Study in USA

When one thinks about studying abroad, the first name that comes to mind is that of the USA. Without a second thought, it is one of the best countries today offering academic excellence, unique courses and specialisations, globally-recognised courses, and numerous opportunities. Thus, study in USA, assumes a lot of importance in this segment. Without wasting any time, let us get down to the main reasons. 

• The top-ranking universities of the world are in the USA. When you refer to the QS World Rankings list, at least 25 of the top-ranking universities are from the USA. The Times Higher Education Ranking also includes the top 7 from the USA. 

• The universities in the USA offer a huge variety of courses with specialisations that are unavailable elsewhere. You have the liberty to choose courses and the structure, as well. Similarly, at the post-graduate level, you can choose when to progress with the dissertation. 

• American universities offer excellent support for international students. You will come across universities in USA offering regular orientation programs. 

• You will find different cultures in the USA campuses. The diverse environment ensures that everybody respects each other’s culture and diversity. 

• The USA is the hub of research and innovation. You will find some of the biggest names associated with academicians, researchers, and professors coming in from the USA. 

You will find a diverse range of courses at top universities in the USA. But, we get down to unearthing higher education possibilities, let us understand the school system. 

There are four study levels. 

• Elementary School

• Middle School

• High School

• Higher Education

For international students, the following structure exists. 

In the USA, international students will come across a diverse range of institutions, as mentioned below. 

• Colleges – These are usually smaller than universities 

• Universities – You will be coming across public and private universities

The universities are further categorised into Ivy League, Public Ivies, Liberal Arts Philosophy, Specialist Institutions, and Research Institutions. 

Those students who require more information on the course levels and associated details can choose to consult a study abroad consultant. 

As a study abroad aspirant, when you look forward to studying in USA, you also need to get prior information about the universities and local commute. The latter translates into a lookout for the best city for accommodation, nearby. 

So, on the basis of student feedback, here are the top cities for students. 

• Boston

• Chicago

• New York

• San Francisco

• Los Angeles

• Atlanta

• Washington

• San Diego 

• Seattle

• Durham

The first one, Boston, is considered one of the safest cities in the USA for international students. The others on the above list are also great for students. 

You will find some of the top universities in USA, ranking high globally. Here are the top ones with their best courses. 

These are the top study abroad institutions in the USA for international students. There are plenty of others where you can look for your preferred subjects. 

Intakes

International students can take it easy, when it comes to intakes in USA. There are three intakes, which makes it easy for students to follow. 

Admission Requirements 

Those students who want to pursue courses in US universities must make sure to stay abreast of the requirements. Here is a ready reference for you. 

• Language Requirements 

• IELTS

• PTE

• TOEFL iBT

• C1 Advanced

• Duolingo 

• Documentary Requirements 

• Transcripts of grades of previous examinations

• Updated CV

• Proof of English language Proficiency

• Passport Photo

• Application fee

• SOPs

• LORs

• Test scores of SAT/ GRE/GMAT/ ACT

• Application Process

• You must apply directly through the university website. 

• Read all the requirements and attach the same with the application form, and pay the fee.

• You will be able to apply to 3-5 universities. 

• Wait for the confirmation of the admission email, which is usually a few weeks. 

• After you get it, mail your acceptance. 

• Apply for an F-1 student visa. 

• Start applying for the scholarships. 

• Arrange for flight tickets and accommodation in the USA, near the university or on-campus. 

Scholarships & Funding Opportunities For International Students In The USA

One of the main reasons international students look for study in USA are the scholarships. These are very beneficial, in lessening the financial burden on students. Most of the large universities in the USA also have endowment funds, which allow offers of financial help to meritorious and needy students. The Government of the USA also offers many scholarships and grants. But that is not all, as many non-governmental organisations also offer scholarships to foreign nationals. 

For more scholarships, you must consider checking with a study abroad consultant with wide exposure to such financial modes of assistance in the US. 

Cost of Studying in USA

You will be able to gain admission to public as well as private universities. The fees at public ones are lower than those at the private ones. 

To give you a better idea, let us also look at the fees at the top universities in the USA. 

You must take into account miscellaneous expenses as well, like books and stationery, health surcharges for international students, etc. 

Cost of Living in USA

If you put up in places like New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Boston, housing costs, rent and general living expenses are among the highest in the USA. 

However, Austin, Dallas, Atlanta, Pittsburgh, and Raleigh offer lower expenses. 

You can lay your hands on a variety of options when it comes to student accommodation in USA. University or on-campus accommodation is the cheapest, but fills up faster. Let us take a look at the student accommodation options and costs, on average. 

You can get a more detailed cost analysis of the above if you join a student forum, which is made possible by advisors like Admissify. 

Visa & Post-Study Work Opportunities In The USA 

• To study in USA, one has to secure an F-1 visa. M-1 is also available and is for vocational courses. J-1 is for exchange students and visitors. 

• Students can work part-time while studying in the USA. 

• One can choose the Optional Practical Training to work off-campus, before and after the completion of studies. This is a 12-month work authorization. STEM students can get the same for an additional 24 months. This applies to F-1 visa holders. 

• Thereafter, you must secure a job offer from an employer in the USA, who is ready to sponsor your H1B visa. This visa has an annual limit.