Study as an International Graduate Student?

Just recently I received an email from a reader (modified to protect anonymity):

I'm a student from Germany, finishing the equivalent of my bachelor's degree in science. I'd like to apply to graduate school in US. Will my background permit this?

International status will not hurt a graduate school application as long as the basic educational and experiential requirements are met. In fact, international status may entice some admissions committees who seek to increase diversity or who seek specialized knowledge. As you are aware, the higher educational system in Europe is a bit different from that in the US. Learn about the differences and the nature of undergraduate and graduate education in the US so that you can address these differences in an informed way. Graduate faculty at your preferred programs may not be aware of your educational experiences. In your essays, be sure to discuss your education and experience in a way that informs readers of your competence and capacity to engage in graduate study.

The other thing to be aware of is that international students generally are not eligible for federally subsidized loans . International students often obtain other forms of aid tied to the institution and department, such as assistantships.