Maria Guryeva
The Founder of StudyAmerica

Hi! My name is Maria Guryeva, and I provide consultations and services to support the admissions process for US universities. I assist students with enrolling in US high schools, undergraduate programs, and bachelor’s degree transfers, as well as helping both students and professionals apply to graduate, postgraduate, and MBA programs.

Since childhood, I dreamed of studying in the USA. When my dream came true, I wanted to use my experience to help others achieve theirs. My mission is to make higher education at top US universities accessible to anyone who dreams of it and is willing to work hard to make it a reality.
7 Facts about Me
Graduate of
Columbia University
My experience has given me a deep understanding of the specifics of American education. I know exactly how to gain admission to the Ivy League as an international student, both from my personal experience and through the success stories of my students. I am excited to share this knowledge with you.
Successfully gained admission to bachelor's, master's, PhD programs, and transfer opportunities at some of the best universities in the USA
After finishing 11th grade, I was accepted to five US universities, including Northwestern University (ranked in the top 20), where I received $20,000 in financial aid. Initially, I chose to study at a university in my hometown, but during my second year, I transferred to Columbia University through a transfer program.
While at Columbia, I conducted interviews with admissions officers from Columbia, Yale, Harvard, and MIT, as well as with Ivy League students, to understand their paths to admission. After completing my undergraduate degree, I continued my education with graduate studies at UC Berkeley, Northwestern University, and Temple University.
This extensive experience has given me in-depth knowledge of the admissions process for undergraduate, graduate, PhD, and transfer programs. My expertise is proven by the success of my students, who have gained admission to top US universities at all these levels. If your goal is to join one of the best universities in the USA, regardless of the program, I will provide you with expert guidance every step of the way.
Scored 2050 on the SAT, 114 on the TOEFL, 8.5 on the IELTS, and V164/M167 on the GRE
I prepared for all these tests on my own, without any tutoring. This experience allowed me to identify the most challenging aspects of each test and develop strategies to overcome them, ultimately achieving such high scores. Based on this, I created my own approach to teaching these exams, which has proven highly effective for all my students. Some of them passed these exams even better than I did.

Certified teacher with experience
since 2009
In 2009, I received a teaching certificate from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and completed coursework in teaching theory at Lomonosov Moscow State University. Additionally, I have earned certifications in Teaching, Academic English, and Innovative Technologies in Education from prestigious institutions, including the University of Pennsylvania, Stanford University, Duke University, UC Irvine, UC Davis, SUNY, Johns Hopkins University, the University of New South Wales (Australia), and Commonwealth Education, graduating with honors. I have also lectured and taught courses at EducationUSA. When you work with me, you can be sure that you are collaborating with a dedicated and highly qualified professional.
Journalist by degree
I studied journalism at Moscow State University, Columbia, and in Brussels. This education greatly contributed to my professional expertise because one of the most important elements in the application is an essay, and knowing how to tell your story well can give students a real advantage in getting admitted. At Columbia University, I focused on mastering English writing and learning the techniques American journalists use to grab the reader’s attention and keep them engaged until the very last word. I adore these techniques, and crafting essays with students is my favorite part of the job. During this process, I always demonstrate my ability to understand and connect with the student, notice the smallest details, and then turn them into a story with nothing superfluous, one that captivates and inspires the reader. And my love of the English language and perfectionism will bring this story to perfection. Whatever your story is, I will definitely "find it" in our conversations, and help make a real masterpiece out of it.
Winner of competitions
for scholarships and grants
I received grants from Touro University in the 9th grade for free tuition in New York. I was also awarded grants from Northwestern University for both undergraduate and graduate studies, Columbia University for an exchange program, and the Institute of Journalism in Brussels in 2014. Additionally, I was placed on the reserve list for the prestigious Chevening Fellowship. Using my experience, I can help you craft a strong application that stands out and secures funding. Many of my students have successfully won scholarships such as Fulbright, UGRAD, FLEX, as well as awards from Yale University, NYU, and many other top programs.
I have the best job in the world
It brings me great joy to see my students' dreams of studying abroad come true. Many of my students initially doubted their chances of success, believing they weren’t qualified enough, their stories weren’t interesting enough, or that studying in America was only for the wealthy. Every time, I was thrilled to show them otherwise. I firmly believe that anyone who truly desires to study at a top university in the U.S. and is willing to put in the necessary effort deserves that opportunity. I am honored to help such determined students achieve their dreams. I am happy that all the knowledge I have gained over the years of admission and study in the USA benefits my students. Seeing their joyful university photos, meeting them in the USA, and hearing their stories fills me with pride. My work opens doors to incredible opportunities, granting my students access to the most prestigious education in the world and life-changing experiences. Contributing to their journeys is more than just a job—it’s a dream come true.
My principles
  • Individual approach

    I always adapt to your preferences, interests and ambitions, and provide the resources and strategies to help you achieve your goals.
  • To motivate and inspire
    by my own example
    I use my experience and the experience of my students to inspire and motivate you to achieve your goals and overcome difficulties.
  • Reliability and constant communication
    I am always available to support you, even in the final moments before a deadline, ensuring guidance every step of the way — from the first lesson to your successful enrollment.
  • Accessibility for everyone
    I believe that anyone with the determination deserves the opportunity to study in the USA. I don’t select students based on their abilities
  • Innovation
    I keep a close eye on education trends, exam changes, and technology to optimize our collaboration.
  • Full commitment to our shared goal
    I am completely devoted to our work, for the sake of our shared success, and I am trying to ensure that your application is refined to perfection.
>35 000
happy customers
15
years of experience
100%
acceptance rate of StudyAmerica's students
StudyAmerica Students' Success Stories
All my students have successfully enrolled in the best colleges in the USA.
Do you want to join them?
All my students have successfully enrolled in the best colleges in the USA.
Do you want to join them?