
Study in USA
Know all about Universities, Courses, Eligibility, Scholarships & more
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About USA - Highlights
The USA has always remained the top choice for higher studies among international students. According to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), 3,37,630 Indian students went to the USA for higher studies in 2024. The number of Indian students in the US increased by 141.2% in 2024. The US is home to the maximum number of top universities in the world. There is always an eagerness among international students for going to the US and experience the higher education system there.&
The USA has always remained the top choice for higher studies among international students. According to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), 3,37,630 Indian students went to the USA for higher studies in 2024. The number of Indian students in the US increased by 141.2% in 2024. The US is home to the maximum number of top universities in the world. There is always an eagerness among international students for going to the US and experience the higher education system there.
Why international students thrive to study in USA is because of numerous reasons - highe education quality and research, degrees are globally recognised and accepted, a wide range of STEM education courses, top-ranking US universities globally, good opportunities for getting hands on experience and many others.
Studying in the USA
US universities have carved a niche for themselves in STEM courses. International students looking to pursue higher studies in STEM courses prefer to go to the USA over other options. Also, it is not just the STEM courses, students looking to study business, management or arts courses can also find top universities in the US. MBA in USA, MS in USA and Medicine courses are some of the popular options that applicants look at while applying to US universities. Check out Why Students Still Prefer to Study in USA in 2025?
Latest Updates for Studying in USA 2025:
- On June 18, 2025, after an official confirmation from the US State Department, the visa interviews have resumed. But this time, applicants will have to give access to their social media accounts for scrutiny (during interview) in order to get through the process. The social media vetting rules for US student visa include:
- The US visa officers will look at student's posts, reactions and comments on their accounts to guarantee that they are not hostile toward the US, including its government, people or its institutions.
- Any hostile reaction or comment if found against USA during social media vetting, can directly lead towards a rejection of the student visa for USA.
- On May 27, 2025, it was announced that the US student visa interviews were closing temporarily and no interview slots could be booked. The US government halted the process to bring into picture - 'social media vetting of applicants'. Check How Temporary US Student Visa Interview Freeze Affecting Indian Students?
Study in USA Highlights
Universities in USA |
4,000+ |
Top Universities in USA for Indian Students |
|
Average Living Expense |
INR 9 - 15 Lakhs (per annum) |
Popular Courses in USA |
MS in USA | MBA in USA | BTech in USA | MIM in USA |
Part-time Work Allowance |
20 hours/week |
Work permit in USA post-study |
12 months |
USA Study Visa cost |
USD 185 (INR 16,230) |
Education System in USA
US Education System is categorised into different groups. First, it is primary school followed by middle school, and then post-secondary education. When it comes to the higher education system in the USA, there are 4 types of institutions in the USA namely:
- State Colleges or Universities
- Private Colleges or Universities
- Community Colleges
- Technology Institutes
Interested in knowing about how an Indian student life in USA looks like? Check out Indian Student Life in USA.
Top 10 Courses in USA in 2025
Business and management, engineering, mathematics, computer science and social sciences are some of the popular courses in the USA. US universities are known to offer STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) courses. Some of the popular courses in the USA are:
- MBA
- Computer Science
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Finance
- MBBS/MD in USA
- Biotechnology
- Data Science
- Business Analytics
Check out: List of 100 American Slang Words
Admission Requirements to Study in US Universities
Admission requirements for a UG and PG program are different for US universities. Below we have mentioned the general admission requirements to study at USA universities.
- Academic Transcripts
- Standardised test scores
- English proficiency test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic or Duolingo) - both UG/PG
- Essay
- Statement of purpose
- Letter of Recommendations
- Current or updated resume or CV
- Copy of your valid passport
- Proof of finances
Check out the Top 10 Reasons to Study in USA
Scholarships to Study in USA
Candidates looking for scholarships to study in the USA can check out the most comprehensive study-abroad scholarships on our website. Our website currently enlists over 200 scholarships spread across 11 Countries, amounting to over INR 1,315 crores in total.
Student Visa in USA
There are three types of student visas in USA, and each of them serves a different purpose. Check out the table below to understand the different types of student visas in USA and how they differ from one another:
Factors | F1 Visa USA | J1 Visa USA | M1 Visa USA |
---|---|---|---|
Meaning | The F1 visa in USA is for those whose courses are 18 months and longer | J1 visa in USA is for exchange program students | M1 visa in USA is for applicants coming to study vocational courses |
Eligibility | Applicants who qualify for US university admissions offered full-time. | This visa is applicable for international students coming for exchange programs to USA. | This visa is applicable for those coming to study vocational education courses. |
Application or MRV Fee | USD 185 | USD 185 | USD 185 |
SEVIS Fee | USD 350 | USD 220 (may or may not be applicable for payment) | USD 350 |
Interview | F1 visa interviews are mandatory unless qualifying for Dropbox in USA | J1 visa interviews are also mandatory | M1 visa interviews are also mandatory to get student visa |
International students applying for admission to USA must note that processing times for student visas in USA will vary. Thus, applicants must avoid last minute interview scheduling and procure I-20 in time and submit DS-160 visa application form, SEVIS fee along relevant documents/biometric (OFC appointment). It is mandatory to get a student visa in USA to study in America.
Post-Study Work Permit in USA
F1 visa holders can apply for OPT (Optional Practical Training) within 60 days of completing their studies. OPT is a one-year-long work and stay-back permit.
Working after studies in the USA is one of the most important factors that students choose to pursue higher education in the USA. Students should know everything about the post-study work visa in the USA before applying for the program.
USA Permanent Residence Permit
A USA Permanent Residence card or a green card in the USA gives you official immigration status in the United States. It entitles you to certain rights and responsibilities. A green card is required to become a US citizen. Your status as an immigrant or as a citizen determines who you can bring (sponsor) to live and work in the US. If you are a permanent resident, you can sponsor your spouse and unmarried children. Applicants can also get a PR after studying in America through the H-1B Cap Gap Extension.
Key Facts About USA
Insights on education, demographics & weather.Why study in the USA?
Diverse range of world-renowned institutions, offering cutting-edge program
Access to top-notch faculty, resources, and extensive alumni networks
Vibrant multicultural environment, fostering tolerance and global exposure
Stringent safety measures with campus police and emergency protocols
High living standards, comprehensive healthcare, and excellent infra
Access to diverse recreational activities and and natural attractions
Explore key differences in Academics, Costs, Visa, Career & Lifestyle to choose your ideal study destination.
Universities and Courses
Popular Universities in USA
Berkeley, CaliforniaPublic
Cambridge, MassachusettsPrivate
Cambridge, MassachusettsPrivate
Stanford, CaliforniaPrivate
New York, New YorkPrivate
New York, New YorkPrivate
Los Angeles, CaliforniaPublic
Austin, TexasPublic
Atlanta, GeorgiaPublic
Ithaca, New YorkPrivate
Popular Courses in USA
Universities in varied locations of USA
Find Universities in USA
Top ranked universities in USA
Universities | Ranking | 1st year tution fees |
---|---|---|
Massachusetts Institute of Technology | 1 | ₹37.3 L - 1.2 Cr |
Harvard University | 2 | ₹17.6 L - 80.3 L |
Stanford University | 3 | ₹26.4 L - 1.3 Cr |
Princeton University | 4 | ₹46 L - 57.9 L |
University of California - Berkeley Campus | 5 | ₹22.4 L - 1 Cr |
Yale University | 6 | ₹0 - 75.3 L |
California Institute of Technology | 7 | ₹46.6 L - 58.2 L |
University of Pennsylvania | 8 | ₹15.2 L - 80.7 L |
The University of Chicago | 9 | ₹20.2 L - 1 Cr |
Columbia University | 10 | ₹21 L - 1.2 Cr |
The ranking is done based on Shiksha's own scoring algorithms
Commonly asked questions On Studying in USA
There are two intakes in USA, the main US intake is Fall intake and the second intake is Spring intake. There is also a Summer intake in the USA but very few full-time course options are available during that time, it is mostly for short-term courses or commonly referred to as summer programs. International students can apply for Fall intake in USA during the month of September each year and applicants begin preparing from July onwards. 90% of the US universities have admissions open during the Fall intake. The Spring intake of USA also opens admissions for international students but for limited courses and universities. Thus, those who are able to apply by Fall intake can take admissions or if not, then apply during Spring intake.
No, not all US universities are test-optional for undergraduate admissions. One of the popular Ivy League school - Princeton University does require an SAT or ACT score. Yale University also does not accept it until Fall 2025 intake. There are universities like Columbia University which have officially announced the scrapping of SAT and ACT scores for undergraduate admissions. Some US universities may require SAT or ACT scores based on admission to a specific course. Applicants are required to check the test optionality option if it is available or not. Check out SAT Accepting Colleges in USA.
The applicants need to be confident and must be able to answer all questions with honesty when going in for an F-1 visa interview. Applicants must have full knowledge of their course and US university they have applied to. They must show interest in coming back to home country and must explain well as to why they wish to study in USA. They must also submit all necessary details in their DS-160 form along with their social media handles (for social media vetting for US visa interview). Also, applicants must talk about relatives in USA and their relationship with them honestly if asked about in the F1 visa interview.
Get full details about USA F-1 Visa Interview Guide for international students and also check out US Student Visa Interview Tips.
Yes, it is possible to get a 100% scholarship to study in USA. The universities in USA offer varies types of scholarships to international students. There are also fully funded externally funded scholarships. The list of fully funded scholarships in USA are as follows:
- Government-funded Programs: The applicants with excellent academic backgrounds can apply for these programs to fully fund their education in USA:
- Fulbright Foreign Student Program
- Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program
- University-specific Scholarships: These are the list of those US universities which offer need based scholarships (can go up to 100% based on need) along wth merti-based scholarship:
- Yale University
- Stanford University (including the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program)
- Harvard University
- MIT
- Princeton University
- Duke University
- University of Pennsylvania
- Dartmouth College
- Columbia University
- Organization-specific scholarships: Apart from the typical ones, there are a few which are externally funded scholarships which can potentially offer 100% funding to international applicants, and they are:
- AAUW International Fellowships (for women)
- Rotary Peace Fellowship
- ACI Foundation Scholarship
These are some of the few scholarships and scholarship programs which can offer up to 100% scholarship to international students going to study in the USA.
Top universities in USA acceptance rates for the class of 2027 intake are as follows:
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Expenses for Studying in USA
Indian students who get through the admission process at US universities will have to cater to education and living costs in USA. The costs vary for education and living in USA for students. Also, the costs are dynamic and may change without prior notice, thus, applicants should be able to cover these costs in order to study in USA. Let us look the at the following sections and understand how much will it cost the Indian applicant.
Cost of studying in USA
Books and Supplies
Hostel & Meals
Health & Insurnace
Services & Amenities Fee
Semester & University Fee
The course you choose may have additional components
Annual tuition fee as per
The fee range is an average representation and would vary across universities. For most accurate and updated information please connect with our one of our expert counselor.
Cost of Living in USA
Food
Accommodation
The course you choose may have additional components
USA Scholarships for Indian Students
Northwestern Financial Aid Awards for International Students
International Education Scholarship
Gator Nation Scholarship
University of New Haven- Dean's Scholarship
Provost's Assistanships
CSU Trustees’ Awards for Outstanding Achievement
International Scholars Award
Student Visa in USA
There are different types of US student visas and the F1 visa is the most popular one. Students applying for a program that requires more than 18 hours of study in a week require an F1 visa. Those who are planning to take up their bachelor’s as well as master's in the USA require an F1 study visa. Apart from this, students going to vocational or technical students require an M1 visa.
There are different types of US student visas and the F1 visa is the most popular one. Students applying for a program that requires more than 18 hours of study in a week require an F1 visa. Those who are planning to take up their bachelor’s as well as master's in the USA require an F1 study visa. Apart from this, students going to vocational or technical students require an M1 visa.
Documents Required for Visa Application
Passport
DS-160 Form
SEVIS Fee Receipt
+ 7 more documents
USA Study Guide to view full checklist
Intakes in USA
Confused about the admission intakes in USA? Check out both the intakes of USA in this section along with their timelines for the year 2025 for both Fall and Spring intakes.
Upcoming intakes
Pros of Fall intake
Wide range of programs and courses to choose from
Most number of scholarships and financial aid
Better possibilities of getting part-time jobs and internships during the break
Cons of Fall intake
High competition, seats fill out fast
The cost of living may be higher
Difficult to get accommodation due to the high demand
Fall Intake Timelines
Shortlist the US universities based on preference
Gather information on finances, loans, scholarships
Check for courses offered in Fall intake at preferred US university
Check all the requirements and prepare for application
Work Opportunities in USA
Presently, there are 7.6 million jobs available in USA after closing of December 2024. Thus, there are ample job opportunities for Indian students in USA. Some of the most popular job sectors in USA for employment are:
- Science & Technology
- Medicine & Healthcare
- Education
- Retail
- Real Estate
- Business Development & Analytics
Highest paying job roles in USA for Indian students vary across different fields of study. Following are some of the 10 top paying jobs in USA for Indian students
Presently, there are 7.6 million jobs available in USA after closing of December 2024. Thus, there are ample job opportunities for Indian students in USA. Some of the most popular job sectors in USA for employment are:
- Science & Technology
- Medicine & Healthcare
- Education
- Retail
- Real Estate
- Business Development & Analytics
Highest paying job roles in USA for Indian students vary across different fields of study. Following are some of the 10 top paying jobs in USA for Indian students:
Job Roles in USA | Median Annual Salary in USA 2025 (approx) |
---|---|
Obstretician & Gynecologist | Psychiatrist | Emergency Medicine Physician | Orthodontist | Anesthesiologist | Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon | Radiologist | USD 239,200 |
Pilot | USD 219,140 |
Nurse Anesthetist | USD 212,650 |
Chief Executive | USD 206,680 |
Pediatrician | USD 198,690 |
IT Manager | USD 169,510 |
Dentist | USD 166,300 |
Architectural & Engineering Manager | USD 165,370 |
Marketing Manager | USD 157,620 |
Financial Manager | USD 156,100 |
(Source: US News - Best-Paying Jobs in USA 2025)
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