USA

STUDY IN USA

The United States is a highly sought-after study destination globally. It’s essential for them to grasp key factors such as admission requirements, tuition costs, and post-study work opportunities before making their decision.

Important details regarding study in USA

Medium of study – English
Degrees – Undergraduate, post-graduate, Doctoral.
Study Cost per year – $20,000 to $70,000.
English Proficiency Exams required – IELTS, TOEFL
Funding Source – Personal savings, educational loans, sponsorships, scholarships, financial aid from universities or external organisations.
Admission Intake – Septemper
Type of Visa – SFt-1 Academic Visa

Why Study in USA

The USA is a popular choice for students globally. Here are some key reasons why many opt to study there: first, the US education system is highly regarded and offers many opportunities for career growth.

Wide Range of Academic Programs: American higher education institutions provide a vast array of academic programs and majors, giving students the opportunity to explore different fields. Whether you’re interested in the arts, sciences, business, or engineering, you’re sure to find a program in the United States that suits your needs.
World-Class Institutions: Many U.S. universities are consistently ranked among the best in the world, providing high-quality education and resources.
Cultural Diversity: The U.S. is home to students from all over the globe, offering a rich cultural experience and the chance to develop a global network.
Innovative Teaching Methods: American education often emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and hands-on learning, equipping students with skills that are highly valued in the workforce.
Personalization : US. education is marked by its emphasis on individualization, allowing students to create a personalized academic path. By choosing courses across different subjects, they are empowered to build a learning experience that aligns with their interests and future goals. This approach enables them to design an education that truly reflects their passions and ambitions.
Research Opportunities: Many institutions offer extensive research opportunities, allowing students to work alongside leading experts in their fields.
Language Proficiency: Studying in an English-speaking country helps improve language skills, which can be a significant advantage in the global job market.
Career Advancement: A degree from a U.S. institution can enhance job prospects, as many employers value the American education system’s reputation for excellence.
Extracurricular Activities: American universities offer a variety of clubs, sports, and organizations, helping students develop well-rounded skills and friendships.
Support Services: Most universities provide extensive support for international students, including orientation programs, counselling, and academic assistance.
Pathways to Residency: Studying in the U.S. can provide opportunities for internships and work after graduation, potentially leading to longer-term residency options.

Most Popular Courses in USA

In America, students enjoy a wide array of educational options, from leisure courses to professional programs, with this article exploring various types and their approximate tuition fees.As a top destination for education, the U.S. attracts students worldwide, offering popular programs like Business Administration, Computer Science, Engineering, Medicine, and Liberal Arts, each focusing on essential skills and interdisciplinary knowledge.

Degree	Average Course Fee Per Year
Business Administration	$25,000 - $70,000
Computer Science	$25,000 - $60,000
Engineering	$30,000 - $70,000
Medicine	$35,000 - $60,000
Liberal Arts	$20,000 - $50,000

Prominent Universities in USA

The United States boasts a wide range of universities and colleges, which can be quite overwhelming for international students. Here’s a list of top U.S. universities for students from Nepal, highlighting some of their best programs along with average tuition fees.

University	Popular Courses	Tution Fees
Harvard University	Business Administration, Law, Medicine, Computer Science	Approximately $54,000 per year
Stanford University	Engineering, Business, Law, Education	Around $56,000 per year
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	Engineering, Computer Science, Economics, Management	About $57,000 per year
California Institute of Technology (Caltech)	Physics, Engineering, Chemistry, Biology	Roughly $56,000 per year
University of Chicago	Economics, Business, Law, Social Sciences	Approximately $62,000 per year
Columbia University	Journalism, Business, Law, Medicine	About $66,000 per year
Yale University	Law, Drama, Environmental Studies, Political Science	Approximately $64,000 per year
Princeton University	Engineering, Public Policy, Humanities, Social Sciences	Around $57,000 per year
University of Pennsylvania	Business (Wharton), Nursing, Education, Law	Roughly $63,000 per year
Johns Hopkins University	Public Health, International Relations, Engineering, Medicine	About $60,000 per year

Additional Costs

Room and Board : $15,000 – $20,000 per year

Books and Supplies : $1,000 – $2,000 per year

Health Insurance: $2,000 – $3,000 per year

University intakes in USA

In the U.S., most universities have two main intakes for international students:

Fall Semester (August/September): This is the most common intake, with many programs starting in late August or early September. It’s ideal for those looking for a full academic year.

Spring Semester (January): Some universities offer a spring intake for students who may have missed the fall application deadlines or prefer to start their studies in January.

Additionally, some institutions have Summer Sessions (May/June), but these are less common for full degree programs and more often for short courses or continuing education

Intake	Application Deadline	Start Date	Notes
Fall Semester	December - April	August/September	Most common intake : full academic year
Spring Semester	September – November	January	Limited programs available; ideal for late starters
Summer Session	Varies (usually February - April)	May/June	Short courses; nottypically for full degrees.

Key Points

Fall Intake: Preferred by most students; more programs and funding options available.

Spring Intake: Some universities allow entry, but options might be limited.

Summer Session: Focus on specific courses or skills, not ideal for degree programs.

Always verify specific deadlines with the universities you’re interested in, as they can vary significantly.

Criteria for Studying in USA

Research and Choose a Program: Identify the universities and programs that align with your academic and career goals.
Standardized Tests: Undergraduate Students: SAT or ACT scores may be required. Graduate Students: GRE, GMAT, or other relevant tests depending on the program.
English Language Proficiency : TOEFL or IELTS: Most universities require proof of English proficiency. Minimum scores vary by institution.
Application Materials:
Completed Application Form: Most universities have their own online application system.
Transcripts: Official academic records from your previous schools.
Letters of Recommendation: Typically, 2-3 letters from teachers or professionals.
Personal Statement or Essay: Explaining your academic interests and goals.
Resume/CV: Highlighting your academic and extracurricular achievements.
Financial Documentation: Proof of funds to cover tuition and living expenses (bank statements, sponsorship letters, etc.). Some universities may require a specific financial form to be filled out.
Visa Application:
Form I-20: Issued by the university upon acceptance. This is necessary for the visa application.
Student Visa (F-1 or M-1): Apply at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country. You’ll need to Complete the DS-160 form (Online Non-immigrant Visa Application).
Pay the SEVIS fee.
Attend a visa interview.
Health Insurance : Some universities require proof of health insurance. Check specific requirements.
Housing Arrangements: Decide whether to live on-campus or off-campus. Arrange accommodations before arrival.
Prepare for Arrival : Familiarize yourself with U.S. culture, academic expectations, and local customs. Make travel arrangements.

Additional Tips
Deadlines: Pay attention to application deadlines for each institution.
Contact Admissions Offices: If you have questions, reach out to the university’s international admissions office for guidance.

Expenses in USA

Tuition and Fees
Undergraduate Programs: $20,000 – $60,000 per year
Graduate Programs: $20,000 – $50,000 per year
Community Colleges: $10,000 – $20,000 per year
Living Expenses
Housing: $5,000 – $15,000 per year (on-campus may be more expensive)
Food: $3,000 – $6,000 per year
Utilities: $1,000 – $2,000 per year
Transportation: $500 – $1,500 per year (depends on location )
Textbooks and study Materials: $1,000 – $2,000 per year
Health insurance: $500 – $3,000 per year
Personal expenses : $2,000 – $4,000 per year

Scholarships in USA

International students in the U.S. can find valuable scholarships to help with tuition and living expenses, often based on academic achievement, extracurriculars, or unique backgrounds. Universities offer their own scholarships, along with options from external organizations and government programs. It’s crucial for students to review eligibility requirements and submit applications before deadlines.

Scholarship Name	Amount	Eligibility Criteria
University Merit Scholarship	$5,000 - $20,000	Academic achievement
Global Diversity Award	$10,000	Underrepresented Backgrounds
STEM Excellence Scholarship	$15,000	Major in STEM fields
Athletic Scholarship	Varies	Exceptional athletic ability
Community Service Grant	$2,500	Demonstrated leadership and community service
Fulbright Foreign Student Program	Varies Graduate	students from select countries
Rotary Foundation Global	Up to $30,000	Community service and leadership potential
AAUW International Fellowship	$18,000	Women pursuing Graduate studies

Post-Study Work Opportunities in USA

International students in the USA have several post-study work opportunities, primarily through the Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT) programs. Here’s a summary:

Optional Practical Training (OPT)
Duration: Up to 12 months for most students; STEM graduates can apply for a 24-month extension (total of 36 months).
Eligibility: Must have completed at least one academic year in the U.S. on an F-1 visa.
Field of Work: Must be directly related to the student’s major area of study.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
Duration: Can be part-time (20 hours/week) during school or full-time during breaks.
Eligibility: Must be enrolled in a program that requires practical training; usually available only for students who have completed at least one academic year.
Field of Work: Must be an integral part of the curriculum.
H-1B Visa (Specialty Occupations)
After OPT, students may apply for an H-1B visa to work in the U.S. in a specialty occupation. This requires employer sponsorship.
Duration: Initially granted for three years, with the possibility of extension.
Employment-Based Green Card
Some graduates may qualify for a green card through employment sponsorship, depending on job offers and qualifications.
Networking and Job Search Resources
Many universities offer career services, job fairs, and networking events to help students connect with potential employers.
Optional Practical Training for Entrepreneurs (OPT-E)
Aspiring entrepreneurs with unique ideas can benefit from initiatives like the Optional Practical Training for Entrepreneurs (OPT-E) and the Startup Visa program to launch and grow their businesses in the U.S

Job Title	Average Annual Salary
Software Engineer	$110,000
Data Analyst	$85,000
Marketing Manager	$95,000
Financial Analyst	$80,000
Registered Nurse	$75,000
Graphic Designer	$65,000
Sales Representative	$70,000
Mechanical Engineer	$90,000
Project Manager	$100,000
Customer Service Manager	$60,000

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I study in USA ?

Studying in the USA offers access to top universities, a diverse learning environment, and a focus on practical skills and innovation, while also enhancing cultural understanding and language proficiency, ultimately preparing students for a global job market.

What is the acceptable study gap in USA ?

In the USA, a study gap of one to two years is generally considered acceptable, especially if you can explain it positively—such as gaining work experience, volunteering, or pursuing personal development. Gaps longer than two years might raise questions, but providing a clear and constructive narrative can help

What are the benefits studying in USA offer ?

Studying in the USA provides access to top-tier education, renowned faculty, and advanced research facilities, while fostering innovation and critical thinking in a diverse, multicultural environment that opens doors to numerous career opportunities and valuable professional networks.

Is USA good option for international students ?

Yes, the USA is a great option for international students. It offers high-quality education, diverse programs, and a welcoming environment. Many universities provide robust support services, including language assistance and career guidance. Additionally, studying in the USA allows for cultural exchange and networking opportunities, which can be beneficial for future careers.

What is the GPA required to study in USA ?

GPA requirements for studying in the USA vary by university, program, and level. Each institution establishes its own admission criteria, with many competitive schools looking for a GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. However, GPA is just one aspect of the application; standardized test scores such as SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT), recommendation letters, essays, and extracurricular activities also play a significant role. It’s best to consult with counsellors for specific GPA requirements for the programs you are interested in.