Ambassador Michael W. Michalak Engages in an Online Q&A Session about U.S. Higher Education

Ambassador Michael W. Michalak’s Online Q&A on U.S. Student Visas

Question: What are the most important criteria for admitting a student to a U.S. university? Former Singapore Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew once said Singapore accepts two types of students – the wealthy or the exceptionally bright. If I do not have enough money to study in the U.S. and lack the qualifications for a VEF scholarship, but I genuinely want to pursue a master's in mathematics and understand why the U.S. became a superpower, what advice do you have to help me achieve this dream?

Ambassador Michalak: That’s a great question. Thank you for asking. We welcome all students who genuinely wish to study in the U.S. With over 4,000 accredited universities, I believe there is a school for everyone. There are several requirements you need to meet to obtain a visa and study in the U.S. Financial capacity is important, but you do not need to have all the money upfront. What you need is a plan to cover your educational expenses in the U.S. We also need to see evidence of your academic ability to succeed in an American educational environment. This means you need a good academic record. Additionally, you need to demonstrate proficiency in English to study effectively and adapt to a new social environment. Lastly, you must prove your intent to return to Vietnam after graduation. I encourage you to explore more on the websites of the U.S. Embassy and Consulate General in Vietnam at http://hanoi.usembassy.gov and http://hochiminh.usconsulate.gov.

Question: If I study in the U.S. and return to Vietnam to work, do you think I could help Vietnam become a powerful nation like the U.S.?

Ambassador Michalak: I firmly believe that. In fact, I think Vietnam will become a powerful nation regardless of whether you study in the U.S. or not. However, I believe you can contribute more to Vietnam’s development if you have the advantage of studying and gaining experience in the U.S. An international education is a valuable asset for anyone who wants to help Vietnam integrate further with the world.

Question: The U.S. is a wealthy country with the most advanced education system. Does the U.S. government have specific policies to help students from poorer countries like Vietnam study in the U.S.? For example, could universities waive 50-90% of tuition or allow part-time work?

Ambassador Michalak: Thank you for your question. The U.S. government manages numerous scholarship programs, including the Fulbright Program, which has brought many Vietnamese students to the U.S. and American scholars to Vietnam. The U.S. also funds the Vietnam Education Foundation (VEF), which sends around 100 Vietnamese students annually to study science and technology in the U.S. Many U.S. universities offer scholarships to international students, and American companies also sponsor training programs for Vietnamese students. I encourage you to visit the U.S. Embassy and Consulate websites to find links to other resources on financial aid programs available in the U.S.

Question: I read that some major U.S. universities recently cut tuition by 50%, and students from families earning less than $60,000 a year do not pay tuition. Does this policy apply to international graduate students in the U.S.?

Ambassador Michalak: I am not fully aware of that program. My guess, and I could be wrong, is that it does not apply to international students. However, as I mentioned, there are many scholarship programs available for international students. U.S. universities and private companies are establishing partnerships with Vietnamese universities, which may include tuition reductions for Vietnamese students. I am organizing an education conference next week to learn more about current partnership programs and explore how the U.S. can continue to improve educational opportunities for Vietnamese students.

Question: My younger son is studying in the U.S. since 2005. My eldest son, about to graduate from a university in Vietnam, also wants to pursue a master’s degree abroad. Will he face any obstacles studying in the U.S. because his brother is already there?

Ambassador Michalak: No, there will be no issues. He can apply, and his application will be evaluated based on his qualifications and academic record. The fact that his sibling is already in the U.S. will not affect his application.

Question: What about tuition fees and working part-time while studying in the U.S.?

Ambassador Michalak: Tuition fees vary by university. The best way to get accurate information is to check each school’s website. Some programs allow part-time work, depending on your field of study and year. Graduate programs often provide assistantships, such as teaching or research positions. I recommend speaking with our consular staff to learn more about the requirements for working while studying.

Question: I have a disability (a leg impairment) and work as an editor for a local TV station. I want to study journalism in the U.S. Do U.S. universities accept students with disabilities?

Ambassador Michalak: Absolutely. There is no discrimination against disabled students in U.S. universities. In fact, U.S. law prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all aspects of society, including education.

Question: Does the U.S. offer scholarships for social sciences like journalism or literature?

Ambassador Michalak: Yes. Scholarships and financial aid are available for all fields of study in the U.S. Some organizations offer specific scholarships, while universities provide financial aid programs for students in all disciplines.

Question: Can I apply for a student visa at the U.S. Embassy in South Korea while studying there?

Ambassador Michalak: Yes. You can apply for a visa at any U.S. Embassy or Consulate, including those in South Korea.

Conclusion:
Thank you for participating. I encourage you to keep asking questions and exploring opportunities. The U.S. welcomes Vietnamese students and values their potential. We will continue to enhance educational cooperation between Vietnam and the U.S.