Study in the USA
The US is a top study abroad destination for its world-class universities, flexible education system, diverse culture and abundant job opportunities. Students can choose from a wide range of courses and programs, and learn from the best in the field. The US is also a great place to make friends worldwide and gain valuable intercultural experience. It offers opportunities for research and networking, fostering personal growth and career development.
High-class Education
The United States is home to some of the most prestigious universities in the world, offering high-class overseas education to students from all over the globe. The Ivy League Universities offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, so students can find a program that is a good fit for their interests and goals when they study abroad. The list of eight Universities comprises Brown University, Columbia University, Cornell University, Dartmouth College, Harvard University, the University of Pennsylvania, Princeton University and Yale University.
Globally Recognized Degrees
The United States is a popular destination for international students seeking globally recognised degrees. US universities are consistently ranked among the best in the world and they offer a wide range of programs to choose from. American universities are renowned for their academic excellence and innovative research. Graduates with US degrees are highly sought-after by employers around the world. US universities also have strong ties to industry, which allows students to gain valuable work experience during their studies.
Adaptable Education System
The United States offers a highly adaptable education system, making it an ideal destination for overseas students. With a carefully thought-out curriculum, the class hours are flexible here. In the US, each student is assessed individually via a different grading scheme. Assignments submitted by students are given more importance here than the overall grade. While grades or percentages are used by institutions to evaluate students’ performance, the commonly used grading scheme in the United States is called Grade Point Average (GPA).
Global Career Opportunities
The United States offers a diverse range of high-growth, high-paying and in-demand career opportunities to international students for overseas education. The US government and private sector provide a variety of resources to help startups succeed and the country has a strong culture of entrepreneurship. Overseas students with degrees in technology, finance, consulting, law and medicine can find jobs at top companies in the USA. In addition to these specific industries, there are many other global career opportunities available to overseas students in the USA.
Higher ROI
The United States offers a high Return on Investment (ROI) for overseas students. The cost of education in the USA varies depending on the type of school, the location and the program of study. However, the average cost of tuition and fees for a four-year undergraduate degree at a private university in the USA is over $35,000 per year. The average starting salary for bachelor’s degree holders in the USA is over $50,000 per year. The actual ROI for a college education will vary depending on the individual’s circumstances.
Research and Training
The United States is a world leader in research and training and its universities offer international students many opportunities to get involved in cutting-edge research projects. US universities also offer a variety of training programs to help overseas students develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen field. The abundant research and training opportunities available to overseas students in the USA make it a great place to pursue a graduate degree or conduct research.
Variety of Programs
The United States offers a vast and diverse range of programs for overseas education, at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Students from all over the world can find programs in almost every field of study. This diversity of programs and formats makes the USA a great place to study abroad for students who are looking for a specific program or who need flexibility in their studies.
CPT and OPT
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT) are two types of employment authorization that international students with F-1 visas can apply for in the United States.
CPT allows students to complete internships or other practical training that is directly related to their academic program. Students must have completed one full academic year of study before they can apply for CPT.
OPT allows students to gain practical work experience related to their field of study after they have graduated or completed their academic program. OPT can be for up to 12 months and students can apply for an additional 24 months of OPT if they are in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) field.
Exciting Campus Life
The United States offers an exciting campus life for overseas students. Students can get involved in a variety of extracurricular activities, meet new people from all over the world and experience a vibrant and diverse culture. US campuses also host a variety of events throughout the year such as concerts, lectures, sporting events and festivals. These events provide students with the opportunity to learn from experts in their fields, experience new cultures and have fun.
Earning With Learning
Studying abroad in the USA offers the unique opportunity of “Earning With Learning.” The United States offers a variety of ways for international students to earn money while they study. This can be a great way to offset the costs of tuition and living expenses and gain valuable work experience. The U.S. government permits eligible students to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during breaks. This combination of earning while learning not only eases financial burdens but also enhances career prospects, making the USA an attractive destination for international students.
Top 10 Universities to Study Abroad in The USA
Sl. No. | College/ University | QS Ranking 2024 | Location | Popular Course | Speciality |
1 | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 1 | Cambridge, Massachusetts | Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Business | Renowned for STEM disciplines and innovation |
2 | Harvard University | 4 | Cambridge, Massachusetts | Liberal Arts, Law, Medicine, Business | World-class faculty and extensive library holdings |
3 | Stanford University | 5 | Stanford, California | Engineering, Computer Science, Business, Medicine | Strong focus on entrepreneurship and innovation |
4 | University of California, Berkeley (UCB) | 10 | Berkeley, California | Engineering, Computer Science, Business, Liberal Arts | Pioneering research in various fields |
5 | University of Chicago | 11 | Chicago, Illinois | Economics, Law, Medicine, Business | Emphasis on critical thinking and academic rigor |
6 | University of Pennsylvania | 12 | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania | Medicine, Business, Law, Engineering | Strong alumni network and business connections |
7 | Cornell University | 13 | Ithaca, New York | Engineering, Business, Agriculture, Liberal Arts | Diverse programs, scenic campus |
8 | California Institute of Technology (Caltech) | 15 | Pasadena, California | Engineering, Science, Mathematics | Exceptional research in physical sciences |
9 | Yale University | 16 | New Haven, Connecticut | Liberal Arts, Law, Medicine, Business | Strong liberal arts and cultural diversity |
10 | Princeton University | 17 | Princeton, New Jersey | Liberal Arts, Engineering, Science | Focus on undergraduate teaching and research |
Admission Process for Overseas Education in The USA
The admission process in the USA to study abroad can vary depending on the University you are applying to but here are some general steps that are followed:
- Program Selection: Research and select universities and programs matching your academic and career objectives.
- Standardized Tests: Take required standardized tests (TOEFL, IELTS, SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT), and ensure scores are sent to chosen universities.
- Document Preparation: Gather essential documents including transcripts, letters of recommendation, a Statement of Purpose (SOP) and a resume or CV.
- Online Application: Complete online applications on university websites and pay application fees.
- Letters of Recommendation: Secure strong letters of recommendation from professors or professionals approving your qualifications.
- English Proficiency: Take an English proficiency test and submit scores to universities.
- Admission Decision: Await university admission decision.
- Acceptance and Visa: Upon admission, receive an acceptance letter and apply for a student visa.
Adaptable Education System
The United States offers a highly adaptable education system, making it an ideal destination for overseas students. With a carefully thought-out curriculum, the class hours are flexible here. In the US, each student is assessed individually via a different grading scheme. Assignments submitted by students are given more importance here than the overall grade. While grades or percentages are used by institutions to evaluate students’ performance, the commonly used grading scheme in the United States is called Grade Point Average (GPA).
Frequently Asked Questions
There are a number of ways to finance your overseas education in the USA, including
- Scholarships: There are a number of scholarships available to international students who are studying in the USA. You can search for scholarships online.
- Financial aid: Some US institutions offer financial aid to international students. To learn more about financial aid, contact the financial aid office of the institution you are applying to.
- Student loans: You may be able to take out a student loan to finance your education in the USA. There are a number of different types of student loans available, so be sure to research your options carefully.
One of the biggest challenges of studying abroad in the USA is the cost. The USA is a relatively expensive country and the cost of living and tuition can be high. Another challenge is cultural adjustment. The USA is a very different country from many other countries and it can take some time to adjust to the culture and lifestyle if you choose the USA as a study abroad destination.
International students with an F-1 visa can work on-campus during the academic year and off-campus during specified periods, such as Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
Universities typically offer on-campus housing options. Alternatively, you can explore off-campus housing, shared apartments or homestays. Many institutions provide guidance on housing.
Many US companies are interested in hiring international students, especially those with STEM degrees. Also, there is an advantage of the H-1B visa lottery which offers international students the opportunity to secure work in the USA after graduation, enabling them to access skilled job positions and launch their careers in the country.
