STUDY IN USA
Why Study in the USA from India?
Study in the USA
Study in USA: The USA is one of the most prominent places for foreign immigrants who want to pursue their dream of overseas education. The maximum number of students pursuing foreign education in the USA are from India. The top universities in the USA focus on innovation and research which are the pillars of such an outstanding education system.
One of the biggest advantages of studying in the US is its diverse student population. Students from all over the world come to the US to study, creating a rich cultural fusion where students can learn from and engage with people from different backgrounds. This diversity not only enriches the student experience, but also prepares students for success in a rapidly globalizing world.
Why Study in USA?
Top Most Reasons Why You Choose To Study In The USA
The country has successfully emerged as the leading study-abroad destination known for its excellent education. The top 10 reasons why you should choose to study in the US are:
High Quality Education
The US universities can provide the best possible platform to international students, which is evident from their high rankings. MIT was ranked #1 in the 2021/22 QS University Rankings, along with 10 American universities found in the top 20. The 2021/22 Times Higher Education World University Rankings placed 14 US universities in the top 20. The Country boasts of about 4,000 accredited centers of learning. Favorite amongst the Indian students studying in the USA are the Ivy League, Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Stanford University and many more.
Wide Range of Programs and Courses
The best part about studying in the US is that this country offers a broad range of study options to students. They can study everything from Business management, Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, Russian history and nuclear physics, etc. Engineering and business are, however, the most sought after programs by Indians, followed by legal studies and healthcare.
Flexible Course Structure
The country’s education system is designed to produce the most comprehensive coursework for students with an equal emphasis on both practical experimentation and theoretical learning. It also allows students to try a range of subjects before specializing in one. The classes are structured in a way that the students can create their own curriculum and study what they love the most.
Multiple Scholarships and Funding Opportunities
The US government extends a large number of scholarships and grants to international students who have opted for their overseas studies. In addition to this various other government and non-governmental bodies the US government also offer external funds to students. Scholarship to students further decreases their cost of studying in the country.
The international experience that strengthens your CV
Maximum number of Institutes in the US have strong bonding and tie ups with various company employers and researchers in different fields. This strong network further provides hands-on experience and practical exposure to students. World class opportunities like this provide a huge benefit to the students CV.
Research and Training opportunities
American Universities focusses a lot on their use of the latest technology and provide the best available equipment and resources to their students who in turn can further carry out research and achieve best process information. In addition to this being a student, one can also assist a professor by being a Teaching Assistant to them which can further broaden their knowledge and skill set.
Part Time Job Opportunities in the USA
Job opportunities can be categorized into part time and full time job opportunities for international students both on and off university campuses. To get hold of their living expenses students can easily land a midsize salary from their part time job.
Lively campus life
Universities in the USA are recognized for their vibrant campus life. Students can join a club, become a leader in student councils, write for the university newsletters or pursue their hobbies. In addition to this, students can also participate in numerous extracurricular activities, co-curricular activities, clubs, groups, associations, etc. to pass their free time.
Career Opportunities
Having a degree from a top US University has its own perks. International companies all over the world look for candidates which are more technically updated which further provides an upper hand to graduates who have passed from US Universities.
Transportation
If you are an international student you can be well confirmed that the US has a really good public transportation system which includes options like bicycles, buses, trains, Suburbs and local taxis. The transportation charges for each mode may vary, but is reasonable enough for short travels inside the United States of America.
Education in the USA
US universities offer various kinds of degrees catering to every student’s needs and interests. Students can study at any of the following levels to earn the following degrees.
University level first stage
- Associate Degree (AA)
- Advanced Certificate
- Combined Bachelor’s and Masters
- Combined Bachelor’s and Doctoral
- Double Major
- Honors
- Bachelor’s Degree (Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Arts)
- Post-bachelor’s Diploma/Certificate
University level second stage
- Master’s Degree (without thesis) (Master of Science, Master of Arts, Master of Engineering)
- Master’s Degree research (with thesis) (Master of Science, Master of Arts, Master of Engineering)
- Combined Graduate and Doctoral Degree
- First Professional Degree
- Graduate Certificate
- Masters Degree
- Professional Masters Degree
University level third stage
- Doctorate (Ph.D.)
- Juris Doctor
- Double Major Degree
Top 10 Universities to study in the USA
There are many universities and colleges in the USA that offer a wide range of degrees and professional courses in all academic fields. US degrees are recognized and accepted worldwide for their excellence.
University Name | Type of University | Location |
Hardvard University | Private University | Cambridge |
Massachusetts Institute of Technology | Private University | Cambridge, Massachusetts |
Stanford University | Private University | Stanford California |
University of California Berkeley | Public University | Berkeley, California |
University of Washington Seattle | Public University | Seattle |
Columbia University | Private University | New York City |
California Institute of Technology | Private University | Pasadena, California |
Johns Hopkin University | Private University | Baltimore, Maryland |
Yale University | Private institution | New Haven, Connecticut |
University of California Los Angeles | Public University | Los Angeles, California |
Top Courses for Indian Students in USA
Universities in the USA offer every student a variety of courses and programs as per their area of interest. Whether it is an undergraduate or post-graduate program, there are endless options available on one’s platter. The following are the most popular degrees and courses in the USA, taken up by International students:
- STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics)
- Aeronautics and Aviation Science
- Business Administration
- Medical Science
- Computer Science and IT
- Biotechnology
- Political Science and International Relations
- Physical Therapy
- Hospitality
- Nursing
Eligibility Criteria for Students in the USA
International students eligibility is checked on the following points:
- Qualification required for admission along with any percentage or a particular major/ field of study. For example admission to UG (undergraduate program would require high school transcripts or admission to Postgraduate would require an undergraduate degree.
- Substitute qualification required if the above qualification is not met (maybe a foundation course or associate degree)
- GPA (Grade Point Average) of previous academic qualification
- Any international qualification required for taking admission to the program (for example- International Baccalaureate)
- IELTS scores required overall and category wise score required like speaking, listening and writing)
- TOEFL IBT (Internet Based Test) and PBT (Paper Based Test) are required.
Student Life in USA
If you are an Indian student who is planning to study in the USA then be prepared to go through some major initial differences which you can find in the language, food and environment of a foreign University. Nevertheless, you can definitely find a good chunk of Indian student groups who will be always there to help you out.
Safety for International students in the United States
All Universities in the USA have some world-class facilities and systematized safety plans which offer several safety resources to international students. Every university campus in the United States has Police assistance vans and faculty members to guarantee better support and guidance to international students.
Student Visa requirements for the USA
The United States of America is very much welcoming when it comes to providing study visas to Indian students. Also, the process of applying for a USA study visa is very easy once you are familiar with the rules, guidelines and different types of visa formats.
Types of USA Study Visa
Visa applicants don’t have to select the visa type, it is the university or the sponsoring institute that will define the USA visa type based on their application profile for a specific course.
Mentioned below are the different types of USA student visas:
- F-1 Student Visa
International students applying for full-time study in a USA institution/university which is recognized by DHS (Department of Homeland Security) will get an F-1 Student Visa. - F-2 Dependent of an F-1 Student
This study visa is offered to dependents of an F-1 student visa holder and they cannot study in the USA with this visa. Children with F-2 dependent visas can study in the USA at the K-12 level. - M-1 Vocational Student Visa
An international student enrolled in a vocational program in the USA will get an M-1 visa. An international student must continue a full course of study and part-time study is only allowed if approved by the Designated School Official (DSO). - M-2 Dependent of M-1 Student
This study visa is offered to dependents of an M-1 Vocational Student Visa holder and they cannot study in the USA with this visa. Children of M-2 Dependent visa can study in the USA at the K-12 level. - J-1 Exchange Student Visa
J-1 visa holders must maintain a full course of study and they can reduce the course duration if approved by Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) by a Responsible Officer (RO)/Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO) of the designated program sponsor, by Department of State (DOS) regulations. - J-1 Exchange Student Intern Visa
The J-1 Exchange student intern Visa program is generally required if the candidate is planning an internship or traineeship in the USA. It authorizes VISA holders to participate in exchange programs which include internships, trainee positions and high school stays. - J-1 Exchange Visitor: Professor, Researcher, Specialist, Trainee, Physician, Intern
International students who are visiting researchers, short-term scholars, professors, physicians, and interns, under the sponsorship of an exchange visitor program approved by the DOS. - J-2 Dependent of a J-1 Exchange Visitor
It is offered to dependents of a J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa holder and they can study full or part-time in the USA with this visa.
Steps Involved In The USA Student Visa Application Process
- The Visa application process starts with once a candidate is accepted into the Accredited US University it issues a receipt of I -20 form which includes the documents of a candidate’s study plans and supporting information related to his/her stay.
- Paying the SEVIS fee (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System).
- Complete online visa application form – All international students applying for an F-1 study Visa should complete the DS-160 Form and note their application number to be further used for booking a VISA interview appointment.
- Attend your visa interview
Post-Study work right/work opportunities along with the studies
F-1 Student Visa
A foreign student must maintain a full course of study and part-time study is only allowed with the approval of the DSO (Designated School Official) as per the rules and regulations.
The F-1 student visa allows international students to work 20 hours per week during weekdays and 40 hours per week during off days.
To become eligible for OPT, the international student must have completed 1 academic year of their degree. Those who have completed a degree in the STEM (science, technology, engineering, or mathematics) courses may be eligible for a 24-month extension of OPT (36 months total).
F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT)
The optional practical training course will depend on the candidate’s selection of University whether they are providing the option of OPT or not. In general cases, most Colleges do provide this option. The program’s length is extended by a 24 month extension if it comes with OPT. In addition, the organisation providing the job must be registered with the E-Verify Employment Verification Programme regulated by US Citizenship and Immigration Services.
J-1 Exchange Student Visa
The J-1 student visa allows international students to work off campus for a maximum 20 hours per week during weekdays and full-time during off-days only with prior permission from the Responsible Officers (RO) or Alternate Responsible Officers (ARO) of their designated program.
J-1 visa holders are allowed 18 months of Practical Academic Training (up to 36 months for post-doctoral training).
Study Abroad USA: Intakes Available in the USA
The most suitable time to apply for Universities in the USA is at the start of Fall intake (Aug – Sept) followed by spring intake (Jan- March) and summer intake (May- June) semesters. However, it is advised that the candidate should apply as early as possible because the visa process might take up a considerable amount of time. In a few cases if the candidate missed the deadline their application will automatically be put for consideration for the next available start date.
There are three intakes available for Admission into Universities in the United States.
- Fall (August or September)
- Winter/ Spring (January or Feb)
- Summer (May or June)
The maximum number of Indian student applicants apply for Fall intakes which get opened in August or September.
All the research and english degree programs have rolling intakes that means they have 8 start dates available during the year.
Scholarships to study in the USA
Scholarships in the USA are provided partially or fully funded depending upon the University you are applying to. Most Universities in the USA have the option of providing fully funded scholarship programs or partially funded programs. Scholarships are usually excluded from the tuition fees and are generally shown in the total fee amount.
The various documents that are required for scholarships to study in the USA are:
- Standardized test scores (SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT score)
- Academic scores copy (GPA)
- Photo ID/Passport (Aadhar card in certain cases)
- Language proficiency proof (IELTS, or TOEFL exam score)
- Motivation letter/Statement of Purpose.
- Recommendation letter.
The various types of scholarships available for Indian students to study in the USA are:
- The Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships are meant for exceptional Indians who wish to obtain a master’s degree from selected American colleges and universities. The program focuses on fields such as Arts and Culture Management, including Heritage Conservation and Museum Studies, Economics, Environmental Science/Studies, Higher Education Administration, International Affairs, International Legal Studies, Journalism and Mass Communication, Public Administration, Public Health, Urban and Regional Planning, and Women’s Studies/Gender Studies. This scholarship can range from 2 weeks to 24 months depending on the grant category.
- American Indian Scholarship –This scholarship is awarded by the Oklahoma City University in which the applicant should be a full-time, first-time student inducting directly from high school. However, the availability and eligibility criteria for these scholarships may vary, and it’s best to check with the university’s office of International Admissions for the most up-to-date information.
Typically, international students at Oklahoma City University are eligible for merit-based scholarships, which are awarded based on academic achievement and potential. The university may also offer need-based scholarships to international students who demonstrate financial need.
Top courses to study in the USA
Some of the top trending courses and their specializations to study in the USA are:
Programs / Courses | Specializations |
Data Science | Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence and Cognitive Science |
Computer Science | Data Science, Network Engineering, Information Security Engineering |
Data Analytics | Mathematical Statistics, Statistical Economics (SQL, Power BI) |
Engineering | Computer- Hardware Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, etc |
Business Management | Finance, Accounting, Marketing, Human Resources |
Which exam is required for study in the USA?
In general there are multiple exams that are required to study in the USA, every program or course has different English language entry requirements in which IELTS and TOFEL (IBT/ PBT) being most common. Other academic exams taken into consideration as per the course details include GRE, GMAT, etc.
The passing test scores of each exam will depend on the University minimum scores capping which is usually mentioned in the University Academic information section.
FAQs related to US Education
Can I stay back and work in the US after I graduate?
Yes, definitely International Graduates from the USA are eligible for an H-1B visa which is a non-immigrant temporary visa for special occupations such as architecture, engineering, mathematics, physical sciences, social sciences, medicine and health, education, business specialties, accounting, law, theology, and the arts.
Are there any Combined Degrees options in the USA?
There are multiple combined degrees and dual degrees options available in the USA, apart from that you can also pursue double majors and joint degree Master/Doctoral programs.
Are there any 1 Year University Courses in the United States of America?
Yes, usually there are 1-year foundation courses and master’s degree courses which can be completed within a year. Other courses like English language courses can be completed within a few weeks depending upon the course requirements and a number of credits.
Study in USA Consultants
For students in India who want to study abroad, our consultancy is the answer. Study in USA Consultants from Global Opportunities have successfully helped over 1,00,000 students find and apply to top universities and institutions worldwide. Our network of 23 offices in major Indian cities makes us easily accessible, while our partnerships with universities in countries such as the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Singapore, Dubai, Malaysia, Germany, and Europe provide a diverse range of options.