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3200+Universities (as of July 2021)
$8K - $40KAnnual Tuition Fees
1MInternational Students
Up to 3 YearOPT (Optional Work Permit)
Why study in USA
High-Quality Education
The US has 27 universities ranked in the world's top 100.
Top-Notch Faculties and World-Class Research Facilities
The US universities boast highly qualified and experienced faculties for the students willing to pursue groundbreaking research.
Extensive Programs
US universities offer programs in vast disciplines- from computer science & robotics to healthcare & biotechnology, aeronautical engineering to architecture to MBA.
Various Amenities
Various scholarships and the provision of being able to work while studying add to the attraction for international students.
High ROI
US universities are considered valuable by employers worldwide. Hence, you can yield high returns on your study costs quickly.
Studying in the US can, thus, provide better opportunities to aspirants who wish to advance their careers and become competent in a robust job market flooded with top global conglomerates. Gear up to kick-start your study-abroad journey with upGrad Abroad!
The US is home to the highest number of top-rated universities recognized worldwide for their excellence and unique programs, enticing many international students. A unique curriculum, multicultural environment, advanced technology, and a plethora of work opportunities are some of the top reasons that make the country a popular choice among international students.
Economy
Cost of living
Intakes
Scholarship
Job Prospects
VISA Process
Population
335 million+
GDP
$26.85 thousand billion
Per Capita
$80.03 thousand
No. of Universities in Top 100
27 (per QS Ranking 2023)
Top Sectors
Healthcare, IT, AI, Retail trade
All the figures are in US dollars (Average annual charges)
Generally, Universities and colleges in the USA follow three sessions of intakes in a monthly frame.
Spring Intake
January to May
Summer Intake
Begins around May
Fall Intake
September to December
More than 1.7 million private scholarships and fellowships are provided annually in the US (per the 2020 report).
The total value of student grants in the US was $138.6 billion in A.Y. 2020-2021.
One in eight college students is awarded a scholarship.
Approximately 1,581,000 scholarships are available to undergraduate and graduate students each year.
Top Job roles with their average pay
Nurse practitioners
$1,31,346/yr
Motion picture projectionists
$38,995/yr
Data scientists
$1,03,973/yr
Information security analysts
$88,885/yr
Statisticians
$77,482/yr
Web developers & Cloud engineers
$1,01,227/yr
Get your VISA in following easy steps
Fill out the I-20 form online
Submit the necessary documents
Pay SEVIS fee
Submit the DS-160 Form
Schedule an appointment at your local US Embassy or Consulate
Attend your Visa Interview
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Priyanshu, a Software Engineer who found us via Instagram is all set to pursue his dream course in Germany.
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MBA program - IU Germany
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MS in Data Analytics - Clark University
Abhinav, is all set to pursue his Masters in Data Analytics from Dundalk Institute of Technology, Ireland.
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Varshitha, a Software Engineer is all set to pursue her dream course in her dream country, the US.
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MS Data Analytics - Clark University
Bharat an IT Project Manager, is all set to pursue MS in Program Management from Clark University, US.
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MS in Program Management - Clark University
Harivignesh, a Software Developer is all set to pursue Masters in Data Analytics from Clark University, US.
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Pursuing Masters in Data Analytics - Clark University
Ravi, is all set to pursue his MBA from IU University of Applied Science, Germany.
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As of June 2023, the fee for a USA student visa (F-1 visa) is $160 for application and a $350 SEVIS fee. This fee is non-refundable and must be paid before the visa interview.
What are the requirements for a student visa in the USA?
To obtain a student (F-1) visa in the USA, you need acceptance from a SEVP-approved educational institution, a completed Form I-20, payment of the SEVIS fee, a valid passport, proof of financial ability, ties to your home country, English language proficiency, completed visa application forms, and payment of the visa application fee.
Does the USA give student visas easily?
Obtaining a student visa in the USA involves meeting specific requirements and going through the application process. The USA government grants a student visa based on the applicant's qualifications and eligibility.
How much bank balance is required for a USA student visa?
The required bank balance for a USA student visa can vary depending on several factors, including the specific university or college’s requirement. Generally, students are expected to demonstrate sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other related costs for at least the first year of study. This may be around $24,701.
Does IELTS score affect student visa for the USA?
Yes, the IELTS score can impact the student visa application for the USA as it is a commonly accepted test to prove English proficiency. Generally, an IELTS band of 5.5 or above is needed to be eligible for an USA student visa. A higher IELTS score can strengthen the visa application and provide evidence of the applicant's ability to communicate effectively in English.
Does the USA reject student visas?
Yes, the USA can reject student visa applications. The U.S. Department of State decides on visa application based on the applicant's eligibility, adherence to visa requirements, & ability to demonstrate genuine intent to study in the United States.
What is the success rate of the USA student visa?
The success rate for USA student visas dropped in 2022, with nearly 35% of visa applications being rejected. But for Indian students, the grass is greener on the other side as a record-breaking 1.25 lakh student visas were issued to Indian students in the same year.
How can I get a scholarship to study in the USA?
To get a scholarship in the USA, available research scholarships, meet eligibility criteria, prepare the required documents, and contact universities' financial aid offices. Look for external sources like government agencies and private organizations. Write persuasive essays, obtain strong letters of recommendation, and be prepared for interviews. Plan your finances and stay persistent in your search.
Can I get fully funded scholarships in the USA?
Yes, fully-funded scholarships are available for international students to study in the USA. These scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other related costs. However, they are highly competitive and require a strong academic background, excellent leadership qualities, and outstanding achievements in extracurricular activities.
How much percentage is required for a scholarship in the USA?
While there is no specific percentage requirement for scholarships in the USA. Scholarship opportunities are often awarded based on a holistic evaluation of a student's achievements, including academic performance, extracurricular involvement, leadership, community service, and personal qualities
Does an IELTS score help to get scholarships to study in the USA?
A strong IELTS score can be beneficial when applying for scholarships in the USA. Scholarships are often competitive, and a good IELTS score demonstrates your proficiency in English, which is an important factor for success in academic programs.
How much does it cost to study in the USA?
On average, tuition fees for international students at US universities can range from $8000 to $60,000+ per year, depending on the program, degree type, and institution. Additionally, you must consider other expenses like accommodation, food, transportation, textbooks, and health insurance.
How much does it cost to live in the USA?
On average, you can expect living costs in the USA to be around $71,375 for undergraduate students and $56,642 for graduate students, including tuition, other fees, and living expenses. Major cities and metropolitan areas generally have a higher living cost than smaller towns or rural areas.
Is the USA expensive for studies?
Yes, studying in the USA can be expensive compared to many other countries. Tuition fees for international students can vary widely depending on the institution and program of study. Additionally, living expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation, and healthcare, can also contribute to the overall cost. Though one can reduce the study cost through scholarships and grants.
What are some cheap/affordable courses in the USA?
The cost of courses depends on the institution type they are offered through. To choose low-cost programs, one can choose higher-education institutions that are relatively cheaper. For instance, community colleges often offer more affordable tuition fees for domestic and international students. Public universities and state colleges typically offer lower tuition fees, making them relatively more affordable.
How can I get admission to a university in the USA?
To get admission to a USA university, research universities, and programs, meet requirements (transcripts, test scores, English proficiency), prepare application materials (essays, recommendation letters), apply online, seek financial aid, complete visa process, enroll upon acceptance.
How much percentage is required for admission to a USA university?
US universities don’t have specific percentage requirements. However, it is highly recommended that applicants maintain a strong academic record & pursue a challenging curriculum during their high school years. Admissions committees value students who demonstrate intellectual curiosity and a commitment to academic excellence.
Which exam is required for the USA?
The most commonly required exams for admission to bachelor programs in the USA are the SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) and ACT (American College Test), while for management programs, GMAT or GRE is required. You must check the specific university’s website to know its test requirements.
How many bands are required for the USA?
The minimum band required for admission to US institutions is 5.5, with a recommended band between 6.5 to 8 for undergraduate and postgraduate courses at top universities. However, one must remember that achieving the required bands does not guarantee admission to the university.
How many intakes are there in the USA in a year?
In the USA, universities generally follow a semester system, which typically includes two main intakes per year: Fall (August/September) and Spring (January/February). Some universities may also offer a Summer (May/June) or Winter (December) intake, but these are less common and may be limited to specific programs or certain levels of study.
Which intake is best for the USA?
The Fall intake is generally considered the best intake for studying in the USA. It is the primary intake and offers international students a comprehensive range of programs, courses, and opportunities.
Which intake is not good for the USA?
There isn't necessarily an intake that is considered "not good" for studying in the USA. Each intake has its advantages and opportunities. However, the Spring intake, which starts in January, may have a more limited course selection and fewer available scholarships.
What kinds of jobs are in demand in the USA?
In the USA, there is a high demand for skilled professionals in various fields, such as AI Specialists, Data Scientists, Robotics Engineers, Data Analysts, Full Stack Engineers, Cybersecurity Specialists, and Cloud Engineers. These jobs reflect the growing need for expertise in data-driven industries.
Which job is best for the future in the USA?
Jobs in technology, healthcare, renewable energy, and data science are considered to have strong prospects for the future. Positions such as AI Specialists, Data Scientists, Software Developers, Healthcare Professionals, and Renewable Energy Engineers are among the top choices for individuals
Which field has more salary in the USA?
The medical field is known for providing some of the highest salaries. Many occupations in healthcare, such as nurse anesthetists, airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers, anesthesiologists, cardiologists, and dermatologists, offer substantial earning potential. These professionals often earn salaries that are significantly above the national average.
Which city pays more in the USA?
Cities like San Francisco, New York City, Boston, Seattle, and Los Angeles are often recognized for their higher-paying job markets. These cities are home to industries such as technology, finance, healthcare, entertainment, and research, which offer competitive salaries.
About Study in USA
Key Highlights
Universities & Colleges in USA
3900+
Average Annual Living Expenses
Up to $60,000 (before financial aid like scholarships and grants)
Popular Courses in USA
Engineering, Business Management & Administration, Data Science & Analytics, Artificial Intelligence, Medicine, Nursing, Accounting, Software Development, Psychology, and Economics.
Intakes
Three intakes (Spring, Summer, and Fall)
Part-Time Working Hours
20 hours per week
Post-Study Work Permit in USA (OPT)
12 months + 24 months extension for eligible STEM graduates
USA Study Visa Cost
$160 for visa application + $350 SEVIS fee
Higher Education System in USA
The US higher education system is known for providing diversity and flexibility to international students. Unlike in many countries, the US follows a decentralized education system; the institutions are instead accredited on a national or regional level by independent accrediting bodies. The country boasts nearly 4,000 accredited institutions.
The US academic calendar typically runs from September to May, divided into two semesters of 16-18 weeks. Courses are often divided into "core" subject areas that form the foundation of the degree program and "major" areas that provide specialization in a subject area.
Majorly the higher education institutions in the U.S. can be categorized into the following four categories:
Types of Institutions
Key Features
Community Colleges
These specialize in offering associate degrees of two years or certification programs.
Institutes of Technology
These are apt for students who wish to pursue a short-term program in science and technology.
Private Colleges or Universities
These are run by private organizations.
State Colleges or Universities
In such institutions, education is financed by the local or state government.
Irrespective of the institution type, students studying in the US earn credits for their courses. These credits are awarded corresponding to the completion of specific hours and are counted toward program completion.
Grading Scale in USA
The U.S. uses the Grade Point Average (G.P.A.) to evaluate students' performance. The U.S. institutions follow a 4.0 grade. There are two types of grading methods in the U.S. – Letter Grade and Numerical, which can be converted into a 4.0 GPA to provide a clearer and more just picture of the student's assessment.
Letter Grading System
In this system, the students are provided grades in the form of letters from A to F corresponding to the percentage scored. The letter grading system does not include the letter ‘E’ as parents often used to confuse it to represent ‘Excellent’. These grades can further be divided into following categories: A+, A & A-; B+, B & B-; C+, C & C-; D+, D & D-, and F
Numerical Grading System
The numerical grading system in the US is on a scale from 0 to 100. Based on the performance, these grades can be corresponded to the letter grades for better understanding.
The below table provides a comprehensive view of the grading system in the US mapped against GPA.
Percentage
Letter Grade
4.0 Grade Scale
97-100%
A+
4.00
93-96%
A
4.00
90-92%
A-
3.67
87-89%
B+
3.33
83-86%
B
3.00
80-82%
B-
2.67
77-79%
C+
2.33
73-76%
C
2.00
70-72%
C-
1.67
67-69%
D+
1.33
63-66%
D
1.00
60-62%
D-
0.67
0-59%
F
0.00
Source: Higher Education Review
Top Courses in USA and Universities Offering Them
Here’s a quick look at the top majors in demand in the US, with top universities offering courses in these subjects.
Popular Majors to Study in USA
Top Universities for the Subject
Computer Science
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Carnegie Mellon University, Stanford University, University of California, Berkeley (UCB), Harvard University,
Business and Management
Harvard University, Stanford University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), University of Pennsylvania, University of California, Berkeley (UCB), Northwestern University, New York University (NYU).
Engineering and Technology
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Stanford University, University of California, Berkeley (UCB), Harvard University, California Institute of Technology (Caltech), Georgia Institute of Technology.
Maths & Statistics
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Stanford University, Harvard University, University of California, Berkeley (UCB), Princeton University, New York University (NYU).
Nursing
University of Pennsylvania, Johns Hopkins University, University of Washington, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Yale University, University of California, San Francisco, New York University (NYU).
Accounting
Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Stanford University, University of Chicago, University of Pennsylvania.
Medicine
Harvard University, Stanford University, Johns Hopkins University, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), University of California, San Francisco, Yale University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
Psychology
Harvard University, Stanford University, Yale University, Columbia University, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).
Economics
Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Stanford University, University of Chicago, Princeton University, University of California, Berkeley (UCB), Yale University.
Data Science
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Carnegie Mellon University, University of California, Berkeley (UCB), Harvard University, University of Washington, Princeton University.
Sociology
Harvard University, Stanford University, University of California, Berkeley (UCB), University of Chicago, Yale University, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Intakes Available in the US
Fall Intake: It is a popular intake among Indian students. The Fall intake usually starts in September.
Spring Intake: It starts in January and can be a good option if you miss the September intake.
Summer Intake: It is available for limited programs and colleges. The Summer intake usually starts around May.
Cost of Studying in USA
The average annual cost for undergraduate programs in the US ranges from $8000 to $40,000; a master’s degree hovers between $10,000 and $60,000; and for research programs, the studying cost is $28,000 to $55,000.
The books and study supplies may cost between $1,048 to $1200. The on-campus accommodation is typically in dormitories, with two to three people sharing a room. This may cost an average of between $5,300 and $8,100 annually, including all utilities.
Cost of Living in USA
In addition to the cost of education, the cost of living forms a major constituent of the total expenses incurred by a student to stay in the country. The cost of living in the US majorly depends on the lifestyle of a student. Many universities estimate international students would need approximately $60,000 annually to study and live in the US. Scholarships, grants, and lifestyle changes can lower costs.
A list of common expenses with average monthly costs is mentioned below to estimate living expenses in the US.
Expense
Average Monthly Cost
1 bedroom apartment in the city center
$1483
3 bedroom apartment in the city center
$2565
Internet plan (50 Mbps + 1 month unlimited)
$67.3
Utility bill (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage)
$187
Local transport ticket (one-way)
$2.5
Monthly ticket for local transport
$65.5
Gas/Petrol (1 liter)
$1
Gym Membership
$43
Cinema Ticket (1 person)
$12
Best Student Cities in USA
The US is known for offering exciting life and quality education. It boasts numerous affordable cities, providing study-life balance, employment opportunities, advanced infrastructural facilities, and many more benefits to international students. It can be supported by the fact that the US has 17 cities ranked in the Q.S. Best Student Cities for 2023. A list of the cities that made it to the top 75 is mentioned below, with their corresponding Q.S. ranking.
City
QS Ranking 2023
Boston
11
New York
18
San Francisco
27
Los Angeles
30
Chicago
40
Atlanta
63
Philadelphia
=64
Washington DC
=64
Pittsburgh
73
Source: https://www.topuniversities.com
Admission Requirements in USA
While the admission requirements may vary for each university depending on their specific criteria, here are some general admission requirements in the US:
Educational Credentials: This includes transcripts of previously completed studies, such as secondary/high school certifications and mark sheets or undergraduate degrees if applying for a master’s program. The generally accepted average GPA for most universities is 3.0, equal to 65-70%.
Standardized Test Scores: Certain test scores, such as GMAT or GRE, are required by universities to assess the academic abilities of students. Proof of English language proficiency is necessary to ensure students can easily adapt to an English-speaking environment of their classes and the country. Some commonly accepted English proficiency tests US universities accept include TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE scores.
Recommendation Letters: Many universities ask for recommendations showcasing the applicant’s values and potential to complete a higher education program. This letter can be written by your previous teachers/principals, colleagues, supervisors, or coaches.
Essay/Personal Statement: It is one of the most integral parts of an admission application. Students must write an essay or a statement of purpose (SOP) detailing why they wish to study in the US, how the course will be helpful for career progression, and their future plans. One can also discuss their strengths, achievements, and interests.
Admission Process in USA
An overview of the general admission process for higher education programs in the US is as follows:
Research your options: Start shortlisting institutions where your preferred study course is available. Make a list of all your preferred universities and check if you meet their specific eligibility criteria. Start your homework on the admission procedure, the standardized exams you must sit for, and the required documents.
Take the required admission test: Check the websites of shortlisted universities for necessary tests, like the GRE, SAT, GMAT, TOEFL, IELTS, etc. Gain an understanding of the accepted tests and start taking these exams well before you start your application.
Start your financial planning: Simultaneously start gathering information about the approximate cost of living and how different factors may affect it. Create a budget and start arranging funds to support your stay and education in the US. Also, look for scholarships, grants, or other financial aid offered by the US government or your chosen universities.
Complete your application: Start applying to your chosen colleges or universities while sending all necessary documents alongside – transcripts, LORs, SOPs, test scores, etc.
Apply for a student visa: Once you receive the admission letter from your desired university, pay the admission fee and start your process to apply for a student visa.
Prepare for your departure: When your visa is approved, make your travel arrangements, finalize health insurance, gather all requisite pre-departure materials and documents for arrival, and attend pre-departure orientation if needed. Purchase your flight tickets and start packing to move to the country soon.
Documents Required to Study in USA
Acceptance letter from a valid US university.
Application fee payment receipt.
Academic transcripts of high/secondary school with final results and grades.
Updated CV/Resume.
Scores in GMAT, GRE, ACT, SAT, TOEFL, IELTS, and other tests.
SOP (Statement of Purpose) or Essay.
LORs or letters of recommendation.
Certificates of all internships, co-curricular activities, etc.
Accommodation contracts.
Medical insurance.
Photo-Id proof.
Valid passport and visa.
USA Student Visa Requirements
The US has three main student visas: F, M, and J. The F-1 visa is the most common visa required to study at US colleges, universities, seminaries, and conservatories. An M-1 Visa is required for vocational or language training programs, while a J-1 visa is required by students and scholars visiting for exchange programs.
Student visas (F and M) for new students can be issued up to 365 days before the start date for your course of study, but students must remember that they cannot enter the country more than 30 days before the start date of your program.
Student Visa Application Process
Apply for a study program at an approved Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) school.
Complete the online visa application, Form DS-160.
Upload your photo and take the printout of the confirmation page.
Pay the visa application fee of $185.
Submit Form I-20 along with paying the SEVIS application fee ($350).
Schedule your Visa Interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate of your country.
Prepare for Your Interview
Gather all the required documents.
Attend Your Visa Interview. Remember to answer honestly and clearly at the interview to ensure your selection.
After your visa interview, the consular officer may determine that your application requires further administrative processing.
After the visa is approved, you may need to pay a visa issuance fee (if required per your nationality).
Document Requirements for USA Student Visa
Passport, valid for at least six months beyond the period of stay.
Printed Form DS-160 confirmation page.
Receipt of SEVIS fee payment.
Form I-20, given by the institution where you are enrolling for the course.
Admission letter (copy and original).
Visa application fee payment receipt.
Financial proof supporting you can pay all educational, living, and travel costs.
Transcripts of mark sheets or provisional certificates.
Score sheets of examinations such as GMAT, TOEFL, or IELTS, as required by your university or college.
Top Scholarships in the USA for International Students
Name of the Scholarship
Benefits
Fulbright Program for Foreign Students
It is a government-funded program providing grants to eligible graduate international students for studying master’s or research programs in the US. Approximately 4,000 international students receive Fulbright scholarships yearly.
Indian students can also apply for the Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowship for Leadership Development, the Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral and Professional Research Fellowship, and Fulbright-Nehru CII Fellowship for Leadership in Management.
United World Colleges (UWC) International Youth Scholarships
You can register for this scholarship if you choose to study at UWC school.
This program offers full, partial, up to fully funded, and all-inclusive scholarships.
Rotary Peace Fellowships
Fully-funded scholarships are awarded to students pursuing certificate programs or master’s degrees related to peace and conflict resolution at reputed universities.
It covers tuition and fees, internship and field-study expenses, round-trip transportation, and accommodation.
P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship (IPS)
Female students enrolled in graduate programs in the US (or Canada) can benefit from this program.
It does not cover all academic or personal expenses. It requires candidates to indicate additional resources like personal and family funds, tuition waivers, work scholarships, teaching assistantships, study grants, and other scholarships necessary to meet their estimated expenses.
Clark Global Scholarship Program
Entering first-year international students for bachelor’s degrees can apply for this program which has different merit-based scholarships under it. The total benefits can range from $16,000 to $28,000, helping students pay their undergraduate fees.
Rotary International Ambassadorial Scholarships
The Rotary Club offers it for full-time study at an institution it assigns. The scholarship can be academic-year, multi-year, or cultural (for three-six months).
Academic-year scholarships offer a flat grant of $26,000, multi-year scholarships offer a flat grant of $13,000, and cultural scholarships provide a benefit of up to $12,000-$19,000.
Post-Study Work Options for International Students in USA
To stay and work in the US after completing your studies, an F1 visa holder can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT). It allows international students to work for 12 months in the US. You must connect with your institution's Designated School Official (DSO) to understand the eligibility for OPT and request them to recommend you.
It is vital to receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to start working in the US. To apply for an OPT, the job you take must be directly related to the field of your study.
There are two types of OPT:
Pre-Completion OPT– Through this, international students can opt to work in the country while pursuing their degree courses. You can work for a maximum of 20 hours weekly during classes, while there is no limit for the off-season.
You can apply for a pre-completion OPT after being enrolled in a one academic year at a college or university approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Post-Completion OPT- It is when international students work or look for employment opportunities after completing their studies. You must acquire an employment offer within 90 days of completing your degree program.
If you opt for pre-completion OPT while studying, that time will be deducted from the total one year of OPT, and you will be entitled to work only for the remaining time. For instance, if you have worked one year part-time (20 hours per week) on pre-completion OPT, the total time available for full-time OPT will be reduced by 6 months, and you will be entitled to a 6-month full-time post-completion OPT only.
STEM OPT Extension
If you are a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) graduate on an F-1 visa, you may apply for an OPT extension which further allows you to stay and work in the US for additional 24 months in a STEM-related field. This provides STEM graduates three years of employment opportunities in the US after completing their studies. Ensure your degree is included in the STEM Designated Degree Program List (provided on the USCIS website) to qualify for this extension.
Disclaimer: Costs and tuition fees mentioned are indicative and subject to change at any time.
Why Study in the USA?
The USA is one of the most sought-after study abroad destinations for Indian students. The USA offers excellent education, course flexibility, great career opportunities, and quality of life. If you ask why international students study in the USA, these are the top reasons:
Academic Excellence: The US is home to some of the most prestigious universities in the world. According to the QS World Ranking 2022, 28 top universities worldwide are in the US. Universities in the USA have earned these spots for their high academic excellence, meticulous courses, and quality of education. These universities offer everything - the best-rated undergraduate, postgraduate, and P.hD. programs.
Unmatched Academic Flexibility: Another reason Indian students study in the USA is the flexibility they get in choosing programs and courses. The US universities give undergraduate students an option of pursuing different courses in their first year to explore their interests, and they can choose their major at the end of the second year. This unique feature helps the students to explore various interests in a better manner.
Furthermore, postgraduate students can tailor their coursework to fit their specific academic goals.
Top-Notch Faculties and World-Class Research Facilities: The US universities offer a varied scope of options to the students willing to pursue groundbreaking research. The country takes research programs very seriously and pours billions of dollars into its research programs.
Apart from funding, the research is well supported by renowned faculty, world-class infrastructure, and lab facilities.
Cutting-edge technology: The US is known for its cutting-edge technology, and all the universities are equipped with the latest technology. It makes the life of professors and students much simpler, where they can have easy access to data and technology. It is because of the latest technology that the students learn new skill sets and methods so quickly.
Great Employability Rate & Career Opportunities: Studying in the USA for Indian students is a bright chance to open doors to great career opportunities. The US is one of the developed countries and offers excellent employability.
Furthermore, the global exposure, practical knowledge, and experience you receive while studying in the USA bring you to the podium employers seek most.
According to the QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022, US universities hold top positions in the list of universities that produce the most employable graduates.
Vibrant Campuses: An important reason to study in the USA for Indian students is the vibrant campus life at most universities. You will find campuses filled with students from various parts of the world. You can make new friends, learn new languages, experience new traditions, and embrace various foreign cultures.
Inclusive Environment: The USA is known for its highly inclusive environment with a stringent policy of non-discrimination.
US universities offer a huge array of courses to their students; therefore, students looking for the best courses can choose to study in the USA. However, there are certain courses that are more popular. Some of the best courses to study in USA are:
Engineering and Technology
Business and Management
Computer Science
Data Science and Business Analytics
Medicine
Finance
Law
Liberal Arts
Intakes Available in the USA:
US universities give a range of intakes to students interested in studying in the US. The intakes that the national and international students can choose from are:
Fall Intake - From August to December
Spring Intake - From January to April
Summer Intake - From May to August
*intakes may vary basis the institution and the program. It is advised to speak to your upGrad counselor for more information.
Admission Requirements to Study in the USA:
Over the years, the USA has become a popular study destination. Indian students interested in higher education are looking for opportunities in the USA. However, to understand how you can study in the USA, it is necessary to understand the requirements of the USA universities.
Undergraduate Degree:
12th Standard Certificate with a minimum 2.50 to 3.60 GPA
ACT/SAT score
IELTS/TOEFL
SOP
Postgraduate Degree:
Bachelor’s degree with minimum 2.50 to 3.60 CGPA
GRE/GMAT score
IELTS/TOEFL
SOPs, LORs & CV
Ph.D. Degree:
Transcripts for a university degree or courses
GMAT/GRE
IELTS/TOEFL
SOP, LORs, and CV
Admission Process in US Universities:
The admission process at US universities can be complex and time-consuming. Here is the step-by-step process of how to study in USA:
Decide the course that you want to pursue and select the universities offering the course of choice.
Once the universities are shortlisted, check their official website to learn more about the documentation required, eligibility criteria, and more.
Start the application process by filling out the required forms and uploading all the required documents and certificates. Complete the payment.
Once your application is selected, you will get a revert from the university. When you receive a revert, send an I-20 form (document required to acquire the student visa)
Documents required to study in USA:
Here is the list of documents required to apply to the USA universities:
Marksheets & transcripts
Valid Passport
English language proficiency score (IELTS/TOEFL)
Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT/GMAT/GRE/MCAT)
Evidence of funds
Letters of recommendation (LORs)
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Essays
Resume
Scholarships for Higher Studies in the USA for Indian Students:
Pursuing your education in the USA can be expensive; however, several scholarships available to Indian students help in decreasing the overall cost of studying in the USA.
Some of the scholarships available to Indian students are:
Fulbright Foreign Student Program
Hurbert Humphery Fellowship Program
#YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarship
Civil Society Leadership Awards
David P. Shapiro Autism Scholarship
Preply Scholarship
Surfshart Privacy and Security Scholarship
Tortuga Backpacks Study Abroad Scholarship
Wesleyan Freeman Asian Scholarship Program
AAUW International Fellowships
Bat and Ball Game Women’s Sports Scholarship
MIT-Zaragoza Women in Logistics and SCM Scholarships
Rotary Peace Fellowships
Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme
MasterCard Foundation Scholarships
American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship
Brandeis University Wien International Scholarship Program
Clark University Global Scholars Program
Emory University Needs-Based Scholarship Program
Harvard University Scholarships
Illinois State University International Awards
Iowa State University International Merit Scholarships
Michigan State University International Scholarships
New York University Wagner International Scholarships
University of Arkansas International Scholarships
University of Iowa Scholarships for International First Year Students
University of Minnesota International Scholarships
University of Oregon International Scholarships
University of Wisconsin Superior Non-resident Tuition Waiver Program
Post Study Work Options for International Students in the USA:
Post study work permit is one of the most important factors for the students going to pursue higher education in the USA. International students in the USA hold the US non-immigrant student visa F1. Students can work in the US after graduation by applying for Optional Practical Training (OPT). OPT gives you the time period of 1 year (non-STEM course) and 2 years (STEM courses) to live and work in the USA. Once the validity of the OPT visa expires, the students must return.
All information provided on this page is for general use and upGrad Abroad is not responsible for any errors or omissions. Any action taken upon the information found on this website is strictly at your own risk.
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