Pakistani students prepare for US universities as EducationUSA hosts pre-departure orientations

More than 130 Pakistani students attended EducationUSA pre-departure orientations, receiving practical guidance before beginning undergraduate and graduate studies at leading universities across the United States.

By Imran Malik | Education Desk | MediaBites

More than 130 Pakistani students preparing to begin higher education in the United States participated in EducationUSA Pakistan’s pre-departure orientations, receiving practical guidance to help them transition smoothly to academic and campus life abroad.

The sessions, held in Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi, brought together students admitted to bachelor’s, master’s and Ph.D. programs at leading U.S. universities. Organized by EducationUSA Pakistan, the official U.S. government source of information on higher education in the United States, the orientations aimed to equip students with essential knowledge before they depart.

According to the Institute of International Education (IIE), more than 13,000 Pakistani students enrolled at U.S. colleges and universities during the 2024-2025 academic year, marking the highest number on record. Pakistani students are pursuing studies in diverse fields, including engineering, computer science, mathematics, business and management, applied arts and social sciences.

Addressing the students, Acting Minister Counselor for Public Diplomacy Dave Moyer said the United States continues to attract talented students from around the world because of its globally recognized higher education system.

“Every year, talented students from across Pakistan choose the United States for the excellence, innovation and opportunities that define our higher education system,” Moyer said. “Our universities are the gold standard, bringing together brilliant minds from every discipline and every corner of the globe.”

He encouraged students to fully engage with university life by collaborating with faculty members, working across disciplines and contributing their own ideas and perspectives.

This year’s orientations introduced a new format with separate sessions tailored to undergraduate and graduate students. EducationUSA also organized interactive discussions involving parents, school counselors, alumni and current students to better prepare participants for academic and cultural life in the United States.

USEFP Executive Director Dr. Peter Moran urged students to build strong networks and seek mentorship after arriving on campus.

“On arrival at your U.S. university, I encourage you to build a network and seek mentors among American students,” Moran said. “This will enhance your learning and help you navigate a new environment while supporting both your academic and personal growth.”

The sessions covered a wide range of practical topics, including cultural adjustment, understanding the American education system, finding accommodation, financial management and making effective use of campus support services. Alumni also shared personal experiences and practical advice to help incoming students prepare for life in the United States.

Welcoming the new cohort, EducationUSA Pakistan Director Affan Javed said the organization remains committed to helping Pakistani students make a successful transition.

“We take pride in preparing students for the life-changing journey that awaits them in the United States,” Javed said. “We hope the guidance shared during these orientations helps students navigate both academic and cultural experiences with confidence.”

EducationUSA provides free and impartial guidance on accredited U.S. institutions, admissions, scholarships, financial aid and standardized test preparation. In Pakistan, the program is administered by the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP), a bilateral commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States.