The US has many of the world’s greatest educational institutions, and is a preferred destination for international students. The country provides abundant career opportunities; from healthcare to law, tourism, finance and management, the scope is wide. Moreover, the American education focuses on both theoretical learning and practical experimentation and knowledge. The vibrant campus environment is another reason to choose a US university. The education system in America is extremely student-friendly. The country has emerged as a leading study abroad destination known for its top-quality education

1. Exciting programs and courses to choose from

   The US universities offer diverse course programmes, catering to the need of every individual and their individual preferences. You can study everything from medieval history to astrophysics. Engineering and business are, however, the most sought-after programmes by Indians, followed by legal studies and healthcare.

2. Exceptional education delivered

   The high rankings of the American universities speak for themselves. The quality of education served to the international students in the U.S. is considerably better than most of the universities abroad. MIT was ranked #1 in the 2015/16 QS University Rankings, along with 10 American universities found in top 20. The 2015/16 Times Higher Education World University Rankings placed 14 US universities in the top 20.

3. Versatile and inclusive course structure

   The emphasis on the importance of both practical and theoretical learning is strongly practiced in the universities of America. Further, they customize your course structure. This allows you to try a range of subjects before specialising in one. At the graduate level, i.e. master’s degree, you can customize your course according to your coursework to fit your academic goals.

4. Vibrant campus life

   The U.S. universities are recognized for their lively campus life. Students can join a club, become a leader in student councils, write for university newsletters or pursue their hobbies. Multitude of other extra-curricular activities is offered to students where they can choose from as per their ability and interests.

5. Multiple scholarships and grants

   The US government offers several scholarships and grants to international students who have opted their overseas studies.

6. Research and training opportunities

   The ways of the west never fail to astonish. The vast use of latest technology, research techniques and equipment out-stands the quality of the American institutions. The students get the chance to experience a highly professional and advanced methods of research and training. Under the vigilance of qualified professors, students get to grasp knowledge they wouldn’t have been able to acquire otherwise. Being a student, you can assist a Professor by being a Teaching Assistant to them. Hence you can broaden your knowledge and skill set.

7. Part-time job prospects

   One of the goals of the university students is to start earning while learning. The array of part-time and full-time job opportunities helps the students be more independent. International students feel that this opportunity gives them a sense of confidence and independence. Students can easily land interesting part-time jobs while doing their undergraduate or postgraduate programme to make your cost of living easier and comfortable. International students are paid regular wages as per the market value.

8. Career opportunities

   The mix of your experiences on and off-campus can land you on a wide path of career opportunities. Companies strive to hire skilled individuals. A degree from a US university opens up a wide range of career prospects. International companies all over the world look for aspirants that offer them with a diverse take or perspective.

9. Exclusive foreign experience in CV

   The participation in on-campus and off-campus activities improves the value of an individual strongly. Most institutes have affiliations and tie-ups with employers and researchers in different fields. This ensures ample opportunities for students to obtain invaluable hands-on experience. The experience you gain will be the experience you’ll be measured by. More the experience, the wider will be the range. Students are provided with connections and affiliations at American universities, which is an opportunity not many other overseas institutions offer.

10. Work permit/Post study work right in USA

    The US study visa (F-1 student visa) permits international students to work 20 hours per week during week days and 40 hours per week during session breaks. Students get an hourly wage of 7-12 USD. That means 20 hours per week for 7 USD will give 540 USD in a month.J-1 visa holders may be employed on the campus of the school in which they are enrolled to a maximum of 20 hours per week while school is in session (full-time during official school breaks) only with prior authorization in SEVIS from the Responsible Officers (RO) or Alternate Responsible Officers (ARO) of their designated programme.

US universities offer various type of degrees catering to every student’s needs and interests. You can study at any of the following levels to earn the following degrees.

University level first stage:

1. Associate Degree (AA)
2. Bachelor’s Degree (BS, BA)
3. Post-bachelor’s Diploma/Certificate

University level second stage

1. Master’s Degree (without thesis) (MS, MA, Mengg)
2. Master’s Degree research (with thesis)(MS, MA, Mengg)

University level third stage

1. Doctorate (Phd)

With more than 4000 universities across the nation, USA has some of the top universities in the world. The universities and colleges offer a wide range of degrees and courses in all academic fields. One can find excellent programmes at the undergraduate and graduate level of study. US degrees are recognized and accepted worldwide for their excellence.

Top 10 Universities for foreign study in the USA are:

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
2. Stanford University
3. Harvard University
4. California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
5. University of Chicago
6. Princeton University
7. Yale University
8. Cornell University
9. Johns Hopkins University
10. University of Pennsylvania

Universities in the USA offer every student a variety of courses and programmes as per their area of interest. Whether it is an undergraduate or post-graduate programme a student wants to enrol in, there are endless options on one’s platter. Following are the degrees and courses universities from the USA are known for:

1. STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics)
2. Aeronautics and Aviation Science
3. Business Administration
4. Medical Science
5. Computer Science and IT
6. Biotechnology
7. Political Science and International Relations
8. Physical Therapy
9. Hospitality
10. Nursing

The U.S. accepts applications all-round the year. Most programmes and courses accept new students at the start of the Fall (Aug- Sep), Spring (Jan- March), and very few offer summer (May- June) semesters. However, it is better to apply as early as possible because the visa process tends to take up a considerable amount of time. But don’t you worry, if you miss the deadline, your application will be put automatically for consideration for the next available start date.

The general criteria to apply to universities in the USA are mentioned below: English language proficiency: All applicants are required to take a recognised English language proficiency test.

• For undergraduate courses, a minimum TOEFL score of 80 is required. For post-graduate courses, a minimum of 90 is required.
• For undergraduate and post-graduate programmes, a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 to 7 is required.

Standardized Tests

• The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is mandatory for all programmes in the US. For certain programmes it is mandatory to have Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) and Graduate Record Examination (GRE) test scores.

Undergraduate

• High-school diploma or 12 years of school education
• Academic Records: 9thGrade onwards
• Good academic background
• Minimum required IELTS / TOEFL/PTE Academic scores
• Standardized Tests: SAT, SAT Subject, ACT. AP
• Application Form and Application Fee
• Application Essays/ Statement of Purpose
• Letters of Recommendations
• Extra-Curricular Activities
• Financial Documents- Declaration and Certification of Finances forms

Post-Graduate

• Recognised UG degree certificate or 16 years of education
• Academic Records: Mark sheets and Transcripts of all previous education
• Strong academic background
• Minimum required GRE/GMAT test scores
• Minimum required IELTS / TOEFL/PTE Academic scores
• Application Form and Application Fee
• Application Essays/ Statement of Purpose
• Letters of Recommendations
• Work Experience*
• Resume

The American society is generally known as the epitome of freedom, fun and opportunity. The USA natives cordially welcome the international students. Most of the universities offer on-campus accommodation facilities to inspire international students to socialize and learn about various cultures. Towns are well-known for their dynamic and colourful nightlife with live shows, clubs, and entertaining zones. There is always something for the students to do during their time in the States.

Safety for International students in the United States

• All universities in USA have systematized safety plans, and offer several safety resources to the international students. Campuses are normally the safest place for the international students. Every campus has police assistance for the students. Most universities have staff and faculty members to guarantee a better support and guidance to international students whether it is related to accommodation, visa status or career opportunities.

Universities provide following support for the international students:

• Language tuition
• International student counsellors
• Visa application and processing assistance
• On arrival orientation programmes
• Health, counselling, lodging and employment service

Mainly there are 3 different types of study visas issued by USA for international students namely F1 Visa, J1 Visa, and M1 study Visa.F-1 and M-1 student visas for USA can be provided up to 120 days in advance of your orientation day. However, international students will not be allowed to enter the country in F-1 or M-1 status earlier than 30 days before your orientation day.