jodie1204

hi im Jodie

im 26 and from the UK, im wanting to eventually move to the US but have no idea how to even start. Im looking at starting a course for biomedical science degree if everything goes well. Just wondered what my options were about moving, would it be more cost effective for me to do my degree in England and then try for a work visa once ive got it. And am i right in thinking that i wouldnt get a visa without having a degree first, as i have no relatives in US.

Is it possible to get scholarships for courses at uni's in america? or would i have to pay for everything in full (which i can't afford).

I did also think about going travelling for a year possibly in America and just get regular jobs but from what ive read so far that isnt possible, is that right?

sorry for all the questions just want to weigh up my options appreciate all replies.

ian-mstm

Start here. If there's no visa that's appropriate, then you won't be coming to the US as anything other than a visitor.


Well then, research the F-1 visa.


Probably, yes... it'll cost you a small fortune to do a degree in the US.


The chances are certainly slim, but not zero.


Yes, but it's not too common.


Probably, yes.


Correct. In order to work in the US you need authorization... so it's not something you can do legally as a visitor.

Ian

Jerseygirl

And you can't travel around the US for a year as a visitor.

jodie1204

Ok thanks very much. Think im better doing my degree here and then take it from there. Thanks

jodie1204

What is the maximum time u can be in the US as a visitor?

Jerseygirl

90 days using the VWP...but it's best to arrange to leave a couple of days prior to this...to prevent an overstay if there are flight delays etc.

ian-mstm

On the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) 90 days. On a B-2 visa, usually 6 months... but you likely won't get a B-2 visa if you're otherwise eligible to use the VWP. Wanting to spend more time in the US is not a good reason to apply for a B-2 visa.

Ian

jodie1204

Ok. Thank you, at least i know what i can do as such.

Meryl

If you are going to be studying Biomedical Science, I would strongly advise you to specialise in Histology. The best thing to do would be to complete your degree, then work for a year or two in an NHS lab to get your HPC registration and get some experience under your belt.

The reason I say this is there is a national shortage here in the USA of histotechs, as there are very few training programs and a severe lack of experienced technicians; so there are lots and lots of vacant positions.

I'm a senior level histotech and I posted my resume online 'just to see' if anyone was interested and I literally got hundreds of responses. If you are lucky you will be able to find someone willing to sponsor you for an H1b (but you must get some experience under your belt).

Also if the NHS is willing to put you through an MSc once you are HPC registered that will also stand you in good stead, and if you want to apply for a greencard in the distant future it means the difference from being in the EB3 category (years to wait), and the EB2 category (I only had to wait 10 months).

It's a long journey but if you are set on moving here it's definately something to think about. Hope this helps

jodie1204

That great to hear. It is something im interested in, its just financing it all to start with but thats some great advice and helped alot. Thanks very much.