Study in United States
Overview
The United States attracts international students with its world-class universities like Harvard and MIT, offering a vast array of programs across all disciplines. Enjoy the vibrant and varied cultural world that surrounds you. Where you can explore everything from bustling metropolises to breathtaking national parks. The US education system is known for its flexibility, allowing you to tailor your studies and potentially gain valuable work experience through internships.
Quick Facts
The US operates under a federal republic system, balancing power between the federal government and individual states.Home to people from all corners of the globe, the US boasts a vibrant multicultural society with a rich tapestry of ethnicities, religions, and traditions.
- Capital – Washington, D.C.
- Population - 335 Million
- Official Language: English (de facto)
- Currency: US Dollar (USD)
- Largest city: New York City
- Universities: 4000+
- Weather: Diverse
Why Study In United States?
- World-Class Education, the US boasts a plethora of prestigious universities consistently ranked among the world’s best.
- Globally recognized degrees
- Vibrant campus culture
- A degree from a US university is highly respected by employers worldwide, giving you a competitive edge in the job market
- International students graduating with STEM degrees in the US can benefit from Optional Practical Training (OPT) which allows for 24 months of work authorization after graduation.
- Practical learning and research opportunities.
- The US education system offers a vast array of programs across various fields.
Education System
- In the united states there’s Public universities (funded by the state), private universities (independent funding), and community colleges (focused on vocational training or transfer to universities)
- Courses award credits that accumulate towards a degree.
- Combines core subjects for a foundation, major courses for specialisation, and electives for broader exploration
- Many schools require international students to take standardised tests like the SAT or TOEFL.
- Students can attend public schools (free), private schools (tuition-based), or charter schools (publicly funded but independently operated).
Qualifications Offered
Undergraduate degrees typically take four years to complete and culminate in a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) degree. Undergraduate programs cover a vast array of disciplines, including engineering, computer science, business, humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Master’s programs are postgraduate degrees that usually require one to two years of full-time study. Doctorate degrees are the highest level of academic qualification and typically take four to eight years of full-time study to complete. There’s also Associate degrees and Certificate programs to equip students with specific skills for a particular job or industry
Test Requirement
- English Language Proficiency is a must. TOEFL or IELTS tests measure your ability to understand and communicate in English.
- GRE (Graduate Record Examinations),this general test is required by many graduate programs in the humanities, social sciences, and some natural sciences.
- GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is required for most Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs.
- Some programs, like law schools (LSAT) or medical schools (MCAT), require additional tests relevant to the field.
- Some universities may offer waivers for standardised tests based on factors like high GPAs or strong academic records.
Education Cost
Depending on the university type (public vs. private), location, and program of study, you can expect a range of ₹16.2 lakhs to ₹59.93 lakhs per year just for tuition fees. On top of that, factor in living expenses which can range from ₹8.85 lakhs to ₹12 lakhs annually. This includes housing, food, transportation, and other miscellaneous costs. So, the total cost of studying in the US for an international student from India can range from roughly ₹25 lakhs to ₹72 lakhs per year. Remember, this is just an estimate, and individual costs may be higher or lower depending on your specific situation.
Work Rights & Stay Back Post Study
There are limited work rights for international students in the US after graduation. One option is Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows graduates with an F-1 visa to work for up to 12 months in a field directly related to their degree. Students in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) can apply for an extension for an additional 24 months. However, OPT doesn’t guarantee permanent residency and finding an OPT job can be competitive. To stay in the US long-term, you’ll likely need your employer to sponsor you for a work visa like H-1B, which has its own application process and limitations.
Intake
Fall Intake (most popular) starts around August/September and ends in December. This is the primary intake for most universities, with the widest range of programs offered. Spring Intake begins in January and continues till May. This is a good option for students who miss the fall deadline or prefer to start mid-year. Summer Intake (limited programs) available for a smaller selection of programs and colleges, usually starting in May. It can be a good choice for students wanting to accelerate their studies.
Scholarships
- Fulbright Program is a prestigious program that is fully funded by the U.S. government and supports international students pursuing graduate degrees, non-degree postgraduate studies, or research in the U.S. It fosters international understanding and cultural exchange.
- Many universities in the US offer Merit-Based Scholarships to outstanding international students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, test scores, extracurricular activities, and leadership potential.
- Need-based scholarships are for international students who demonstrate financial hardship. These scholarships are awarded based on a combination of academic merit and financial need.
- Private scholarships are offered by private organisations for international students. These scholarships can be based on a variety of factors, such as nationality, field of study, or financial need.
- Government scholarships offer scholarships to students who want to study abroad in the US. These scholarships are usually awarded based on academic merit and the student’s agreement to return to their home country after graduation.
Do You Have Questions?
Requirements vary, but most include transcripts, standardised tests (SAT/ACT, TOEFL/IELTS), essays, and recommendation letters.
Fall (Aug/Sept) is the main intake, with Spring (Jan) and Summer (May) options for fewer programs.
Yes, some universities offer merit-based and need-based scholarships. Explore private and government scholarships too.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows F-1 visa holders to work for up to 12 months in a related field. STEM fields can get a 24-month extension.
OPT doesn’t guarantee permanent residency. Long-term stay likely requires employer sponsorship for a work visa (H-1B).
There are public (state-funded) and private universities, offering various costs and program options.
Study In United States Now
Pursue your academic goals at some of the world’s most prestigious universities. The US offers a vast array of programs in nearly every imaginable field, catering to a diverse range of interests. American universities are known for their emphasis on research and innovation, providing exceptional opportunities to learn from leading academics and contribute to groundbreaking discoveries.