Study in USA
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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), 140,000+ Indian students went to the USA for higher studies in 2023. The number of Indian students in the US increased by more than 5% in 2022. 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 t
The USA has always remained the top choice for higher studies among international students. According to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), 140,000+ Indian students went to the USA for higher studies in 2023. The number of Indian students in the US increased by more than 5% in 2022. 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.
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.
Study in USA Highlights
Universities in USA |
4,000+ |
Average Living Expense |
INR 10.5 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 15,501) |
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 College or Universities, Private Colleges of Universities, Community Colleges, and Technology Institutes.
Top Courses in USA
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
- Biotechnology
- Data Science and Analytics
Check out: List of 100 American Slang Words
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 if you want 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.
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
- Standardized test scores - SAT or ACT for UG admissions
- Standardized test scores – GMAT or GRE for PG admissions
- 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
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 the total amount.
Post-Study Work Permit in USA
International students require an F1-Visa to study in the USA. This visa allows them to stay for 60 days in the USA after their graduation date. F1 visa holders can apply for OPT (Optional Practical Training) after completing their studies. Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a one-year work and stay-back permit given to international students on completion of a degree program in the US. 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.
Study in USA FAQs
Q. When can Indian students apply for admission to US universities?
A. 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.
Q. Are all US universities test-optional for undergraduate admissions?
A. No, not all US universities are test-optional for undergraduate admissions, most of the Ivy League schools like - Yale University, and Princeton University do require an SAT or ACT score. 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.
Q. How much is the acceptance rate for the top US universities?
A. Top universities in USA acceptance rates for the class of 2027 intake are as follows:
- Harvard University Acceptance Rate: 3.4%
- Cornell University Acceptance Rate: 3.6%
- Yale University Acceptance Rate: 4.5%
- Brown University Acceptance Rate: 5%
- Princeton University Acceptance Rate: 5.8%
- Dartmouth College Acceptance Rate: 6%
- Cornell University Acceptance Rate: 7.3%
Q. Which are some of the top paying jobs in USA?
A. Some of the top-paying jobs in the USA are majorly in Finance and Technology related professions. The following occupations in the USA are highly paid and are also popular jobs in USA:
Top Paying Job Roles in USA |
Average Starting Salaries |
---|---|
Lawyer |
USD 126,930 |
Finance Manager |
USD 120,644 |
Product Manager |
USD 117,713 |
Management Consultant |
USD 110,980 |
Data Scientist |
USD 107,801 |
Front-end engineer |
USD 105,240 |
Java Developer |
USD 83,589 |
Also, check out about some of the highest paying jobs in USA for international students.
Q. How to prepare F-1 interview for US student visa?
A. 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. Get full details about USA F-1 Visa Interview Guide for international students and also check out US Student Visa Interview Tips.
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
Universities in varied locations of
Universities and Courses
Popular Universities in USA
Cambridge, MassachusettsPrivate
Cambridge, MassachusettsPrivate
College Station, TexasPublic
Stanford, CaliforniaPrivate
Tempe, ArizonaPublic
Berkeley, CaliforniaPublic
Atlanta, GeorgiaPublic
Austin, TexasPublic
New York, New YorkPrivate
New York, New YorkPrivate
Popular Courses in USA
Find Universities in USA
Top ranked universities in USA
Universities | Ranking | 1st year tution fees |
---|---|---|
Harvard University | 1 | ₹16.7 L - 72.2 L |
Massachusetts Institute of Technology | 2 | ₹35.1 L - 1.1 Cr |
Stanford University | 3 | ₹10.2 L - 1.2 Cr |
California Institute of Technology | 4 | ₹44 L - 53.2 L |
Princeton University | 5 | ₹43.5 L - 52.3 L |
Yale University | 6 | ₹0 - 71.2 L |
University of California - Berkeley Campus | 7 | ₹22.2 L - 71.6 L |
The University of Chicago | 8 | ₹19 L - 92.7 L |
Columbia University | 9 | ₹19.9 L - 1.2 Cr |
University of Pennsylvania | 10 | ₹14.4 L - 72.7 L |
The ranking is done based on Shiksha's own scoring algorithms
We have partnered with 300+ universities
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Intakes in USA
Studying abroad is a huge decision that requires meticulous planning and organization. This guide will help you manoeuvre confusing timelines for fall and spring intakes in USA 2024. It will provide you with an overview of various dates so that you can start your study abroad journey as soon as possible. Also check out the entire timeline for the Fall 2024 US intake and Spring 2024 US intake, which includes when to apply and when to begin preparing for the intended intake as international studen
Studying abroad is a huge decision that requires meticulous planning and organization. This guide will help you manoeuvre confusing timelines for fall and spring intakes in USA 2024. It will provide you with an overview of various dates so that you can start your study abroad journey as soon as possible. Also check out the entire timeline for the Fall 2024 US intake and Spring 2024 US intake, which includes when to apply and when to begin preparing for the intended intake as international students.
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 universities based on preference
- Gather complete information on finances, loans, scholarships
- Check for courses on offer
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
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
Work Opportunities in USA
Presently, there are 8.7 million jobs available in USA after closing of October 2023. Thus, there are ample job opportunities for Indian students in USA. Some of the most popualr job sectors in USA for employment are:
- Science & Technology
- Medicine & Healthcare
- Education
- Retail
- Real Estate
- Business Development & Analytics
Highest 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 (approx) |
---|---|
Anesthesiologist | USD 208,000 |
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon | USD 208,000 |
Obstretician & Gynecologist | USD 208,000 |
Surgeon | USD 208,000 |
Nurse Anesthetist | USD 195,610 |
Pediatrician | USD 170,480 |
Dentist | USD 160,370 |
IT Manager | USD 159,010 |
Pilot | USD 134,630 |
Financial Manager | USD 131,710 |
Presently, there are 8.7 million jobs available in USA after closing of October 2023. Thus, there are ample job opportunities for Indian students in USA. Some of the most popualr job sectors in USA for employment are:
- Science & Technology
- Medicine & Healthcare
- Education
- Retail
- Real Estate
- Business Development & Analytics
Highest 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 (approx) |
---|---|
Anesthesiologist | USD 208,000 |
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon | USD 208,000 |
Obstretician & Gynecologist | USD 208,000 |
Surgeon | USD 208,000 |
Nurse Anesthetist | USD 195,610 |
Pediatrician | USD 170,480 |
Dentist | USD 160,370 |
IT Manager | USD 159,010 |
Pilot | USD 134,630 |
Financial Manager | USD 131,710 |
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