STUDYIN USA
Why STUDYIN USA
The United States, known for its diversity, is a secure and welcoming destination for students, especially those hailing from India. It is a place where concerns about racism are minimal, making it a safe choice for Indian students. If you’ve made the decision to pursue your education in the USA, you can rest assured that your choice is well-regarded, as the United States is widely acknowledged as one of the top study abroad destinations in the world.
Study in the USA for Indian Students
In 2016, Indians held the distinction of being the largest recipients of high-skilled H-1B visas, and they ranked as the second-largest international student community residing in the United States. According to U.S. government records, Indian immigrants tend to have higher educational qualifications, possess strong English language proficiency, typically arrive through employment-based visas, and are less likely to fall below the poverty line compared to the broader immigrant population.
A significant portion of the Indian immigrant community is actively engaged in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. Nearly one-third of all Indian immigrants choose to reside in just two states: California and New Jersey. Furthermore, over one-quarter of Indian immigrants establish their homes in three major metropolitan areas: New York, Chicago, and San Jose.
How to apply to US universities from India?
When aspiring to pursue higher education abroad, the USA often tops the list as a preferred destination. However, many students lack clarity on the application process for American universities. While the general structure of the application process remains consistent across universities, there are unique elements for each institution. These distinctions can also vary depending on the study program and educational level.
Before initiating the application process, students must gain an understanding of crucial details. It is imperative to be aware of when to commence the application procedure for U.S. universities, the application deadlines, and the intakes available. These factors play a pivotal role in determining when students can commence their studies in the USA. Notably, American universities have two primary intake seasons: fall and spring. Unlike the system in India, U.S. universities follow a bi-semester system, dividing the academic year into two semesters. Students must make a decision regarding their preferred intake season—whether it be fall or spring. It is particularly important for those intending to pursue undergraduate or graduate-level courses to be aware of the timelines for the September 2019 intake.
Moreover, the specific requirements for admission can differ based on study programs and levels. Indian students interested in U.S. universities will generally need to meet a minimum English language proficiency standard. Additionally, a minimum academic record of 65% or higher for humanities stream in class XII, and 70% to 80% or higher for Science/Commerce stream in class XII is typically expected. For those with academic records falling below 60%, there are often options available in the form of Foundations and Diploma programs. Furthermore, students must have reached the age of 18 before enrolling in a degree program. It is worth noting that the numerical thresholds provided here are for reference purposes, as the specific requirements may vary from one university to another.
Cost of living in the USA
Living expenses
On average, a student typically incurs expenses ranging from $12,000 to $15,000 per year. However, these costs are notably influenced by the location of the student’s residence. In major metropolitan cities such as New York, San Francisco, Chicago, and others, expenses can escalate to around $18,000 per year, as compared to students studying in suburban areas where costs generally range from $10,000 to $12,000 annually. For those planning to travel to the United States, it’s beneficial to calculate the overall expenses.
The cost of living is greatly contingent on the specific region in the U.S. where you choose to reside and how socially active you are. Some fundamental components that contribute to the cost of living for international students in the U.S. include:
- Accommodation expenses (whether on campus or off campus)
- Groceries and food
- Utilities like electricity, water, gas, and internet
- Phone bills
- Expenses related to textbooks and reference materials
- Airfare for travel back to India.
Cost of Studying in the USA
Tuition fees vary depending on the university, the specific course, and the city in which you choose to study. For undergraduate programs in the United States, tuition expenses can range from approximately $10,000 to $30,000 per year. If you’re considering a postgraduate course, you can expect costs of around $15,000 to $55,000 per year. It’s essential to understand that the cost of a program at a U.S. institution doesn’t necessarily reflect its quality. Tuition fees can range from as low as $10,000 per year for state universities to as much as $50,000 per year for certain private universities.
In addition to tuition fees, various documents are typically required during the application process, including:
- Attested copies of academic transcripts for class X, XII, and the Bachelor’s degree (if applicable)
- At least two academic reference letters, often provided by professors who have taught you most recently (the number of reference letters may vary by university)
- If you have work experience, two letters of recommendation from an employer or manager who is well-acquainted with your professional capabilities
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Resume
- Essays (if requested by the university)
- Photocopied score reports of standardized tests like GMAT, GRE, IELTS, or TOEFL
- Portfolio (required for students applying to art and design courses or architecture programs)
- Additional documents such as certificates or achievements at the state and national levels, as well as extracurricular activities
- Proof of sufficient financial resources to support your education and living expenses.
Documents required for USA Visa Process
US Student Visa (F1 Visa) Requirements To pursue your education at a university or college in the United States, you will need an F1 student visa. The necessary requirements for obtaining a US Student Visa (F1 Visa) are as follows:
Study Visa Requirements for USA
US Student Visa (F1 Visa) Documentation Requirements
To apply for a US Student Visa (F1 Visa), you’ll need to provide the following documents:
Valid Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the US.
Nonimmigrant Visa Application: Complete Form DS-160 and obtain the confirmation page.
Application Fee Payment Receipt: Pay the required fee before your visa interview.
Photo: The US consulate will take your photograph during a scheduled consulate appointment. You’ll also have your fingerprints scanned. Carry the approval receipt provided by the consulate after this process.
Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (F-1) Student Status: Your school will send you a SEVIS-generated Form I-20 once your information is entered into the SEVIS database. Both you and your school official must sign this form. If you plan to have your spouse and minor children reside with you in the United States, they must also be registered with the Student and Exchange Visitor System (SEVIS).
During the personal interview, additional documents may be requested by the interviewer to demonstrate your academic and financial status, including:
- Transcripts, diplomas, degrees, or certificates from the schools you have attended
- Scores from tests required by your US school, such as the TOEFL, SAT, GRE, or GMAT
- Proof of your intent to depart from the United States upon completing your course of study
- Documentation showing your ability to cover educational, living, and travel expenses