What Does The US Offer As A Study Abroad Destination?

The US has always been a popular study abroad destination. More than 2 lakh Indian students are studying in the US. Here are some reasons:-

Variety Of Choices | One reason is the available opportunities, with the US having more than 4700 higher education institutes that provide great flexibility when choosing undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

Research Opportunities | US universities offer excellent research infrastructure to students. Apart from this, another advantage of studying in the US is that there are numerous scholarship options. The universities also offer good professional training opportunities.

Public And Private Universities | The US has both public and private universities. There is no difference in quality of education, but public universities tend to be more affordable than private ones. However, private universities offer more funding options to students in the form of scholarships and fee concessions. The other kinds of institutions in the US include:-

• Liberal arts colleges that offer multi-disciplinary curriculum for undergraduate degrees.
• Community colleges which offer associate degrees which are similar to a vocational degrees
• Specialised institutions that offer specialised courses such as design, arts, fashion etc.

Also Read | Things To Know Before Choosing The USA As A Study Destination

5 Steps To Studying In The US

In analysing the application process to study in the US, EducationUSA has come up with five steps that student applicants can follow to finish their application process in a timely and structured manner. The whole process takes about a year for completion. Here are the five steps in more detail:-

Research Your Options

To study in USA, for international students there are more than 4700 schools in the US. Selecting 10 schools out of them is difficult. When selecting your college, you may consider rankings, but try to go beyond and research the colleges based on what you are looking for. Narrow down your choices. Check the university websites for authentic information and application requirements.

Research Funding Options

Once you shortlist your universities, have a frank discussion about the funds with your parents or other sponsors whether you have enough funds to pay your tuition fee and living costs. Explore CPT, OPT, and Co-op programs (internship programs). However, they cannot be relied on as your primary sources of funds. Explore funding opportunities such as scholarships, loans, or other financial aid.

Make a financial plan, prepare your documents, and check for deadlines of universities.

Complete Your Application

Identify the university’s application requirements and know the application deadlines. Ensure you have taken the required tests (IELTS, TOEFL, SAT, GRE, GMAT, etc.). Get your transcripts ready, submit your application essays and resume. Take your application deadline seriously and submit all documentation well before the deadline. Study in USA for international students follows a holistic application process where every component of your application is important. So, ensure all the parts of your application are in perfect order.

Know The Application Requirements And Deadlines To Complete Your Application

Apply For Student Visa

After you submit your application, acceptance and funding (between Feb-April) select your university and get your confirmation of admission or the I-20 document. With this you can prepare your visa application.

Prepare For Your Departure

Start the process one to three months prior to your departure. Make your accommodation arrangements in the US. Pre-departure prep includes having enough copies of documents that you need to carry. Prepare for your departure based on the communication received from your university and reach out to relevant student associations in your university, as and when required.

Check CDC for COVID related requirements before you leave. Ensure that you get your medical certificate and vaccinations based on the requirements communicated by the university. It is better to attend the pre-departure orientation organised by your university to avoid any hassles when you land in the US.

Academic Life In The US

• Study in USA for international students follows a learner-centred classroom model with a lot of classroom interaction.
• For studying in the US, you must attend student orientations to get a clear overview of what is expected of you.
• Academic integrity is important.
• You should be aware of cultural differences while living in the US.
• Student campuses are equipped with international student services to help and guide international students.

Costs Of Studying In The US

The cost of studying in USA for Indian students includes the tuition fees and the living expenses, will vary based on the university and the city where you will be studying. The average cost, however, will be between 30,000 to 80,000 USD.

Part-Time Jobs

To cover up the cost of studying in USA for Indian students, the university has on-campus jobs where students can work upto 20 hours a week. Off-campus work is not allowed. They can work as assistants in cafes, libraries, and the various departments of universities. The average pay will be 20 USD per hour. Graduate students can work as teaching/graduate assistants or research assistants, and will be given a stipend for this.