Why study in USA
From the very beginning, the USA has been a paradise to the international students for their education and career. When deciding to study abroad, the primary question in students’ minds is, ‘why study in the USA.’ Here we have provided a range of reasons by simplifying the information that can help you make a well-informed decision.
Universities offer support services to help students transition to a new environment in the USA.
Living in a country like the USA is a lifetime experience for international students. With its extremely flexible and excellent education system, the USA attracts a considerable number of students. Every year, many students worldwide choose to study in the US cities like Newyork, Las Vegas, Seattle, Washington, San Francisco, Washington, Orlando, Florida, California, Texas, etc. These cities host many reputed institutes that can turn your dream of a successful career into reality. Being the world’s largest economy and leader in technology and research, the USA also provides you enormous career opportunities.
Higher Education System of USA & Eligibility for International Students
When it comes to shortlisting countries for higher education, it’s understandable why that many international students choose the USA. The education system of the USA ranks first in the world. Fair standards and top-notch quality of education easily applied to the students.
The education system in the USA is flexible and provides students with an array of choices and institutes. For international students, the USA can be an ideal place to attain higher education. The flexible teaching methods and programs are created to match students’ preferences, so they can effectively learn and excel in their field of interest. However, unlike many countries, the USA’s education system isn’t centralized and is governed by federal states.
The popularity of the US higher education system is reflected in fact that around 50 US universities, find place in worlds top 100 ranking.
The education system isn’t limited to academic studies only. Students can also join a campus community or activities and acquire extracurricular skills. This also helps international students stay productive and get involved with other students.
Types of higher education institutes in the USA
To ensure higher education standards at a low fee, each of the 50 states in the U.S has at least one funded college and university.
These institutions are privately held and offer higher education to international students. The fee of such colleges is higher than that of state-funded institutes.
These colleges are also known as junior colleges and offer two-year tertiary education, high school diploma technical degrees, and certificates.
These schools offer engineering, science, and research programs. Graduate-level students with a strong background of science and math’s can attend these colleges. Some schools under this category are the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), California Polytechnic Institute, and Georgia Institute of Technology.
Types of higher education courses in the USA
Undergraduate Studies
Students can take an undergraduate course at college or university after completing high school. You can enroll in Associate programs, which takes two years for completion. On the other hand, the Bachelor’s degree generally requires four years of course duration in which the first two years include prerequisite subjects such as maths, communication, literature, and history. While in the last two years, students are required to pursue their major subject.
Masters Studies
After completing the graduation course, students often pursue a master’s course to advance their academics and career. Generally, a master’s degree in the USA is completed in one or two years. MBA (Master of Business Administration, one of the most sought courses among international students, only takes two years, while some masters courses like Journalism take only one year for completion.
Doctorate Studies
To further expand their knowledge of a particular subject, students often enroll in Ph.D. courses. It prepares them to study and research a topic and explore it closely. At the end of the doctorate course, students must present a thesis or dissertation supported by the research and findings on the subject.
Higher Education Eligibility Standards for International Students in the USA
International students can only enroll themselves in Student Exchange Visitor Program-approved schools. In the USA, such institutions are enabled to issue Form I-20 to-immigrant students, so they can apply for a visa.
The admission requirements vary as per institutes. Hence you should first confirm the eligibility criteria from your preferred university. After you apply to a university, they will decide if you are eligible to study there.
- Eligibility criteria for engineering courses
- Eligibility criteria for business management courses
- Eligibility criteria for MD (Medicine) courses
- GRE (Graduate Record Examination)
- Agricultural Science and Forestry
- MCAT (Medical College Admission Test)
- GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)
- SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test)
Eligibility criteria for engineering courses
Eligibility criteria for business management courses
Eligibility criteria for MD (Medicine) courses
- Students should be from the PCB stream and have passed 10+2 from a recognized board with 50% minimum aggregate.
Besides this, international students need to qualify a general exam, as per their field of study
GRE (Graduate Record Examination)
The GRE test focuses on critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and writing skills. It is the most common test required for admission to graduate schools. In addition, many business universities also consider GRE scores for MBA or business management courses.
LSAT (Law School Admission Test)
Students willing to take admission in one of the USA’s reputed law schools are required to undertake the LSAT test. It evaluates the student’s verbal and reasoning skills.
MCAT (Medical College Admission Test)
This test is required for international students who want to pursue a medical degree in the USA. MCAT assesses a student’s critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and knowledge of social, behavioral, natural science concepts.
GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)
GMAT is recommended for MBA and business management students. Students undergoing this test will need to prove their writing, analytical, verbal, and reading skills.
SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test)
International students might also be required to pass TOEFL, a language test to prove English proficiency. TOEFL scores are accepted in the majority of universities in the USA. But before you apply, confirm the eligibility requirements of your university.
Moreover, while making an application to a university, students are also required to provide:
Upcoming Educational Fairs
Does the idea of meeting university representatives sound exciting to you? Yes, we care about your aspirations so you can now benefit from the comfort of your homes! Attend webinars, interact with industry experts, note points that’ll help you, and grab all the takeaways that you can. Over the next few months, we’ve organized several virtual webinars, discussions, and other informative events for you. Register for them and learn everything you need to, at your own pace.
- MO
- TU
- WE
- TH
- FR
- SA
- SU
- 26
- 27
- 28
- 29
- 30
- 31
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
- 6
- 7
- 8
- 9
- 10
- 11
- 12
- 13
- 14
- 15
- 16
- 17
- 18
- 19
- 20
- 21
- 22
- 23
- 24
- 25
- 26
- 27
- 28
- 29
- 30
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
- 6
Events for September
1
Events for September
2
Events for September
3
Events for September
4
Events for September
5
Events for September
6
Events for September
7
Events for September
8
Events for September
9
Events for September
10
Events for September
11
Events for September
12
Events for September
13
Events for September
14
Events for September
15
Events for September
16
Events for September
17
Events for September
18
Events for September
19
Events for September
20
Events for September
21
Events for September
22
Events for September
23
Events for September
24
Events for September
25
Events for September
26
Events for September
27
Events for September
28
Events for September
29
Events for September
30
USA Student Visa
A student visa is needed for international students to enter and study in the USA. Basically, there are four types of visas that students can avail of as per their purpose of education.
In addition to this, the preferred course of study and university determine which visa will accommodate a student’s requirements.
Below, we have described each type of visa, so you can better understand them and apply for one as per requirements.
Exchange Visitor Visa J
Visitor Visa J must be obtained by students willing to attend a course via exchange programs. It is required to have a confirmation by a USA university or program sponsor while applying for a Visitor visa.
Student Visa F-1
International students willing to pursue higher education in the USA will need to apply for an F visa. Before you apply for this visa, it’s essential to get a confirmation for enrolment in a SEVP approved institute. Students holding this visa are not allowed to work off-campus. However, they can do on-campus work.
F2 Visa
F2 is a nonimmigrant dependent visa which allows the immediate family members of an F1 student visa holder to relocate to the United States. The spouse and unmarried children (under 21 years of age) of F1 student visa holders are eligible for an F2 visa to enter and live in the U.S.
Student Visa M
M visa is for students who want to enroll in language or vocational courses.
Cost of living in USA
The cost of living in the USA for international students primarily depends on the city, course, and university they chose to live and study. It includes the cost of food, travel, internet, study material, entertainment, and accommodation
Students with excellent academic grades can get a benefit of lower tuition fees and can also get scholarships offered by the universities if they fit the eligibility criteria. However, in general, the yearly estimated cost of living in the USA is $10000 – 12000, A large part of the expenditure is on accommodation, which cost around $5000 to $7500 for a year.
Here is a list of approximate general living expenses per year for international students.
Off campus renting amount
$3600 to $7200
Meals
$2500
Books and study material
$500 to $1000
Phone and internet
$750 to $900
Clothings
$500
Travelling
$300 to $700
Entertainment
$1000 to $1200
Personal and other expenses
$1000 to $1500
To support their living cost, students can do part-time jobs along with their studies. Students are allowed to work on campus for 20 hours per week, and 40 hours a week when the sessions are not in process.
Fees and scholarship
Renowned for their world-class faculty and quality of education, universities in the USA can prove to be an expensive option for international students. However after completion a reputable job enable the students pay back student loans.
The cost of education mainly depends on the course and university that a student selects. In general, the fees for:
Unlike many countries, the US government doesn’t offer loans, grants, or scholarships for international students. Hence, they are required to find an alternative way to fund their education and stay in the USA. Some many universities and organizations offer scholarships, grants, and fellowships to international students. Here we have explained the criteria for availing a scholarship and listed some of the prominent scholarships that can be availed by a student:
Scholarship criteria for international students
A scholarship can be partial that only covers education expenses or full-paid that includes fees, cost of living, and transportation costs. The academic credibility of students plays a significant role in deciding and getting a scholarship. However, this isn’t the sole factor, and students may also be required to display interest in extracurricular activities. The course and institute that a student has chosen for higher studies also decide the type of scholarship. Therefore, you should contact your higher education provider with details regarding available scholarship programs and eligibility criteria. It is recommended that international students apply for a scholarship as early as 8 months before intake season begins.
Scholarship programs for international students:
Students can get the best scholarship rewards with their respective institutions. Here are some of the most-sought scholarships programs available for Indian students:
Fulbright-Nehru Research Fellowship
It is offered to Master’s students who have an excellent academic profile. Along with this, the general eligibility criteria to avail of this scholarship require at least three years of work experience.
Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship
This scholarship is available for Master’s or doctorate courses offered in Engineering, Computer Science, and Business Studies. The upper limit for funds for each candidate is capped at 1,00,00 USD.
Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship
This scholarship is offered to students willing to take admission in postgraduate studies. Students’ eligibility is decided based on their academic records, work experience in the field of study.
Winston Churchill Foundation Scholarship Program
Every year fifteen scholarships are offered under the Winston Churchill Scholarship Program. It is generally valid for 9 to 12 months and covers university fees, living and travel expenses.
AACE International Scholarship
AACE scholarship is applicable for engineering and business administration students that have at least completed one year of college and are currently pursuing a full-time degree from a recognized university.
In addition, there are many institutions based scholarship programs available for students. To learn more about them, you can directly inquire with the institution. For further information regarding scholarships, students can visit the official website of the USA government.
Undergraduate courses in USA
The USA has ceaselessly secured its spot as the renowned education provider in the world. Its flexible education system, top-ranked universities, and cultural diversity make it a popular destination for international students. Apart from these factors, universities of the USA offer many graduate courses that help the students excel in their academic and professional careers.
Here is a list of the best graduate courses that you can choose from to enroll in graduation.
- Engineering
- Computer Science and Information Technology
- Business Analytics and Data Science
- Pharmacy
- Agricultural Science and Forestry
Engineering
About 62% of international students are currently enrolled in this course in the universities of the USA. There are different Engineering degrees provided in this stream, such as Petroleum Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, and Materials Engineering.
Computer Science and Information Technology
Computer Science and Information Technology is a demanding course in the current time. This course is highly specialized in different areas like Virtual Reality, Artificial intelligence, and web security.
Business Analytics and Data Science
Business Analytics and Data Science courses provide sound knowledge in economy and finance, allowing the students to make predictions and data-driven decisions. In the USA, this course is often standardized with a huge number of job possibilities and specialized in enabling students to hold a major position in any industry.
Pharmacy
This course takes four years to complete in the USA, including one year of the practice period. By pursuing graduation in Pharmacy, students can land high paying jobs in the areas of scientific administration, cardiology, management science, healthcare, and drug development.
Agricultural Science and Forestry
With this course, students can get a distinct advantage of learning about agriculture and advanced technologies and methods to boost crop and livestock production.
Many other courses offer highly paid jobs in and out of the USA, such as Life Sciences, Bio-Technology, Media & Journalism, Hospitality, Architecture, Art & Design, Social Sciences, and Legal Studies.
Post Graduate courses in USA
The USA is an ideal destination for students abroad to pursue post-graduate degrees with an exceptional learning environment, supported by renowned faculty, and world-class facilities. Students have the advantage of getting started with their dream career right after completing the post-graduation course from the USA. Here we have listed some of the most demanding post-graduation courses:
Computer Science
You will learn about the product and design by using computing and get a practical knowledge of software engineering and information systems during the course on Computer Science.
Business and Management
Institutes in the USA offer the excellent business and management courses. Generally, these courses cover the field of marketing, finance, HR management, accounting and administrative studies.
Creative Arts and Design
If you want to make a career in Arts and Design, then pursuing a relevant course in the USA can help you gain practical knowledge and uplift your professional skills. Arts and Design related post-graduation courses focus on visual work creation, product design, fine art, and computer graphics.
Engineering
Post-graduation courses in Engineering are offered with innovative teaching methods backed by the knowledge and expertise of professors. Most of the institutes offer this course in the field of Network Engineering, Solar Engineering, Computer Engineering, etc.
Along with the above-mentioned postgraduate courses, Health and Medicine, Humanities, Social Studies and Media, Architecture and construction, Law, MBA, and Travel and hospitality are some of the other courses that offer great job opportunities and career prospects.
Top Universities in USA
Most of the top-ranked universities around the world are located in the USA. Over 1700 educational institutions offer various graduation and post-graduation courses to international students.
Here is a list of some of the top-ranked universities to make it simple for you to decide which university will be best for your study:
Princeton University
Established in the year 1746, it’s one of the earliest founded universities in the USA. It offers both graduate and postgraduate courses to international students. Some of the highly rated degrees that Princeton University offers are Engineering, Humanities, Economics, and Natural Sciences.
Yale University
Yale University is a private institution and a former member of the Ivy League. It is ranked 17 by QS global ranking and consists of fourteen constituent institutes, including the Graduate School of Arts and Undergraduate Liberal Arts College. Some courses like Engineering & Technology, Life sciences, Computer Science, Business & Economics are most pursued by students.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Famously known as MIT, this university is a private research institute that helps students acquire and gain practical knowledge in their field of study. International students can pursue a range of executive and professional degrees, such as Engineering and physical science, Economics, Political Science, Urban Studies, and Philosophy.
Harvard University
As an Ivy League research university, Harvard is the best place in the world for students who want to pursue research-oriented careers. This university ranks at number 1 in the USA and consists of ten academic facilities and three main campuses. Harvard university offers many leading courses to graduates and postgraduates, such as Business and Management, Computer Science, Data Analysis and Statistics, etc.
Columbia University
Columbia University was established in 1754 and is recognized as a private research institute. It is located in New York and offers a wide range of courses to students in the field of Philosophy, Business, History and Architecture, Visual Arts and Drama, Social Sciences, etc.
Duke University
It is a private research university founded in 1838, North Carolina. This institute is well-reputed for featuring many faculty members, alumni that have been awarded Nobel, Turing award, etc. for their field of work. The courses offered by Duke University are recognized for excellence and career opportunities that come along. The most sought courses in this university are MBA, Master of Engineering, M.D, M.S, and Bachelor of Science. With 39,000 employees, Duke University is the largest employer in North Carolina.
Montana State University
It is located in Bozeman, Montana, and is quite famous for making groundbreaking researches that have added value to the reputation of this institute. Montana State University offers hundreds of courses in bachelor, master and doctorate studies.
Shoreline Community College
It is a public community college in Washington established in 1964. Shoreline has a campus of 83 acres and includes an automotive training center, Visual Arts building, Laboratories, computer centers, and educates thousands of students every year. Many courses and certificate programs that are offered by this institute.
University of Nebraska- Lincoln
It is the oldest research institution established in 1869 in Lincoln, Nebraska. It has nine colleges and offers more than 100 undergraduate majors and graduate programs. This university is well-recognized among higher education institutes for providing quality education at good value for money.
University of Missouri
It is the largest public research university in Columbia with 30,000 students and 300+ variety of courses and programs. University of Missouri was founded in 1839 with a campus of more than 1000 acres.
Besides this, there are some other important universities in the USA which are concerned about study and employability such as Stanford University, University of Pennsylvania, Georgetown University, Brown University, New York University, Cornell University, Johns Hopkins University, University of Chicago, Seattle Pacific University, University of Maryland, etc.
Top Colleges in USA
Colleges in the USA are known for their meticulous academic climate that encourages students to grow their academic and professional careers. The top-notch quality standards and interactive teaching methods followed by colleges ensure the students are provided with the best supervision and guidance.
Amherst College
It is located within Massachusetts and is recognized as a high-quality institute that offers education at a reasonable price. Compared to the other colleges in the USA, Amherst college offers good value for money education. By enrolling in this college, students can pursue courses like Anthropology and Sociology, Biochemistry and Biophysics, Biology, and Architectural Studies.
Babson College
Babson College was established in 1919 and is a privately held business school. It ranks among the most expensive colleges in the USA and only offers one degree, a bachelor’s in business.
Lafayette College
Lafayette college is situated in Pennsylvania and is recognized as a private liberal arts college. It enables students to access and participate in more than 250 clubs and organizations, including community service clubs and honor societies. Students can pursue a bachelor of arts degree in as many as 37 fields.
Dartmouth College
Dartmouth college is a liberal arts institution and can be termed one of the USA’s most competitive colleges. Its association as a private Ivy League research university empowers students to get practical knowledge to boost their learning of the subject.
Haverford College
Haverford college mainly provides Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees to the students and allows them to select a major in humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.
Pitzer College
Pitzer College is a private liberal arts college situated in Claremont, California. It offers a range of courses under social sciences, media studies, behavioral science, etc.
Intakes & deadlines for 2020
The first thing to begin with your “Study in the USA” plan starts with knowing when universities are open to accepting you as an international student. The American intake season is different from what you see in India. Universities in the USA offer three intakes in a year. The first intake season starts in the month of September and stays in place till December. The second and third intake seasons start after January till May and are mostly recommended to students who have missed the first intake. The courses and scholarships offered in the later intakes are limited; hence, it is more competitive for international students to enroll themselves.
USA Student Visa Eligibility and Checklist
In this section, you’ll learn about the specific requirements that shall be met while applying for a student visa.
International students can apply for the visa as much as 120 days before the course commences. However, to obtain a USA student visa, students are required to fit specific criteria determined by many factors, such as the academic performance, intention of the study, and the student ability to fund his study and living cost. A student can only apply for a visa after obtaining Form I-20 from the university. Here are the different requirements that you’ll need to meet to be eligible for a USA student visa.
General requirements
1.Passport
A valid passport with a minimum of 6 months of validity is a must for international students.
2. Form I-20
You’ll be asked to submit the Form I-20 issued by your university to confirm you have been accepted to a university in the USA
3. Form DS-160
While applying for an immigration-visa, students must fill this form and confirm that they are willing to study in the US. After the submission, a unique alphanumeric barcode will be provided to students. You should print out the page and take it with you at the time of the visa appointment.
4. Payment receipt of SEVIS
Paying the SEVIS fee is mandatory for international students. It’s advised to carry along all the fee payment receipts along with you to prove your claim whenever required while applying for a visa or visa interview.
5. Health insurance
In most cases, health insurance isn’t required. But students are advised to confirm the same from their education provider in the USA. If needed, you’ll have to apply for health insurance valid in the USA.
Academic requirements
1. Academic transcripts
While applying for a visa, students should have the original transcripts of their previous education.
2. Certificates and Degrees
Students should have original certificates and degrees of the completed courses.
3. Standardized test scores as asked by university
Students are required to submit the test scores of GRE/GMAT/and others, along with their visa application.
Financial requirements
1. Proof of funds
It is one of the essential steps validating your student visa. As a student, you should prove that you can support your education while applying for a visa or interview. This can be done by providing an original affidavit of support from the sponsor, bank records of the sponsor, and proof of sponsor employment.
Study Visa Process
Students are required to apply for a visa in a nearby US embassy or consulate. The visa process generally includes a timely set of steps that need to be followed while applying for the same. Students shall fulfill the above-mentioned visa checklist before they make an application for their study visa.
Step 1
Complete and submit an online visa application.
Step 2
Print out of the visa application confirmation page
Step 3
Review the essential documents
Step 5
Attend the interview and answer all questions correctly
Step 6
Schedule an appointment with a counselor officer
Study visa interview tips
Visa interview is a comprehensive procedure consisting of one to one interaction between a consular officer and students. In this step, a prospective student shall genuinely answer the questions. Providing misinformation to the consular officer can lead to rejection of a visa application
One of the main reasons many students fail to get visa approval is the lack of required documents while attending a visa interview. Therefore, it’s highly recommended to first verify the interview documents before proceeding with the same.
Documents required on the day of the USA visa interview
Here we have listed the most asked US visa interview questions to help visa applicants get an overview of the process. This primary purpose of the interview is to interact with students and understand their credibility, intention, and reason behind studying in the USA. To further validate a visa application, a consular officer can also cross-check facts provided by students in the application form.
To provide students with an overview of the interview process, we have jotted down some important questions that can be asked by the consular officer to validate a visa application:
Personal questions
These are some of the questions that may be asked during a visa interview. Also, we recommend that students gather in-depth knowledge of the USA, university, and course that they have selected. Above all this, your answers should reflect your genuine intention to study in the USA.
Speak to Our Counsellors
We help students realise their dreams of studying abroad through intensive counselling sessions. Our expert consultants guide students to zero upon the right institute keeping all factors like budget, culture, and career goals in mind.
Many students planning to study abroad in the USA lack first-hand knowledge of universities, colleges, scholarships, and, most importantly, follow hundreds of guidelines while applying for a university and visa. All these tedious processes can be brain-storming and as well as time-consuming for students. Our experts with hands-on knowledge can assist and provide the best career guidance to rescue students from this trouble.
