Study in the USA
The United States is one of the world's most popular study destinations, offering internationally recognised qualifications, flexible academic pathways and access to leading research, technology and career opportunities.
International students can choose from thousands of universities, colleges and community colleges offering programmes in almost every field.
At a glance
Quick Facts
- Tuition fees
- USD 10,000 – 65,000 / year
- Living cost
- USD 1,000 – 1,200 / month
- Teaching language
- English
- Intakes
- September, February
F-1 students may have access to limited authorised employment, including eligible on-campus work and practical training. Employment must comply with visa conditions and normally requires approval.
Why USA
Why Study in the USA?
- Internationally recognised qualifications
- Wide choice of universities, locations and programmes
- Flexible course structures and opportunities to change majors
- Strong research facilities and advanced technology
- Scholarships and financial aid at selected institutions
- Practical training opportunities related to your degree
- Diverse, multicultural student communities
- Excellent facilities, student societies and campus support
See it for yourself
Watch: Study in the USA
Costs
Tuition & Living Cost
| Study Level | Tuition fee / year | Living cost / month |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelors | USD 10,000 – 65,000 | USD 1,000 |
| Masters | USD 20,000 – 50,000 | USD 1,000 |
What you need
Entry Requirements
Academic
- Valid passport
- School or university certificates
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of English proficiency, such as IELTS, TOEFL or another accepted test
- Personal statement or statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
- CV or résumé for postgraduate applications
- Portfolio for art, architecture or design programmes
- GRE, GMAT, SAT or ACT results when required
- Evidence of sufficient financial resources
Language
Language Requirement
B2 English.
Visa route
Student Visa Process
- 1Apply to an institution certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program.
- 2Receive an admission offer.
- 3Provide the institution with the required financial evidence.
- 4Receive Form I-20.
- 5Pay the I-901 SEVIS fee.
- 6Complete the student-visa application.
- 7Arrange and attend the visa interview, if required.
- 8Prepare financial, academic and supporting documents.
- 9Travel to the United States within the permitted entry period.
What to study
Popular Courses
- Business and Management
- Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence
- Engineering
- Data Science and Cybersecurity
- Medicine and Health Sciences
- Finance and Economics
- Law and International Relations
- Biotechnology and Life Sciences
- Media and Communications
- Art, Design and Architecture
International students should note that entry into medicine, dentistry and some other professional programmes usually follows a different and highly competitive pathway.
Where to study
Popular Universities
Popular universities among international students include:
- New York University
- Northeastern University
- University of Southern California
- Boston University
- Arizona State University
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
- Purdue University
- University of California, San Diego
- University of Washington
- University of Texas at Dallas
- University of California, Irvine
- University at Buffalo
- Michigan State University
- Pennsylvania State University
- University of Massachusetts Amherst
Good to know
Scholarships
Scholarships may be awarded based on:
- Academic achievement
- Sporting ability
- Leadership and extracurricular activities
- Artistic talent
- Financial need
- Nationality or field of study
- Research or teaching responsibilities
Funding is competitive, and many awards cover only part of the overall cost. Scholarship and financial-aid applications may also have earlier deadlines than standard admission applications. Students should begin financial planning early and apply to a balanced selection of institutions.
Good to know
Application Periods
Applications frequently open several months before the semester begins. Deadlines vary by university, programme and applicant category, so students should begin preparing approximately six to nine months in advance.
Good to know
How IEC Edu Consultancy can help
We support students throughout their journey by providing:
- Initial academic and financial assessment
- University and programme selection
- Admission-application support
- Personal-statement and document guidance
- Scholarship-application assistance
- Student-visa documentation guidance
- Interview preparation
- Accommodation and pre-departure support
- Post-arrival guidance
Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the popular courses in the USA?
Business, Engineering, Science, Architecture.
How many years do students study in the USA to get a school diploma?
13 years.
Do I need to post my academic qualifications to the university?
No.
Should I go to a public or private university?
Students should consider:
- Academic eligibility
- Strength of the intended programme
- Tuition fees and total living costs
- Scholarships for international students
- Location and climate
- Internship and career opportunities
- Campus accommodation
- International-student support
- English-language and testing requirements
- Accreditation and eligibility to issue Form I-20
Ready to study in the USA?
With thousands of institutions to choose from, the right shortlist matters. Our counsellors help you match universities to your budget and goals, and prepare your I-20 and visa file.
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