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Study in USA A Complete Guide For International Students
Planning to Study in USA? For many students studying in the USA is a fascinating possibility. It can be a time-consuming procedure, from selecting universities in the United States to applying for visas, finding housing, and finally arriving in the United States to study. And if the destination is popular, the competition becomes even tougher. But what if you eventually get the reward to live your dream? The United States is one of the top three most popular study-abroad locations. It has the most top-ranked institutions, world-class international organizations, and some of the world's brightest minds. As a result of these and other causes, there is an increasing number of overseas students applying to study in the United States. While the application procedure is simple to grasp, it is not so simple to put into action. This study in the USA guide for international students will go a long way toward answering all of your questions about eligibility, visas, scholarships, and the cost of studying in the United States.
Table Of Contents
Table Of Contents
Why Study in the USA?
You must be wondering why I should study in the USA. Well, there are many reasons and advantages to studying in the USA, but here we have listed a few top reasons for you.
1. Quality of Education
The United States has around 33 of the world's top 100 universities. This shows a lot about the education system in the country. Colleges in the United States use a hands-on practical approach and give their students cutting-edge technology. Not only that, but the students get access to some of the world's sharpest minds - their brilliant faculty. The United States has two types of Universities: public and private.
2. Customizable Curriculum
One of the best advantages of studying in the United States is that you can create your curriculum. You can select the subjects you want to study whether you want to do an internship or focus on a project! It is entirely up to you how many courses you take in any given semester.
3. Opportunities for Networking
The US is the hub of students from all across the globe. As a result, you will interact with smart people, learn about various cultures, and share your social experiences. This is a wonderful chance. Building relationships with your classmates will not only help you find friends who will stick by you no matter what, but it will also help you surround yourself with people who will support your professional development.
4. Career Opportunities
Several foreign and local businesses are eager to hire young graduates because of the size and diversity of the US and the startup culture. With career support services by the US, your university will make it simple for you to find internship and employment opportunities at these businesses.
5. Favourable Immigration Policies
If you are a non-STEM student who has graduated from a US university, you are permitted to work there for 12 months; if you are a STEM graduate, you are permitted to work in the USA for an extra 24 months. Thus, You have adequate time to work and repay your debts during this period, and you also have the chance to apply for an H1B visa.
6. Travel and exploring opportunity
Travelling is one experience that you absolutely must have while studying in the US. The USA is home to beautiful beaches, high mountain ranges, and dense forests. Get a companion with you, take a long trip, and start exploring across the country.
Top Universities To Study In the USA
The dream to study in the USA for international students pretty much depends on choosing the right university that offers the desired course by the student. While choosing the right university, the applicant needs to understand their requirements like the course needs, curriculum, faculty, career opportunities, etc. Students should also consider their area of interest, as one university may be well-known for its computer science program while another may be more recognized for its MBA program. Here we have listed down some of the top universities in the USA for international students that offer all the top and trending courses.
1. Columbia University
Ranked 23rd in the QS world university ranking in 2024, It is the best research institute in the world in several professional and academic areas. With professionals in a wide range of subjects, its faculty are respected throughout the world. Since 1901, more than 80 Columbia University academic members, adjunct employees, and graduates have received a Nobel Prize.
2. Harvard University
Ranked 4th in the QS world university ranking in 2024, Harvard University is among the top leaders in education, research, global perspective, and teaching. Professors at Harvard are usually researchers or Nobel laureates, thus students who are eager to start their research journey at an early stage have an advantage.
3. Stanford University
Ranked 5th in the QS world university ranking in 2024, Stanford University is regarded as one of the world's top research universities. Stanford is well-known for its excellent academics as well as its high return on investment and student entrepreneurial body.
4. Princeton University
Ranked 17th in the QS world university ranking in 2024, Princeton University is among the world's leading research universities, with affiliations to over 40 Nobel Prize-winning scientists. Princeton's liberal arts program emphasizes creativity, innovation, and collaboration in the humanities, arts, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering.
5. University of California
Ranked 4th in the QS world university ranking in 2024, the university is known for its outstanding research, diverse student body, and strong dedication to public service. The University of California's educational system is largely regarded as the top public university system in the United States due to its quality of education, research, and service.
6. Yale University
Ranked 16th in the QS world university ranking in 2024, It has been recognized not just for its outstanding research with a positive social impact, but also for the quality of its educational system by world ranking boards and experts. Yale University offers some of the best undergraduate and graduate programs in the country. Mathematics, social science, biology, history, and statistics are among the top-ranked subjects.
7. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Ranked 1st in the QS world university ranking in 2024, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is the most reputed university in the world. MIT's faculties are outstanding scholars from across the world who provide students with world-class education. With the online and on-campus programs, the university has ambitions to produce entrepreneurs, executives, managers, and technical experts. MIT offers a variety of industrial science and engineering programs aimed at advancement, development, and practical application.
8. New York University
Ranked 38th in the QS world ranking in 2024, a research-intensive institution, New York University is dedicated to supporting undergraduate research. Numerous honors, such as Nobel Prizes, Pulitzer Prizes, and MacArthur Fellowships, have been awarded to its professors. Because it offers students access to lucrative professions in New York City, New York University is one of the most desired colleges for students from the United States.
9. University of Pennsylvania
The University of Pennsylvania encourages students and professors to collaborate and engage in multidisciplinary research in order to deal with complicated issues and provide novel solutions. As one of the best universities in the United States and the globe, the University of Pennsylvania continues to mold the minds of future leaders and academics with its dynamic academic community, holistic approach to education, and multicultural student body.
10. Johns Hopkins University
Ranked 28th in the QS world ranking in 2024, Johns Hopkins University takes great pleasure in being a leader in research and gives a lot of importance to the grade of the work it delivers. Its intellectual reputation is also outstanding among the best scholars and teachers. For undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, certificate, and non-degree programs, the institution provides more than 260 courses. Moreover, Johns Hopkins Medical School is regarded as the greatest in the world.
Top Courses to Study In USA
Finding the ideal course to take while studying in the USA can be difficult. People may select a course based on their preferences as well as other considerations. Here are the top courses to study in the USA that offer high-paying employment opportunities in the USA and are currently popular among International students.
- Business and Management
- Engineering & Computer Science
- Physics
- Mathematics and Computer Sciences
- Communication & Media Studies
- Medicine
- Social Science
- Physical and Life Science
- Data Science and Business Analytics
- Finance
Eligibility Criteria To Study In The USA
To get admission to the University USA you must follow the requirements of the university you have applied to. Below are some essential requirements to get admission to the universities of the USA.
- Candidates must have earned the minimum grade point average required for the university and course in class 12 from a recognized educational institution.
- The student must score the minimum requirement listed by the university in English proficiency exams such as IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, and others.
- Students need to attain required scores on other standardized Such as SAT or ACT. The US Universities accept minimum scores of 600-800 for admissions.
- Students are required to produce a Statement of Purpose (SOP) and a Letter of Recommendation (LoR) before university.
- Candidates are also required to Submit an admission offer letter from the university.
Essential Entrance Exams To Study In USA
Before applying for admission, those who intend to study in the USA must take a few factors into account in addition to their visa. The applicants must take the standardized test for academic evaluation and as part of the English language competence requirements to be eligible for admission to US universities. Here are Standardized tests required for international students by US Universities.
USA Student VISA Application Process
You will be required to apply for a student visa if you wish to study in the US but are not a citizen of the US. Before commencement of your university program be sure to gather all the necessary documents needed at least three to five months before your course. The student visa application process also includes other processes as well. It's crucial to check the guidelines on the website of the embassy or consulate where you are planning to apply as the listed below stages differ at each US embassy or consulate.
- Apply to a student and exchange visitor program (SEVP)- approved university in the US before six to twelve months.
- Pay the application fee for the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
- Fill out the application for a visa with your recent photograph.
- Pay the application fees for the student visa.
- Select and schedule the date for the visa interview.
1. Post-Study Work Visa
Obtaining a post-study work visa in the USA is one of the several reasons students choose to pursue higher education in the USA. The majority of the time, students need an internship to put what they have learned in school into practice. There are generally three different sorts of student visas to pursue higher education abroad in the US: the F1 Visa, the M1 Visa, and the J1 Visa. These visas allow students to live in the US for a set period after finishing the course of study. International students require an F1 visa USA to obtain temporary employment related to their field of study. They can live in the country for a year after acquiring the F1 visa and finishing their degree. A person with an F1 visa may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which enables foreign students to live and work in the USA for a full year.
Cost to Study in the USA
The most important expense for students in the USA is tuition fees along with the cost of living. The fee of the selected course depends upon the university. For international students, the annual expense of education in the USA ranges from USD 7,000 to USD 55,000. While compared to professions like medical, engineering, and business management, humanities education, and arts courses have cheaper tuition fees. We have listed down the average cost of studying in different programs.
|
Program |
Average Annual Tuition Fee (USD) |
|
Undergraduate Courses |
8,000-40,000 |
|
Post Graduates Courses |
10,000-60,000 |
|
Doctoral Program |
28,000-55,000 |
|
English Language Studies |
1,400-24,000 |
|
Engineering |
30,000-75,000 |
|
MBA Program |
50,000-60,000 |
|
Diploma courses |
500-20,000 |
1. Cost of Living While Studying in the USA
The average cost of living may vary depending on the city you choose to stay in during your program. For instance, we have listed below an average cost of living while studying in the USA.
|
Living Expenses |
Average Yearly Cost (USD) |
|
Apartment including utilities |
USD 17,200 - USD 21,710 |
|
Food |
USD 6,500 |
|
Dormitory |
USD 7,588 - USD 11,914 |
|
Transportation cost |
USD 2,180 |
|
Books and study materials |
USD 500 - USD 1,000 |
|
Traveling |
USD 500 - USD 1,200 |
|
Clothes and footwear |
USD 500 |
|
Miscellaneous expenses |
USD 6,700 |
Document Required to Study in the USA
There will be a few essential documents required by the University of the USA during the application process. The document requirement differs for different courses and universities. However, some requirements are common for all degree programs and universities.
- For undergraduate courses candidates are required to submit schooling certificates and academic transcripts from a recognized educational institute.
- For Master courses, candidates are required to submit undergraduate certificates from recognized universities or institutes along with schooling proofs.
- Proof of English Language proficiency tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and others.
- Scores of aptitude tests such as SAT, ACT, GRE, or any other (if applicable)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Resume or CVs
- Valid Passport
- Health Insurance
- Financial proof to sustain in the country
- Admission offer letter
- Letter of Recommendation (LOR)
Scholarship Opportunities In The USA for International Students
Universities in the US provide international students with a variety of financial aid options such as scholarships, grants, and fellowships. While each university has its budget for scholarships, there are a number of other institutions that provide financial assistance to students who want to study in the US. Here are some of the Scholarship options for international students.
1. Yale University Scholarships USA
For international students, the Yale University scholarship is a fully financed scholarship for undergraduate, master's, and PhD studies. The annual value of a Yale scholarship can range from a hundred dollars to over USD 70,000; the typical need-based scholarship at Yale is around USD 50,000.
2. University of Memphis Scholarships
The University of Memphis scholarship is a fully financed scholarship for international students. Students of both undergraduate and graduate courses are eligible for this scholarship. The scholarship amounts differ and can pay the tuition fees of overseas non-Tennessee residents.
3. ACI Foundation Scholarship
The ACI Foundation award is a fully financed international student scholarship or fellowship. This scholarship is available for undergraduate, master's, doctoral, and postdoctoral programs. This scholarship provides an amount of USD 10,000 to USD 15,000 for housing, tuition, books, and other requirements in the United States.
4. Onsi Sawiris Scholarship
The Onsi Sawiris Scholarship program is a fully funded scholarship for undergraduate and master's degree programs for international students. This scholarship covers tuition, living, travel, and health insurance costs.
5. Clark Global Scholarship Program
Clark Global Scholarship Programme is an undergraduate scholarship for international students completely supported by Clark University. This scholarship program provides USD 15,000 to USD 25,000 each year for four years, with renewal depending on satisfying academic standards.
Career Opportunities After Studying In the US
The United States is a country of the world's most prestigious institutions and businesses, making it an ideal destination to live and study for students seeking world-class education and employment prospects. After completion of your course in the USA you can look for an internship or job opportunity in the USA and also settle in the USA thereafter. Here we have listed a few trending job opportunities that you can consider while choosing a course to study in USA.
- Software Developer
- Medical and Health Services Manager
- Occupational Therapist
- Physician and Surgeon
- Pharmacist
- Nurse Practitioner
- Dentist
- Management Consultant
- Physician Assistant
- Data Scientist
Conclusion
In conclusion, pursuing higher education in the United States offers a world of opportunities and experiences. From top universities to a culturally diverse environment, the USA provides a platform for academic and personal growth. This blog has highlighted the key aspects to consider when planning to study in the USA. When you start your educational journey, remember that the USA not only offers academic excellence but also encourages innovation, creativity, and cultural exchange. So, grab the chance to broaden your capabilities and make your mark in the land of opportunities.
Who are we?
Career Clinic is a leading overseas education consultancy, based in India. With a year of experience, we will guide you through every step of the visa application and admissions procedure. Our expert staff will assist you at every step of your international education journey. We can help you with everything from selecting the right course and university to obtaining a visa and finding suitable accommodation. Apply with us for the Next 2024 Intakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Although IELTS is an important exam for applicants seeking higher education in the USA, it is not required for admission to all American universities. Many universities in the USA accept other English proficiency exams such as PTE, TOEFL, Duolingo, and others. Also, you are still eligible if you have proof to show that you have studied English in your high school and intermediate.
Yes, you can work in the USA while studying. Universities in the United States permit international students to work in the US but with few rules and regulations. The overseas students can work on-campus at the university for up to 20 hours per week during school sessions and can work full-time during school breaks. Working while studying can help to lower your financial burden in the USA.
Yes, there is a possible way to get PR in the USA. After completing your degree of study, you can work in the United States for up to a year through mandatory practical training or alternative practical training. If you participate in either form of training and obtain the necessary visa, you may be able to petition the US government for a green card.
The website of your university is an excellent place to start looking for student housing in the United States. Your university's international student office can assist you in locating appropriate off-campus accommodation options. Furthermore, websites such as Uniplaces, Nestpick, UniAcco, AmberStudent, Spotahome, and Homelike will supply you with the information you need to locate appropriate student housing in the United States.
There are many benefits of studying in the USA but Some of the most important benefits of studying in the USA for international students are the large number of Internationally recognized & ranked Universities to choose from, Excellent employment opportunities, Top-class universities and courses to study, several states with a wide range of landscape options, and a vibrant cultural environment to live.
There are lots of affordable universities in the USA. Here are some of the affordable universities that you can consider:- University of Arizona, Brigham Young University, Purdue University, University of Buffalo, Dakota State University, California State University, University of South Florida, San Diego State University, Columbus State University, Texas State University, Florida International University, University of North Texas.
Studying in the universities of the USA is the dream of many international students, but some of them have financial issues. So, for these students, there is a way to study in the USA without paying a hefty amount of money. Financially lacking students can look for various scholarship and fellowship opportunities in the USA and in their native country, which can provide financial aid for their whole study and many of them also provide financial aid for flight and accommodation as well.
Many students take a study gap for several reasons, they either take the gap for personal need or for getting good marks in any entrance exam. The universities in the USA allow a maximum of two years of study gap for undergraduate courses and a maximum of one year of study gap for diploma and postgraduate courses. However, students are required to produce a proof for their study gap.
The University of the USA accepts Indian students of a minimum of 65% in the humanities streams of class 12th and a minimum of 70-80% in the science and commerce stream of class 12th. Those students who have scored less than 60% in their 12th class, are eligible for the various diploma and foundation programs in the universities of the USA. Additionally, it advised to check the eligibility criteria of the desired university before applying.
In the USA, there is no set age restriction for study. The average age requirement for a visa to study in the USA while applying for an undergraduate program is 17 years old and completion of high school. There is no such rule for graduate programs like MA, MS, MBA, etc. Additionally, doctoral and master's degree programs have no age restrictions.
