The USA is a major educational center, with over 4,500 institutions offering undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctorate degrees. Studying in the USA is an attractive option for Indian students due to its high-quality education, advanced technology, work opportunities, excellent funding options, and flexible curriculum. Higher education in the USA offers a vast selection of universities with well-developed and enriching academic environments. Studying in the USA also provides significant returns on a student’s investment, making it one of the best investments for the future. Education in the USA is affordable, as institutions offer a wide range of tuition fees, accommodation choices, and financial support through scholarships, fee waivers, and other aids. The USA takes pride in being a leader in technology, research, and innovation, ensuring students have access to the best equipment and resources available.
Study In USA
Best Courses in the USA
Studying in the USA is highly appealing for Indian students, as the country offers a blend of diverse geography, culture, and a strong reputation for academic excellence. The USA is a top destination for students pursuing a Master’s degree, attracting people from various ethnicities, nationalities, and backgrounds. With numerous foreign students enrolled in programs across the country, studying in the USA helps Indian students advance their careers.
No matter what field interests you, the USA has programs that meet your needs. The country is especially known for offering non-traditional Master’s degree options, such as part-time studies, online programs, and distance learning. According to the Council of Graduate Schools (CGS), around 15% of all graduate students in the USA are international.
The most popular subjects for international graduate students in the USA are Engineering and Business, followed by Physical and Earth Sciences.
Key Fields of Study in the USA for Indian Students:
Biological and Life Sciences: This field explores the interaction between humans and the earth, focusing on the structure, function, behavior, and evolution of cells, organisms, populations, and ecosystems.
Business Studies: Focuses on Economics and Management, equipping students with the knowledge needed to become business professionals.
Economics and Administration: Students learn to analyze and solve problems related to products and international markets, often in multinational and global companies.
Energy: This field focuses on energy efficiency and explores ways to improve ecosystems while reducing the demand for energy.
Engineering and Technology: A popular choice for Indian students, this field prepares students for the tech-driven future. The USA leads the world in technological innovations.
Fashion: Includes studies in designing, marketing, and producing clothing. The USA, with its trendsetting culture and Hollywood influence, is a global center for fashion.
Humanities and Social Sciences: This broad field covers the study of human societies and anthropology.
Law: Students develop skills in research, critical thinking, and problem-solving to understand and address complex legal issues.
Management: This course focuses on consumer behavior and communication models, addressing the challenges faced by modern managers.
Marketing and Communication: Involves managing internal and external communications to build awareness in target markets.
Natural Sciences: A field dedicated to understanding the world and the universe.
Professional Studies: Covers applied or interdisciplinary programs and can also include non-academic training for specific professions.
Sports: Focuses on the business aspects of sports and recreation.
Tourism and Hospitality: Teaches the basics of tourism economics, food service, and legal aspects of the industry.
Career Opportunities in the USA
The USA is one of the world’s strongest economies. The highest-earning professionals in the United States are typically white-collar workers, including managers, physicians, mathematicians, financial managers, software developers, and computer engineers.
The USA also leads in fields like telecommunications, medicine, healthcare, and genetics. Indian students studying in the USA can benefit from on-campus job opportunities. Students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the semester in on-campus jobs. These jobs can include roles like teaching assistantships or research assistantships, with average pay ranging from $8 to $10 per hour.
This means students can earn approximately $500 to $600 per month or may receive tuition fee waivers. Additionally, students studying in the USA can pursue internships in their field, which may also be paid. During vacations, students are allowed to work up to 40 hours per week. After graduation, Indian students can work for one year under the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. Those with degrees in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields can work for up to 36 months. After completing OPT, students can apply for an H-1B work visa.
Cost of Studying in the USA
The USA is a major education hub, attracting a large number of international students each year. Students can pursue undergraduate, postgraduate, and research degrees in a country known for its unique climate, culture, history, and economy. Universities in the USA are generally classified as either public or private institutions.
Public Universities in the USA
Public universities are state-affiliated and funded by public taxes, typically large in size. They offer a wide range of degrees across various fields, often with lower tuition fees compared to private institutions. Examples include Pennsylvania State University, Ohio State University, the University of California, Kansas State University, and the University of Texas.
Private Universities in the USA
Private universities operate independently of government control and generally have higher tuition fees than public universities. Examples of private universities include Long Island University, George Washington University, New York University, and Carnegie Mellon University.
| USA (Public) | Tuition Fees in USD | Tuition Fees in INR |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | $15,000 – $20,000 per year | ₹10,65,000 – ₹14,20,000 per year |
| Postgraduate | $15,000 – $25,000 per year | ₹10,65,000 – ₹17,75,000 per year |
| USA (Private) | Tuition Fees in USD | Tuition Fees in INR |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | $20,000 – $30,000 per year | ₹14,20,000 – ₹21,30,000 per year |
| Postgraduate | $20,000 – $35,000 per year | ₹14,20,000 – ₹24,85,000 per year |
(Conversion rate: 1 USD = ₹83)
Living Expenses in the USA for International Students
On average, students spend around $15,000 – $18,000 per year on living expenses in the USA. However, costs vary depending on location. In major cities like New York, San Francisco, or Los Angeles, expenses can go up to $20,000 per year, while suburban areas tend to be less expensive, ranging from $10,000 to $12,000 per year. Many Indian students opt for suburban living, though this may increase transportation costs. Colleges often provide transportation passes to help manage these expenses.
Accommodation for Students in the USA
Students can choose between two types of accommodation: On-Campus (halls of residence or student hostels) or Off-Campus (homestays, apartments, or flats). Off-campus accommodation is usually cheaper, but it’s recommended that students stay on-campus for the first six months to adjust to the environment and interact with classmates.
Health Insurance for Students in the USA
Health insurance is mandatory for international students and typically costs between $1,000 and $2,000 per year. It is recommended that students purchase insurance from an Indian insurance company, ensuring it covers medical expenses, personal accidents, dental treatment, study interruptions, passport loss, etc. Most insurance for Indian students in the USA operates on a cashless basis, meaning students don’t have to pay at the time of hospitalization.
| Student Name | Percentage of Tuition Fees Waiver/Year | Program | University |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shweta Shah | 100% Tuition fees waiver + Graduate Assistantship | MS Pharmaceuticals | Creighton University |
| Samia Ahmed | 100% Tuition fees waiver + Graduate Assistantship | MFA in Creative Writing | Old Dominion University |
| Amey Sawardekar | 100% Tuition fees waiver | PhD Strategic Communication | University of Georgia |
| Yesha Chahwala | 50% Tuition fee waiver | BS Computer Science | Pace University |
| Jankhana Soneta | 50% Tuition fee waiver | BS Directing & Theatrical Production | Rider University |
| Zeal Jinwala | 50% Tuition fee waiver | BS Biology | Drexel University |
| Kalrav Srivastava | 50% Tuition fee waiver | BS Computer Science | New Jersey Institute of Technology |
| Sidharth Bansal | 50% Tuition fee waiver | MS Mechanical Engineering | University of Texas Dallas |
| Murtuza Fatakdawala | 50% Tuition fee waiver | BS Aerospace/Aeronautical & Astronautical Space Engineering | Florida Institute of Technology |
| Jooly Dhurat | 50% Tuition fee waiver | BBA | Fairleigh Dickinson University |
| Jahaan Bharucha | 50% Tuition fee waiver | BS Sport and Fitness Administration/Management | Gannon University |
| Rayan Ray | 50% Tuition fee waiver | BBA | SUNY Buffalo |
| Abhishek Benke | 30% Tuition fee waiver | BS Pre-Medicine | MCPHS |
| Tanaya Shivname | 30% Tuition fee waiver | MS Industrial Psychology | University of New Haven |
| Shruti Durape | 25% Tuition fee waiver | MS Public Health | Boston University |
| Immani Deepak | 25% Tuition fee waiver | MS Business Analytics | Rochester Institute of Technology |
| Kartik Gupta | 25% Tuition fee waiver | BS Biology | – |
| Ritvika Luthra | 25% Tuition fee waiver | MS Architectural and Building Science/Technology | University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign |
| Aditya Vivek | 25% Tuition fee waiver | MS International Business | Hult International Business School |
| Harneet Kaur | 25% Tuition fee waiver | MS Chemical Engineering | Syracuse University |
| Cynthya Pushparaj | 25% Tuition fee waiver | – | University of Houston – Clear Lake |
| Vivek Muppala | 25% Tuition fee waiver | BS Computer Engineering | Colorado State University |
Application Procedure for Studying in USA
Studying in the USA for Indian students is highly competitive, and each university or department has its own specific admission requirements for the chosen course.
Intakes Universities in the USA offer three intakes:
- Fall: August/September
- Spring: January/February
- Summer: April/May
The main intake is in the Fall, but many universities also accept students in the Spring, and some are open for the Summer intake.
English Language Requirements All students must demonstrate English language proficiency to study in the USA. A TOEFL score of 70-80 for undergraduate studies and 80-90 for postgraduate studies is considered a good score. For IELTS, a score of 6.0-6.5 for undergraduates and 6.5-7.0 for postgraduates is required. Over 3000 institutions in the USA accept IELTS and PTE exam scores.
Entry Requirements and Eligibility
- Undergraduate: 10+2 qualification
- Graduate: 16 years of education is required, though some institutions accept a 3-year degree for Master’s programs
- Strong academic background
- Good scores in entrance exams like SAT/ACT/GRE/GMAT & TOEFL/IELTS/PTE
- Strong recommendation letters
- A well-written Statement of Purpose (SOP)/Personal Statement, along with essays and a resume
- Certificates of academic achievements and extracurricular activities
- Proof of a solid financial background
The Application Process The process of applying to study in the USA involves nine steps:
- Pre-Application Stage: Gather information through education fairs, events, and consultants.
- Prepare for Entrance Exams.
- Identify Universities: Select institutions that match your interests.
- Prepare a Passport.
- Take Entrance Tests and Choose Universities:
- Test Preparation: Prepare for tests like GRE/GMAT/SAT/TOEFL/IELTS/PTE through mock exams and computer-adaptive practice tests.
- University Selection: Finalize your subject, review university rankings, research the curriculum, faculty profiles, student demographics, research facilities, and funding options.
- Application Documentation: Gather and complete required documents such as a cover letter, application fees, forms, SOP, essays, resume, recommendation letters, transcripts, mark sheets, certificates, bank certificate, affidavit of financial support, and test score reports.
- Admission Confirmation: Receive an unconditional admission letter and verify the University I-20 form, along with any financial aid or assistantship letters.
- Student Visa (F-1): Complete the visa process by submitting your I-20 form, verifying your passport, paying the visa and SEVIS fees, and gathering financial and academic documents.
- Pre-Departure Arrangements: Secure accommodation, air tickets, insurance, airport pickup, and forex services.
Education System in the USA
The higher education system in the USA offers one of the world’s most flexible frameworks, allowing students to specialize in their area of interest.
Types of Institutions to Study in the USA
Public Universities: These state-affiliated institutions are financially supported by public taxes and tend to be large in size. Tuition fees are generally lower than those at private institutions.
- Examples: Ohio State University, University of California, Kansas State University
Private Institutions: These institutions operate independently of government control. Tuition fees are usually higher compared to public universities.
- Examples: Long Island University, New York University
Technical Institutes: Specialized in Engineering and Science, these schools are known for their research programs and advanced degrees.
- Examples: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), New York Institute of Technology (NYIT)
The Ivy League: These prestigious institutions, located in the northeastern USA, are known for their rigorous admission process and high tuition fees.
- Members: Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Brown, Dartmouth, Cornell, Columbia, University of Pennsylvania
Small Liberal Arts Colleges: Focused on undergraduate education in Arts and Sciences, these colleges emphasize a well-rounded academic experience.
- Examples: Amherst College, Marist College, Swarthmore College, Smith College
Community Colleges: These institutions provide higher education and award Associate degrees, Certificates, and Diplomas. They are known for offering an affordable pathway to a Bachelor’s degree.
- Examples: Foothill and De Anza College, College of San Mateo
Grading System in the USA The US grading system operates on a scale of 0 to 4. To convert percentage marks to GPA, a credential evaluation is necessary.
Types of Degrees
Associate Degree: Awarded by Community Colleges, Junior Colleges, and Business Colleges, this degree typically takes two years (60 credits) to complete.
Bachelor’s Degree: Known as an undergraduate degree, it typically takes four years (120-150 credits) to complete. Students who have completed part of their degree elsewhere can transfer to a US institution. There are two types of Bachelor’s degrees: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Science (B.S.).
Master’s Degree: Master’s programs usually last between one to two years (30-48 credits) and require 16 years of prior education for admission.
Doctorate (PhD): A PhD generally takes 3 to 5 years to complete and requires a Master’s degree for entry.
Summer Programs: These short-term programs are available during summer vacation and last 6 to 10 weeks, depending on the school and course.
Student USA Visa
Securing admission to a US university is only the first step; obtaining a student visa is essential to study in the USA. Mistakes during the visa application process can lead to delays or refusals, so it’s important to follow the steps carefully.
For Indian students pursuing higher education in the USA, the F1 Visa is issued for attending academic programs or English language courses at US institutions. F1 students must complete their studies by the expiration date on their I-20 Form (Certificate of Eligibility for Non-immigrant Student Status), which is provided by the US university or college.
The US Embassy in India has a streamlined visa processing system that ensures an efficient, transparent, and standardized application process. Visa applicants can schedule appointments and pay fees through the official website: US Travel Docs.
Where to Apply
The US visa is interview-based, meaning applicants must attend an in-person interview at the US Embassy or Consulate in India.
Visa Application Process
- Obtain the I-20 from your chosen US university or college.
- Pay the SEVIS Fee and receive the receipt.
- Complete the DS-160 Form (Online Non-immigrant Visa Application).
- Pay the Visa Application Fee.
- Schedule your visa interview appointment.
- Attend the interview at the US Embassy or Consulate.
- Collect your passport if your visa is approved.
What is the Transfer Student Concept to Study in the USA?
The transfer option allows students to complete at least 2 years of a Bachelor’s or Diploma program in their home country and then apply for a transfer to a US university. The number of credits waived depends on the courses completed and the grades achieved. However, it’s rare to get an exact transfer of credits.
Should I Apply Only to the Top Ten Universities?
The acceptance rate for top ten universities is between 1% and 4%. It’s important to apply to other universities with good programs to increase your chances. Rankings can vary by region and subject, so focus on subject-based rankings.
If I Have Completed 15 Years of Education in India, Can I Get Admission for MBA Directly in the USA?
Most US universities require 16 years of education for admission into MBA or graduate programs. It’s advisable to complete a master’s degree or a year of postgraduate study before applying. Some top-ranked universities may accept 15 years of education with 2-3 years of work experience.
Is There Financial Assistance for Indian Students in the USA?
Can I Shift Schools Once I Get to the USA?
You cannot change schools until after completing one semester, as per USCIS rules. It’s important to carefully choose your school to avoid complications.
Can I Take the IELTS Instead of TOEFL?
Yes, over 2,500 US universities, including top ones, accept IELTS as an alternative to TOEFL.
What is the Ideal Time to Start Applying to Universities, and What are the Different Start Dates?
Begin the application process at least one year in advance, especially if seeking scholarships. The most common start dates are in the Fall (August/September) and Spring (January/February).
Can I Work While Studying in the USA?
Yes, international students can work up to 20 hours per week on-campus during the term and full-time during vacations.