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  • U.S. classroom expectations often include an A-F grading scale, and some courses use a “weighted” grading system.
  • Classroom participation, proactive communication, and independent learning skills are highly valued.
  • With time and practice, you will become familiar with these differences and find clear pathways to success at school in the U.S.

Congratulations! You have completed your first few weeks of studies in the U.S. and are starting to adjust to life in your new community. That is a big first step!

By now, you are probably realizing that U.S. classroom expectations are a bit different than what you are used to. The grading scale and professor expectations may be a bit confusing at first, and the emphasis on class participation and independent thinking can feel challenging.

Do not get discouraged! This is a very common experience, and it is not indicative of your effort, intelligence, or ability. Much like overcoming culture shock, getting used to U.S. academic norms takes some time.

Here are a few things to keep in mind as you continue through the semester.

Participation is strongly encouraged 

In U.S. classrooms, professors are interested not only in what students know, but also how they think.

Active participation—asking and answering questions, debating ideas, and presenting differing viewpoints—is considered an important part of learning in the U.S. If you do not participate, it can appear as though you may not be paying attention or are disinterested in the topic.

The good news is that you are not expected to have the correct answer, and it is okay to ask questions. Participation encourages the consideration of different points of view, which can help grow your critical thinking skills.

Easier said than done, though, right? Speaking up can be nerve-wracking and downright scary. To help you prepare and build your confidence in discussions, come prepared with at least one question to ask and commit to participate at least once during each class.

Also, bring concerns to your professor’s attention before they overwhelm you. Instructors often have office hours where you can share your questions or concerns with them privately. Office hours are when professors schedule time to meet with students. You can use this time to ask questions, discuss assignments, or seek academic advice. They are not just for students struggling with coursework; office hours are open to all students to discuss what is on their mind.

Proactive communication is valued

In the U.S., communication between students and professors is expected to be proactive and collaborative.

If you are experiencing an issue in class, have questions, or need clarification about a topic or a project that was assigned, do not wait. Schedule time to meet with your professor as soon as possible. Their office hours are a great time to do this.

You may also spend a lot of time emailing your professor and, sometimes, your classmates. Email is a common way students collaborate and contact one another to discuss coursework, projects, or ask questions. Be sure to check your email regularly and respond in a timely manner. Many professors and students aim to reply within one to two business days. Here are some other best practices to consider when emailing for school.

The U.S. grading system may be different

Grading in the U.S. is likely much different than what you are used to. Most professors will grade assignments and tests on the following scale:

  • A
  • B
  • C
  • D
  • F

Each final grade you receive will be part of what is called your grade point average, or GPA. All letter grades are assigned a numerical value. Your GPA is the average of these numbers. The higher the GPA, the better you are doing in your classes.

Here is a breakdown of how much each letter grade is worth:

  • A = 4.0 (excellent)
  • B = 3.0 (good)
  • C = 2.0 (average)
  • D = 1.0 (minimum passing grade in some courses; some programs may consider C or higher as passing)
  • F = 0 (failing)

So, how do you achieve a higher GPA?

First, pay attention to the class syllabus shared on or before the first day of class as these usually go into detail about what you will be learning in that class and what you will be expected to know upon completion.

Next, be sure to attend class, participate, and turn in your work on time. Multiple assignments, or homework, will contribute to your final grade, as will projects, tests, and quizzes. You may also be graded on class participation and attendance.

Pay attention to feedback from your professors. Address any mistakes early and ask for clarification as soon as possible to enhance your understanding.

If you are struggling with a course, you may also benefit from working with a tutor or study group. Ask your student advisor for assistance in finding one.

Group projects will be assigned

While the majority of your coursework will be individual assignments, you may also be required to complete group projects throughout the semester.  

During a group project, you will work with your classmates to complete an assignment together. These projects help you learn how to work with others who may have different communication and learning styles than you do. You will also learn how to manage conflict, differing ideas, schedules, and uneven participation. 

Professors and your teammates expect equal contributions from all members of the group, and collaboration between members is often graded. However, that may not always be the case. There may be a member who does not participate as much as you and others do. This can create unbalanced workloads and extra stress. It is important to know that you will get through this with other group members if you make sure you are doing the work that is expected of you. 

To help ensure group project success, work with your teammates to establish expectations, create a schedule to meet and work on the project, maintain open communication, and do not wait until right before the due date to work on the project. These things can help lessen everyone’s stress. 

Independent learning is expected

It may feel at times like studying in the U.S. is a balancing act. You will need to manage coursework, study for exams, meet due dates, and more on your own. And if you are a student-athlete, you will add practice time, gym sessions, and gamedays to all of that. 

Students and scholars in the U.S. are expected to take ownership of their studies. It takes careful planning, attention to detail, and a drive to complete your work independently to meet U.S. classroom expectations.  

This may differ from what you are accustomed to in your home country. And it can be overwhelming, to say the least. However, it can be successfully managed. Try these things to help ease the burden: 

  • Schedule time to study each day instead of “cramming,” or doing it all in a short time frame
  • Break large assignments into smaller, more manageable tasks
  • Create a schedule of assignment due dates, exams and quizzes, group assignment meetings, and other important dates so you know what is coming up
  • Make sure to balance your studies with time spent with friends, working on a hobby, or anything else that brings you joy

You will adjust to these new expectations

It is not always easy to adjust to life in a new country and its expectations. You have taken a very brave first step in your education and life, so it is important for you to be kind to yourself during these early days on campus. 

When possible, try to make small adjustments instead of large changes. They will make an impact over time and will be less likely to overwhelm you. Remind yourself that this adjustment period is temporary; with time, you will feel more comfortable and confident in the classroom. 

And when you are feeling sad or frustrated, understand that in the U.S., seeking help is seen as a strength, not a weakness. You do not have to go through these feelings alone. Your student health insurance includes coverage for mental health care you can access 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, from wherever you happen to be. 

  • Teladoc Mental Health Care connects you with experienced professionals who can help you through feelings of anxiety, depression, homesickness, stress, and more
  • Togetherall is a safe, anonymous, online community where you can chat with others who may be going through similar feelings and experiences

You can also contact LewerMark to speak with our friendly and knowledgeable Student Advocacy Advisors when you need help using your insurance, or if you have questions about your coverage or claims. Reach us by live chat at lewermark.com, call us at (800) 821-7710, or email [email protected]. We are here for you!