Study in USA

How to Study in the United States?

If you want to study abroad, the United States is one of the best options. With the most globally ranked universities, the United States is at the top of almost every student’s wish list for studying abroad. Nobody should be told where the United States stands in science, technology, innovation, and everything else. They almost always come first. As the global STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) leader, these courses are in high demand in the United States.

Why Study in the United States?

A collection of the best universities

The United States is home to over 5000 universities, the majority of which are ranked first in the Global University Rankings. Yale University, Harvard University, Cornell University, Columbia University, and others are examples of universities.

Degrees are recognized worldwide

A degree from the United States will put you in a better position. If you are looking for a degree in the near future, you will realize how valuable it is. If you are looking for work, you will find it easier to find a better-paying job in the United States or any other country.

There are numerous career opportunities available

A degree from the United States can help you get a better job. You can also do internships to gain valuable experience that will be recognized both in the United States and abroad.

An education system that is adaptable

Education in the United States is more flexible. If you are doing your Bachelor’s, you must decide on your Master’s subject only in your second year. There is no pressure to select it in the first year.

Choose based on your return on investment.

If you take out an educational loan to study in the United States, you will have to pay a relatively high interest rate. If you do not pay it on time, interest may accrue. Choosing a university based on ROI will thus assist you in surviving an economic downturn.

Happy campus life is guaranteed.

There will be students from all cultures and many of the best universities in the United States. This will help you understand more about life outside of campus and will provide you with the best campus life possible.

International students receive special assistance.

Universities in the United States offer various forms of assistance to international students. Language workshops, orientation programmes, and other activities will help students.

Make some extra money

You can work 20 hours per week during the semester and 40 hours per week during the semester breaks. This will help you earn money and manage your finances.

Cultural variety

The United States is a melting pot of various cultures. You can interact with and make friends with students from various countries, which will help you learn more about different cultures. This, in turn, can help you feel less homesick.

Possibility of networking

Unlike in India, professors in the United States are more open to debate and discussion. This will also assist in obtaining valuable advice. The organisation of career workshops and counselling sessions will improve your employability.

What are the Best Courses to Take in the United States?

The study of computers- Computer Science

Computer Science is a popular course among international students in the United States. Software analysts, software engineers, and other related positions are in high demand. It exposes a variety of businesses, making it the best option for international students.

Data Science and Business Analytics

In the United States, popular courses include data science, business analytics, and information systems. The number of students pursuing degrees in these disciplines has recently increased dramatically in the country.

Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical engineering is the third most popular major in the United States. It is also one of the oldest engineering disciplines, with courses in mechatronics, automobiles, aerospace, and aeronautics.

Computer and Electrical Engineering

Computer and electrical engineers are in high demand in the United States, particularly in California, New York, Massachusetts, Texas, Illinois, and other states.

Social Sciences and Humanities

Humanities and Social Sciences encompass a wide range of subjects such as geography, economics, and political science, among others. If you want to further your education in this field in the United States, psychology, sociology, economics, and international relations are better options.

Medicine

A Medical Degree, particularly an MS, is in high demand in the United States, especially because doctors are always in demand everywhere. Though getting into a university in the United States is difficult, it is also rewarding.

Finance

In the United States, the MS in Finance programme is the most popular. The United States offers a STEM-designated course that typically prepares students for careers in corporate finance, investment banking, and investment management.

Biotechnology

It is a little-known fact that biotechnology, bioinformatics, and the biomedical field are all fields with numerous career opportunities. The research facilities and globally recognised education make the United States a better choice for the course.

Business Administration

It is always a good idea to pursue your Master’s degree in Business Management in the United States. Students pursuing an MBA can also take advantage of Optional Practical Training, which allows them to work for a year.

The Liberal Arts

The education system in the United States is diverse, allowing you to choose from a variety of minors and majors. You can pursue a BA or MA in Education, Theatre, American History and Literature, and other fields.

What are the top ten universities in the United States?

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology is regarded as one of the best universities in the United States. It is ranked second in the Global Universities Rankings and is known as one of the Best Global Universities.

Harvard College

Harvard University is a world-renowned institution that ranks first in the Global Universities Rankings. Biology and biochemistry, oncology, and cell biology are among the top-ranked subjects.

University of Stanford

Stanford University is well-known throughout the world, ranking third in the Global Universities Rankings. It also ranks in Chemistry, Material Science, Mathematics, Computer Science, Environment/Ecology, and other subjects.

Berkeley, University of California

More than 70% of students here pursue Undergraduate degrees, which are divided into 14 schools and colleges. It is ranked fourth in the world and offers over 350 courses, as well as rankings in Chemistry.

Columbia University

A private institution that ranks sixth in the world in terms of university rankings. It is ranked in Psychiatry/Psychology, Neuroscience and Behavior, Cardiac and Cardiovascular Systems, Economics and Business, and other subjects.

Washington State University

Over 370 graduate-level programmes are available at the University of Washington. It is ranked seventh among Best Global Universities and ranks first in subjects such as Clinical Medicine, Immunology, Geosciences, and Microbiology.

California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

California Institute of Technology has six academic divisions and is ranked ninth among Best Global Universities. The best thing about them is that they provide guaranteed housing for all first-year undergraduate and postgraduate students.

University of Johns Hopkins

There are campuses in Baltimore and Columbia for this private university. The John Hopkins University is ranked ninth in Best Global Universities, tied with the California Institute of Technology. Surgery, Immunology, Clinical Medicine, Infectious Diseases, and other disciplines

University of Yale

Yale University has approximately 20% international students. It has a number of research institutes and centres. Some of the top-ranked subjects include arts and humanities, endocrinology and metabolism, psychology/psychiatry, optics, oncology, and so on.

Penn State University

The University of Pennsylvania has 19% international students and is ranked 13th in the world’s best universities. Top-ranked courses include Cardiac and Cardiovascular Systems, Cell Biology, Clinical Medicine, Economics and Business.

The Cost of Education in the United States for Indian Students

For a long time, the United States has been a popular destination for international students, particularly Indians. The United States has the best universities in the world, which has contributed to the country’s rise. However, in order to estimate your finances, you must consider studying costs. The majority of the funds would be spent on tuition. At the same time, courses in the Humanities, Arts, and Education are typically less expensive.

S. No

Degree

Average Fees (USD)

Average Fees (INR)

1.

UG

USD 20,000 – USD 40,000

INR 16,00,000 – INR 31,00,000

2.

PG

USD 20,000 – USD 45,000

INR 16,00,000 – INR 35,00,000

3.

PhD

USD 28,000 – USD 55,000

INR 22,00,000 – INR 43,00,000

4.

MBBS

USD 24,000 – USD 66,000

INR 18,00,000 – INR 50,00,000

The Cost of Living in the United States

The United States is a dream destination for anyone looking to study abroad. It should also be noted that the United States is not a cheap country. On average, you should budget between USD1000 and USD3000 for your expenses. It is also dependent on where you stay. If your university is in a posh city like New York, your costs will be higher. It is necessary to thoroughly detail the types of expenses you may incur in the United States in order to plan accordingly.

What are the Prerequisites for Studying in the United States?

  • Bachelor’s Programs: If you want to apply for a Bachelor’s degree in the United States, you’ll need all of your academic credentials. Aside from that, an IELTS score of at least 5.5 is required. The TOEFL (iBT) score should be between 70 and 89.
  • Master’s Programs: To pursue a Master’s Program in the United States, your Bachelor’s grade point average should be 65%-70%. A GRE score of at least 290 is required, as well as proof of English proficiency.
  • Doctoral Programs: In order to pursue a doctoral degree in the United States, you must first submit your educational credentials. In addition, your GMAT and GRE scores will be calculated.

What Exams Do I Need to Study in the United States?

  • IELTS: IELTS is a test that is accepted by almost all universities in the United States. Most universities, however, do not require it if you can demonstrate adequate English proficiency.
  • TOEFL: Not all universities require the TOEFL. Most PhD candidates, however, will have to attempt one. Everything is dependent on the university and its requirements.
  • PTE: A PTE is a computer-based test that is accepted all over the world. The majority of English-speaking countries request it. However, you may not require all of these tests to be performed.
  • ACT: The American College Test (ACT) is a multiple-choice exam that assesses your ability to think critically. It will require a minimum score of 22 to pass.
  • SAT: A few universities, including Harvard University, accept the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT). It’s another multiple-choice exam.
  • GRE: The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is required for Engineering and Master’s programmes in the United States. A few business schools have also begun to accept this score for MBA admission.
  • GMAT: If you want to pursue your MBA in the United States, you must take the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). To pass the test, a minimum score of 700 is required.

There are also subject-specific tests. For example, the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), and so on are for Law and Medical admissions, respectively.

Scholarship to Study in the United States?

Everyone reading this will wish to study in the United States. It is a fact that living in the United States is never cheap. However, you will almost certainly receive financial assistance from the various scholarships offered by universities. Tuition fees account for the majority of your expenses, and these scholarships cover them entirely or partially.

The table below will give you an idea of a few scholarships:

S. No

Scholarship

Details

Amount in USD

1.

AEF Scholarship

The Ascend Educational Fund (AEF) is given to PG students

USD 20,000

2.

Akhtarali H. Tobaccowala Fellowship

This is awarded to all the MBA graduates at the University of Chicago

USD 25,000

3.

American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship

This is for UG students from underserved communities

USD 4000

4.

Asian Women in Business Scholarship Fund

Asian women who score a minimum GPA of 3.0 are eligible

USD 2500

5.

Cornell University Tata Scholarship

It is given to deserving UG students from India

USD 7800

6.

Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowship

It is awarded to PG students pursuing particular courses

USD 7000

7.

LSEF-UMASS Scholarship

All PG students in the University of Massachusetts, studying particular courses

USD 29,500

8.

Matt Fong Asian Americans in Public Finance Scholarship

Those who do their majors in a California college or university are eligible

USD 5000

9.

Rotary Foundation Ambassadorial Scholarship

This is awarded to those who work in 6 areas

USD 15,000 – USD 30,000

10.

Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship Program

Those pursuing MBA from the stanford Graduate School of Business are eligible

USD 1,50,000

How to Apply for a Student Visa to the United States from India?

To study in the United States, Indian students can apply for one of three types of visas:

  • F1 Student Visa: This is the most common visa, which allows for part-time or on-campus employment as well as a year of Optical Practical Training (OPT).
  • J1 Student Visa: This visa is intended for students pursuing practical training and offers the same employment benefits as the F1 visa.
  • M1 Student Visa: Applicants will be unable to work under this visa.

 

The following are the requirements for an Indian student to study in the United States:

  • A strong performance on the general exams and the English Proficiency test.
  • A letter of acceptance from the university.
  • A valid passport
  • Financial proof.
  • Documents required.

Why Study in USA?

The USA is home to over 5000 universities, and most are ranked the best in the Global University Rankings. A few universities would include Yale University, Harvard University, Cornell University, Columbia University etc.

A degree from the USA will land you in a better place. If you are looking for a degree next, you will find how valuable it is. On the other hand, if you are looking for a job, you will find it easier to land a better-paid job in the USA or any other country.

A degree from the USA helps you get a better job. You also have the option to do internships to have an experience certificate that will be valued both in the USA and abroad.

The USA provides a more flexible opportunity for education. If you are doing your Bachelor’s, you need to decide on the subject for your Master’s only in your second year. There is no pressure to choose it in the first year itself.

If you take an educational loan for your studies in the USA, you will have to pay relatively good interest. If you cannot pay it on time, the interest may pile up. So, choosing a university based on ROI will help you survive an economic downfall.

You will see many of the best universities in the USA, and there will be students from all cultures. This will help you understand more about the life outside and provides you with the best campus life.

The universities in the USA provide support in various forms exclusively for international students. The language workshops, orientation programs etc., will make it easier for the students.

You can work 20 hours during your semester on a part-time basis, and during the semester breaks, you can work for 40 hours. This will help you earn some money and help you with your finances.

The USA is a hub of several cultures intermingling. You can interact with and be friends with students from several different countries, which will help you know more about several cultures. This can, in turn, help you feel less homesick as well.

Unlike in India, professors in the USA are more open to discussion and debate. This will help get valuable advice as well. The conduction of career workshops and counselling sessions will help you get a better chance of employability.

What are the Best Courses to Study in the USA

Computer Science is one of the popular courses among international students in the USA. There has been an increased demand for software analysts, software engineers etc. It exposes several companies, making it the best choice for international students

Data Science, Business Analytics, and Information Systems are a few courses in the USA that are in demand. Recently, the country saw a huge uprise in the number of students pursuing degrees in these disciplines.

Mechanical Engineering is the third most-chosen course in the USA. It is also one of the oldest engineering streams ever and covers courses like mechatronics, automobile, aerospace, aeronautical etc.

Computer and Electrical Engineers are in high demand in the USA, especially in California, New York, Massachusetts, Texas, Illinois etc.

Humanities and Social Sciences cover a wide range of subjects like Geography, Economics, Political Science etc. If you wish to pursue your higher education in this stream in the USA, Psychology, sociology, economics, and International Relations would be better choices.

A Medical Degree, especially an MS, is in high demand in the USA, especially since doctors are always in demand anywhere. Though it is a bit tough to get into a university in the USA is a bit tough, it is equally rewarding.

When it comes to Finance, MS in Finance is the oft-chosen course in the USA. The USA gives a STEM-designated course, and it normally prepares students for careers in corporate finance, investment banking, and investment management careers.

It is a comparatively lesser-known fact that biotechnology, bioinformatics, and biomedical area are a few fields that offer numerous career opportunities. The research facilities and globally-renowned education make the USA a better place to study the course.

It is always a good option to pursue your Master’s in Business Management in the USA. It is also rewarding that students pursuing an MBA avail an Optional Practical Training, which allows them to work for one year.

The education system in the USA is wide and helps you choose from a list of minors and majors. You can choose to do your BA or MA in Education, Theatre, American History and Literature etc.

What are the Top 10 Universities in USA ?

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology is one of the best universities in the USA. It holds the second rank in the Global Universities Rankings and earns the title of the Best Global Universities.

Harvard University

Harvard University ranks first in the Global Universities Rankings and is an institution revered worldwide. The best-ranked subjects include Biology and Biochemistry, Oncology, Cell Biology etc.

Stanford University

Holding rank 3 in the Global Universities Rankings, Stanford University is known by everyone worldwide. It also holds subject rankings in Chemistry, Material Science, Mathematics, Computer Science, Environment/Ecology etc.

University of California, Berkeley

More than 70 per cent of students here pursue their Undergraduate degrees, divided into 14 schools and colleges. Holding the 4th rank globally, it offers more than 350 courses and holds rankings in Chemistry.

Columbia University

Ranking 6 in the global Universities Rankings, Columbia University is a private institution. It holds subject rankings in Psychiatry/Psychology, Neuroscience and Behaviour, Cardiac and Cardiovascular Systems, Economics and Business etc.

University of Washington

The University of Washington offers over 370 graduate-level programs. It is ranked 7 in Best Global Universities and tops in subjects like Clinical Medicine, Immunology, Geosciences, Microbiology etc.

California Institute of Technology

California Institute of Technology, ranked 9th in Best Global Universities, has six academic divisions. The best thing about them is that they provide guaranteed housing for all the first-year students, both undergraduate and postgraduate.

Johns Hopkins University

This private university has campuses in Baltimore and Columbia. The John Hopkins University, tied with the California Institute of Technology, ranks 9th in Best Global Universities. Surgery, Immunology, Clinical Medicine, Infectious Diseases etc

Yale University

Yale University has around 20% of its population as international students. It has several research centres and institutes. Arts and Humanities, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Psychology/Psychiatry, Optics, Oncology etc., are some of the best-ranked subjects there.

University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania has 19% international students and is ranked 13 among the Best Global Universities. Cardiac and Cardiovascular Systems, Cell Biology, Clinical Medicine, Economics and Business, are a few top-ranked courses there.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology is one of the best universities in the USA. It holds the second rank in the Global Universities Rankings and earns the title of the Best Global Universities. It also holds subject-specific rankings, like in Mathematics, Cell Biology, Biology and Biochemistry, Physics etc.

Harvard University

 Harvard University ranks first in the Global Universities Rankings and is an institution revered worldwide. The best-ranked subjects include Biology and Biochemistry, Oncology, Pharmacology & Toxicology, Optics, Cell Biology etc.

Stanford University

Holding rank 3 in the Global Universities Rankings, Stanford University is known by everyone worldwide. It also holds subject rankings in Chemistry, Material Science, Mathematics, Computer Science, Environment/Ecology etc.

University of California, Berkeley

More than 70 per cent of students here pursue their Undergraduate degrees, divided into 14 schools and colleges. Holding the 4th rank globally, it offers more than 350 courses and holds rankings in Chemistry, Economics and Business, Space Science, Physics etc.

Columbia University

Ranking 6 in the global Universities Rankings, Columbia University is a private institution. It holds subject rankings in Psychiatry/Psychology, Neuroscience and Behaviour, Cardiac and Cardiovascular Systems, Economics and Business etc.

University of Washington

The University of Washington offers over 370 graduate-level programs. It is ranked 7 in Best Global Universities and tops in subjects like Clinical Medicine, Immunology, Geosciences, Social Sciences and Public Health, Microbiology etc.

California Institute of Technology

California Institute of Technology, ranked 9th in Best Global Universities, has six academic divisions. The best thing about them is that they provide guaranteed housing for all the first-year students, both undergraduate and postgraduate. Geosciences, Earth Science, Optics, Physics etc., are the most-ranked subjects there

Johns Hopkins University

This private university has campuses in Baltimore and Columbia. The John Hopkins University, tied with the California Institute of Technology, ranks 9th in Best Global Universities. Surgery, Immunology, Clinical Medicine, Infectious Diseases etc., are the most ranked courses there.

Yale University

Yale University has around 20% of its population as international students. It has several research centres and institutes. Arts and Humanities, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Psychology/Psychiatry, Optics, Oncology etc., are some of the best-ranked subjects there.

Cost of Study in USA for Indian Students

The United States has been a preferred destination for international students, especially Indians, for a long time. The USA has the best universities globally, which has led to the country’s surge. However, it is necessary to consider studying costs to estimate your finances. Tuition fees would make most of the money spent. At the same time, courses in Humanities, Arts, and Education tend to be cheaper.

Study Programs

S. No Degree Average Fees (USD) Average Fees (INR)
1.
UG
USD 20,000 – USD 40,000
INR 16,00,000 – INR 31,00,000
2.
PG
USD 20,000 – USD 45,000
INR 16,00,000 – INR 35,00,000
3.
PhD
USD 28,000 – USD 55,000
INR 22,00,000 – INR 43,00,000
4.
MBBS
USD 24,000 – USD 66,000
INR 18,00,000 – INR 50,00,000

Cost of Living in USA

The USA is one of the dream destinations for everyone aspiring to study abroad. The USA is never a cheap country should also be considered. On average, you may need to spend at least USD1000 – USD3000 on your expenses. It also depends on the place you stay. Your expenses will be higher if your university is located in a polished city like New York. Thorough detailing of the kind of expenses you might encounter in the USA is necessary for you to plan accordingly.

Here is a list of the likely expenses you may encounter in your daily life.

S. No Type of Expense Average Fees (USD)
1.
Food
USD 400 – USD 600
2.
Accommodation
USD 9800 – USD 11,100
3.
Transportation
USD 45 – USD 100
4.
Miscellaneous
USD 400 – USD 1000
5.
Health Insurance
USD 700 – USD 1100

What are the Requirements to Study in USA ?

  • Bachelor’s Programs: If you have to apply for your Bachelor’s in the USA, you would need all your educational certificates. Apart from that, an IELTS score should be at least 5.5. The TOEFL (iBT) should be between 70-89 is required. 
  • Master’s Programs: To do a Master’s Program in the USA, your Bachelor’s score should be 65%-70%. The GRE score should at least be 290, and you will also need proof of English proficiency.
  • Doctoral Programs: To do a doctoral program in the USA, you must submit your educational certificates. On top of that, your GMAT and GRE scores will also be calculated.

What Exams are Required to Study in USA?

  • IELTS: IELTS is an accepted test in almost all universities in the USA. However, most universities do not ask for it if you are proven to have sufficient knowledge of English.
  • TOEFL: Not all universities ask for TOEFL. However, most PhD aspirants will have to attempt one. It all depends on the university and its demands.
  • PTE: A PTE is a computer-based test accepted worldwide. Most English-speaking countries ask for it. However, you may not need all these tests attempted.
  • ACT: The American College Test (ACT) is a multiple-choice test that evaluates your critical thinking capabilities. A minimum score of 22 will be required to clear it.
  • SAT: The Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) is accepted by a few universities like Harvard University. It is again a multiple-choice test.
  • GRE: Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is mandatory if you apply for Engineering and Master’s in the USA. A few business schools have also started accepting this score for MBA.
  • GMAT: Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is required if you want to pursue your MBA in the USA. A minimum score of 700 would be needed to pass the test.
 There are other subject-specific tests as well. For instance, the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) etc., are for Law and Medical admissions.

Scholarship to Study in USA ?

It will be a dream to study in the USA for everyone reading this. It is a fact that the USA is never a cheap country to live in. however, you will surely get financial support from the various scholarships that the universities offer. Tuition fees count for most of your expenses, and these scholarships cover your tuition fees wholly or partially.

The following table will help you get an idea of a few scholarships:

S. No Scholarship Details Amount in USD
1.
AEF Scholarship
The Ascend Educational Fund (AEF) is given to PG students
USD 20,000
2.
Akhtarali H. Tobaccowala Fellowship
This is awarded to all the MBA graduates at the University of Chicago
USD 25,000
3.
American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship
This is for UG students from underserved communities
USD 4000
4.
Asian Women in Business Scholarship Fund
Asian women who score a minimum GPA of 3.0 are eligible
USD 2500
5.
Cornell University Tata Scholarship
It is given to deserving UG students from India
USD 7800
6.
Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowship
It is awarded to PG students pursuing particular courses
USD 7000
7.
LSEF-UMASS Scholarship
All PG students in the University of Massachusetts, studying particular courses
USD 29,500
8.
Matt Fong Asian Americans in Public Finance Scholarship
Those who do their majors in a California college or university are eligible
USD 5000
9.
Rotary Foundation Ambassadorial Scholarship
This is awarded to those who work in 6 areas
USD 15,000 – USD 30,000
10.
Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship Program
Those pursuing MBA from the stanford Graduate School of Business are eligible
USD 1,50,000

How to get a USA Student Visa from India?

Indian students can apply for three types of visas to study in the USA:

  • F1 Student Visa: This is the most common visa which provides part-time or on-campus employment and provides Optical Practical Training (OPT) for a year.
  • J1 Student Visa: It is for students acquiring practical training and provides the same employment benefits as the F1 visa.
  • M1 Student Visa: The applicants will not be able to work with this visa.

 

The requirements for an Indian student to study in the USA are as follows:
 
  • Good score in the general exams and English Proficiency test.
  • Acceptance letter from the university.
  • Valid passport.
  • Proof of finance.
  • Necessary documents.