Feeling snowed down in a foreign land, eh? The struggle is real, and we understand this. The mixture of excitement, uncertainty, and a touch of homesickness can weigh heavy on your heart. But fear not, for we have a game-changer for you – the 17 best apps for international students in the US. Oh yes, we’re about to take this adventure to a whole new level!
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Imagine this: you’ve just landed on American soil, wide-eyed and eager, but with a million questions swirling in your head. How do I find my way around? Where can I meet like-minded souls? Is there an app for surviving homesickness? Well, my friend, buckle up because we’re about to dive into the world of apps that’ll have your back every step of the way. The 17 must-have apps for international students in the Us.
We get it. You want to navigate this unfamiliar territory with confidence and ease. You’re looking for a virtual companion to guide you through the academic maze, simplify transportation, keep you entertained, and help you connect with others who understand the joys and challenges of being an international student. Trust me, we’ve got your back.
In this remarkable journey together, we’ll explore a curated collection of apps that will become your loyal sidekicks, supporting you in every aspect of your life as an international student in the US. So, my fellow adventurer, get ready to unlock the secrets of these indispensable apps. Let’s embark on this thrilling quest together and discover the 17 best apps for international students that will transform your experience into something truly extraordinary.
Let’s begin!
17 Best Apps for International Students in the US
Transportation Apps:
1.Uber and Lyft
These ride-hailing apps allow you to easily request a ride to your destination. They are widely used in the US, and you can pay for your rides through the app using your credit card or PayPal account.
2. Citymapper
This app helps you navigate public transportation in major cities across the US. It provides real-time updates on bus and train schedules, as well as information on bike sharing and walking directions. Google Maps can also be an invaluable tool for navigating new cities, finding directions, and exploring the surroundings
3. Transit:
This app is similar to Citymapper but is available in more than 200 cities across the US and Canada. It provides real-time information on public transportation, bike sharing, and walking directions.
Money Management Apps:
4. Venmo
Venmo allows you to send and receive money from friends and family easily. It is widely used in the US and can be linked to your bank account or credit card.
5. Mint
This app helps you manage your finances by tracking your expenses, creating a budget, and providing alerts for bills and fees.
6. TransferWise
This app allows you to easily send money abroad at a low cost. It offers competitive exchange rates and charges a minimal fee for transactions.
Food and Grocery Delivery Apps:
7. Grubhub
This app allows you to order food from local restaurants and have it delivered to your doorstep. It offers a wide selection of cuisines and is available in many cities across the US.
8. Uber Eats
This app is similar to Grubhub but is operated by Uber. It offers a variety of food options and is available in many cities across the US.
9. Instacart
This app allows you to order groceries online and have them delivered to your doorstep. It partners with major grocery stores across the US and offers same-day delivery in some areas.
Education Apps:
10. Quizlet
This app helps you study by providing flashcards, quizzes, and games. It covers a wide range of subjects and is widely used by students across the US. You will equally find apps like Google Translate here.
11. Duolingo
This app helps you learn a new language through interactive lessons and quizzes. It offers many languages, including English, Spanish, French, and Chinese.
12. Grammarly
This app helps you improve your writing by providing grammar and spelling checks. It can be used with many writing applications, including email and social media.
Communication Apps:
13. WhatsApp
This app allows you to send messages, make voice and video calls, and share files with friends and family. It is widely used across the world and can be used with a Wi-Fi connection.
14. Skype
This app is similar to WhatsApp but is primarily used for video and voice calls. It can be used with a Wi-Fi connection or cellular data.
15. Zoom
This app is widely used for online meetings and classes. It allows you to join virtual meetings from anywhere with a Wi-Fi connection.
Entertainment Apps:
16. Spotify
Spotify as an app allows you to stream music and create playlists. It offers a wide selection of music and can be used with a free or premium account.
- 17. Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu
These apps allow you to stream TV shows and movies. They have rich and a wide selection of content and can be used with a free trial or subscription.
Why You Should Use These Apps as an International Student in the US.
- Convenience: As an international student, you may find that navigating life in a new country can be overwhelming. These apps are designed to make your life easier by providing quick and convenient solutions to everyday problems. For example, apps like Google Maps and Uber can help you get around without having to worry about getting lost or finding a taxi.
- Cost savings: Studying in the US can be expensive, and every penny counts. Many of these apps can help you save money in different ways. For instance, apps like Mint can help you keep track of your spending and budget more effectively. Other apps like Venmo and PayPal can help you transfer money easily and without any fees.
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- Academic success: As an international student, you may face unique academic challenges, such as language barriers or differences in educational systems. The apps listed in your post can help you overcome these challenges by providing tools for language learning, note-taking, and academic research.
- Social connections: Studying abroad can be a lonely experience, especially if you don’t know anyone in your new city. These apps can help you connect with other international students and locals who share your interests and hobbies. For example, apps like Meetup and Bumble BFF can help you find like-minded people to hang out with.
- Personal growth: Studying abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery. By using these apps, you can explore new interests, try new things, and develop new skills. From language learning apps to travel planning apps, each app can help you expand your horizons and make the most of your time as an international student in the US.
- Icons and logos of Some of the Apps
 Staying Safe While Using These Apps
In today’s digital age, using apps has become an essential part of our daily lives. From messaging and social media apps to banking and travel apps, there seems to be an app for just about everything. However, with the convenience of using apps also comes the potential for various risks. As an international student, it’s especially important to take measures to stay safe when using apps to avoid exposing yourself to danger. Here are some tips for staying safe while using apps:
(a) Choose strong passwords:
When creating passwords for your app accounts, avoid using common words or phrases that could be easily guessed. Instead, use a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols to create a solid and unique password for each app.
(b) Enable two-factor authentication:
Many apps now offer two-factor authentication as an extra layer of security. This means that in addition to entering your password, you will also need to provide a code that is sent to your phone or email. This can help prevent unauthorized access to your app accounts.
(c) Use a VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks:
Public Wi-Fi networks can be convenient, but they are often unsecured and can leave you vulnerable to hacking attempts. Using a virtual private network (VPN) when connecting to public Wi-Fi can help encrypt your internet connection and keep your data safe.
(d) Be cautious when sharing personal information:
When using apps that require you to enter personal information, such as your name, address, or credit card details, be sure to only share this information with trusted apps and websites.
(e) Update your apps regularly:
It’s important to keep your apps updated with the latest security patches and bug fixes. This can help prevent security vulnerabilities that could be exploited by hackers.
(f) Use trusted app stores:
When downloading new apps, be sure to use trusted app stores, such as the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. These app stores have rigorous security checks in place to ensure that the apps available for download are safe and secure.
(g) Read app reviews before downloading:
Before downloading a new app, take the time to read reviews from other users. This can help you identify any potential security or privacy concerns before you download the app.
(h) Keep your device locked:
Make sure to set a passcode or use biometric authentication (such as Face ID or Touch ID) to lock your device. This can help prevent unauthorized access to your apps and personal data in case your device is lost or stolen.
(i) Be aware of phishing attempts:
Phishing is a common technique used by hackers to steal personal information by tricking users into entering their login credentials or other sensitive information on fake websites. Be wary of emails or messages that ask you to click on links or enter personal information, especially if they come from unknown sources.
Conclusion
You’ve made it to the end of our list of the 17 must-have apps for international students in the US. We hope you’ve found the information we’ve shared to be helpful and informative. We know that being an international student can be a challenging and sometimes overwhelming experience. It’s easy to feel isolated and alone in a new country but rest assured that there are resources available to you.
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We understand that you may be feeling uncertain or anxious about using apps in a foreign country, but we want to assure you that with the right precautions and measures, you can enjoy all the benefits that these apps have to offer while staying safe and secure. With the right apps, you can stay connected with loved ones back home, make new friends, explore your new city, and make the most of your time in the US.
We hope that this article has helped you to find some new apps that will make your experience as an international student in the US more enjoyable and fulfilling. Remember to take the necessary steps to protect your personal information and stay safe online. With the right tools and a positive attitude, you can overcome any obstacle and thrive in your new home away from home. Best of luck to you on your journey!
