in early summer along the southern East Coast and Gulf of Mexico coast - TV and radio will broadcast warnings for both, but the chances of encountering one on a short visit are remote.
STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 6 2. LANGUAGES Languages in United States of America The most common language used in the States is English and Spanish, is the second most commonly spoken language. After English and Spanish, however, few realize that French is spoken regularly in more American homes more than any other language. More than a million Americans also regularly speak German, Italian, and Chinese. And among the top languages spoken by Americans at home is one that has been spoken in this country long before English and Spanish 3. CURRENCY Currency & Denomination The currency used in the States is the U.S. dollar (sign: $; code: USD; also abbreviated US$). Notes is printed on bills in denominations of $1, $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100 while the circulating coins exist in denominations: $0.01, $0.05, $0.10, $0.25, $0.50, and $1.00. Exchange Rate Indicators 1.00 USD = 0.77 EUR 1.00 USD = 0.62 GBP 1.00 USD = 0.98 AUD *Currency conversion rates as of 10 October 2012.
STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 7 4. SECURITY Security in United States of America The current president of the States is Barack H. Obama. He was elected the 44th President of the United States on November 4, 2008, and sworn in on January 20, 2009. The president is indirectly elected by the people through the Electoral College to a four-year term, and is one of only two nationally elected federal officers, the other being the Vice President of the United States. Head of State The President of the United States of America is the head of state and head of government of the United States. The president leads the executive branch of the federal government and is the commander-in- chief of the United States Armed Forces. The White House The White House is one of the world's most famous buildings. It isnt simply a home to First Families or meeting space for world leaders, yet also known as The Peoples House, a place that should be open to everyone. The White House is the only building in the world that is simultaneously the home of a head of state, the executive office of a head of state, and is regularly open to the public for tours not only to increase the number of visitors, but also enhance each visitors experience at the White House.
STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 8 5. DINING Dining in United States of America The States often well known for the mass production and global uniformity of fast food outlets, but America is actually home to wide-ranging regional cuisine and the influence of immigrant groups past and present. From New England clam chowder to Texas barbecue to cioppino in the City by the Bay, the cuisine of the United States has thrills around every corner. Below are some of the famous dishes in the States: Apple Cake (United States apple cake) Buffalo Wings (American chicken wings in spicy sauce) Cajun and Creole Seasoning (American Louisiana herb and spice blend) Cioppino (American fish and seafood stew) Macaroni and Cheese (American pasta with cheese) New England Clam Chowder (American clam and potato stew) Pancakes (American skillet cakes)
STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 9 6. SHOPPING Shopping in United States of America Shopping is one of America's favorite pastimes. Even the smallest cities in the United States have shopping centers or "shopping malls" that contain a wide variety of stores and services. There are several types of stores in United States of America:- The Campus Bookstore, which operates in almost every college and university. These bookstores carry required textbooks and supplies, a complete range of stationery items, and items of clothing with the university's emblem printed on them, as well as a variety of things needed or enjoyed by students.
STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 10 Department Stores, serves have many different sections, or departments, where shopper can buy clothing, shoes, appliances, kitchen items, china, gifts, jewelry, and more. The price and quality are differing in each department store. Discount Stores, which similar to department stores but generally offer lower prices because they buy in large quantities (sometimes older and discontinued models), and because the stores are large, economically built, and plain. You may find "bargains" (good buys) at discount stores if you shop with care. Supermarkets, also called as the "grocery store", a large store that sells all kinds of food, as well as a small selection of other things like pharmacy items, hardware, kitchen utensils, houseplants, food for pets, and
STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 11 sometimes even clothing. Prices in supermarkets are usually lower than in small, independent stores. Pharmacies, also known as drugstores" in the States and usually offer a large selection of cosmetics, toiletries, stationery, and other items, as well as medicines. You may also purchase "nonprescription" (that is, not prescribed by a doctor) medication, such as aspirin and common cold remedies. 7. POSTAL SERVICE Postal Services in United States of America The United States Postal Service (USPS), also known as the Post Office and U.S. Mail. It is an independent agency of the United States government responsible for providing postal service in the United States. It is one of the few government agencies explicitly authorized by the United States Constitution. The U.S Postal Service delivers not less than 40 % of land mails, yet, they also concerned about the earth as they choose to save energy and very supportive in 'go green' actions. 8. BANKING SERVICE Banking in United States of America There are various banks in the States and the five largest banks are JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Citigroup, Wells Fargo, and Goldman Sachs. The banks operating hours in the States are not the same for all as it depends on the location in different parts of the country. Majority of the banks operating hours are:- Monday to Thursday: 9a.m. to 5 p.m.
STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 12 Friday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 13 #2 ACCOMMODATION 1. Living in United States of America Depending on your place of study, there are several types of accommodation arrangements you can pursue: i) On-Campus living Provided at optional fee by the education institution; fees and facilities may vary from one education institution to another. ii) Off-Campus living Majority schools have an off-campus housing office to help students find an apartment. The housing office will have listings of available apartments and information about the neighborhoods near campus. Accommodation will be settled by students themselves. For on-campus or off-campus accommodation, they are a variety of types and budgets to suit your lifestyle, and many of them are located a stone's throw from your intended place of study. Such accommodations may come in the form of college hostels, apartments, and so on in quiet neighborhood or close to the institution.
STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 14 2. Property & real estate Property & Real Estate Agents Contact the National Association Real Estate Brokers (NAREB) for more information on housing options and current rates. NAREB Website: http://www.nareb.com Office: 301- 552- 9340 Fax: 301- 552- 9216 Address: 9831 Greenbelt Road Lanham, MD. 20706.
STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 15 #3 TRANSPORTATION Public Transportation Transportation in the States is facilitated by road, air, rail, and water networks. Majority of American travels by automobile for shorter distances, and airplane or railroad for some people, for longer distances. Public transportation is generally quite good in urban areas with the subway in New York or the El in Chicago. There are also numerous underground train systems in operation in major cities including Washington DC (metro), Boston (T) and San Francisco (BART). There are also several tramway and trolleybus systems, including the much-loved antique trams found in San Francisco. The trains in the States are operated by Amtrak which serves with over 22,000 miles (33,000 km) tracks. Most of the states and cities do operate short-distance and commuter rail lines around the various urban areas and are connected to stops on the Amtrak lines. If you are traveling on road by car, taxi, or bus, the traffic drives on the right and every town can be reached by an adequate system of roads. If by bus, Greyhound is the main national coach carrier and covers the major cities in the States with express bus services. Subway in New York Amtrak
STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 16 Bus Taxi
STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 17 #4 COST OF LIVING Cost of Living in the States Expenditures are dependent on the chosen course, education institution, duration of study and your preferred lifestyle. The main expenses for foreign students are: 1. Visa application 2. Registration Fee 3. Deposit 4. Computer/Science Laboratory Fee 5. Insurance Premium 6. Library Fee 7. Other Incidental Costs Other indirect costs may include the following:
STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 18 1. Accommodation - shared-lodging or private accommodation 2. Food and Beverages - hawker or restaurant 3. Travelling - taxi, bus and train fare 4. Telecommunication - public telephone and mobile phone fee 5. Laundry 6. Entertainment - movie, music cassette or CD, travel 7. Personal Care and Grooming - haircut and clothes 8. Postage - letters and parcel delivery 9. Hospital treatment and medical services 10. Books and Stationery - books, paper, pen and other consumables
STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 19 Breakdown of Living Cost in the States The average international student should be prepared to spend about USD1360 to USD2190 per month for living expenses in the vicinity of a city. The cost is broken down as below : Accommodation You should estimate about USD580 to USD900 for your accommodation per month. The rental will vary depending on the geographical area, the type of accommodation (on- campus living in a hall of residence; or off-campus living in an apartment, condominium, singlestory house, double-storey house, etc.), the facilities provided in the house (e.g. with or without air-conditioning) and of course, the number of people sharing the room (or the apartment/house). Food / Housekeeping Your food and housekeeping expense is estimated to be around USD200 to USD400. Naturally, if you cook and share the cooking expenses with your friends, it would be cheaper. Public Transport Students who stay on campus or near campus may not incur any cost of travelling to and from classes. However, other travelling may cost approximately USD60 to USD90 per month. Share This Ebook!
STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 20 Telecommunication / Mobile Phone Bills and Utilities The average student may pay approximately USD70 to USD100 on telecommunication for Internet and mobile phone bills per month. Personal Expenses How much your personal expenses would be per month would depend on your personal lifestyle. However, the cost can be estimated to be between USD450 to USD700. This includes your socialising needs, toiletries, haircut, clothes, movie, etc. Using the estimate above, the total cost of living will average from between USD1360 to USD2190 per month or about USD16320 to USD26280 per year (12 months) for one student. It is important to remember that the above estimate is only a guide in planning your budget to study in United States of America. Individual expenses will vary according to the location you are at, course taken and your personal lifestyle.
STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 21
STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 22

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Panduan Kuliah di USA

  • 2. STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS..........................................................................................2 #1 COUNTRY INFO ..........................................................................................3 1. TIME AND WEATHER..............................................................................4 2. LANGUAGES...........................................................................................6 3. CURRENCY ............................................................................................. 6 4. SECURITY ............................................................................................... 7 5. DINING...................................................................................................8 6. SHOPPING.............................................................................................. 9 7. POSTAL SERVICE................................................................................... 11 8. BANKING SERVICE ................................................................................ 11 #2 ACCOMMODATION ................................................................................. 13 1. Living in United States of America........................................................ 13 2. Property & real estate.......................................................................... 14 #3 TRANSPORTATION................................................................................... 15 #4 COST OF LIVING ....................................................................................... 17 th
  • 3. STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 3 #1 COUNTRY INFO The United States of America (also known as United States, U.S., USA, America, or the States). It is a federal constitutional republic that consists fifty states and a federal district. United States of America has 3.79 million square miles (9.83 million km2 ) and with over 314 million people, it become the third- or fourth-largest country by total area, and the third-largest by both land area and population. It is one of the world's most ethnically diverse and multicultural nations, the product of large-scale immigration from many countries. The States is a multicultural nation, just like home to a wide variety of ethnic groups, traditions, and values, and the American cultural is considered as the most individualistic in the world. The development of the culture at United States of America has been marked by a tension between two strong sources of inspiration: European ideals, especially British; and domestic originality. Besides, the American culture do encompasses traditions, ideals, customs, beliefs, values, arts, folklore and innovations developed both domestically and imported via colonization and immigration from the British Isles. The government of the United States of America is the federal government of the constitutional republic of fifty states that constitute the United States of America, as well as one capitol district, and several other territories. The federal government is composed of three distinct branches: legislative, executive and judicial, which powers are vested by Share This Ebook!
  • 4. STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 4 the U.S. The country is situated mostly in central North America, where its forty-eight contiguous states and Washington, D.C., the capital district, lie between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, bordered by Canada to the north and Mexico to the south. The state of Alaska is in the northwest of the continent, with Canada to the east and Russia to the west across the Bering Strait. The state of Hawaii is an archipelago in the mid-Pacific. Other than that, the country also possesses several territories in the Pacific and Caribbean. 1. TIME AND WEATHER United States of America Time Zone The United States uses nine standard time zones. From east to west they are:- Atlantic Standard Time (AST) Eastern Standard Time (EST) Central Standard Time (CST) Mountain Standard Time (MST) Pacific Standard Time (PST) Alaskan Standard Time (AKST) Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST) Samoa Standard Time (UTC11) Chamorro Standard Time (UTC+10) The United States of America operates Daylight Saving Time which begins at 2:00 a.m. local time on the second Sunday in March. On the first Sunday in November areas on Daylight Saving Time return to Standard
  • 5. STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 5 Time at 2:00 a.m. The names in each time zone change along with Daylight Saving Time. Eastern Standard Time (EST) becomes Eastern Daylight Time (EDT), and so forth. Whilst, Arizona, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, U.S. Virgin Islands and American Samoa do not observe Daylight Saving Time. United States of America Weather United States of America consists wide variety of climate types due to its large size, range of geographic features, and non-contiguous arrangement. Temperatures reach both extremes of the scale from freezing cold 80尊F in Alaska to a piping hot 135尊F in Californias Death Valley (hence the name). In general the climate is temperate. Winter (December April): the northern states are the coldest, experiencing bitter, freezing temperatures. Low temperatures in January and February are made slightly warmer by the Chinook winds originating from the Rocky Mountains. The southern states, known as the sunbelt are quite the opposite, with temperatures rarely falling below freezing. Summers (June - September): hot in the US but for New England, Oregon and Washington which tend to be rainier and less predictable. The Pacific Northwest states are generally temperate while the south, east coast and Midwest are more humid. Heat waves are common in the Southwest. Spring and autumn are generally mild, warm and sunny with the exception of some wet areas, the Pacific Northwest in particular. Tornado season typically arrives in the Midwest between April and June, and hurricanes are common in early summer along the southern East Coast and Gulf of Mexico coast - TV and radio will broadcast warnings for both, but the chances of encountering one on a short visit are remote.
  • 6. STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 6 2. LANGUAGES Languages in United States of America The most common language used in the States is English and Spanish, is the second most commonly spoken language. After English and Spanish, however, few realize that French is spoken regularly in more American homes more than any other language. More than a million Americans also regularly speak German, Italian, and Chinese. And among the top languages spoken by Americans at home is one that has been spoken in this country long before English and Spanish 3. CURRENCY Currency & Denomination The currency used in the States is the U.S. dollar (sign: $; code: USD; also abbreviated US$). Notes is printed on bills in denominations of $1, $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100 while the circulating coins exist in denominations: $0.01, $0.05, $0.10, $0.25, $0.50, and $1.00. Exchange Rate Indicators 1.00 USD = 0.77 EUR 1.00 USD = 0.62 GBP 1.00 USD = 0.98 AUD *Currency conversion rates as of 10 October 2012.
  • 7. STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 7 4. SECURITY Security in United States of America The current president of the States is Barack H. Obama. He was elected the 44th President of the United States on November 4, 2008, and sworn in on January 20, 2009. The president is indirectly elected by the people through the Electoral College to a four-year term, and is one of only two nationally elected federal officers, the other being the Vice President of the United States. Head of State The President of the United States of America is the head of state and head of government of the United States. The president leads the executive branch of the federal government and is the commander-in- chief of the United States Armed Forces. The White House The White House is one of the world's most famous buildings. It isnt simply a home to First Families or meeting space for world leaders, yet also known as The Peoples House, a place that should be open to everyone. The White House is the only building in the world that is simultaneously the home of a head of state, the executive office of a head of state, and is regularly open to the public for tours not only to increase the number of visitors, but also enhance each visitors experience at the White House.
  • 8. STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 8 5. DINING Dining in United States of America The States often well known for the mass production and global uniformity of fast food outlets, but America is actually home to wide-ranging regional cuisine and the influence of immigrant groups past and present. From New England clam chowder to Texas barbecue to cioppino in the City by the Bay, the cuisine of the United States has thrills around every corner. Below are some of the famous dishes in the States: Apple Cake (United States apple cake) Buffalo Wings (American chicken wings in spicy sauce) Cajun and Creole Seasoning (American Louisiana herb and spice blend) Cioppino (American fish and seafood stew) Macaroni and Cheese (American pasta with cheese) New England Clam Chowder (American clam and potato stew) Pancakes (American skillet cakes)
  • 9. STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 9 6. SHOPPING Shopping in United States of America Shopping is one of America's favorite pastimes. Even the smallest cities in the United States have shopping centers or "shopping malls" that contain a wide variety of stores and services. There are several types of stores in United States of America:- The Campus Bookstore, which operates in almost every college and university. These bookstores carry required textbooks and supplies, a complete range of stationery items, and items of clothing with the university's emblem printed on them, as well as a variety of things needed or enjoyed by students.
  • 10. STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 10 Department Stores, serves have many different sections, or departments, where shopper can buy clothing, shoes, appliances, kitchen items, china, gifts, jewelry, and more. The price and quality are differing in each department store. Discount Stores, which similar to department stores but generally offer lower prices because they buy in large quantities (sometimes older and discontinued models), and because the stores are large, economically built, and plain. You may find "bargains" (good buys) at discount stores if you shop with care. Supermarkets, also called as the "grocery store", a large store that sells all kinds of food, as well as a small selection of other things like pharmacy items, hardware, kitchen utensils, houseplants, food for pets, and
  • 11. STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 11 sometimes even clothing. Prices in supermarkets are usually lower than in small, independent stores. Pharmacies, also known as drugstores" in the States and usually offer a large selection of cosmetics, toiletries, stationery, and other items, as well as medicines. You may also purchase "nonprescription" (that is, not prescribed by a doctor) medication, such as aspirin and common cold remedies. 7. POSTAL SERVICE Postal Services in United States of America The United States Postal Service (USPS), also known as the Post Office and U.S. Mail. It is an independent agency of the United States government responsible for providing postal service in the United States. It is one of the few government agencies explicitly authorized by the United States Constitution. The U.S Postal Service delivers not less than 40 % of land mails, yet, they also concerned about the earth as they choose to save energy and very supportive in 'go green' actions. 8. BANKING SERVICE Banking in United States of America There are various banks in the States and the five largest banks are JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Citigroup, Wells Fargo, and Goldman Sachs. The banks operating hours in the States are not the same for all as it depends on the location in different parts of the country. Majority of the banks operating hours are:- Monday to Thursday: 9a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • 12. STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 12 Friday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
  • 13. STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 13 #2 ACCOMMODATION 1. Living in United States of America Depending on your place of study, there are several types of accommodation arrangements you can pursue: i) On-Campus living Provided at optional fee by the education institution; fees and facilities may vary from one education institution to another. ii) Off-Campus living Majority schools have an off-campus housing office to help students find an apartment. The housing office will have listings of available apartments and information about the neighborhoods near campus. Accommodation will be settled by students themselves. For on-campus or off-campus accommodation, they are a variety of types and budgets to suit your lifestyle, and many of them are located a stone's throw from your intended place of study. Such accommodations may come in the form of college hostels, apartments, and so on in quiet neighborhood or close to the institution.
  • 14. STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 14 2. Property & real estate Property & Real Estate Agents Contact the National Association Real Estate Brokers (NAREB) for more information on housing options and current rates. NAREB Website: http://www.nareb.com Office: 301- 552- 9340 Fax: 301- 552- 9216 Address: 9831 Greenbelt Road Lanham, MD. 20706.
  • 15. STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 15 #3 TRANSPORTATION Public Transportation Transportation in the States is facilitated by road, air, rail, and water networks. Majority of American travels by automobile for shorter distances, and airplane or railroad for some people, for longer distances. Public transportation is generally quite good in urban areas with the subway in New York or the El in Chicago. There are also numerous underground train systems in operation in major cities including Washington DC (metro), Boston (T) and San Francisco (BART). There are also several tramway and trolleybus systems, including the much-loved antique trams found in San Francisco. The trains in the States are operated by Amtrak which serves with over 22,000 miles (33,000 km) tracks. Most of the states and cities do operate short-distance and commuter rail lines around the various urban areas and are connected to stops on the Amtrak lines. If you are traveling on road by car, taxi, or bus, the traffic drives on the right and every town can be reached by an adequate system of roads. If by bus, Greyhound is the main national coach carrier and covers the major cities in the States with express bus services. Subway in New York Amtrak
  • 16. STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 16 Bus Taxi
  • 17. STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 17 #4 COST OF LIVING Cost of Living in the States Expenditures are dependent on the chosen course, education institution, duration of study and your preferred lifestyle. The main expenses for foreign students are: 1. Visa application 2. Registration Fee 3. Deposit 4. Computer/Science Laboratory Fee 5. Insurance Premium 6. Library Fee 7. Other Incidental Costs Other indirect costs may include the following:
  • 18. STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 18 1. Accommodation - shared-lodging or private accommodation 2. Food and Beverages - hawker or restaurant 3. Travelling - taxi, bus and train fare 4. Telecommunication - public telephone and mobile phone fee 5. Laundry 6. Entertainment - movie, music cassette or CD, travel 7. Personal Care and Grooming - haircut and clothes 8. Postage - letters and parcel delivery 9. Hospital treatment and medical services 10. Books and Stationery - books, paper, pen and other consumables
  • 19. STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 19 Breakdown of Living Cost in the States The average international student should be prepared to spend about USD1360 to USD2190 per month for living expenses in the vicinity of a city. The cost is broken down as below : Accommodation You should estimate about USD580 to USD900 for your accommodation per month. The rental will vary depending on the geographical area, the type of accommodation (on- campus living in a hall of residence; or off-campus living in an apartment, condominium, singlestory house, double-storey house, etc.), the facilities provided in the house (e.g. with or without air-conditioning) and of course, the number of people sharing the room (or the apartment/house). Food / Housekeeping Your food and housekeeping expense is estimated to be around USD200 to USD400. Naturally, if you cook and share the cooking expenses with your friends, it would be cheaper. Public Transport Students who stay on campus or near campus may not incur any cost of travelling to and from classes. However, other travelling may cost approximately USD60 to USD90 per month. Share This Ebook!
  • 20. STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 20 Telecommunication / Mobile Phone Bills and Utilities The average student may pay approximately USD70 to USD100 on telecommunication for Internet and mobile phone bills per month. Personal Expenses How much your personal expenses would be per month would depend on your personal lifestyle. However, the cost can be estimated to be between USD450 to USD700. This includes your socialising needs, toiletries, haircut, clothes, movie, etc. Using the estimate above, the total cost of living will average from between USD1360 to USD2190 per month or about USD16320 to USD26280 per year (12 months) for one student. It is important to remember that the above estimate is only a guide in planning your budget to study in United States of America. Individual expenses will vary according to the location you are at, course taken and your personal lifestyle.
  • 21. STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 21
  • 22. STUDY GUIDE IN USA 2012 www.easyuni.com 22