Flexible programmes, global careers
Study in the United States
Thousands of universities, flexible degree structures and strong research opportunities.
Overview
Why study in USA?
The United States has one of the largest higher education systems in the world, with thousands of accredited institutions and more international students than any other country.
American universities are known for flexible programmes, strong links with industry and research, and the chance to explore different subjects before choosing a major. Students interested in STEM, business, and research in particular often consider the USA.
World-class education
Many of the world's highest-ranked universities are in the USA.
Practical training
F-1 students may be eligible for Curricular and Optional Practical Training.
Flexible programmes
Choose from a wide range of majors, minors and electives.
Research excellence
Leading research in technology, science, medicine and business.
Cultural diversity
Study alongside students from around the world.
Innovation hub
Exposure to entrepreneurship and technology ecosystems.
Higher education
The education system in USA
US higher education includes public state universities, private universities, liberal arts colleges and community colleges. Bachelor's degrees usually take four years. Master's programmes typically take one to two years, and doctoral programmes often include teaching or research assistantships.
Types of institutions
Public universities are funded by individual states, while private universities set their own fees and often offer significant financial aid. Community colleges offer two-year associate degrees, which some students use as a pathway to a four-year university.
Universities students often explore
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Stanford University
- Harvard University
- California Institute of Technology
- University of Chicago
- Yale University
- Columbia University
- New York University
Listed for information only. This does not imply a partnership or guaranteed admission.
Programmes
Popular courses in USA
Subject areas international students frequently choose. Availability and requirements vary by institution.
- Computer Science
- Data Science
- Artificial Intelligence
- Business Management and MBA
- Engineering
- Public Health
- Finance
- Biotechnology
Eligibility
General admission requirements
- Undergraduate: Class 12 or equivalent, transcripts, essays and recommendations. Some universities consider SAT or ACT scores.
- Graduate: a relevant bachelor's degree, statement of purpose, recommendations and resume.
- Some programmes require the GRE or GMAT.
- An English proficiency test, unless the university grants a waiver.
- Financial documents showing you can fund your studies, needed for the I-20.
English language requirements
Universities commonly accept TOEFL iBT, IELTS Academic and, at some institutions, Duolingo English Test scores. Minimum scores differ by university and programme, and some institutions waive the requirement for students from English-medium institutions.
Documents commonly requested
- Passport
- Academic transcripts
- Statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
- English test score (TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo)
- Resume or CV
- Financial documents
- GRE or GMAT score, if required
Exact requirements depend on the institution, programme and visa route.
Budget
Tuition, living costs and funding
Costs differ widely between public and private universities and between cities. Public universities often charge out-of-state tuition to international students, while private universities may offer larger scholarships. Your I-20 lists the estimated annual cost that you must show you can fund.
Fees and financial requirements change regularly. Always confirm current figures on the official and institution websites listed on this page.
Scholarships and funding options
Fulbright-Nehru Fellowships
Competitive US-India government fellowships for master's and doctoral research, administered in India by USIEF.
University merit scholarships
Many universities award merit-based scholarships based on academic performance.
Assistantships and fellowships
Graduate students may receive tuition waivers and stipends for teaching or research work.
AAUW International Fellowships
Awards for women pursuing full-time graduate or postdoctoral study in the USA.
Visa
F-1 student visa: overview
Most full-time international students apply for an F-1 visa after receiving a Form I-20 from a SEVP-certified school.
Receive your I-20
Your university issues Form I-20 after admission and verification of your finances.
Pay the SEVIS fee
Pay the I-901 SEVIS fee online and keep the receipt.
Complete the DS-160
Fill in the online nonimmigrant visa application.
Book your appointment
Schedule biometrics and your interview at a US Embassy or Consulate.
Attend the interview
Bring your I-20, financial documents and academic records.
Visa decisions are made solely by the relevant government authorities and cannot be guaranteed. Rules, fees and processing times change, so always check the official sources below. Learn about our visa guidance.
Planning
Intakes and application timeline
Fall intake (August/September)
The main intake. Applications are usually due between December and March.
Spring intake (January)
Available at many universities, with deadlines typically between August and October.
Summer intake (May/June)
Offered for a limited number of programmes.
We recommend starting 12 to 18 months before your intended intake. This leaves time for research, tests, applications, scholarships and your visa. Deadlines differ by institution, so we build a personal timeline for every student.
FAQ
Studying in USA: common questions
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Planning to study in USA?
Talk to a counsellor about courses, universities and your next steps for United States.