General FAQ's

We have tried to answer frequent concerns that most of the new student have. If you need to have more information please feel free to email IAT at iat@bama.ua.edu

1. General Matters
» How many Indian students are there in UA?
There are about 150-200 Indian students here.
» How are the facilities in UA?
UA has very good libraries, recreation centers, cafeterias, well equipped labs, etc, in addition to the numerous departments. For more info., visit the UA website.
» What paperwork should I bring from India?
All transcripts (marks cards)/ degree certificates/ project reports/ employment letters/ resume (soft copy)/ letters of recommendation.
» How do I get to Tuscaloosa from India?
There are no direct flights to Tuscaloosa from anywhere in India. You have to alight at some point in the US before you reach Tuscaloosa. There are lot of flights from New York, Denver, St. Louis, Dallas, Houston, Memphis, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Atlanta and Chicago to Birmingham, Alabama. Please book your ticket all the way to Birmingham (BHM) International Airport from India. Since our University participates in CIPRIS (Coordinated Interagency Partnership Regulating International Students), its better to alight at Atlanta and then fly from Atlanta to Birmingham. Pickups can be arranged from Birmingham to Tuscaloosa by IAT, by filling up the airport pick-up request form, at least 10 days before your arrival. If you have any problems submitting the form, e-mail us at iat@bama.ua.edu. IAT member's from the university will be there for you at the airport. It should be ensured that the airport pick-up request form contains the accurate details of your arrival date and time. Incase of any delay in arriving at the airport by the IAT member, keep waiting in the baggage claim section and call-up at any of the contacts. Alternatively, there is a local shuttle service from Birmingham airport to Tuscaloosa. This service is called as the Tuscaloosa Shuttle Service and they operate one van every one hour. This shuttle can be found at the exit of the baggage claims section of the Birmingham Airport. You can also get details from the inquiry counter at the baggage claim or you can place a call directly to the Tuscaloosa Shuttle Service. As the above service is expensive and can be inconvenient for the new comers, we make arrangements for the pick-up from the Birmingham airport. And for this we'll be charging a marginal amount, which you can pay us after you are completely settled.
» Whom should I intimate about my arrival?
You should intimate the IAT as soon as you get to know your travel plans.
» Should I intimate anyone else?
No. It is enough if you intimate us. There is no need to intimate either your graduate advisor or the Office of International Programs.
» How soon should I come to Tuscaloosa?
We advise you to come at least 10-15 days prior to the start of the semester as it will help you in applying for financial aid/ on-campus jobs and getting acclimatized over here.
» What should I do if no one comes to pick me up?
DO NOT PANIC! Please call any of the committee member and he/she will make arrangements to pick you up.
NOTE: Whether you come by bus, train or plane, make sure of one thing - INTIMATE THE IAT AT LEAST 3-4 DAYS BEFORE YOU ARRIVE. DO NOT INTIMATE US ON THE DAY OF YOUR ARRIVAL. IT WILL BE TOUGH FOR US TO ARRANGE YOUR PICKUP.

2. Living in T-town
» What will I do for accommodation in Tuscaloosa as soon as I reach there?
The IAT will arrange for your pickup from the airport and put you up temporarily in one of the member's houses. We will try and get you permanent accommodation. However, it is your responsibility to search for permanent accommodation as we cannot make any guarantees. We will do our utmost to help you.
» Can you tell me more about the housing facilities?
Generally, all Indian students stay off-campus as it is cheaper. The school is just a 5-10 minutes walk from where all of us stay. Usually, 2 people stay in a 1 bedroom apartment/house and 3 people stay in a 2 bedroom apartment/house. A 1 bedroom apartment/house costs around $285-$375 a month while a 2 bedroom apartment/house costs around $350-$550 a month depending on the facilities in the apartment.
» What about roommates? Can I choose them?
We will fix you up initially with some seniors. We will try to find you roommates. However, we cannot guarantee the roommate of your choice. If you don't like the arrangements we make, it is up to you to make suitable arrangements.
» What are the immediate expenses I should bear as soon as I come there?
The immediate expenses would be:
Deposit for the apartment/house - 1 month's rent (shared by all the people living in that apartment/house)
The first month's rent (shared)
Groceries (around $70)
Sleeping bag ($15 - $20)
Pillow ($5)
» What is the cost of living in Tuscaloosa?
The breakdown for 1 person per month is as follows: (All approximate figures)
Rent - $120 - 160
Local telephone - $15
Electricity - $25
Water - $10
Groceries - $70 - $80
India calls - Depends on your call frequency
» What about thermal wear, gloves etc?
You can buy thermal pants and shirts over here. It costs around $10. We suggest that you get a pair of gloves (woolen) and a monkey cap from India. Don't forget to get an umbrella also.
» Can I buy sneakers/sports shoes in the USA? How much will it cost?
You can buy sneakers over here. A decent Nike/Reebok will cost you around $50 - $70.
» Can I bring masalas and pickles?
Yes. Be sure to pack them tightly when you bring them. Also keep them in your check-in bag and not in the carry-on bag.
» Should I bring rice/dal/any other items?
You can buy rice and lentils in Wal-Mart itself and dhal can be purchased from Birmingham from Indian store. However if u want you can bring dhal from India.
» What other food items should I bring?
You can get masalas and spices that suit your cooking skills. Sweets are always welcome. You can also get instant mixes like idly mix, dosa mix, jamoon mix etc. Instant coffee powder and tea powder can be brought.
» Should I bring any utensils or vessels? If so, what should I bring?
You can get a rice cooker/ pressure pan with extra gaskets, tumbler, plates, scissors, frying pan, ladles, vegetable peeler, small knives,kadai and spoons.
» What stationery should I bring?
Writing pads (1-2), pencils, pens, erasers, stapler, stapler pins, school bag and calculator. Do not get a paper punching machine as the binders here are 3 holed. NOTE: EVEN IF YOU CANNOT GET THE ABOVE MENTIONED ITEMS, ITS OK. YOU CAN ALWAYS BUY IT HERE. IT WON'T COST YOU MUCH.
» Is there any other stuff to bring?
Small scissors, nail cutter, watch cells, combs, small alarm clock, razor, shaving cream, toothbrush, toothpaste, towels and napkins. NOTE: PLEASE DO NOT KEEP KNIVES, SCISSORS. NAIL CUTTERS ETC IN YOUR CARRY-ON BAG. YOU MIGHT BE ASKED TO THROW THEM AT THE AIRPORT EVEN BEFORE YOU BOARD THE FLIGHT.

3. Traveling and Customs
» Will there be extensive customs checking in the US?
Generally, no. Students will not be checked extensively by customs officers. However, make sure that you are not carrying any white powder (rice flour/atta).
» Do I have to open my luggage in the airport for customs checking?
No, not unless you are asked to.

4. Fee, Aid & Other Issues
» When does school start?
The Fall Semester starts from August 22-23 and Spring Semester starts from January 8-9. Orientation dates for Fall are from August 19-20.
» How much is the tuition fees for one semester?
According to the Spring 2003 Schedule, a non-resident has to pay $5647 for 9 credit hour for graduate courses including engineering lab fees and International student fees. However, this might change for you. So you should check your I-20 for the exact amount.
» Do I have to get the money mentioned in the I-20?
Not necessarily. You have to be prepared to pay the first semester's fees (around $5647) in total. It will be good if you can get around $7000. If you cannot manage this amount, at least $6500 should do. In any case, if you have excess money, you can always send it back home.
» How should I get the money?
You should get an International Demand Draft in the name of "The University of Alabama" for $5647. You can get the rest of the amount in your name in a separate DD or you can get part of it in traveler's checks. Be sure to get around $500 in cash (10's, 20's, 50's and some change in coins - 10 cents, 25 cents). If you have someone in the US who is willing to write a check for you, it is accepted by UA. If you have someone in the US who is willing to use their credit card for your fees, it is accepted as long as you bring that person along.
» Can I pay the fees in installments or do I have to pay the whole amount?
There is an option in UA of paying in installments. You can pay the fees in 2 installments with an additional $25 as interest. We suggest that you try to get all the money in your name (in the form of a DD). This will give you the chance to pay the fees in installments.
» Can I pay the money from India? Can I deposit the fees for one semester in the student account from India?
No. You have to come here, register for your courses and then pay the fees.
» Is there a bank on-campus?
Yes. Alabama Credit Union is located inside the Student Service Center. You can open an account there only if you arer on Assistantship or if your employed on-campus. If not you can always open an account in AMSOUTH Bank which is just 10 minutes from the Student Service Center.
» Will I get on-campus jobs easily?
Getting on-campus jobs depends on the number of persons coming to UA that semester. If you arrive in UA 10-15 days before the semester starts, you will get an on-campus job, provided you try hard enough. Till today, most of the Indian students have got on-campus jobs without facing too much difficulty. There are lots of jobs available in Libraries, Cafeteria, University Police Department, other departments, etc.
» How many hours can I work per week?
You are authorized by the INS to work only 20 hours per week in the Spring and Fall semesters. You can work 40 hours per week in Summer. Note: This is on-campus work. You can work 40 hours off-campus in Summer if you have completed 9 months of stay in the US.
» What about taxes on my salary? How much will I have to pay?
Students pay very less tax. An approximate figure would be around $300 per year. However, you will get this back the next year when you file for your tax returns.
» Can I work off-campus?
No. Not until you complete 9 months of stay in the US. You are limited to work only on-campus till then.
» What about the credit cards?
We strongly advise you NOT to apply for any credit cards until after you get your social security number. The application is bound to be rejected without a social security number and this may prove to be a negative point in your credit history.
» How do I arrange for Utilities (power,water,telephone)?
For a $30 non-refundable fee, the UA off-campus association will cover electricity and gas deposits; for an additional $25 fee telephone deposits will also be covered for you. For more information call 348 5632 or visit their office at 115, Mary Burke West ( Mon - Fri; 12.00 pm to 4.00 pm.). However if you want to save on the $30 fee, you need to pay the refundable security deposits for power, water and telephone ( approximately around $200 for all the 3 utilities). Note that you can share these deposits with your room mates, in case you decide to share an apartment. To arrange for utilities, you need to call up the following numbers:
Alabama Power Company: 349 3100
City of Tuscaloosa (Water, Sewer & Garbage): 349 0230
Bell South (Phone Company): 557 6500
» How do I get my social security number?
The CIPS will arrange for social security for international students to be done on campus. The dates for these will be announced during your orientation period after your arrival in Tuscaloosa. In case you miss these dates, you will have to go to the Social Security office at the following address:
Social Security Administration (located in Federal Building)
1118, Greensboro Avenue,
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Phone#: 349 4863
» How do I get an e-mail accounts?
BAMA mail account is for all students , you can get this from the Seebeck Computer Center located in Gordon Palmer Hall. Go to the helpdesk there and ask for a student account application. In addition to the bama account, you can get other accounts. If you are a student of the College of Engineering you need to go to Houser Hall (across Ferguson student center) . Pick up the application form there, fill it up, get it signed by your Department Head and return to Houser 222. Your e-mail account will be ready for you within 24 hrs. If you are a student of any other College then you need to contact your respective department for more information

5. Medical Insurance, Immunization and Related Issues
» Do I have to get any medical checkup/immunization certificates from India?
It is always advisable to get a thorough medical, dental and eye checkups. Get MMR and tetanus vaccines. Please bring an extra pair of glasses (contact lenses) if you wear them. Please bring all medical reports with you.
» Is it compulsory to get vaccination from India?
It is not compulsory, but we strongly advice you to get the above mentioned vaccines.
» Can I get any medicines from India?
You can get regular medicines like Crocin, Vicks, Iodex, Boroline etc. If you have any specific ailments, please get the prescribed medicines. Make sure that you have the proper prescriptions for ALL the medicines you get.
» What about TB checkup? Can I get it done in India?
You can get a TB checkup done in India and be sure to bring the medical reports Chest X-Rays) with you. You may be told to take a Chest X-Ray if you don't show your Chest X-Ray. We strongly suggest you to get a chest X-Ray from India, as you might be otherwise asked to get an X-ray here and which might cost you around $40.
» On arrival if I take tuberculosis injection & if the result shows positive, what will be the consequences? Will I be asked to undergo medical treatment there or will I be asked to return to India?
Even if your TB test here shows positive, you will not be asked to go home. A positive TB result does not mean that you have TB. You will have to get a chest X-ray done here. Your insurance will pay for it.
» What about medical insurance? Do I have to take it? Can I buy insurance from India?
Buying medical insurance from India is very expensive. Medical insurance is compulsory in UA. It is cheaper to buy insurance here than in India. The insurance costs around $250 per semester. NOTE: Even if you buy medical insurance in India, you HAVE to buy medical insurance here also.

6. Visa, Academics and Related Questions
» I have a low GRE/TOEFL score. Will I get a visa?
Getting a visa depends on your luck. There are several Indian students here who have low GRE/TOEFL scores and have got Visa. On the other hand, we know of many Indians who did not get a visa to UA due to their low scores. However, getting a visa to UA is not as hard as getting a visa to some other universities.
» How many years does it take to complete an MS in UA?
It takes a minimum of 2 years. It depends upon how many courses you take per semester.
» Is work experience essential for an MS degree? Will it help me get assistantships?
Work experience is not essential for an MS degree. If you have a good academic record and good exam scores, it will help you more.
» What are credit hours? How many should I take per semester?
The number of hours a subject is taught during a week make up the credit hours. E.g.: A subject may be taught 3 hours a week and so the number of credit hours for that subject is 3. You have to enroll for a minimum of 9 credit hours every semester to be in status. If you are enrolled in less than 9 credit hours, you will have to file an exception with the Office of International Programs.
» How is the grading system in the US?
Universities use alphabets to grade the quality of the students academic performance. The grades are A(4=excellent), B(3=good), C(2=average), D(1=below average) and F(0=fail). You need to have a GPA of 3.0 or more to be out of probation.
» What is probation?
If your graduate GPA falls below 3.0, you are in probation. Students on probation are not eligible for assistantships. However, they can work on-campus. NOTE: You can get a GPA less than 3.0 in one semester and still be out of probation if you have a good GPA in the previous semesters.
» What basic computer education do I require?
You need to be computer literate. Knowledge of packages like MS-Office and Internet browsers is essential. However, you can easily pick up these things even if you are currently not exposed to them.
» What books should I bring?
You can bring fundamental books of your course of study with you. For particular books, please visit our 'Departmental Contacts' page.