ShortCircuit they did, when I first arrived back in 92. I didn't even have Isc. degree but that was then and this is now post 911.... I would be surprised if they would give you a visa without a toefl and 12th grade or intermediate degree.... like everyone is saying, if you are in nepal you should have lots of time, give toefl and if you can give SAT too, you might just be lucky and they might offer you scholarship with your SAT score. I personally am thinking of going to nepal for a year to prepare for my GRE and take some time off from america and chill in nepal. Working and trying to prepare for GRE doesn't go hand in hand, atleast nor for me. Done that enough as an undergrad student.