Articles, Tips, and Tricks for Newcomers

The benefits of good credit

Credit scores can have a big impact on quality of life. In the United States, a good credit history has numerous benefits.

How to build credit in the U.S.

Knowing how to build your credit score is crucial when you're moving to the US. Good options for establishing credit in the United States are to transfer your credit score from your home country, applying for secured credit cards and others.

What is a good credit score?

Getting a good credit score can take time, especially if you just moved to the U.S. — but it’s not impossible

What is a secured credit card and how does it work?

A secured credit card is a popular choice for people that are new to U.S. credit, or working to rebuild their credit. Read our complete guide to see what's right for you.

Top 50 pharmacy schools in the United States

Becoming a pharmacist in the United States requires a Doctorate in Pharmacy (PharmD), a degree offered by several academic institutions in the U.S. If you’re interested in become a pharmacist, read on to learn about top-ranked PharmD schools in the US

What is the difference between CPT and OPT?

Many international students in the U.S. participate in Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT) to gain work experience in their chosen fields of study. In this guide, we explain the difference between the two programs.

The complete guide to OPT work permits: How long does it take to get an EAD card for OPT?

Students on F-1 visas may choose to take part in optional practical training (OPT) to gain experience in their respective fields and further their careers. In this article we explain everything you need to know about OPT EAD

How international students can get financial aid

Financial aid for non-citizens is available in the form or scholarships, federal financial aid from abroad or private student loans from banks and other lenders.

The complete guide to Form I-140: the Immigrant Worker Petition

Are you a U.S. employer hoping to hire a worker from overseas? As part of the process, you’ll have to complete Form I-140. Below, we explain everything you need to know about the Immigrant Worker Petition.

H-4 EAD: How to obtain work authorization when your spouse has an H-1B Visa

Will a career boost for your husband or wife translate into a career stumbling block for you? Understand the rules around dependents of H-1B visa holders.

What is an EAD? The complete guide to U.S. work authorization

An Employment Authorization Document is a work permit, issued in the form of a small card, that proves an individual’s right to work in the U.S.

What is the difference between CPT and OPT?

Many international students in the U.S. participate in Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT) to gain work experience in their chosen fields of study. In this guide, we explain the difference between the two programs.

Moving to Chicago? Here's what you need to know

Chicago is home to nearly 2.7 million people--more than sixty percent of whom are immigrants. Moving to a new city can always be nerve-wracking, but we highlight a few things from housing to finances to help you prepare for your move from abroad

A guide for Canadians moving to New York City

Moving from Canada to New York City? We've got you covered. Check out tips on everything from finding an apartment to managing your taxes and transferring your Canadian credit history in this guide for moving to NYC.

A guide for Canadians moving to San Francisco

Moving from Canada to San Francisco? We've got you covered. Check out tips on everything from finding an apartment to managing your taxes and transferring your Canadian credit history

Desis in New York: A guide for Indian newcomers in New York City

Moving from India to New York City? We've got you covered. Check out tips on everything from finding an apartment to managing your taxes as an NRI and transferring your Indian credit history

The best bank accounts for U.S. newcomers in 2022

Opening a bank account may be one of the first moves you want to take after arriving to the US. This article covers some of the best banking services available to U.S. newcomers

How to open a U.S. bank account without an SSN

Banks need to verify account holders' identification, and some banks do this with an SSN. But there’s no law that prevents a bank from opening an account for someone without an SSN.

How to send money abroad without spending a fortune

Tips what to do and what to avoid when sending money abroad.

How to get a credit score after moving to the U.S.

We showcase real stories of people who newly arrived in the U.S. and how they built their credit scores, and give advice on how you can skip these steps all together if you only want a credit card.

The ultimate guide to the F-1 visa

One million students study at U.S. schools each year to further their education and career. Many of these students, particularly though in high school or pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees, will apply for F-1 student visas.

The ultimate guide to the H-1B visa

American companies employ thousands of workers from abroad each year across every industry from farming to mechanical engineering; many arrive through the H-1B visa program.

Everything you need to know about F-2 visas

Studying at a college or university in the United States is a dream for many international students, but leaving behind a loved one can be a hard decision. If you are on an F-1 student visa, u may have the option of bringing your dependents with you.

H-1B to Green Card process: Everything you need to know about changing your status

In order to become a U.S. permanent resident, you must transition from an H-1B visa status to Green Card, which is often the best option for skilled individuals who wish to remain in the U.S. for the long term.

Moving to Chicago? Here's what you need to know

Chicago is home to nearly 2.7 million people--more than sixty percent of whom are immigrants. Moving to a new city can always be nerve-wracking, but we highlight a few things from housing to finances to help you prepare for your move from abroad

A guide for Canadians moving to New York City

Moving from Canada to New York City? We've got you covered. Check out tips on everything from finding an apartment to managing your taxes and transferring your Canadian credit history in this guide for moving to NYC.

A guide for Canadians moving to San Francisco

Moving from Canada to San Francisco? We've got you covered. Check out tips on everything from finding an apartment to managing your taxes and transferring your Canadian credit history

Desis in New York: A guide for Indian newcomers in New York City

Moving from India to New York City? We've got you covered. Check out tips on everything from finding an apartment to managing your taxes as an NRI and transferring your Indian credit history