Home to prestigious universities, groundbreaking research, and practical education, the USA offers a plethora of study programs across disciplines. Opt for the USA and access a world of opportunities for a prosperous future.

Key Facts

International Students

948,519

Universities

3216

GDP

$ 26.85 Trillion

Population

332 million

America boasts a legacy of academic excellence with globally acclaimed universities and groundbreaking research institutions, setting international standards for educational quality and innovation.

In addition to academic excellence, the USA offers students affordable living options, including various housing choices and access to financial aid, ensuring a well-rounded and budget-friendly education.

With a strong job market and a range of employment opportunities, studying in the USA paves the way for promising career prospects. Additionally, the U.S. offers Optional Practical Training (OPT) programs that allow international students to gain practica

Studying in the USA provides not only academic growth but also a rich cultural experience. Explore diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and a melting pot of cultures, making your educational journey unforgettable.

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Top Universities to Study in UNITED STATES

Most Popular Courses to Study in UNITED STATES

Business Management

For private universities $26,000 to $50,000 per year

Humanities

Course fees $ 26000 to $ 50000 per year

Science

Course fees $ 26000 to $ 50000 per year

Engineering

Course fees $ 26000 to $ 50000 per year

Data Science

For private universities $30,000 to $90,000 per year

Engineering

For private universities $25,000 to $90,000 per year

Business Management

For private universities $30,000 to $90,000 per year

Data Science (AI, ML etc)

For private universities $30,000 to $50,000 per year

Engineering (Aeronautical, Architectural)

For private universities $25,000 to $70,000 per year

Commerce

For private universities $25,000 to $70,000 per year

Business Management

For private universities $20,000 to $70,000 per year

Comprehensive guide

Everything You Need to Know about Studying in USA

Intake

The Various universities in the USA generally have three intakes. The best way to proceed is to find the intakes of a specific university for which admission is being considered. The general intake are:

  • Spring Intake: January to May (Usually the most preferred)
  • Summer Intake: Starts around May
  • Winter Intake: September to December

Cost of Study

While planning for a study abroad program one must plan for every aspect of costs involved.
The broad pointers are mentioned below:

  • Tuition Fees: This varies from $10000 to $ 70000 per annum depending on the course being pursued. Usually, UG courses are costlier than PG courses..
  • Cost of Stay: The cost greatly depends on the type of accommodation and city of stay. Own apartments are costlier than shared or university accommodation.The cost ranges between $15000 to $17000 per annum.
  • Preparation costs
    • English Language: IELTS is the most accepted test and the average score that is expected is 6.5. The test cost is INR 16500.00. It is advisable to take guidance before the test is attempted. This will cost an additional INT 5000 - INR 15000. Other accepted tests are TOEFL and PTE.
    • VISA: The Application cost is $160 and a sevis I-901 fee of ~ $350.
    • Travel: Ths is as per the airline fare at the time of travel and is usually in the range of INR 80000.00
    • Insurance: This depends on your insurance company and is to be checked with them directly.

Admission Requirement

  • Academic Qualifications: For bachelor's programs, you typically need a recognized secondary school leaving certificate. For master's programs, you require a relevant bachelor's degree or any other equivalent degree.
  • Language Proficiency: Average scores needed for the USA are: IELTS score of 6.5 or higher, TOEFL iBT score of 90, DET score of 100 - 150. 
  • Letters of Recommendation: Some programs may require letters of recommendation from professors or professionals (Twice repeated) who can attest to your academic abilities.
  • Statement of Purpose : A well-written statement of purpose is essential for admission and visa applications. The statement of purpose for the visa application is separate from the one submitted to the university and may have different requirements.
  • Additional Documents: This may include a CV/resume, transcripts, academic certificates, and a portfolio (if applicable)

Student Visa

The US VISA for Students falls into 3 categories: F, M, and J.

  • F type: is required for admission to full-time programs in the institutes in the USA. Allows holder part-time work for a maximum of 20 hours per week.
    • F1 VISA is valid for 5 years for a full-time program in a SEVP-approved college.
    • F2 VISA is a dependent VISA for spouses and children who can pursue part-time post-secondary programs and full-time elementary courses in the USA.
    • F3 is for non-Indianen students.
  • M type: is provided to the non -academic students pursuing vocational courses or training in USA. The maximum duration of stay in the USA with an M visa is 1 year. It also has M1 and M2 types.
  • J type: The J visa is the US exchange visa and is provided to students enrolled in exchange visitor programs in USA.. It has 2 types J1 & J2.

Specific requirements for an application:

  • Valid Passport for Travel to USA: valid for 6 months beyond the period of stay in the USA.
  • Form I-20 USA: Students must demonstrate form I-20, signed by themselves and school officials. 
  • Application Fee Payment Receipt: For students who need to pay fees of 160 USD before the interview.
  • SEVIS Fee: Students need to pay a Student & Exchange Visitor Information System fee (SEVIS Fee) along with the student visa application fee.
  • Photo: Applicants should upload their photo while filling the application form. In case of photo upload failure, applicants can bring their printed photo in the guided format.
  • IELTS (6.5), TOEFL (90), PTE (50+) score card.
  • Academic transcripts
  • Fund availability 
  • Proof of the applicant’s determination to leave the USA after completion of their program

Financial Documentation

There are two primary requirements from a financial point of view:

  • Fund availability: There is no fixed amount stated. for this. One has to show enough funds to cover for tuition fees, stay, food, and Travel.
  • Proof of the applicant’s determination to leave the USA after completion of their program. Usually proof of own property and financial stability of other family members, returns tickets are needed. 

Tests

Proficiency in the English language is a common requirement across all courses.The accepted tests for the USA are

  • IELTS
  • PTE
  • TOEFL

Some other tests are:

  • GRE: GRE scores serve as a means to evaluate applicants' eligibility for graduate-level programs spanning a wide range of subject areas. Depending on the department's preferences, some applicants may be required to complete one of the GRE Subject Tests, while others may need to take the General Test. 
  • GMAT: The Graduate Management Admission Test is a specialized graduate admissions entrance exam intended for individuals aspiring to pursue business-related graduate programs. A GMAT score is typically mandatory when applying for graduate programs such as an MBA, Master of Accountancy, or Master of Finance. Some universities also accept LSAT and MCAT scores.

Employment Opportunities in UNITED STATES

During Studies

Part-time Employment is allowed !

  • A F-1 student can work at more than one on-campus job. The student's total work hours for all jobs cannot exceed 20 hours during the school term and can work full-time when school is not in session or during the student's annual break.
  • Earning rates: The earnings can be up to  $ 15  per hour. The federal minimum wage is $ 7.25 per hour.

 

Post-Study

The various options available to apply for jobs in USA

  • OPT - Optional practical training allows work for a period of 12 months. An extension can be applied for another 12 months. Jobs pursued in OPT should be related to the academic program. OPT can be applied:
    • During the program
    • initial grant of Post-Completion OPT employment authorization based on your STEM degree.
  • CPT - Curricular practical training can be applied for only after completion of academic curriculum. Has a Maximum tenure of 12 months. 

Most Popular Destinations to
Study in UNITED STATES

  • Top Univiersities: For those seeking the company of the world's finest students and scholars, Boston is the ultimate destination. It ranks as one of the prime choices for Indian students in the USA. With a total of eight esteemed institutions within the city, including the globally renowned Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Harvard University, Boston offers exceptional academic opportunities.
  • Diveristy: Boston's diversity enriches the student experience with over a third of its population coming from abroad. Interacting with people from different backgrounds broadens horizons. The city's vibrant neighborhoods offer a taste of authenticity, with diverse restaurants and markets.
  • Tourist attraction: While Boston is renowned for its iconic attractions like baked beans, Fenway Park, The Boston Marathon, and the Cheers bar, delving beneath the surface reveals a rich tapestry of elements that elevate Boston to the status of one of the finest cities in America, and indeed, the world.
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Boston
  • Top Universities: Well-established universities like Georgetown, UMD-College Park, George Washington, and Howard highly recommend Washington, DC as a top city for students.
  • Diveristy:With iconic landmarks such as the White House, the Supreme Court, and the Lincoln Memorial, Washington, DC stands at the core of the United States. The active involvement of law, politics, and journalism students in American politics significantly enhances its appeal as a hub for civic engagement.
  • Tourist attractions: Washington, DC, the capital of the United States, is a city nestled along the Potomac River, sharing its borders with Maryland and Virginia. The cityscape is characterized by grand neoclassical monuments and structures, prominently featuring the iconic homes of the three branches of the federal government: the Capitol, the White House, and the Supreme Court. Additionally, Washington, DC boasts renowned museums and world-class performing arts venues, with the Kennedy Center as one of its notable cultural treasures.
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Washington DC
  • Top Universities: Chicago boasts of many top-ranked universities like University of Chicago (10th in the world), Northwestern University (32nd), University of Illionas Chicago, and many more.
  • Diversity: Chicago is the economic hub and definitely high on the list for best places in USA for Indian students..Chicago offers a diversified culture, entertainment options, and gorgeous architecture. Chicago, although one of America's wealthiest cities, has a lower cost of living than other US cities.
  • Tourist attraction: Scattered throughout this vibrant tourist destination, you'll find renowned landmarks such as The Wrigley Building, the John Hancock Center, and Tribune Tower. In addition, there's an array of upscale boutiques, hidden speakeasy pubs, and celebrated underground dining spots to explore.
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Chicago
  • Top universities: Los Angeles is easily one of the best places to study in America for the arts as its prosperity is built on music, TV, and cinema. It fosters a strong academic environment with the presence of universities like Caltech and UCLA.
  • Job prospects: Los Angeles is the 2nd largest city, thus there are many job prospects in business, technology, science, fashion, medicine, sports, etc. Los Angeles' sunny atmosphere attracts students and workers from 140 nations.
  • Tourist attraction: Los Angeles is a sprawling Southern California city and the center of the nation’s film and television industry. Near its iconic Hollywood sign, studios such as Paramount Pictures, Universal and Warner Brothers offer behind-the-scenes tours.
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Los Angeles
  • Prestigious Universities: The few top otop-of-the-orderersities like Columbia University and New York University. New York does well in diversity indicators,.and scores high on student rankings.
  • Tourist attractions: Home to some iconic land marks like the Brooklyn Bridge, Empire State Building, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty.
  • Diverse Culture: New York is the best student city in USA when it comes to dominating in education, innovation, arts and entertainment, banking, and architecture. New York's commercial, financial, and economic hubs offer several internship and career opportunities.
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New York

FAQ

What is allowed under on campus employment for F1 VISA?

The definition for on-campus employment is in 8 CFR 214.2(9)(i).

There are two types of limits on the employment. The work must take place either at your school or at an educationally affiliated (associated with the school’s established curriculum or part of contractually funded research projects at the postgraduate level) off-campus location:

  • On the school premises
    • Work that takes place at your school location could be for an on-campus commercial business, like a bookstore or cafeteria, as long as the work directly provides services for students.
    • Employment located on-campus that does not directly involve services to students (such as construction work) does not qualify as on-campus employment.
  • Educationally affiliated off-campus location
    • Work with an employer that is contractually affiliated with the school is on-campus employment even if the work site is not located on the campus (such as a research lab affiliated with your school).

On-campus employment must not displace a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR).

What are the basic guidelines for on-campus employment?

An F-1 student has three main employment-related guidelines:

  • May work at any qualifying on-campus job that does not displace a U.S. citizen or LPR.
  • May work up to 20 hours per week while school is in session (full-time during those periods when school is not in session or during the annual vacation)
  • Should report their work to you and receive a certification letter to present to the Social Security Administration in order to be able to receive a Social Security number.

Not complying with these guidelines for on-campus employment may be a violation of status that could result in the F-1 student having to leave united states.

Can an F-1 student work at more than one on-campus job?

Yes. However, the F-1 student’s total work hours for all jobs cannot exceed 20 hours during the school term. The F-1 student may work full-time during those periods when school is not in session or during the student’s annual break.

Can an F-1 student work on campus during the 60-day grace period after the program end date?

No. The 60-day "grace" period after graduation or post-completion OPT is for an F-1 student to prepare to leave the United States, unless the student is beginning a new program of study. An F-1 student may consider applying for post-completion OPT to continue working after graduation.