Pre-Arrival Information
Do you suggest learning something like cooking, etc. before coming here?
Well... a lot of things! Here is a suggested list of stuff that can help you a lot when you
come here. As far as possible, try to get most of them done.
If you don’t know driving yet, learn it! And after you get your Indian driving license, apply
for an International Driving License (IDP). It’s just a matter of applying for it, and you
don’t need to take extra tests for it. It is an extremely useful thing out here. You can drive
vehicles for up to a year, using the IDP. You can also rent vehicles with the IDP.
Learn cooking! Buddy, if you’re going to survive here you BETTER learn something or
else your room-mates will end up throwing you out! Well jokes apart, most desis here
cook on their own. It helps a great deal with your monthly expenses. So learn all those
dishes Mom makes, or you’re going to miss them a lot!
Web programming! That is something that will be of great use if you need the high
paying jobs. You needn’t be a pro at it, but if you have more or less the knowledge to get
around, you have good chances of getting a student worker position as a web
programmer (highest paid student worker jobs on campus).
Learn to use the Microsoft Office package...and a little more than just typing. Nearly
every job here will ask you if you have word processor, spreadsheet, etc. experience.
Learn Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Access. They will be useful not only for a job, but
also for your own studies.
If you are going to be taking a course that involves core engineering, it would be a good
idea to learn mathematical software such as Matlab, Maple or MathCAD. Students here
literally survive on these things, and your professor will expect you to know them. They
are not all that difficult and nearly all of them are based on the C-language (especially
Matlab). So if you know C or C++, the effort will be less. In any case, learn them. From
the experience of previous students, it’s always a plus point to know these.
Is there anything else that I need to take care of?
A few things, if it applies to you:
If you are going to be availing a bank loan, make sure that you apply ASAP. Some
banks may take time before they verify your background and sanction the loan.
Make sure that your passport is valid for valid for 6 months more than your stay
indicated in your I-20.
What is Aggieland?
College Station for a long time has come to be known as Aggieland, land of the Aggies.
Students enrolled at Texas A&M University are called Aggies, and hence the name.
What does A&M stand for?
When the university was founded in 1876, it was called as the Agricultural and
Mechanical College of Texas (AMC) — the first public university in Texas. A&M
therefore stands for ''Agricultural and Mechanical''. Years later, the college was turned
into a University and many more departments were added. However the name stuck and
so it is still called Texas A&M University. (Don’t be surprised if you find some of the
mechies constantly bragging about how they put the ''M'' in ''A&M''!)
I have heard that all Universities in the US have a lot of traditions behind them.
Does A&M have any?
''Does'' A&M have any?! Texas A&M University is probably one of the only Universities
where a lot of emphasis is placed on traditions. Many things like The 12th Man, Gig 'em,
Midnight Yell, Silver Taps, Muster, etc. have come to be a cherished part of A&M.
There is a lot to write about these, so we encourage you to visit these websites to learn
more about Aggie Traditions. It's always good to sink in the Aggie spirit before you come
here.
To learn about Aggie Traditions:

http://aggietraditions.tamu.edu

http://traditions.tamu.edu/traditions/ (this site has illustrations)
To know facts about A&M:
http://www.tamu.edu/home/aboutam/amfacts/index.html
Who is the mascot of Texas A&M University?
Reveille, the first lady of Aggieland, is the official mascot of Texas A&M
University. She is the highest ranking member of the Corps of Cadets, and she is
a Five-Star General. Having said that, may we point out that Reveille is a dog!
Reveille is the most revered dog on campus. Though it seems humorous,
Company E-2 has the privilege of taking care of Reveille. If she is sleeping on a
cadet's bed, that cadet must sleep on the floor. Cadets address Reveille as "Miss
Rev, ma'am." If she is teaching, the class is to be immediately dismissed is in
class and barks while the professor.
How big is College Station?
College Station is a city with a population of about 70,000. The neighboring city, Bryan,
is very close by (just about a mile) that these two are usually called the twin cities. CS
has all sorts of facilities, shops and a mall too. It’s not as big as metro cities, but it’s still a
good place to live in.
What is the weather like in College Station?
College station has a varied climate from really hot summers to really cold winters. Right
now its summer time and its getting quite hot each day. For those of you that are from
North India, the climate of College Station is more or less like what we have in New
Delhi (that's for a reference in case you need to know what to expect).
More or less this is the year-round climate:
April mid-Sep: Summer Season (Temp reaches 35deg-40degC; very hot in the
afternoon, occasional rains)
Sep-Nov: Fall Season (Warm in the afternoon, but pleasant otherwise; occasional rains)
Nov-Feb: Winter Season (temp goes as low as 2deg-3degC. Wind blows and this due to
the wind chill the temp may actually feel like sub-zero. It does not snow here, but last
Dec there were about 3 days of ice formation)
Feb-April: Spring Season (Best time of the year. Weather is pleasant and there are
occasional rains)
Remember to bring a good umbrella as the rains are pretty heavy out here. When it
rains, it pours!
Are there Indians in College Station?
Oh yes! The Indian community is the largest international community in Texas A&M
University. In addition to the students, there are many families living in Bryan / College
Station.
Are there Indian stores in College Station?
Yes. We have nearly 3 Indian stores here and you get nearly every Indian foodstuff and
grocery that you need. (Even Parle-G biscuits and Maggie noodles!). They are open for
most time of the day and are all in walking distance of your apartments. All of them also
have video libraries so you can rent movie DVDs. And yup, they have the very latest
ones too. At times they also have recorded cricket matches!
What about the safety issues attending evening classes and moving back to the
apartment? Are there any emergency services available?
College Station is a pretty much safe place and we don’t have issues like racism. There
have been stray cases of problems so we suggest that you try not to stay very late out
by yourself. Emergency services - 911, Campus Police, EMS, Corps of Cadets Escort
service are available 24/7; 'round the clock.
What is the time difference between India and College Station?
College Station comes in the ''Central Time (US and Canada)'' time zone. Here they use
the concept of Daylight Saving Time - DST (a correction factor used to accommodate for
duration of day during winters and summers). When DST is switched on (as it is now),
College Station time is 10˝ (ten and a half) hours behind Indian Standard Time (IST).
When DST is off, CS time is 11˝ (eleven and a half) hours behind IST.
What is this DST - Daylight Saving Time?
As the name suggests, the time is set in such a way that maximum daylight could be
used. E.g. During summer, the sun rises at around 4-5 o'clock. So the clock is set
forward by one hour. This forces all activities to start one hour earlier so that maximum
daylight is used till late in the evening.
Therefore: The Clock is set back by one hour on the first Sunday of November 1 (Fall
Season) at 2:00 am. Clock is once again set forward by one hour on the first Sunday of
April at 2:00 am (Spring Season). The easiest way to remember this is FALL BACK,
SPRING AHEAD.
By the way, Arizona is the only state, which is not affected by day-light-saving. People
there do not ever change the time in their clocks.
IMMUNIZATION, MEDICAL RELATED, HEALTH INSURANCE, ETC
The Student Health Services (SHS) website says that ''Effective May 2, 2003, Texas
A&M University will no longer be requiring the submission of immunization
records as a requirement for class registration''. It also says that some
international students are an exception. Are we Indians part of the exception?
Students from India are NOT an exception. Though it is true that they don't look much
into most of the vaccinations, it is extremely important that you take the Mantoux test for
TB. There are no exceptions to this. If you haven't taken the TB test, your registration will
be blocked until you take it. Also as a matter of personal health and precaution, we
would suggest that you are vaccinated against everything mentioned on the
Immunization Form. If you fall ill here, you'll end up paying through your nose. Medical
bills are very expensive here.
I have not received any Immunization form till date. Does A&M send the form or
it’s available somewhere on the site?
You would have got the Immunization Record form when you got the admit letter from
A&M. Now in case you have not received it, you can download it from:
http://shs.tamu.edu/forms/MEDHISTO.PDF
I have received a letter from TAMU regarding Immunization record. Now the
question is from whom should I get the form signed as u may have done that?
The Immunization Record is a very important thing to fill up, and is required to clear your
health insurance block once you come here. It is advisable to get it done by your family
doctor, if you have one. In case you don't have a family doc, get it signed by a doctor
from a good hospital (not any small clinic). In some cases you probably won't remember
all the dates of the various immunization shots (unless you have records of it). If this is
the case, make sure that the dates are adjusted well. For e.g.: the first set of
immunization shots should be in the first 3 months of birth and so on.
What are the three sheets on the Immunization Record form for?

First sheet - Report of Medical History – outline of your medical history

Second sheet - Information about Bacterial Meningitis

Third Sheet - This is the most important one. You have to fill this with information
regarding the vaccinations you have taken.
Should I send the Immunization Record to A&M right away?
No. You don’t have to send the Immunization Record to A&M now. Just make sure that
you fill in all the necessary information before you come here. After your check-in with
the International Student Services (ISS), you will be asked to go to the Beutel Health
Centre and get your medical block removed. Hand the Immunization Record to the
concerned individual at that time, and they will clear your block.
What kind of checkup should I have before I come to the US?
Get a complete medical check-up done, especially dental and eye-checkup. These are
very expensive in the US and it is best you do them in India. If you use reading glasses,
make sure you have at least 2 pairs of them because if they happen to break, you’ll pay
a lot getting them fixed. (It costs around $160 over here to get a spectacle made!)
I am taking the vaccination for Hepatitis-B for the first time. It needs three shots to
be taken and I may not be able to take all of them by the time I come there. Can I
carry a vaccine vial with me so that I can reduce the cost? Will they provide me
just the injection if I give them the vaccine?
No. The Preventive Medicine unit at Beutel Health Centre has strict guidelines that they
cannot give you an injection for a drug that you bring with you. They will inject you only
with drugs that are available here. If you are not able to take all the necessary doses
before you come here, then the only option is to pay and get it done here.
The only exception to this rule is an allergy serum and that too with proper and valid
documentation from a doctor in India.
The TB screening (Mantoux test) - is that compulsory for us? If so, can we take it
here and come; i.e. are tests taken here accepted by the SHS people at TAMU?
TB skin testing, utilizing the Mantoux test, is required for all incoming, high-risk students,
domestic or international, who have arrived from countries where TB is endemic. India is
included in one of the countries where TB is considered endemic, and hence it is
mandatory that you take the test.
Do note that the Mantoux test is only a means of knowing whether you have TB or not; it
is not a vaccine. If your test becomes positive take the appropriate medication. Even
though doctors in India will write you off as ''TB negative'' if your reading falls below a
certain value, here it is very important that your reading shows 0 (zero). So if you are
negative ask your doctor to write it as ''0'' and not just ''TB negative''.
More details on immunization can be obtained from:
http://shs.tamu.edu/immunizations.htm
My doc said that Indians take only one MMR vaccine (when they are about a year
old) and Americans take another dose when they are five. So what do I do
alongside MMR#2 in the Immunization Record? Do I leave it blank?
You can leave the second one blank or you can write the date for MMR across the fields
for both MMR#1 and #2.
What medicines should I carry with me?
Medicines are expensive here and we recommend that you bring medicines from India,
for each of these categories:

Fever, Body Ache, Headache

Tablets for Air/Motion Sickness

For stomach discomfort

First Aid Kit - Bandages, Band Aids, Dettol, etc.

Pain Reliever - Tiger Balm, Deep Heat spray, etc.

Vitamin tablets - Vitamin B-complex and Vitamin C
Make sure that if you have any specific medical condition, you should carry sufficient
amount of medicine with you to last for some time. IMPORTANT: Remember to carry a
doctor's prescription for the medicines. Certain (strong) medicines contain narcotics and
it is illegal to carry these without a prescription.
Do I need to bring my medical records with me?
Yes, you should. You are going to be here for some time now, and if you have had a
specific medical condition in the past, remember to bring the doctor's record sheets,
prescriptions, etc. You don't need to bring a huge file for this. You know your health best.
Get what you feel might be useful in case you have a medical condition once you come
here.
Is insurance purchased from India, say from ICICI, accepted at TAMU? This works
out to be pretty cheap. Can I purchase it?
NO ! According to the new rule by ISS which applies from Fall 2010, only insurances
purchased from the University will be accepted. So please do not purchase any
insurance from India as you will have to purchase it again here.
What is the general procedure to claim medical expenses?
To claim medical coverage, you will have to submit your bills to the insurance company
and then they will reimburse you based on the policy you have taken.
I still have not got my I-20. Whom should I contact?
If you still have not received your I-20 form (CERTIFICATE OF ELIGIBILITY), you
should contact the International Student Services (ISS).

Phone Number: 979-845-1151

E-mail: iss@tamu.edu
It is recommended that you contact them by phone. They are processing the
applications of thousands of students and may not reply back through e-mails as fast as
you need it. The ISS is open Monday - Friday, from 8am - 5pm (Central Time). You can
call them any time during their office hours.
I received a scholarship from my department. However when I received my I-20, it
doesn’t show up. Does it mean that I won’t be getting the scholarship?
Don’t worry. As long as you have a letter from the department that states that you have
been awarded a scholarship or assistantship, then you will surely be getting it. At times,
the department sanctions the funding and sends that information to the ISS. But by then,
ISS would have already printed out and mailed the I-20 form to you.
This is not a problem with the VISA officer either, as you can show them proof of your
funding. Request the ISS to issue you a new I-20. If you get the new one in time, that’s
good. But just in case you don’t, carry your aid letter with you for the interview.
ELPE (English Language Proficiency Exam)
I got my I-20, but there is something mentioned about the English Language
Proficiency requirement. What is ELPE?
Even though you submitted your TOEFL scores well in advance there is a good chance
that you may have the I-20 mentioning about the English Language Proficiency
requirement. The ELPE (English Language Proficiency Exam) is given at Texas A&M,
and is required by all international students if they are applying for assistantships,
especially TA. Certain departments (e.g.: Architecture) have it mandatory that all
students take the ELPE, while some (e.g.: Mechanical) require it only if you are applying
for an assistantship.
I want to know if a good TOEFL score helps in the granting of a TA. I have a 300
and will this help me in any way, or is it only the ELPE that matters?
A good TOEFL score does help you to get an assistantship, but this alone wont help.
Since TOEFL scores are valid for a couple of years (3 years), A&M wanted to have a
standardized test specific to A&M requirements, where all the scores are current and
taken at the same time. This is why it is necessary that you take the ELPE. Most
positions for assistantships (RA/TA/GA) require that you only clear the ELPE. They won’t
look at your exact scores. It’s just enough that you pass in all the sections (more than
80% on each section).
When and where do I take the ELPE?
The ELPE is given at Texas A&M. New students take it upon their arrival approximately
one and a half weeks before classes start. This provides time for the test to be scored
before students have to register for classes. The exam is usually on the day after your
International Student Check-In. You will be notified about the time and date of the exam,
once you come here.
IMPORTANT: The ELPE exam runs for 2 days (separate tests on both days) and it is
important that you attend both the days. In previous years, it happened to many students
that they thought they could take the exam on any of the two days, and thus missed the
chance to take the complete exam.
You mentioned duration of 2 days. So how long will the test take place for each
day? Will it be only these 2 specified days or is it according to our convenience?
On the first day you will have all sections except the Oral Skills Assessment. This
generally lasts for about 1˝ (one and half) to 2 hours. The time of exam will be common
to all those who are taking the exam. After the exam you will get your appointment time
for the Oral Skills Assessment for the next day.
Depending on the number of students, the Oral Exam might start on the same day since
each student is individually tested. You are allowed to swap the appointment time with
any other student if both agree. You are expected to meet with the interviewing panel at
your time. Oral exam is for just 5 - 10 minutes.
Note that your convenience is limited to the fact that you can swap the Oral Exam time
with someone else, only on the days when the testing is done.
How do I prepare for the ELPE?
There are reference materials in the Sterling C. Evans Library at Texas A&M University.
Except for the oral interview and composition segments of the ELPE, students may
prepare ahead of time by studying for the Michigan Test Battery (book may be available
in India), since this standardized test makes up a large part of the ELPE.
Is the ELPE difficult? What are the sections in it?
Relax. ELPE is very similar to the TOEFL exam and you should be able to do fine in it if
you did well in TOEFL. Go through Baron’s TOEFL material once and you will be good
to go. It is also a good idea to refresh the word list from GRE (just go through it once,
you need not memorize it all over again).
What are the various sections in the ELPE?
The various sections in ELPE are:

Oral Skills Assessment

Writing Skills Assessment

Reading Comprehension

Grammar

Vocabulary

Listening Comprehension
A passing score for graduate students is 80% on each of the six proficiency areas. For
undergraduate students, a score of 70% is the passing score for each area.
In case I don’t pass ELPE the first time, what should I do?
For the easiness of the ELPE, we don’t see any reason why you would NOT pass the
exam! In any case, if you don’t clear the ELPE the first time you can always take it again.
Note that ELPE is given only at the start of every semester, so if you don’t make it the
first time you will have to wait till the start of the next semester.
Be warned that if your department states that it is mandatory to take the ELPE and if you
don’t pass, then you must take ELI courses (in at least one of the areas not yet passed)
no later than your second semester enrolled at A&M. Taking the ELI is equivalent to
taking a course; it will both cost you money and will add to your work load. So don’t take
the ELPE very lightly. It is better if pass in the first attempt.
You’re saying that ELPE is easy, yet I heard from many seniors that they could not
pass it the first time. Why so?
If someone who is good at English did not make it through the first time, then there is a
very good chance that he/she did not do well in the ''Oral Skills Assessment''. Texans
have a very slow accent and they seem to emphasize each word when they speak. As a
matter of fact, Texans think that they are the only ones that speak English; everyone
else speaks God-knows-what!
We people, who come from India, have a fast accent and the Texans can't comprehend
it. This is actually true. We have a very fast accent and most of the times they flunk you
because they don't seem to understand us. When you attend the preparatory class for
ELPE (once you come here), one of the first things they will tell you is SLOW DOWN!
What is the Oral Assessment all about?
In the Oral Exam there will be the following sections:

Read out a passage from a book - this tests your skill to speak clearly so that if
you take a TA assignment, students can understand you well.

Interpret a cartoon; i.e. come up with a story of what’s happening in it - This is to
test your thinking and creative ability.

Explain the process - They will give you a simple picture of something like stuff
needed to make coffee, and you have to tell them how to make a cup of coffee.
Sounds easy, but what they test is your speech, thinking ability to organize things
in a proper manner and approach used.
These sections may vary and need not necessarily be the same. But this should give
you an idea of what to expect.
Is there any place I can get more information about the ELPE?
The official A&M website for details on ELPE is:
http://international.tamu.edu/iss/isselpe.asp
Airport, Flight Details
Where should I land or to say the airport?
Your final destination should be BUSH INTERCONTINENTAL AIRPORT, HOUSTON
(IAH). From Houston you will be brought to College Station by a Ground Shuttle,
organized by the IA. This will cost about $25. On the other hand, it will also be good if
you can continue your flight and book your destination till Easterwood Airport , College
Station . (Easterwood is a domestic terminal so there won't be direct international flights
to it). This will be convenient for both you and us. You can decide on the choice
according to your budget.
It is preferred if you keep your port of arrival, in the US , as Houston . However, many
airlines have intermediate stops so don't worry if you have a transit. When you enter the
US (whichever be the city), you will have to go through customs and verification. Your I-
94 card will be issued to you. Keep this very carefully as you need it till you leave the US
.
I've heard that there is an airport in College Station , Easterwood Airport ? Can I
come there directly?
Easterwood airport is College Station 's domestic terminal and although you won't get a
direct international flight till here, you can still get a connection flight. Confirm with your
travel agent when you book your ticket. It will be a good idea to come here directly as it
will be easier for you (you can avoid the long travel by road). Never the less, we will pick
you up from Houston , if you decide on that as your final destination.
Which airline is the best?
Choose an airline that can give you student discount, allow as much baggage as
possible, and a destination to Houston . Students coming from India choose from a
range of airlines such as Lufthansa, Air France , British Airways, etc. The important thing
is book a ticket right away, if you have not done so yet. August is the busiest season in
the US as a large number of prospective students come in, and if you are late you may
not be able to get a ticket in time.
What should I keep in mind when I book the tickets?

Most important thing is to book a ticket. You won't have to pay for it until maybe 2
weeks before departure. That way you are sure you have a ticket available. As
far as possible, book with a number of airlines.

Ask for student concessions. Generally all the airlines will come up with one or
the other discount offer for students, so check all this out before you pay the
money.

A direct flight is the best. Try to make your port of entry as Houston ( Bush
Intercontinental Airport ). This is also helpful because once you are in the US ,
and you fly from another city to Houston your baggage may be treated as
domestic baggage. Considering the luggage you bring, it will now be excess and
you'll have to pay for the extra. Remember that this happens only if you stop on
route for a day or more (to perhaps visit someone). If you are transiting in the US
, then you don't have to worry about excess baggage.

If change of airline can't be avoided' leave at least 4-6 hrs gap between the
scheduled arrival of one flight and the scheduled departure of the connecting
flight.

Baggage is usually safe with a single airline - change of airline sometimes leads
to misplaced luggage. Some airlines don't take care of baggage transfer - you
may have to personally carry it (check this while booking) and cross check every
thing you are promised by your Travel agent with the original air lines.

If you have any special dietary requirements, do let the airlines know about it.
Most airlines have options for veg, non-veg, low salt, etc.
Time of Arrival
Check in will start from 14th Aug. When should I come there?
It is suggested that you come here in August, beginning from the first week. It will give
you about 2 weeks of time to search for a house and start up with groceries and stuff like
that. It will also give you the time to have a look around the University and meet your
seniors. By the time it's ready to register and select courses, you will be adjusted to this
place.
India Association will start its pickup and hosting from the last week of July, so if you
come earlier than that, please arrange for your own trip.
How will I inform India Association of the date and time that I will be arriving in
Houston?
India Association will open the web registration for Fall 2006 students in the end of June.
If you want IA to pick you up at the airport and if you need to be hosted, it is absolutely
necessary that you register at IA's website. Since IA's website is currently undergoing
maintenance, the web registration will not be opened until the end of June or first week
of July. This will still give you ample time to fill in all the details that are required by us.
Initial Accomodation and Pickup
Where will I go after first coming to US?
Don't worry about a thing. The India Association is arranging for your pickup from Bush
Intercontinental Airport , Houston . We will arrange pickup shuttles that will pick you from
the airport and bring you to College Station .
The India Association website is being prepared so that you can enter details about your
arrival. We are still in the process of creating this, so more detailed information about
this will available to you soon.
If in case I take up a route wherein I land at Houston International Airport at the
evening time at 5 pm or so, how do I need to move from there to college station?
Would there be any one to pickup?
The India Association is organizing pickup for Indian students. A shuttle service –
Groundshuttle – will be arranged to pick you up. Since the trip from Houston to College
Station takes about 11 (one and half) hours, the pick up timings will be adjusted so that
you won't have to wait at the airport for long. Tentatively, according to Groundshuttle
timings, the pick up times will be 9:00 am , 5:30 pm and then 9 pm . As far as possible,
you are advised to adjust your flight timing so that you land here at an appropriate time.
What kind of temporary accommodation is usually provided to incoming students
for the first few days?
You will be hosted for about 1-2 week's time with senior students. You don't have to pay
for this and it's a friendly and free service we here in College Station provide you so that
you don't have any tension in your first few days here.
The India Association website is being prepared so that you can enter details about your
arrival. We are still in the process of creating this, so more detailed information about
this will available to you soon.
I intend to come with my wife. What kind of initial accommodation will I get?
IA will accommodate you in an apartment that has enough space for 2 people.
Housing, Transportation Facilities in College Station
What are the rates of On-campus and Off-campus housing facilities available?
On-campus housing facilities are mainly used by undergraduate students. These are
more expensive and there are hardly any Indian graduate students who stay in the oncampus dorms. Many of these do not have kitchen facilities.
Most Indian students here stay in Off-Campus housing facilities as they are more
affordable. All the apartments are within 5-10 mins walking distance to the University.
They are available as 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom apartments. They come with kitchen, a
hall and a bathroom. The rates vary from $375 (single bedroom apartment) to $550 (2
bedroom apartment). Four people can comfortably stay in the 2-bedroom apartments so
the rent gets divided.
Which one is a preferable one, Off-campus or On-campus?
We would suggest Off-campus apartments for the following reasons:
• Cheaper and properly maintained
• More facilities like kitchen, spacious rooms, etc.
• More Indians stay close by
Since I intend to come with my wife, could someone also suggest me a few
locations where I could find Indian population close by?
Most of the Indian students stay in apartment blocks that are close by to the University.
These are good for families and there are many Indian families staying in these
apartments. Once you come here, you can apply for an apartment in the University
Apartments. These are maintained by the University and are especially for married
couples. The only drawback is that it has a waiting period of sometimes up to a year, so
book for this as soon as you come here.
What kind of food is available on campus and off campus?
The University has a lot of cafeterias that serve food from morning till evening. There are
also snack bars and vending machines that you can use. College Station has so many
options when it comes to fast-food outlets and restaurants. You get nearly everything out
here - Subway, McDonalds, Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, Dominoes, etc. Name it, you have it.
Most students cook by themselves and have food at their homes. This is more
economical and is better for your health too. There are many stores from where you can
get Indian food (rotis, paranthas, etc.)
I know a friend of mine who stays about 15 minutes away from campus. Isn't that a
bit far to walk in the hot summer?
The University buses have routes that run through most apartment complexes. You can
use the bus facilities to commute to and from University.
How about the transportation facility on campus?
The University has its buses that run through a couple of routes, off-campus and oncampus. It covers all of the campus and most locations out of campus. The fee for
transportation is already included in your fee statement so you don't need any separate
bus pass to use this facility. (Ironically, even if you don't use the service it is still charged
to your fee statement!)
Once you come here you can also buy a bicycle (Americans call it bike!) for a cheap
price. It's a common mode of transport for we desis here within the campus. You can
either get a new one from Wal-Mart or you can buy a used one.
Fees, Money to carry, Travel insurance details
What's the difference between tuition and fees?
Tuition is the money you pay for the courses you have registered for. This varies from
department to department and also on the number of courses you have registered for.
Fees covers anything that the tuition does not cover such as transportation charges,
sports fee, health fee, library charges, computer lab charges, etc.
What is in-state and out-state tuition?
In-state is the tuition that is paid by residents of state of Texas and for certain other
categories. Out-state tuition is paid by someone who is "out of state" of Texas . Initially
out-state applies to all international students, and this means that you will have to pay
more tuition and fees. (The difference is usually about $3000-4000 per semester
depending on the courses you register for). An out-state student can however become
in-state if he/she is awarded a scholarship or assistantship.
How much money should I carry?
This is the suggested amount you should carry when you come here.
Fee + Tuition and Health Insurance mentioned is PER SEMESTER
Fee + Tuition: @ $3000 (If you are an in-state student) and @ $6000 (If you are an outstate student)
Initial Expenses: @ $ 300 (Deposit for house + First month rent)
Startup Groceries: @ $ 300 (For initial and one-time house expenses)
Bank account: @ $ 500 (To start an account here)
Health Insurance: @ $ 200 (depending on what plan you take)
Money in hand: @ $ 150 (For any emergency use)
So, if you are paying in-state about $4000-4200, should be more than sufficient. If you
are paying out-state, then about $7000-7200. Remember that, as with everyone here,
you will be sharing an apartment with 2-3 other people so you can share the expenses
for rent and groceries with them.
At times the amount mentioned in your I-20 may seem to be exorbitant. This is because
they evaluate your accommodation and food expenses based on their dorms. Indian
students do not end up paying that much, especially when they cook by themselves and
stay off-campus. The safest bet is to count for the Fee section of our estimate based
upon your I-20, and the rest would remain the same.
Can I carry such a lot of foreign exchange with me when I travel?
Indian Government regulation states that you need to have a permit to carry US dollars
in excess of $1500 (Check with latest limits, it may have changed over last year). You
can get the RBI permit ready for the dollars you are carrying on you.
This can also be got from any bank authorized to do so; you need not go to RBI for this.
You can get this within a month of the date of the flight.
Where do I get to see details about the fee structure?
Details on the fee structure for international students is available at:
http://international.tamu.edu/iss/Webfile/Handouts/estimatedexpen
sesNewProgram.pdf
In what form do I carry the money - DD/Travelers' Check/ Cash?
The safest way to carry money is in the form of Demand Draft (DD) or Traveler's Check.
You can carry the amount required for the Tuition & Fee in a Demand Draft, addressed
to Texas A&M University (payable at College Station , Texas ). It is ok if you don't have
the exact amount on the DD. If after your tuition & fee has been paid, and there is money
left over, it will be reimbursed back to you. If the money is not sufficient you can pay the
remaining in cash. The money required to start up a bank account can also be brought in
DD or Traveler's Check. In case the total amount is more than $1000, some banks will
take 2-3 days to process it. Traveler's Checks can also be used and are accepted by the
University, some Apartment offices and banks. Demand Drafts are preferred over
Travelers checks.
Bring minimal amount of cash because it is not safe to travel with a lot of money. Carry
just about $100-200 as cash so that you can use it for emergencies on your way here or
in the first 2-3 days here at College Station (until you get your check book and ATM card
from the bank.)
Some of my friends told me to take Travel Insurance when I travel. Do I really have
to take it?
It is recommended that you have Travel Insurance when you travel. There are many
cases where baggage has been misplaced or arrived late. Though the chances of
loosing your baggage are less, the risk is still present. Taking insurance can help cover
this as well medical emergencies you may have on the way. There are many who
choose not to take travel insurance so, though we recommend it, its up to you to decide
whether you need it or not.
In case you are planning to take Travel Insurance, it is offered by a number of
companies in India such as TATA AIG, AVIVA, ICICI, etc.
What is the currency system in the US ?
Dollar: 100 cents
Quarter: 25 cents
Dime: 10 cents
Nickel: 5 cents
Penny: 1 cent
Funding, Scholarships, Student Worker Positions
Will I get funding and what are the types of assistantships that I can get?
Getting funding depends on the department you are joining. Some offer it, some don't.
We're sorry but while we can provide you with information that will be helpful to assist
you, we do not have details of assistantships that are currently available. There
are mainly 4 forms of financial support that students can get.
1. Scholarships: This is awarded by either a department or an organization (like
International Student Services, Former Students Association, etc.). If you get a
scholarship, then you will get to pay tuition at in-state rate. Certain departments offer
scholarships to all incoming international students as a way to help them in their first
year of study. Contact your department Graduate Program Advisor to know more about
this.
2. Teaching Assistantship (commonly known as TA): These are awarded by a
department and it is for the requirement of professors who take large classes. You will
have to assist in grading, teaching, etc. for undergraduate students. TA pays between
$900-1200 a month, and you get your full tuition waived. You may have to only pay the
fees (stuff like sports fee, transport fee, etc. that the department wont pay). This is
generally the only assistantship that you can get in the first semester. Keep in mind that
a professor can only recommend a student for TA. It is the department's final decision on
who they want to give it to. A professor can't directly help you on this, so contact the
department for TA availabilities.
3. Graduate Assistantship Research (GAR - also called Research Assistant or RA):
These are offered by individual professors when you work under them on a research
project. You will get your tuition, and in some cases your fee, waived. (If you're lucky you
won't pay anything at all). You also get paid anything between $900-2000. You will have
to contact individual Profs for this, but you have a better chance only from the second
semester onwards.
4. Graduate Assistantship Non-Teaching (GANT - Also called GA): This is similar to
scholarships and is offered by departments and organizations. Generally for folks who
are to work as web programmers for their website or something like that. Tuition (and
sometimes fee) is waived. Pays about $700-1400 a month. This has to be followed by
looking at the websites and University public listservs regularly.
How will I manage my expenses if I do not get an assistantship? Can I work on
campus?
Even if you don't get an assistantship right away, you can still work as a 'Student
Worker'. There are many positions that open up during the Fall semester and you are
pretty sure to find something. We suggest that you don't be too choosy about what you
get. If you get a job, take it up anyway. You can always leave it any time you want, when
you find another better job. The money you earn will be good enough to take care of
your monthly rent and grocery expenses.
What should I keep in mind when I apply for a Student Worker position?
Important things to note for Student Worker positions for Intl' students:
• You are allowed to work ONLY inside the campus. That means you can't work in an
establishment that is not part of Texas A&M University , even if it pays you a lot more.
Don't violate this rule. You will be deported if caught!
• You are allowed to work for a maximum of 20 hours per week. This is strict. The only
exception is break weeks (the weeks in between semesters), when you may be allowed
to work full time (40 hours), if your hiring department agrees.
• Your work permit has to be authorized by the International Student Services (ISS).
This is normally taken care of by the department that hires you.
• Your pay scale will vary from $5.5 (State minimum) to up till $12. The higher paying
jobs are mainly for web programmers so it will be a good idea to learn some web
programming before you come here.
Is there anyway I can search for a job before I reach TAMU?
Jobs that are posted by various departments are generally put on this website:
https://jobsforaggies.tamu.edu/
You need to login with your NetID and you can look at the various positions available.
REMEMBER to look only for on-campus jobs. This website posts positions for all
students, so it may include off-campus positions which you cannot apply for.
It's enough that you look for a job after coming here. You can go through the site, but
you won't be able to apply without being here, as in most cases you have to submit an
application form, or may have to meet with them for an interview.
What kind of jobs (positions) are available?
There are a lot of job profiles available that include:
• Food Services (many take this as you get a good pay $7/hr and a free meal)
• Web Programmer (highest paid @ $9/hr-$12/hr)
• Lab Assistant (assist undergrad lab - about $6/hr-7/hr)
• Library Assistant (lowest paid $5.5/hr, but easiest and relaxed job)
• Article writers (for TAMU's newspaper Battalion - pays @ $25 per article)
• Office Assistant (file papers, attend calls, carry small boxes - @$6-$7)
• Administrative Assistant (more or less like office assistant)
Selecting Courses, Deciding on subjects to pick, Degree Plan
I've heard that the system of education is quite different from what we have here
in India . In what way is it so?
For a start, nearly everything is different! Unlike most universities in the Indian system,
students here decide on what courses they need to take. Based on your educational
goal and the field you want to specialize in, it is up to you to decide what courses to pick.
Every semester a large number of courses are offered by various professors and you
can choose from these. You can also select courses from another department with the
approval of your advisor or graduate program coordinator. REMEMBER that all courses
are not offered in every semester. E.g.: If a course, say "Dynamics of Machines", was
offered in Fall 2005, there is absolutely no rule that is will be offered in Fall 2006. It all
depends on the professor who is teaching the course.
I would like to know what the Thesis option is for. Is it going to delay our MS?
Contrary to general belief, a Thesis option does not necessarily "delay" your MS. Most of
the folks who opt for Thesis option pass out before the 2 years time.
Masters majors have got 2 options: Thesis and Non-Thesis.
If you choose the Thesis option, you will be doing research, under an advisor, and this
will form an important part of your degree plan. If you are choosing a non-Thesis option,
then you won't have to do research. You will just have to do course work, i.e. attend
classes. Generally non-Thesis is an easy option, but you will have to take more credit
hours. e.g.: In Mechanical Engineering, if you are taking the Thesis option, you will have
to take 32 credits in all to complete the MS degree. If you choose Non-Thesis, it
becomes
36.
The reason some choose Non-Thesis is that they don't have an interest to do research,
they may not have funding, they may not find a topic or a research area that they want to
do something in, etc. It is purely a matter of choice. You don't have to decide on what
choice you want to take until the second semester is over (that's when you will have to
file your degree plan).
How do I know what courses I can take?
Go to the URL
http://courses.tamu.edu . Click on the "Fall Session 2006 (WEB)"
link. Now choose your department from the list provided and click on its appropriate
Courses link.
For Graduate students the courses you can select are the 600-level courses. Certain
departments allow you to select up to two 400-level courses that you can put on your
degree plan. You can also pick courses from another department. E.g.: A Mechanical
engineering student can pick certain courses from Aerospace, Civil, Mechanics &
Materials, etc.
Decide on what courses you would like to take in FALL '06, and it will show you the
name of the professor who is taking it. In case the Instructor shows up as "STAFF" then
it means that either the class has not been decided upon or a Teaching Assistant is
teaching it. Contact that professor for more details on the course; he/she will let you
know.
What are credit hours, and is there a minimum requirement?
Credit hours are the number of credits you get for taking that course. Most graduate
subjects have 3 credit hours. Some have 4, and some 2. It all depends on what course
you pick. When you look up a course on the listing, the number of credit hours will be
mentioned in the Credits column.
Remember that to remain as a Full-time International Student; you must have a
minimum of 9 credit hours in the FALL and SPRING semesters; and 6 credit hours in the
SUMMER semester.
Do I have to select my courses before I come there?
Although you can go through the course listing and decide on what you want to go for,
you will not be allowed to register for a course until your check-in is over. It is suggested
that you at least decide on what you want to take, so that once you come here you don't
need to waste time in contacting professors. Use the help of current students to decide
on the courses you want to take.
I am not able to decide on what courses to take. I also want to know which
professors are good. Can the current students help me?
The URL to students who joined in Fall 2005 will come up soon. Contact students from
your department. Please be courteous and short in your queries as most students are
now on research/internship and may not have a lot of time to spare.
Can I contact the professor to ask about a course?
By all means, YES! Professors here are very helpful and will answer all your questions
regarding courses. You can get in touch with them to know what the pre-requisites of a
course are, and what textbook to use. Please be very short and straight to the point in
your e-mails to them, as most of them are very busy all the time and they have better
things to do than read your essays! Don't address them as "Dear Sir / Madam". That's a
British form of address and some Profs just hate that (beats me why!). Address them as
" Dear Dr. (Last name)".
I need to pick on a course, but when I look at the course details it shows the
"Available Seats" as 0. What do I do now?
Hard luck buddy! Most graduate courses have maximum class strength of 30 - 40. Even
current students may take up these courses, so it's your (good or hard) luck whether you
get a course or not. Since you cannot register until your check in is over, the best thing
to do is keep watching the website frequently so that you know if this course is likely to
get filled. And right after you check-in at the ISS, don't wait for anything. Run and
register!
Now in case you very badly need that course, talk to the professor who takes the course.
Sometimes they may be willing to take 2-3 more students than the class strength.
What is a Degree plan? Do I need to do anything about that before I come there?
A Degree Plan is your "plan" of courses that you and your advisory committee have
selected to fulfill the degree requirements. Most departments do not require a grad
student to submit his/her degree plan until the end of their second semester here, so
relax. you don't need to do anything about this right now. If you'd like to know more
about the Degree Plan, go to the following link:
http://ogs.tamu.edu/OGS/pdf/degfact.pdf
There is a course that seems interesting. I want to attend the lecture, but I don't
want to take up the course. What can I do?
There is an option called "Audit" by which you can attend the class lectures for a
particular subject, but you need not take the exam, submit assignments, etc. Remember
that this can happen only with the approval of the professor taking the course and in
every case, he/ she will need a very good reason from you as to why you want to audit
and not take the course.
Baggage and Packing
First of all, is there something that I should "NOT" bring when I pack my luggage?
These are the things that you can avoid when you shop:
• Cloth hangars: They are an unnecessary weight addition, so avoid them. You can get
cheap and good ones when you come here.
• Electrical Appliances: Most appliances here are designed for 110-120V, unlike the
ones we get in India (230-240V systems). Unless you bring a converter, they will be
useless. In any case, appliances like ironing box, mixers, and grinders can be bought for
cheap from Wal-Mart.
• File folders: US filing system use the 3-hole system which is different from Indian
system, so please do not carry these unnecessarily.
What kind of boxes should I go for?
Before you buy the boxes, contact your airless and confirm what are the size
specifications and the weight in it that you can carry. All airlines are very strict about this,
so it's best to know this before you start.
Here are some tips when you buy the box:
• Buy two good boxes - they should be able to withstand a lot of mishandling. Go for the
good branded ones, as they are now available in light-weight and durable materials.
Remember that even gram saved in the box's weight is a gram you can bring as
luggage.
• Get a good carry-on hand baggage - cabin baggage (again, as per airline regulation).
• Strictly follow size limitations, as regulated by your airlines.
• Try to go for boxes that have identification marks and labels both inside & outside the
boxes. They will be helpful when you need to retrieve your baggage here at your
destination.
• BUY A BACKPACK - Get a good one, you will use it almost all the time in US.
IMPORTANT: Get baggage that have wheels as you may have to move them around a
lot during your trip and you don't want to tire yourself carrying them.
Clothes, Utensils, Food to bring
• What clothes do I need to get when I come there?
Texan weather varies from harsh summers to really bone-chilling winters. You may
certainly carry personal preferences, though these are the recommended clothes that
you bring from there. It should be good to cover you for all seasons. This is only a
suggestion.
Suggested Clothes (for all seasons):
• Jeans: 4 to 6 pairs
• Shorts: 6-8. Get those ones, which are, long and go a 2-3 inches beyond knees.
• T-shirts: 6-8
• Cotton shirts: 4-5. Cotton clothes are good for Texan Summer.
• Night clothes: 2-3 pairs
• Formal suit & Ties - 1-2 pairs. You rarely need them...once in a year or so on
occasions like Convocation ceremony and interviews. If you are doing a MBA, then you
will definitely need them.
• Undergarments...a lot of them...10-15 pairs we stress upon this because you may go
to the laundry only once in two weeks!!
• Socks...10 pairs you can bring even more because you would be wearing shoes most
of the time. Do not take nylon socks. Cotton ones are better.
• Sweaters - 1 full + 1 half sleeve. You'll need them in winter.
• Get a muffler, monkey cap, woolen gloves and windcheater.
• A good woolen Jacket (Winter is harsh here and you need this)
• Handkerchiefs - 1 dozen
• 2-3 belts one formal leather belt and others as you please. Out here one rarely tucks in
the casual dresses.
• Kurta-pyjamas - These would be good during Cultural meets of India Association, etc.
• 2 Turkish towels and two napkins.
Summarizing your clothes list:
• Cap 2 no. (important to protect you from the heat)
• Wind cheater 1 no. (you need this for the wind chill in winter)
• Under garments 10-15 pairs.
• Shirts 4 formal + 4 half sleeves
• T-shirts 6 no.
• Bermudas 6 no.
• Trousers 3 no. (formal)
• Jeans 6 no.
• Handkerchief 1 dozen.
• Socks 10 pairs.
• Belts 3 no. (one for jeans and 2 formal)
• Track Suit 2 no. (good for REC centre, playing)
• Sweater 2 full + 2 half sleeve
• Leather jacket 1 no. (not required, but is good for the winter chill)
• Woolen jacket 1 no. (a must as the winter is harsh)
• Thermal wears 2 no. (recommended for Winters)
• Ties 2 no.
• Blazer / Suit - Blazer
+ matching trouser 1-2 no. (Depending on your usage)
• Kurta Pyjama 1 white
• Churidar 1 no.
• Churidar jacket 1 no.
• Night dress 2 no.
• Gloves 1 pair (for the winter chill)
• Towels 2 no.
• Napkin 6 no.
• What kind of foot-ware should I use?
It is better to bring 1 sports shoe, 1 formal shoe and at least 2 sandals when you come
here. You can change this according to your preference. Footwear is affordable in the
US and so you can get these for the time being and buy the rest from here (if you need
to).
Suggested Footwear (for all seasons):
Shoes:
• Sports Shoes : 2 pairs. Sports shoes are cheap in US (you get decent ones in WalMart), so you can buy one even after coming here during sale time - Christmas,
Thanksgiving, etc. So do not spend too much money for these. Get one moderately
priced and good one so that you need not buy them immediately after coming to US.
• Leather Shoes: 1-2 pairs. Get good and strong leather shoes, shoes that have good
grip are preferred.
Chappals:
• You can buy leather footwear...But we advise Sandals. Get two pairs of them.
• Slippers - at least one pairs, you don't get the India type slippers in US.
• Should I get any accessories such as razors, shaving kit, etc.?
By all means yes. Some accessories are expensive here so you might want to get
sufficient amount with you to last for some time. These are the recommended
accessories that you get when you come here.
Personal accessories:
• Wallet - one that has space for cards - you normally don't carry much cash with you in
the US .
• Shaving kit & Blades (get a good stock, they are costly In US). Brush & toothpaste
(these are also expensive in US).
• Soap (get a couple of bars of bathing soap till you go for the first groceries in US).
• Combs & hair oil (if you use hair-oil get a years supply of your favorites).
• Small mirror (just in case even if you are not a narcissist!).
• Nail cutter.
• Small scissors, Safety pin bunch. Mini-sewing kit with some buttons.
• Umbrella - Texas rains come as a surprise and it can rain anytime during the year. It
really pours here so get a good and big umbrella when you come here. Get the
grandfather one (don't worry; no one is going to laugh at you. In fact most folks here use
that.)
• Blanket - Get a warm blanket or a quilt. Winters are very cold here in Texas and you
will need one.
Summarizing your Personal accessories list:
• Sunglass 1 no. (for the bright summer)
• Umbrella 1 no. (Get the big grandpa one. Texan rains pour!)
• Soap 6 no.
• Shampoo 2-3 bottles
• Body sprays 1-2 no.
• Perfume 1-2 no.
• After shave 2-3 no. (these are expensive here so get them)
• Tooth paste 3 no. (get the large tube)
• Tooth brush 3 no.
• Shaving gel /foam 2 no. (Get the gel or foam. Much easier to use)
• Razor 2 no.
• Blades 20 packs (or more if you use them very regularly)
• Blanket 1 no. (Winter is very cold here. You can also )
• Duster 1 no. (for cleaning)
• Scrub 2 no.
• Sponge 2 no.
• Bed sheets 1 thick + 2 thin
• Pillow 1 no. (not necessary, you get good ones in Wal-Mart)
• Comb 2 no.
• Nail cutter 1 no.
• Rubber band 1 packet
• Scissors 1 pair
• Needle 1 packet
• Thread Black - 1, White - 1, Blue - 1
• Safety pins 1 dozen
• What utensils should I bring?
Depends on whether you guys plan to cook alone or with your housemates, since most
people don't get time to cook daily, stuff is generally prepared for two days at a go - so
keep this in mind when you buy vessels, etc. It is better that you team up with someone
you know is coming here, and decide to buy utensils. This way you can both share the
stuff, and will also relieve you off some of the baggage weight. Even if it may cost a little
more, remember to go for melamine and plastic stuff over steel, as the weight will be
less.
Most important things about all utensils:
• Try to minimize steel utensils as they have more weight.
• Get microwave-safe plastic as you will use the microwave oven a lot.
• Do not buy chapatti makers as you get ready made chapattis, rotis, and paranthas
here in nearby Indian stores.
Typical stuff you may want is:
• Plates (2-3 plastic plates of normal size)
• 5-6 Spoons (tea spoons and table spoons)
• 2-3 Glasses
• 2-3 plastic bowls (katories) and Cups
• 2-3 Serving spoons
• Forks and Butter Knives (get plastic or steel ones)
• Serrated knife.
• Couple of cooking vessels
• Pressure cooker - 3 liters (buy this, as Americans don't use Pressure cookers)
• 1 pressure pan (Prestige), ask your prospective roommate to get one too
• Cooker containers and spares (rings and valves) - Very Important as it's very common
for first-time chefs (!) to blow up pressure cooker valves.
• Non-stick frying pan with turner
• Tongs and knives
• Cutting board for vegetables
• 2-3 patella's that fit into each other and that preferably have handles
• Utensils holder
Summarizing your Utensils list
• Cooker 1 no. + spares
• Cookers Containers 2 no. (with their lids)
• Kadai 1 no.
• Non stick tawa 1 no.
• Spoons 6 no.
• Grip 1 no. (useful but not necessary)
• Chapati fork/tong 1 no.
• Laddle for stir fried food 2 no.
• Spatula types used while making roti) 1 no.
• Knife 2 no.
• Peeler 1 no.
• Serving spoons (for dal, curry and rice) 3 no.
• Knife& Fork 6 no.
• Sauce pan 2 no.
• Microwave safe containers to heat food 4 no. (with lid)
• Plate 3 no.
• Katori 3 no.
• Glass 3 no.
• Cutting board 1 no.
• Eating knives 2 no. (only if required)
• Small size plastic spoons for masala 4 no
• Tea strainer 1 no
• Should I carry any food with me?
Most Indian foodstuffs and spices are available here. Don't come loaded with these as
you may have problem with baggage weight and customs. Try to get "instant" stuff, as
people don't have much time for cooking in the US . It is recommended that you bring
small amounts of the following stuff so that you can cook for the first few weeks without
worrying about where to get them from. Bring approx. 1-month supply of masalas. Fruits,
vegetables and other biodegradable items are not allowed by customs in USA .
Recommended Food Items:
Some of the common food items that students carry are:
• Rice (a week's quantity to get you started)
• Different dals in small quantity for initial use.
• Get 1-2 packets each of Haldi, Red Chilly Powder, Garam Masala, Dhania, Jira
(powder or seeds), Instant Masalas (like Chicken Masala, Paneer Masala, Sambhar
powder, Rasam powder, etc.)
• Mustard seed packet.
• Tamarind paste
• Asafetida powder. (If you dig sambhar!)
• Pickle bottles (get sealed ones and cover them so that they don't leak)
• Instant coffee + tea leaves or powder (if you are a regular drinker. just a little till you
buy them from stores here, or till you shift to beer!)
• Sugar
• Salt
• Elaichi, clove, etc. (Only if required)
Stationery, Text books to bring
• Do I need to carry any stationary with me when I come there?
Stationary is pretty cheap out here and you will get good stuff from Wal-Mart and other
stores. However, it's best you carry something with you when you come here, so that
you don't have to run around for stuff in the first few days.
• Don't carry the files we get in India . Here they use a 3-pin filing system
• Don't carry more than 3-4 photographs. You will never use it!
Suggested Stationary list:
• White sheets 50 no.
• Pencils (get mechanical clutch ones) 4 no.
• Erasers 2 no.
• Blade 2 no.
• Stapler 1 no.
• Stapler pins 1 packet
• Pens 12 blue + 12 black
• Scribbling Pad 2 no.
• Glue stick 1 no.
• Pencil Box or Pouch 1 no. (if you use one)
• Ruler - 12" 1 no.
• Stick on pad 2 no. (quite useful)
• Cello tape 1 no.
• What textbooks should I carry with me when I come here?
It will be a good idea if you can get text books from India as it is going to be much
cheaper. Many professors here, however, give out class notes and they say that it is
sufficient for their subject. The best way to know what to do is:
• Go to the URL
http://courses.tamu.edu
. Click on the "Fall Session 2006
(WEB)" link. Now choose your department from the list provided and click on its
appropriate Courses link. For Graduate students the courses you can select are the 600level courses. Decide on what courses you would like to take in FALL '06, and it will
show you the name of the professor who is taking it. In case the Instructor shows up as
"Staff" then it means that either the class has not been decided upon or a Teaching
Assistant is teaching it. Contact that professor and ask them; he/she will let you know.
• Can we bring some copied CDs and Photostat copies of books?
Though a lot of students bring music CDs every year, please be advised that this is
technically illegal. It's ok to bring a few CDs, but don't bring a whole bunch of it. If you
have a lot of songs, write them onto DVDs so that you can get the whole thing in a few
discs. Photostat copies also follow the same rules and its best not to take a chance. If
they find it, they will confiscate it because it violates copyright laws; and that's a big deal
out here. As far as possible avoid it, and if at all you must limit the number of sheets you
are bringing.
• Do I need to bring a calculator?
It is definitely suggested that you get a good calculator; those Casio one are pretty good.
Most students here tend to buy the graphing and programmable calculators. They are
much more advanced and are capable of doing complex math like integrations,
differentiations, FFTs, Partial Differential Equations, etc. If you are picking on a major
that requires intense mathematical calculations, then wait till you come here. You can
get those sci-fi calculators by Texas Instruments. Nearly all professors permit students to
use these even on exams.
• Should I buy a laptop from India or should I get one when I come there?
The average cost of a laptop over here varies from $800-$1200 (this includes brands
such as Dell, HP, Sony, etc.). Most people buy their laptops from online sites that give
you amazing deals. Especially during Thanksgiving, a lot of things go for "dirt-cheap"
prices. Unless you need a laptop very urgently, it is highly recommended that you buy
your laptop from here. It will cost you much less.
• What should I do if I want a computer with internet connection at my apartment?
There are a number of DSL Internet providers such as Verizon Online, Cox Internet, etc.
They provide you with easy installation kits and you can do this once you come here. All
of them provide the Cable Modem and some of them also give you a free wireless router
along with it. Most students here share a connection by using wireless routers. The
speed is good enough even when 3 - 4 computers use the same connection.
It's Packing time!
Any packing tips?
Some tips while you pack:
• Start your packing well in advance. If you rush at the last minute, you are bound to
forget something.
• Since you will be buying at least 2 boxes, it will be a good idea to divide all the things
to pack equally in both the boxes. Reason is that sometimes one of your boxes may get
misplaced by the airlines. You can still use stuff till the other one arrives.
• Keep a list of what you pack in each box. That way you won't have to wonder whether
you forgot something.
• Pack at least one pair of clothes in the carry-on hand baggage (cabin baggage). You
never know, but in the rarest case both your boxes might arrive late!
• NEVER ever pack any original documents, certificates, cash, and other very important
stuff in the boxes. Always keep them with you in your hand baggage. This is extremely
important. If you loose your box, you may get refunded by airline insurance. But if you
loose your original documents, then you're in big trouble!
• Keep one pair of shoes aside to wear on the journey. This will save space in the box.
• Roll your clothes so that they take less space (of course, don't do that to your
expensive formal shirts and suit!)
Since the hand baggage is small, what do you suggest that I carry in it?
These are the suggested things you can carry in your hand baggage, as far as space
permits:
• Original documents (I-20, visa, tickets.)
• Instruction Sheet (with College Station contacts - this will be provided by the India
Association towards your departure date)
• Money (Cash, Traveler's Checks, Drafts, etc.)
• Address book/phone book (your contacts in India & US)
• One pair of clothes (for emergency)
• Some medicines (something for air-sickness, headaches, fever)
• Novel or magazine for in flight reading (though all airlines provide this)
• Sweater (it may be cold inside the aircraft cabin)
What documentation should I carry with me?
All of the following documents should be carried in original (no exceptions!)
• Passport and VISA (this will be stamped in your passport)
• Xth, Inter (10+2), Degree marks sheets, Convocation Certificate of Under graduation,
other certificates such as Birth certificate, etc.
• I-20 and acceptance letter from Texas A&M University .
• Scholarship / Assistantship letter from your department (if applicable)
• Take all the I-20's with you if you have more than one.
• Driving License and International Driving Permit (if you have one)
Remember to take photocopies of all your original documents and keep at least one set
in each of your luggage boxes
Things to do in the week before Travel
What are the important things to do in the week before I travel?
You will be traveling soon and it is important that you feel relaxed. These are some of
the things you should get done in the last week to avoid a last minute rush.
IMPORTANT THINGS TO GET DONE:
• Reconfirm your ticket. Most airlines require that you do this 72 hours prior to
departure, or else you may loose your booking.
• Give power of attorney (authorization letters) to your father or brother or to someone
whom you rely upon.
• Put your signature on a 10 plane papers, write you name below it, and keep these at
home. It may be needed for any purpose like authorization to collect marks sheets,
Provisional certificate, Transfer certificate, Bonafide certificate, Degree certificate,
Migration certificate from the university, applying for the refund from the college etc.
• If you have a bank account, make it joint so that your parents have authorization to
use it, if the need arises.
• Arrange to collect/redirect mail from your room/hostel (if applicable).
• Get sufficient change for dollars (in 1s, 5s and 10s). A monetary exchange or bank will
be able to provide this for you. Also remember to carry at least 3-4 dollars in quarters (25
cents)
• Have your RBI permit ready for the dollars you are carrying on you.
THINGS TO BE LEFT AT HOME:
• List of addresses/phone numbers at which info about you can be obtained.
• One copy of all your important documents.
• A copy of all relevant parts of medical history files.
• Your tailoring measurements :) (if your friend visits India , you could ask your folks to
send you clothes)
Any final things to be done in the last 2-3 days?
• First of all, call up and find if there is any change of the schedule of the plane (and also
inform the people coming to pick you (IA) up of any such change).
• Find out the name of the person who is coming to pick you up at the airport. Remind
those people of the flight timings, airline no, your name. Do not forget to inform all these
to your people at home.
• Bid adieu to all concerned. It's going to be a while until you see your relatives and
family again.
• Arrange for the conveyance to the airport, if you don't have a car. You can book with
any private transport facility like City cabs.
• Relax the day before journey, and check all the documents you are taking with you
once again. (For your own good, keep the late-night partying to the week before you
travel!)
• Get ready to face the long journey. Have sufficient sleep.
One Last Review of Important Things
Do you have a check-list that I can use to make sure I haven't missed anything?
This is a suggested check-list to make sure that you have everything in place on the day
before you leave. Note that while comprehensive, it may not necessarily cover
everything.
• Keep your ticket, Passport, VISA and I-20 ready.
• All the money that you are carrying is on your hand-baggage and not in the luggage
box.
• Make sure you have ALL your documents (certificates, license, etc.) in place.
• Make sure you have completed the health documentation (immunization record) that
you may have to submit when you arrive there.
• Your travel insurance paper, if you chose to take one.
• Keep a printout of any specific information India Association will give you.
• Your address book / phone book are with you.
• All boxes are packed well and secure.
On the Day of Travel, In-Flight Information
What should I keep in mind on the day I travel?
• Check all the documents once again and keep them at appropriate places so that it is
easy for you to take them.
• Since it is going to be a long flight wear something comfortable (cotton dress + full
hand shirt). Wear your shoes - in flight you can remove them (some airlines give in flight
shoes - else relax in socks).
• Be at the airport 3-4 hours before the departure.
• If you were not able to get change for dollars, get them at the airport. All international
airports have authorized money exchange counters.
• Relax during flight, sleep as much as possible.
• For vegetarians - watch out before you eat - you may get non-veg even if you had
asked for Veg. Vegetarian food is generally bland - fruits/juices are good choices.
(Before ordering anything on board check if, you have to pay for it separately). Don't
hesitate to ask questions.
• Once out of India be very careful. Don't trust anyone. Keep your eyes on your
baggage and documents all the time. Don't hire a taxi (unless emergency) till you reach
your destination. If required don't hesitate to spend money.
• If in doubt at any point, ALWAYS ASK QUESTIONS to the staff.
I'm having a transit. What should I do when I get there?
Most flights originating from India have a transit stop somewhere in Europe (usually:
Swiss Air in Zurich , Lufthansa in Amsterdam , British Airways in London , etc.). When
your flight reaches your transit:
• Listen carefully to any instructions given by your flight attendants before you
disembark. You will hear information about departure time, gate number etc. (This is
usually made in-flight before you land)
• Proceed to the terminal from where you will depart. All airports have well-marked sign
boards and you should be able to find your way.
• Although you can move around in the airport, be at the designated gate within 1 hour
of your flight's departure for the onward journey, 'cause they may require checking your
tickets etc.
• Do not leave your baggage unattended even for a short while. If you need visit the
restroom, carry your hand baggage with you. It's no big deal.
What's all this hype about jet lag?
When you're flying from India to the US , you will be flying across nearly ten time zones.
The human body has a natural biological clock that makes us wake up in the morning,
feel drowsy at night, and so on. When you change time zones, this gets upset because
your body is not used to it. The best way to counter this is to have plenty amount of
sleep in the plane. When they serve you food, do eat it even if you are not feeling very
hungry. And when they dim the lights, take some time to sleep well. Of course, you won't
feel like sleeping the whole 20 hours, so take a break and watch one of the in-flight
movies.
Yes, it will be. The longest leg of the journey will be from Europe to US (about 10-11
hours). Avoid sitting in the seat for too long. You can get up and take a walk. All airlines
recommend this to relieve you of any body aches.
Forms to fill during the Flight to the USA
Which forms do I have to fill out during my flight in the USA ?
In the final part of your trip, just before you land in the US , you will have to fill out two
different forms:
• I-94 Immigration Form : Students with an F-1 visa have to fill out an I-94 card. This
card consists of two stubs. The first stub must be filled out before your arrival and will be
detached and withheld by the immigration inspector on your arrival. The bottom part of
the card, which is for your departure, will be stamped by the immigration inspector and
must be kept in your passport together with your I-20 form until your departure back
home. Take care that you do not lose this I-94 Departure Record because it proves
(together with your I-20 form) that you are in the country legally. This card is more
important than your visa (the visa is just a permission to enter the US ).
• Customs Declaration (Form 6059B) : The second form - Customs Declaration, Form
- must be filled out and surrendered to the U.S. Customs inspector at the port of entry
into the United States . This is not a very important form, but you still have to fill it out. It's
a declaration of the things you are bringing into the country.
Finally Landed in the USA
• I have finally reached the Port of Entry. What do I need to do first?
The first thing you need to go through at the port-of-entry U.S. airport (international
airport where you first land in the U.S. ), after landing is the immigration and customs
clearance. Once you are out of the plane go straight to the immigration counter - rush to
beat the queue, or else you will end up waiting for a long time. It might take 0.5 - 1 hour
here. Keep your I-20, passport + VISA, admission & Aid letters ready. Also make sure
that you have filled out the I-94 and Customs Declaration Forms.
On alighting from the plane you may ask people or signs will guide you to the
immigration. At the immigration counter you might be asked some questions, such as:
"Is this your first time in the US ? Student? F-1 Visa? Which University?"
TALK ABSOLUTELY TO THE POINT. DON'T TRY TO LIE. MAKE SURE THAT
WHATEVER YOU SAY IS WRITTEN ON THE PAPER.
After that, they will fingerprint you. (Same process that you would have had at the Visa
interview). You will be given the counter foil of I-94 form. Normally they staple this to
your passport, but in case they don't keep that very carefully. You can staple it later.
• What documents do I need to keep ready before I see the Immigration Official, at
the Port of Entry?
Keep the following documents ready with you. There is no strict order on how they are to
be arranged, but follow any instructions if given.
• Passport
• VISA (this is usually stamped inside your passport)
• I-20
• I-94 Immigration Form (to be filled up before you land)
• Customs Declaration - Form 6059B (to be filled up before you land)
• Other documents such as Dept. letter, Scholarship letter, etc. (generally they don't ask
for these)
• I have heard about an issue with some students not getting "D/S" written on
their I-20 and I-94. What is this all about?
VERY IMPORTANT : This is the most important thing to do after you get the I-94
stamped. Check on the I-20 as well as the I-94 card. In the place where they put the seal
of Department of Homeland Security, you should be able to see it written " F-1 D/S ". If
this is not present, go back to your immigration official and tell him/her that they did not
write it.
DO NOT leave the immigration counter if you don't have this written - both on the I-20 as
well as I-94. Many students in the past had to make trips again to Houston and San
Antonio because of this small mistake. Avoid the problem later on.
• I got the I-94 stamped. What do I do next?
Once you are done with the I-94, go to the baggage counter to fetch your luggage. This
is required even if you are in transit. Pick up a cart to carry the bags. (At some places
the cart is free, at some places you may have to pay). Pick up your bags as they come
out on the conveyor (suitable eye-catching labels help here). Remember as we
suggested earlier, tie your baggage with rope of a bright color that is visible from a
distance. All this is to make your baggage appear distinct. If you don't get your baggage,
inform the inquiry section - you may have to wait 0.5 - 1 hour here.
Cart your baggage to the nearby customs. If asked tell them that you are a student, F-1
visa, school, dept., coming to US for the first time. Normally they don't ask students to
open their baggage, but if asked to open your baggage do so slowly - do not mess up
the place. If asked about the "masala powders" tell them that they are "dried Indian
spices" to make traditional Indian food like curry. Rarely might they ask you to go the
agriculture dept nearby - if that happens, it's a pain. If asked about "vibhuti" tell them that
it is a holy powder.
Note: Based on previous student's experiences, in most cases, you will not be asked to
open your boxes at all & you will be simply waved through.
• I am still at the transit airport. What do I do next?
In case you are at the transit airport, find out which gate you need to proceed to. Your
airline ground staff will be there to help you. Ask questions when in doubt. You should
check in your baggage again, and board your aircraft for Houston