Could this be the safest place to study in the US?

If you’re planning to study in the US this year, this bit of information may be valuable to you: Vermont is now the most-vaccinated US state against COVID-19.

The northeastern US state has covered first doses for 82% of residents aged 12 and over — significantly higher than the national vaccination rate, which is 64%, according to NDTV. “It makes us probably the safest place in the country and maybe the world,” said Vermont health commissioner Mark Levine.

Why Vermont?

The high vaccination rate here is attributed to the wide availability of vaccine clinics, trust in political leaders and science, as well as a strong sense of civic responsibility. It helps that Vermont is the second-least populated state in the US, with under 650,000 recorded residents in 2020.

US Senator Bernie Sanders, Independent of Vermont, speaks at George Washington University in Washington, DC, on Sept. 24, 2020. Source: Nicholas Kamm/AFP

“Vermonters prioritise their health, which is a good starting point,” Levine added, “and building upon that, Vermonters are very cooperative and compliant.”

Known as The Green Mountain State in New England, Vermont is famed for its lush, natural beauty. It is home to several well-established schools, colleges, and universities, including Vermont Academy, The Putney School, and the University of Vermont. Education is a priority here, which proves a beneficial culture for approximately 1,700 international students who study in the US state. Fun fact: it is also the home of Bernie Sanders, maple syrup, and Ben and Jerry’s ice cream.

According to the Burlington Free Press, 41% of Vermont’s students come from China, followed by 6.5% from Canada and 3.8% from India. Though many international students have been deterred from going to study in the US over the past year, universities may just turn the tide with the help of speedy vaccine rollout and smooth visa processing.

Students enter their new Downtown Burlington High School at a closed Macy’s department store in Burlington, Vermont on March 30, 2021. Source: Joseph Prezioso/AFP

What do I need to study in the US?

You must first obtain a F type non-immigrant visa. To apply, head to your local embassy or consulate; with the help of an experienced agent, if you want to speed up the process. Students who are unable to obtain their visa time may opt to start the programme remotely from their home country and postpone travel to study in the US.

While checking requirements to get into the US, you should also be aware of what you need to apply to the university. Besides a high school, secondary school, or college certificate, you must also produce proof of English language proficiency (such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language, or TOEFL). You may also need to sit for a US university entry exam — though many institutions are now waiving this requirement. Check further document requirements with your university; such details can usually be found in the international student section of their website.