Study in the United States

With over 3,37,630 Indian students in USA, it is emerging as the most popular destination for higher education among Indian students. The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently reported a 5% increase in student visa applications in 2023 and expectations of a 35% increase in the 2024-2025 cycle. Beyond the world-class universities. It also has a diverse culture, which exposes students to many experiences. From tech innovators to pioneering entrepreneurs, Indian students have left an indelible mark. That’s why, many students aspire to study abroad in USA and want to climb up the ladder of success.

When an Indian student plans to study abroad, their primary concerns often include university, city, and expenses. Below are key points to answer your concerns. 

 

Studying in the USA helps students connect with some of the world's brightest young minds. In 2024, 27 USA universities ranked among the top 100 in the QS World University Rankings, making it a popular destination. Students who study in USA can expect impressive earning potential, with an average annual salary ranging from INR 50 to 60 lakhs, depending on their skills and expertise. Additionally, studying in America as an international student opens doors to internships and job opportunities with leading global companies, allowing them to gain invaluable work experience and build professional networks.

 

Another factor that makes the study in USA for Indian students a premium location is the strengthening relationship between the USA and India. New policies and initiatives are coming that will pave the way to better opportunities, starting with the announcement of an additional 250,000 slots for visa applications specifically for Indian students. Hence, enhancing the appeal of studying in America.

The educational system in the USA is similar to the Indian education system thus, making all the educational certificates valid for admission. Also, the table below shows the popular universities outlining their basic requirements:

Note: The data was updated as of Oct 2024 however, if you want to explore other universities. Click here!

To study in the United States of America you are required to gain admission to study abroad in USA university, there are certain eligibility criteria that every applicant must meet. Below are the general criteria applicable to most universities:

Age Requirement:

The age requirement typically ranges from 18 to 35 years. However, this varies depending on the course. For example, for undergraduate programs, the age should not exceed 21 years.

Educational Qualification:

To study in USA for Indian students comes with specific academic requirements to grant admission to the student. Most of the universities require a minimum of 55% in your educational qualifications. Additionally, certain subjects may be required for specific programs. For example: To pursue a Bachelor’s in Biotechnology students typically require either Math or Biology in their higher education certificates.

Standard Entrance Test:

To get admission, students are required to clear standardized exams like the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). Both tests may be necessary depending on the course, and each university has its own merit list and score requirements.

English Proficiency Test:

English is the primary language in the USA and you are required to prove that you can converse in English. This is necessary to ensure that the student is familiar with the native language and faces no issues while you study in USA. To prove this you require IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE certificates, though some universities may require more than one certificate. Be sure to check and provide the necessary certificates.

Application Fee Receipt:

At the time of the application, you will be directed to a portal to pay the application fee. Remember, to save the receipt as you require it during the verification process. A confirmation will also be sent to your email.

When you have received your Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from the university, it’s time to apply for the visa application. However, the visa application does not simply start by submitting the Letter of Acceptance (LOA). You need some additional documents which are listed below:

 

• 
  Passport
• 
  Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
• 
  Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• 
  Letter of Recommendation (LOR)
• 
  I-20 Form
• 
  Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) Fee Receipt
• 
  Proof of Funds
• 
  Academic Transcripts
• 
  English Proficiency Test
• 
  DS-160 Form
• 
  Visa Application Fee Receipt

You can refer to our Visa Guide in the USA to know the detailed information on applying for a student visa.

 

The cost of living in the USA is high compared to India. Here is a quick overview of what to expect when planning to study in the USA.

The table above mentions the expected expenses which are to be demonstrated as immediate funds. If you fail to do so, it may result in the rejection of a USA student visa. However, you can use scholarships or part-time job options to get financial aid.

 

Scholarships can be a great resource for students looking for financial aid. These scholarships are categorized into two types: one that covers only tuition fees and the other which covers both tuition fees and living expenses. But, to avail of a scholarship one is required to fulfill some eligibility criteria. We have listed a few scholarships below that you can avail of to reduce the cost while you study in USA. 

This also helps you evaluate the answer to the question, “Why to study in USA?” Your study visa is for a work and study program in USA which allows students to experience education from top universities in USA for Indian students along with 20 hours/week working hours, and during those sweet vacation breaks, you can crank it up to 40 hours.

 

You can flip burgers, tutor fellow students, and even land a campus gig that can help you cover the cost of studying for Indian students. So, do not miss out on this opportunity to explore part-time jobs and keep that wallet happy while you study. Explore different types of part-time jobs here. 

How to go to America for studies comes with an easy answer and that is a study visa. However, after ending the study tenure, it’s time to plan your next steps. You have two options:

 

• 
  Extend your study visa to pursue a higher education.
• 
  Apply for a post-study work (PSW) visa or work visa.

How to Get a Post-study Work Visa?

You can use the following two ways to get your PSW Visa:

 

• 
  Optional Practical Training (OPT):

After completing your studies, you can apply for the OPT visa, which allows you to stay in the USA for an additional year after your study visa expires. You can search for a job on this visa and extend your stay for 12 months. For students pursuing degrees in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), the duration of the visa is 24 months.

 

• 
  H-1B Work Visa:

This is a work permit that allows students to stay and work in the USA for 3 years. To apply, you must have a job offer and your USA employer willing to sponsor your visa. This visa is often a stepping stone toward long-term employment and permanent residency.