Study in the USA for international students free (Updated 2024)
Estimated reading time: 19 minutes
Studying in the USA can be a dream come true for many, as it is one of the top destinations worldwide for international students. With over 1.2 million students from all over the world, American universities have earned a reputation for being among the best in the world, thanks to their high teaching standards, modern amenities, and commitment to diversity, tolerance, and human rights.
One of the biggest advantages of studying in the USA is the wide range of employment opportunities available to students, both during their studies and after graduation. This is due in part to the excellent reputation of American colleges and universities, which is recognized throughout the world. In fact, past experiences have shown that international students who study in the USA have a higher chance of finding good employment opportunities in the future.
Overall, studying in the USA is an excellent choice for anyone looking to broaden their horizons, explore new cultures, and gain valuable skills and knowledge that will serve them well in their future careers.
Overview of education in the USA
For international students, choosing to study in the USA might raise several questions. Several important aspects of pursuing higher education in the USA are briefly discussed below for overseas students:
| Criteria | Description |
| Instruction language | English |
| Required language test | IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, GRE, GMAT |
| Average tuition & fees | AUD 35,000 – AUD 50,000/ year |
| Average living cost | AUD 12,000 – AUD 24,000/ year |
| University funding sources | Grants, Scholarships, and part-time jobs |
| Intakes period | Three intakes every year. Fall, Spring and Summer |
| Student visa type | F1, J1 and M1 |
| Degree levels | Diploma, Undergraduate (Bachelor’s), and Graduate (Master’s and Ph.D.) |
| Top courses | Business and Management, Engineering and Technology, Computer Science and IT, Medicines, Health and Science, Arts and Design, Education and Teaching, Law, Business and Management, and Engineering and Management |
| Top Universities | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Stanford University, Harvard University, California Institute of Technology (Caltech), University of Chicago, University of Pennsylvania, Princeton University, Yale University |
| Top cities for students | Boston, New York, San Francisco, Chicago, Los Angeles, Washington DC |
Why study in the USA?
A wide range of colleges and universities in the USA provide uniqueness to the students that seldom can anybody finds elsewhere.Other advantages of studying in the USA include the abundance of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) courses and the equal value placed on the study of the arts and literature. The main advantages of studying in the United States abroad are:
- Every culture and tradition have contributed to the improvement of the United States. This makes the atmosphere in the USA more diverse, which will make your experience there special. Once you are aware of the reasons, you will undoubtedly decide to pursue higher education in the USA
- USA is home to the top 3 universities in the world, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Ranked 1st, Stanford University Ranked 2nd, Harvard University, Ranked 3rd. There are 151 US universities on the list of top universities according to the QS world universities ranking for 2022. This demonstrates the excellence of American higher education.
- When it comes to choosing the structure and courses, the higher education system in the USA is quite flexible.
- There is thriving student life at US colleges and universities. Universities have a wide variety of extracurricular activities available on campus.
- The USA offers many opportunities for international students to conduct research and receive training. The universities are well-equipped with the most recent technology to give their students access to cutting-edge instruction, research, and training.
- Students who attend the top US universities and learn under the direction of internationally renowned professors are in high demand on the job market.
Educational system in USA 2024-2025
After completing high school (12th standard) in the USA, students enroll in colleges and universities to pursue higher education. The American educational system offers many options for international students. Currently, there are around 4,500 accredited higher education institutions in the USA that offer three different types of degrees.
3- Bachelor’s Degree: This undergraduate degree, which takes three to four years to complete, aims to give students a solid foundation in various subjects.
5- Master’s Degree: A Master’s degree is an expert graduate degree in a certain field. It can be finished in one to three years.
6-PhD Level: Ph.D. or doctorate level focuses on the research level. In the USA, international students should show an in-depth publication record and research level to be admitted to this program. Note that students need to find a supervisor before applying for this program.
If you are an international student who chose to study in the USA, take a look at the various institutions that provide higher education in the table below:
| Institution type | Highlights |
| State University OR UNIVERSITY | This is controlled by the government. This category includes a variety of research institutions. |
| Private Universities | Managed by private organizations or group |
| Institute of Technology | Provides graduate and short-term science and technology programs. |
| Community College | Provides graduate and short-term science and technology programs. |
Credit Criteria in the USA
The academic credit systems used in the USA play a vital role in determining tuition fees, making it easier for students to transfer to other universities, and keeping track of their academic progress. This credit system is the same across all universities in the US, and the final calculation is based on the credits a student earns throughout their course.
- For a bachelor’s degree or undergraduate program, a student needs three to five credits for each course. A bachelor’s degree typically takes 120–130 credit hours to complete.
- It takes three to four credits per course for a master’s degree. In the USA, a master’s degree requires between 30 and 64 credits.
- The grade point average (GPA), which is a scale from 0.0 to 4.0, is used by the American educational system to grade pupils. These are determined for a semester based on the grades received in each subject and the number of credits acquired during that semester. A grade of 4.0 is equal to an F grade of 0.0.
Top universities in the USA (Update 2024)
American universities have a stable and proven history of providing quality education programs and courses. There are several university ranking systems in use across the world that use the following parameters to classify institutions:
1- Academic reputation of instructors and programs
2-Ease of education for international students
3-Job opportunities after graduation
Numerous prestigious colleges in the USA excel in their teaching practices and support students’ entire growth. Let’s look at the top colleges in the USA:
| Institution name | THE Ranking in 2022 | Portion of international students | Avg. tuition & fees |
| California Institute of Technology (Caltech) | 2 | 34% | $45,000-$60,000 |
| Harvard University | 2 | 24% | $20,000-$55,000 |
| Stanford University | 4 | 23% | $25,000-$58,000 |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | 5 | 33% | $45,000-$60,000 |
| Princeton University | 7 | 23% | $52,000-$60,000 |
| Yale University | 9 | 21% | $55,000-$65,000 |
| University of Chicago | 10 | 33% | $55,000-$60,000 |
| Columbia University | 11 | 35% | $60,000-$80,000 |
| Cornell University | 22 | 25% | $55,000-$65,000 |
Top courses in the USA (Update 2024)
There are numerous options for international students looking for the top programs to enroll in the USA. The US Universities are renowned for a few courses. Here is a short look at the top courses for international students to take in the USA in 2024:
- Engineering
- Agricultural Sciences
- Accountancy
- Architecture
- Management and Finance
- Tourism & Hospitality Management
- Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence
The most popular programs that international students choose to study in the USA are:
| Course | Duration | Avg. tuition & fees/year |
| Master of Science in Computer Science | 1/5-3 years | $45,000-$60,000 |
| Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering | 3-4 years | $55,000-$65,000 |
| Master of Business Administration | 1/5-2 years | $60,000-$70,000 |
| Master of Applied Economics | 1/5-3 years | $30,000-$45,000 |
| Master of Laws(LLM) | 1-2 years | $55,000-$70,000 |
| Master of Science in Data Science | 1/5-3 years | $95,000-$75,000 |
Admission Process of Universities in the USA (Update 2024)
Planning ahead is key to a smoother immigration process for international students wishing to study in the USA. In this section, we will explain the admission process in detail, along with a visual representation of the following steps required for admission.
1-Choose the course you want to study, then begin looking for the top institutions that offer it.
2-Once you’ve narrowed down your selection of institutions, visit the official university websites to learn more about the qualifications and eligibility requirements.
3-Complete the application form and upload all the necessary paperwork. Pay the application fees.
4-Wait for the colleges to respond after you’ve submitted your application.
5-After being admitted, an I-20 form will be issued to you. You require it in order to obtain your student visa.
International students must know the admission standards for various courses in the USA shown in the below table:
| Degree type | Requirements |
| Associate’s Degree | 1- high school diploma or its equivalent, with a C average 2-iBT TOEFL score of 60 |
| Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Degree | 1- Secondary education certificate, equivalent to a USA’s Year 12 certificate. 2-IELTS overall score of 6 – TOEFL overall score of 67 3-Statement of Purpose |
| Graduate (Master’s) Degree | 1-Undergraduate certificate that is equivalent to a USA Bachelor’s Degree degree or graduate diploma. 2- Required language test (IELTS overall score of 6 – TOEFL overall score of 67 3-GMAT/GRE, if required 4- CV, SOP, Recommendation letter |
| Doctorate Degree | 1- Graduate certificate that is equivalent to a USA Master’s Degree, Bachelor’s degree, or graduate diploma. 2- Required language test (IELTS overall score of 6 – TOEFL overall score of 67 3-GMAT/GRE, if required 4- CV, SOP, Recommendation letter |
Education cost in the USA
The financial commitment associated with pursuing a specific program at a university in the USA is subject to considerable variation based on the individual student’s lifestyle choices. Two primary components contribute to the overall cost of education: tuition fees and the cost of living.
1-Tuition& fees for international students in the USA
The university you select and the program you enroll in will determine the tuition cost in the USA. Your costs are significantly reduced if you can enroll in one of the public colleges in the USA. In contrast, private universities in the USA have higher tuition costs than public universities.
| Degree type | Avg. tuition & fees/year |
| Bachelor’s Degree | $ 10,000 – $ 45,000 |
| Master’s Degree | $ 15,000 – $ 65,000 |
| Doctorate Degree | $ 15,000 -$ 70,000 |
2-Living costs for international students in the USA
Again, the type of lifestyle you select will determine the cost of living in the United States for international students. You must choose student housing if your budget is limited. Additionally, some expenses cannot be avoided. The following is a breakdown of the typical cost of living in the USA for overseas students:
| Criteria | Avg. living cost/year |
| Apartment housing, including utilities | $ 12,000 – $ 15,000 |
| Books and supplies | $ 13,000 – $ 14,000 |
| Food | $ 8,000 – $ 10,000 |
| Dormitory housing | $ 7,000 -$ 12,000 |
| Transportation | $ 2,000 -$ 4,000 |
| Miscellaneous | $ 1,000 – $ 2,000 |
Top cities for international students to Study in USA
The United States offers a diverse array of cities, providing prospective students with a multitude of options to choose from. With over 50 states boasting internationally renowned universities, each city brings its unique charm and academic offerings to the table. In terms of exposure and knowledge, the educational landscape across these cities is equally enriching and enjoyable.
1. Diversity of Cities:
- From the vibrant urban atmosphere of New York City to the tech hub of San Francisco, and the cultural richness of cities like Boston and Chicago, the diversity of U.S. cities caters to a broad spectrum of preferences. Whether one is inclined towards a bustling metropolis or a more laid-back setting, there’s a city to suit every taste.
2. Internationally Renowned Universities:
- The presence of globally recognized universities spans across the nation, each contributing to the academic tapestry of its respective city. Institutions like Harvard and MIT in Massachusetts, Stanford in California, or Princeton in New Jersey, to name a few, are not only esteemed locally but also hold international acclaim.
3. Academic Opportunities:
- The academic opportunities available in these cities are extensive, covering a wide range of disciplines and specialties. Whether it’s business, technology, arts, or sciences, students can find programs that align with their academic and career aspirations.
4. Cultural and Experiential Learning:
- Beyond the classroom, U.S. cities offer rich cultural experiences, providing students with opportunities for experiential learning. Museums, theaters, art galleries, and cultural events contribute to a holistic education that goes beyond traditional academic boundaries.
5. Networking and Professional Development:
- Many U.S. cities serve as hubs for various industries, facilitating valuable networking opportunities and internships. Students can connect with professionals in their field of study, gaining insights and experiences that contribute to their overall educational journey.
6. Access to Research and Innovation Centers:
- Several cities house prominent research and innovation centers, fostering an environment conducive to groundbreaking discoveries and advancements. This exposure to cutting-edge research enhances the academic experience for students pursuing both undergraduate and graduate studies.
Here is a list of the top universities in the USA for students.
| City | Avg. living cost/month |
| Boston | $ 20,000 – $ 25,000 |
| Chicago | $ 18,000 – $ 22,000 |
| New York | $ 18,000 – $ 22,000 |
| Los Angeles | $ 18,000 -$ 24,000 |
| San Francisco | $ 18,000 -$ 24,000 |
Student visa in the USA
With a very simple visa application process, International students can study in the US. You must carefully follow all the guidelines in order to receive your visa without any issues.
A step-by-step procedure for obtaining a student visa for the United States is provided below:
1-The DS-160 visa application form must always be submitted online. Decide where you want to apply, and ensure you have all the information and supporting documentation required for the application form.
2-You will be sent an I-20 or DS-160 form after being admitted to a school with SEVP certification. The form is required to apply for a student visa to the USA.
3-At least three days before submitting your US visa application, pay your SEVIS fee. You have two options for making the payment: online or on paper. You may learn more about them on the official US Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) SEVP website.
4-You can schedule an appointment with a US consulate or embassy in your country to apply for a US student visa after receiving your SEVIS form and paying the SEVIS fee.
5-Pay the application fee for a visa. It is often called the “MRV fee” or Machine Readable Visa Fee.
6-Set up and attending a US student visa interview is the last stage. Check the embassy or consulate website to see what documentation is needed for the interview.
7-You must always submit the DS-160 visa application form online. Make your choice of where to apply, and ensure you have all the information and documents needed for the application form.
Required documents and personal information for DS-160 visa applications
- Name and birthdate
- Addresses and telephone numbers
- Passport information
- Information about the itinerary and the passengers
- Information about prior US travel
- Your American point of contact
- Details about your family, job, and education
- Background, security, and health information
- SEVIS ID and the US school or program address that you wish to enroll in (as printed on I-20 or DS-2019 form)
Remember to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled visa interview.
Top Scholarships to study in USA for international students
Students can apply for various scholarships and aids to study in the USA, which can keep them focused on their studies. Below are a few of the top scholarships available to Indian and other international students in the USA:
| Scholarship name | Who is eligible? | Benefits/amount |
| Fulbright Foreign Student Program | International Students for Graduate programs. | Includes travel, housing costs, health insurance, and tuition costs. |
| United World Colleges International Youth Scholarships | International students are pursuing a bachelor’s degree in the USA. | Full or partial fee waiver depending on the funds available. |
| Rotary Peace Fellowships | Students from abroad are enrolled in a certificate or master’s program in peace and conflict resolution. | Includes all costs associated with fees, housing, transportation, and internship and field study expenses. |
| PEO International Peace Scholarship For Women | Female enrolling in graduate programs. | $10,000 -$15,000 |
| Clark Global Scholarship Program | A full or partial fee waiver depends on the funds available. | $15,000 -$25,000 |
| Rotary International Ambassadorial Scholarships | Those Enrolled in Undergraduate and Graduate Programs | $15,000-$25,000 |
| General scholarships | Awarded Individual institutions may give fully-funded scholarships for both graduate and undergraduate study. These scholarships are available from most universities, including Stanford, Yale, and Harvard. | Varies depending on the university |
Job opportunities in the USA for international students
International students have the opportunity to work part-time in the United States even without a student visa. However, the US Government has set a limit of 20 hours per week for international students who work part-time jobs in the country. Student employment can either be on-campus or off-campus. On-campus employment refers to work done within the premises of a university or college, while work related to the university is considered off-campus. International students can work off-campus under four categories: Optional Practice Training (OPT), Curricular Practical Training (CPT), Economic Hardship, and International Organizations. Below is a table of some popular part-time positions for students in the US.
| Part-time job | Avg. income/hour |
| Receptionist | $14 |
| Food Runner | $13 |
| Tutor | $13 |
| Research Assistant | $16 |
| Library Assistant | $15 |
Job opportunities after graduation in the USA
The majority of foreign students studying in the US have an F-1 non-immigrant student visa. Depending on the degree, having an F1 visa allows them to work in the USA once their studies are complete. However, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has set certain recommendations and limitations. Here are some of the potential employment opportunities after your graduation
| Part-time job | Avg. income/year |
| Computer Science | $100,000 -$130,000 |
| Management | $100,000 -$130,000 |
| Chemical Engineering | $100,000 -$115,000 |
| Statistics/Data Sceince | $105,000 -$130,000 |
| Electrical Engineering | $95,000 -$120,000 |
Work Visa & PR in the USA
Students are permitted to remain in the country after their F1 student visa extension expires with the acquisition of an H-1B USA work visa. Students can stay and work in the US for up to 6 years with this visa.
For permanent residency in the US, students who want to stay for more than six years may apply for a green card. The following are some methods for F1 students to apply for a green card in the USA:
- Employment letter
- Marry a US citizen
- Participate in the US military service
- Receive parent or child sponsorship
- Receive parent or child sponsorship
Students who meet the aforementioned requirements will undoubtedly receive their PR in the USA. People can apply for all kinds of work possibilities in the USA if they have a PR.
Frequently Asked Questions: Study in the USA (Update 2024)
From August through May, the academic year typically consists of two to three semesters.
When it comes to universities in the US, determining the appropriate duration of an undergraduate program can be challenging. While most elite colleges require a 4-year undergraduate program, some may accept a three-year program, even if they are strong. To determine the eligibility requirements of the universities you’ve narrowed down, it is best to conduct thorough research.
You can take either IELTS or TOEFL for graduate studies in the USA. However, GRE is a mandatory exam for many programs.
When job searching, networking, and volunteering are crucial. It’s important to contact university career services and seek advice from experienced individuals.
No readmission without an employment authorization document before leaving.
American universities warmly welcome international students with open arms. With specific clubs for students from every country and designated offices for international students, they offer a great deal of assistance and support. There are numerous ways to have fun on campus as universities can be quite attractive places to participate in events and student groups due to their size. Additionally, students are exposed to a wide variety of cultures and individuals, which helps foster their personal development.
As a student, you have the opportunity to work and participate in extracurricular activities while taking the course. If attending day classes is not feasible for you, you can also opt for night classes, especially if you have a job or a child to take care of.
The current passport, an F-1 visa, an EAD card, a letter of employment with dates and pay, and any I-20s with page 3 signed by the student’s international student advisor during the previous six months authorizing travel.
That’s correct. You are still eligible to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) even if you have worked part-time for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for less than a year. However, if you have worked full-time for CPT for 12 months or longer, you no longer qualify for OPT.
Yes. Numerous colleges and universities in the US offer undergraduate and graduate pathway programs to prepare foreign students within a year. We can help you find one if you have a low GPA.
Numerous English proficiency exams, including the IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, Cambridge English test, and CAE, are accepted by American universities.
Different universities have different minimum English test scores. However, most US universities demand a minimum IELTS score of 6, a TOEFL score of 80, and a Duolingo test score of 100.
SAT or ACT scores are not required for admission at over 1,000 accredited US universities. However, to attend most elite universities, one of these exams is necessary.
Although the GRE test can improve your chances of admission to graduate programs in the USA, many American universities do not require it. As a result, you don’t need to apply and get accepted to a university.
We would be happy to assist you in applying to the American university of your choice. However, we need to review your application thoroughly to ensure that it meets the university’s requirements and assess your suitability. If your academic credentials do not match the requirements of the university, we will suggest alternative institutions that would be a better fit for you.
The academic year at most US universities typically starts between August and May. FES Advisors can help create a plan for admission dates and requirements.
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