First, contact the American embassy, consulate or United States Information Service (USIA) office in your country to locate the nearest educational advising center. Such centers are often found in U.S. Information service offices, in American libraries, in binational centers, in Fulbright Commission offices; or in some countries, at AMIDEAST or Institute of International Education (IIE) offices.

Qualified educational advisers in these offices provide information and most services free of charge. When you go, or if you inquire by mail, you should state the following:

1. Degree sought and degrees already earned;
2. Your field of study and research goals;
3. Whether or not you need financial aid;
4. When you want to begin study;
5. Your English language proficiency; and
6. Where in the U.S. you want to study.
7. Many advising centers also offer group programs about the application and selection procedures, as well as predeparture orientation programs. The educational advisers can assist you in answering questions about:
   • Equivalence between the educational system in your country and the United States;
   • Entry requirements for study in your field;
   • Use of reference materials to find appropriate institutions;
   • Sources of financial assistance available in your home country and in the United States;
   • Testing requirements and applications;
   • How to prepare your applications;
   • How to plan your education;
   • Adjusting to academic and cultural life in the United States;and
   • Using your education after you return to your home country.
   • In addition to educational advisers, graduates of U.S. colleges and universities who have recently returned home are excellent resources for advice about the benefits and costs of study in the United States.