by IDP IELTS India 11 January, 2024 The USA attracts the largest population of international students globally. Renowned for its top-tier education, distinctive curriculum, diverse cultural environment, and numerous opportunities are just a few reasons why Indian students choose to study in the USA.
Numerous benefits of studying in the USA go beyond the scope of academics. The country provides high-quality education, cutting-edge research facilities, and a multicultural environment for a comprehensive learning experience.
Here are some benefits of studying in USA for Indian students:
Additionally, studying in the USA offers the advantage of working while pursuing your education. International students can work up to 20 hours per week during their studies, offering a practical means to offset education costs. Furthermore, graduates can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) after completing their studies, allowing them to stay in the USA and work for up to three years, further enriching their professional experience.
To study, work or migrate to an English-speaking country, you must take an English language proficiency test, such as IELTS. IELTS is accepted by over 3,400 institutions in the USA and at all Ivy League colleges. IELTS is available in two test formats - paper-based and IELTS on Computer. It is recognised by more than 12,000 organisations worldwide and is the most preferred language proficiency test choice by over 3.5 million people worldwide. IELTS is marked on a band score of 0-9, with 0 being the lowest and 9 the highest score.
While every university has different criteria for accepting IELTS, the top universities in the USA usually prefer a minimum IELTS band score of 6.0 for admission.
Read more: Guide on IELTS band for USA
The USA is known chiefly for its STEM courses, including Science, Technology, Engineering and Medicine courses. However, other business, management or arts courses are also popular among students aspiring to pursue a career in the USA.
Some of the most popular courses to study in the USA are:
The USA, home to some prestigious universities, offers various courses and programs for students aspiring to study in different fields.
Here is a list of the top 10 universities to study in the USA:
| S.No. | Institution |
QS Ranking 2024 (Globally) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 1 |
| 2 | Harvard University | 4 |
| 3 | Stanford University | 5 |
| 4 | University of California, Berkeley (UCB) | 10 |
| 5 | University of Chicago | 11 |
| 6 | University of Pennsylvania | 12 |
| 7 | Cornell University | 13 |
| 8 | California Institute of Technology (Caltech) | 15 |
| 9 | Yale University | 16 |
| 10 | Princeton University | 17 |
The available funds and the nature of awards differ across institutions. Some research programs, for instance, may cover up to 100% of the tuition fees and contribute towards living expenses.
Below is a list of scholarship programs customised for Indian students aspiring to study in the US:
| S.No. | >Name of the scholarship | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Fulbright- Nehru Fellowships (Government-funded) |
Applicable for international students who are applying to master’s or PhD programs; this scholarship covers tuition fees, accident and sickness coverage as per US guidelines, airfare, and living costs |
| 2 |
Hubert Humphrey Fellowship Program (Government-funded) |
This program is a part of the Fullbright program and aims to bring an accomplished young and mid-career professional from a developing country to study in the US for 10 months of non-degree graduate study and related practical experience |
| 3 | #YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarship (Non-Government scholarship) | It’s a scholarship and social media campaign designed to welcome international students into the US higher education system irrespective of the subject area |
| 4 |
UEFA (Non-Government scholarship) |
This is a summer program sponsored by Abbey Road Inc., which grants scholarships to 14-18 aged high school students that show exemplary performance in their academics and extracurricular activities |
| 5 |
AAUW International Fellowships (Non-Government scholarship) |
These fellowships are awarded to international women students for full-time study and research in the US. It supports both graduate and post-graduate students accredited in the US institutions. |
Universities in the USA are primarily categorised as either public/state or private institutions. The cost of education at a public/state university is generally lower than that of a private institution. Your tuition expenses will vary based on the type of qualification pursued and the specific university or school you choose. To cover tuition fees, you can anticipate needing approximately $8,000 to $55,000 (USD) per year (indicative).
The cost of studying in the US can vary depending on the type of program, university, and location. Tuition fees are typically the highest cost, followed by living expenses. Other costs to consider include health insurance, transportation, and taxes.
Tuition fees vary depending on the type of program and university. For example, tuition for undergraduate programs at public universities is typically lower than tuition for graduate programs at private universities.
| School | Tuition fees in USD (indicative) |
|---|---|
| English language studies | $700 to $2,000 a month |
| Community colleges | $6,000 to $20,000 per year |
|
Undergraduate bachelor degree |
$20,000 to $40,000 per year |
| Graduate programs | $20,000 to $45,000 per year |
| Doctoral degree | $28,000 to $55,000 per year |
Living expenses can also vary depending on the city and whether you live on or off campus. For example, living expenses in New York City are typically higher than living expenses in a small town in Iowa.
Setting aside expenses for grocery shopping, social activities, and emergencies is important when living as a student in a foreign country. It's advisable to monitor your expenses carefully to avoid overspending. In the US, a single student budget typically ranges from US$10,000 to US$25,000 per academic year (indicative), depending on the chosen city. When creating your budget, take into account the following common expenses:
| Expenses< | Average yearly cost*< |
|---|---|
| Books and Stationery | $500- $1000 |
| Travelling | $500- $1200 |
| Food | $2,500 |
| Clothes and footwear | $500 |
| Miscellaneous expenses | $2,000 |
Other costs include health insurance, transportation, and taxes. Health insurance is mandatory for all international students in the US. Transportation costs can vary depending on how you get around. Taxes can also vary depending on your income and residency status.
If you want to settle in the USA after completing your education, you can opt for a Skilled Worker Visa to work and attain permanent residency in the country.
You can apply for part-time on-campus work during your first year of study. International students can work up to 20 hours per week in on-campus employment. Many students opt for internships or practical training, earning university credit while working in a related field.
You can also enhance your study experience through semester or summer-long study abroad and exchange programs offered by most universities and external study abroad providers. Upon graduation, F-1 visa holders can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), allowing them to work in their chosen field for 12-24 months post-studies.
For those seeking long-term opportunities, some companies may sponsor students for an H1-B Temporary Worker Visa, enabling them to continue residing in the USA while employed by the sponsoring company. Most USA institutions feature a career services department staffed with professionals dedicated to assisting students in crafting resumes, enhancing interview skills, and looking for job opportunities.
The USA is one of the most popular study destinations for International students. The country offers an exceptional quality of education and provides various post-study job opportunities.
Additionally, IELTS for USA plays a significant role in the study visa application process, serving as proof of an applicant's English language proficiency. While a high IELTS score can enhance the chances of visa approval, it is important to recognise that other factors also contribute to the overall assessment. Prospective international students should thoroughly research the specific requirements of the institutions and countries they are applying to, ensuring they meet all criteria for a successful study visa application. Ultimately, academic qualifications, financial stability, and English proficiency will contribute to a well-rounded application with a better chance of approval.
The full form of IELTS is the International English Language Testing System. It is a globally recognised standardised test that assesses the English language proficiency of individuals who wish to study, work, or migrate to English-speaking countries. The test evaluates four key language skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The test is available in two main formats: Academic, for those seeking higher education opportunities, and General Training, which focuses on practical language skills for work and migration purposes.
The minimum required IELTS band score for the USA is an overall score of 6.5. However, to get a scholarship, students must achieve an overall IELTS band score of 7 or above in each module.
The admission requirements for studying in the USA depend on the universities you are applying to. Some basic requirements include
The education system in the United States offers international students enrolled in U.S. institutions the chance to participate in co-ops, internships, part-time, and even full-time employment. However, international students must obtain authorisation from the appropriate authorities, which can be facilitated through their school's international office or the United States Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS). Three distinct options for employment authorisation are available to international students: Curricular Practical Training (CPT), Optional Practical Training (OPT), and on-campus employment.
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