Study in USA

Study in the USA: Top Universities, Scholarships & How to Make the Most of It

Studying in the USA is a dream for many students. Top universities, world-class education, and exciting campus life make it a top choice. But figuring out where to study, where to live, and how to succeed can feel overwhelming.

This guide breaks it down simply. Learn about the best universities, find the right accommodation, and get tips to make the most of your time abroad. Whether you’re a student planning your journey or a counsellor guiding others, this will help.

Let’s get started.

Why Study in the USA?

Thinking of studying abroad? The US could be your best choice for the following reasons.

• World-Class Education: Home to top-ranked universities like Harvard, MIT, and Stanford, offering cutting-edge programmes.
• Flexible Learning: Choose from a wide range of courses, switch majors, and design your academic path.
• Career Opportunities: Strong industry connections, internships, and post-study work options (OPT) boost job prospects.
• Innovation & Research: Access advanced labs, funding, and groundbreaking research projects. 

Top USA Universities (QS Ranking 2025)

The USA dominates global rankings with cutting-edge education and research. Here are the top US universities shaping the future.

Top Courses to Study in the USA

The USA offers world-class education with high-paying career opportunities. Here are the best courses for international students:

1. Computer Science & IT

Learn coding, AI, cybersecurity, and data science in the USA. These courses can help you fetch high-demand salaries ranging between 90,000-150,000/year.

Top Schools:

• MIT, Stanford, UC Berkeley
• Pace University (B.S. Computer Science)
• St. John’s University (M.S. Cybersecurity)

2. Business (BBA/MBA)

You can open doors to management roles in finance, marketing, and tech while studying in the US. Average MBA salary is $115,000/year.

Top Schools:

• Harvard, Wharton, NYU
• Tiffin University (MBA in Data Analytics)
• Cleveland State (BBA in Information Systems)

3. Engineering

Specialize in aerospace, software, or electrical engineering at the top US universities. Salaries range 80,000-130,000/year.

Top Schools:

• Caltech, Georgia Tech
• Wichita State (B.S. Aerospace Engineering)
• Drexel University (M.S. Cybersecurity Engineering)

4. Film & Media

Study film production, animation, or digital marketing in US. Average pay is $75,000/year.

Top Schools:

• USC, NYU Tisch
• Lander University (B.S. Digital Media Production)

5. Hospitality & Tourism

Work in hotels, resorts, or event management in the USA. Salaries range between 60,000-90,000/year.

Top Schools:

• Cornell (Hotel Administration)
• SUNY (B.S. Hospitality Management)

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Admission Process & Requirements

Learning in the USA is a huge opportunity, yet the visa and admission processes are complex.

Selecting the right course & university

With so many universities to select from, select a university that suits your academic ambitions. Location, rankings, and campus life are also important.

Take Required Tests

Standardized exams such as the SAT or ACT for undergrads and the GRE or GMAT for grad school are usually necessary. If English is not your native language, you’ll have to take the TOEFL or IELTS. AbroStudies assists you with determining which exams you require and getting ready for them.

Check Deadlines

The Application Process & Deadlines may differ from school to school, but the majority of US universities have fixed intakes during Fall, Spring, or Summer. AbroStudies keeps you informed of deadlines and ensures all your documentation is received on time.

Write a Strong SOP & Get LORs

Your Statement of Purpose (SOP) and Letters of Recommendation (LOR) are key to your application. The SOP explains why you chose your field and university, while LORs show your strengths. AbroStudies offers help with writing your SOP and connecting you with recommenders to make your application shine.

Apply for an F1 Visa

Most students need an F1 Visa to study in the USA. After being accepted by a university, you’ll need to schedule a visa interview, provide financial proof, and submit your I-20 form. AbroStudies make the visa process easier by guiding you through the steps.

USA University Intakes

Colleges and universities in the US have three major intakes: Summer, Spring, and Fall. Let’s have a look at each one of them.

Intake Application Timeline:

• Spring intake: January to May
• Summer intake: Starts around May
• Fall intake: September to December

Choosing the right intake depends on the courses available at each university. Universities may open applications for different courses at different times, so you can’t always assume one intake will work for all courses.

Which Intake is Best for You?

If you’re unsure about which intake to choose, consider factors like:

• Your academic record
• The program you want to study
• Acceptance rates at universities
• Career opportunities
• Your entrance test scores (if you haven’t taken them yet, waiting for the next intake may be better)

If you still have doubts, Abrostudies can assist you. You may schedule a complimentary video counseling session with our experienced advisors. They will walk you through the ideal intake choice, the visa application process, and the steps involved in applying so that you are well-informed.

Tuition Fees & Cost of Studying in the USA

The cost of studying in America may differ based on the type of the university and where it is located. The following is a breakdown of the living costs and tuition fees:

Tuition Fees

The tuition price is different according to the type of school:

• Public two-year colleges: Around USD 11,610 for tuition and USD 13,310 for room and board per year.
• Public four-year colleges (out-of-state): Tuition is about USD 30,780, with USD 13,310 for room and board.
• Private non-profit four-year colleges: Tuition is typically USD 43,350, and room and board costs are around USD 15,250.

For top universities like Harvard, the cost of one year for an undergraduate program is about USD 82,866. The overall inflation rate for higher education in the U.S. is around 8% annually.

Average Living Costs

Living expenses depend on where you live in the U.S. On average, students can expect to spend between USD 15,000 to USD 20,000 per year on living expenses. Costs are higher in big cities and lower in suburban areas.

In addition, there are occasional larger expenses, such as:

• Travel between India and the U.S. during vacations
• Medical expenses not covered by health insurance
• Social outings and weekend trips

Total Estimated Annual Costs

Indian students can spend an average of INR 8.85 lakhs annually on living costs while pursuing their studies in the US. This excludes tuition costs but includes daily expenses such as food, accommodation, and transportation.

Student Visa Charges 

The fee for the student visa for USA. undergraduate studies is around INR 13,056.

These fees tend to differ based on your lifestyle, university, and location you stay in, but this should give you some expectation of what to budget when studying in America.

Scholarships to Study in the USA

To qualify for US scholarships, you must also meet some requirements. Here are the things you should know:

1. Good Academic Scores: The majority of scholarships base their selection on your scholarly performance. Good grades tend to be the primary consideration.
2. Extracurricular Activities: Sometimes, scholarships will take into account your participation in extracurricular activities or volunteering as a plus.
3. Other Requirements: Some scholarships do not only ask for an application. For instance, research programs may request that you provide written assignments.
4. Clarify Eligibility: Always check the eligibility criteria for each scholarship. If you’re unsure, contact the university’s admissions office for more information.

How Much Money Can You Get Through Scholarships?

The amount of scholarship money varies. Some research programs may cover up to 100% of your tuition fees and part of your living costs. However, competition is tougher for government scholarships compared to university-specific ones. It’s best to start your scholarship application process about 8 to 12 months before your desired intake.

Popular Scholarships to Study in the US

Here are some popular scholarships that Indian students can apply for:

Fulbright-Nehru Fellowships (Government-funded)

• Available for master’s and PhD programs.
• Covers tuition fees, living costs, airfare, and accident insurance.
• PhD students receive a monthly stipend.

 

Hubert Humphrey Fellowship Program (Government-funded)

• Offers 10 months of non-degree graduate study and practical experience.
• Covers tuition fees, living expenses, airfare, and professional costs like field trips.

Includes language training for students from underprivileged backgrounds.

 

YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarship (Non-Government)

• Aimed at international students in any field.
• Requires an essay or video on promoting intercultural exchange.
• Offers 50% of tuition fees for undergraduate programs.

 

IEFA Summer Scholarships (Non-Government)

• For high school students aged 14-18.
• Offers $1,000 scholarships for outstanding academic and extracurricular performance.

 

AAUW International Fellowships (Non-Government)

• For women studying or researching in the US.
• Amount: $20,000 for Master’s degrees and $25,000-$50,000 for graduate or postdoctoral research.
• Scholarships can last up to five years.

University-Specific Scholarships

Many US universities also offer their own scholarships for international students, including Indian students. Be sure to check the scholarship opportunities at your chosen university.

Student Visa Requirements for the USA

If you’re planning to study in the U.S., you will need an F-1 student visa. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand the F-1 visa, its requirements, and how to apply for it.

What is an F-1 Visa?

The F-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa for international students who want to study in the U.S. It allows you to attend a certified school or university in the U.S. You can apply for this visa only after an accredited US institution has accepted you. The F-1 visa duration depends on the program you’re enrolled in, and you will be required to complete your degree by the expiration date mentioned in your I-20 form.

F-1 Visa Requirements

Here are the key requirements you need to meet for your F-1 visa application:

1. Institution Certification: Your school must be approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
2. Full-time Enrollment: You must be a full-time student at the institution during your academic term.
3. English Proficiency: You must meet your school’s English language requirements or take courses to improve your English if necessary.
4. Sufficient Funds: You need to prove that you have enough money to cover your tuition fees and living expenses while studying in the U.S.
5. Valid Passport: Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your program’s completion date.
6. Home Country Residency: You must show that you have a residence in your home country and plan to return after completing your studies.

How to Apply for an F-1 Visa?

Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for your F-1 visa:

1. Get Accepted by a SEVP-Certified Institution: Before applying for a visa, you need to be accepted by a school or university certified by SEVP. Once accepted, you will receive an I-20 form, which is necessary for your visa application.
2. Pay the SEVIS Fee: Pay the SEVIS fee before applying for your visa.
3. Complete the DS-160 Application: Fill out the DS-160 visa application form.
4. Schedule Your Visa Interview: You can schedule an appointment for your visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country.
5. Attend Your Visa Interview: Go for your visa interview using the required documents.

Once these steps are completed, you can submit your F-1 visa application and await approval.

Student Life in the USA

Here are some important things you should know about student life in the US:

• Campus Life Is the Heart of Your Experience

In the US, college life differs from high school. The majority of students are housed on-campus in dormitories offered by the university. You will thus sleep, eat, study, and socialize within the campus. Your studies, extracurricular activities, and social time will all have a great bulk of their composition around the university.

• Build Relationships with Your Professors

During your first year, attempt to take one class with a smaller number of students. It is easier to bond with your professors when class size is limited. This rapport may prove beneficial later on, either for guidance, mentorship, or recommendation letters for jobs or internships.

• Get Involved in Co-Curricular Activities

Most American universities have sports facilities and nightlife. In addition to that, there are plenty of clubs and societies to become a part of, from sports teams to music clubs and performing arts. Membership in a club for your subject can also be a source of practical experience. And taking part in competitions or winning prizes will look great on your resume.

• Don’t Worry About Choosing a Major Right Away

In the US, you don’t need to choose your major (the area of study) in your first year. You may take various subjects and choose your major in your second year. This allows you time to discover what you actually like and what suits your career aspirations.

• Volunteer and Community Work

Volunteering for social causes can have a significant impact on your resume. Working on jobs that reflect leadership, teamwork, and management skills can stand you out during job applications upon graduation.

Part-Time Jobs for Students

Here’s a concise table summarizing the top part-time jobs for students in the US with average pay:

Post-study Work & Career Opportunities

After graduating in the U.S., international students can stay and work through programs like Optional Practical Training (OPT). Here’s how it works:

OPT Basics

Eligibility:

• You must have an F-1 or M-1 student visa.
• Your job must relate to your major (e.g., engineering graduates work in engineering roles).
• Apply before finishing your degree.

Duration:

• 12 months for most degrees.
• 24 extra months for STEM degrees (science, technology, engineering, and math).

Work Rules:

• Pre-Completion OPT: Work part-time (≥20 hrs/week) while studying.
• Post-Completion OPT: Work full-time (40 hrs/week) after graduating.

How to Apply?

Get Your School’s Approval:

• Contact your Designated School Official (DSO) for an OPT recommendation.

Submit Form I-765:

• Apply online via the USCIS portal. Include fees, passport photos, and copies of your visa/I-20.

Wait for Approval:

• Processing takes 3–5 months. Once approved, you’ll get an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

Conclusion

With the best universities providing various programs, you get an opportunity to discover your interests and follow your dreams while studying in the USA. Ensure that you select a university that suits your objectives, and don’t forget to book your accommodation well in advance.

By engaging on campus, connecting with professors, and finding the right balance between academics and extracurricular activities, you can get the best out of your time in the US. Don’t forget, your experience is not only about acquiring a degree; it’s also about growth, cultural exchange, and setting up for your future career.

Take time to learn about the visa process, scholarships, and cost of living. With proper guidance and preparation, studying in the USA can be one of the best things you ever do. Contact experts at Abrostudies for admission or visa support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the cost of studying in the USA?

The average annual tuition is $11,610 (public in-state) to $30,780 (public out-of-state). Private colleges cost ~$62,990 including fees, housing, and supplies. Living expenses range from $10,000-$18,000/year, with rent adding $1,500-$2,500/month.

Q2. Is it difficult to get a US student visa?

It requires strong documentation: acceptance from an SEVP-approved school, Form I-20, proof of funds ($30,000+), and ties to your home country. Visa rejection rates are high if financial proof is unclear or intent to return isn’t demonstrated.

Q3. What is the most regarded degree in the USA?

STEM fields (Computer Science, Engineering) and healthcare (Nursing, Pharmacology) are highly valued. Computer Science offers a median salary of $136,620 with 23% job growth by 2032. Economics and Applied Mathematics also rank high for earning potential.

Q4. Can I study for free in the USA?

No, but scholarships (merit/need-based) and assistantships can reduce costs. Public universities offer lower tuition for in-state students ($11,610/year). Some institutions provide full-ride scholarships for exceptional applicants, but living expenses remain.

Q5. What is the minimum bank balance requirement while applying for a US student visa?

There is no fixed amount, but you must show funds covering one year of tuition + living costs, which may cost more than $30,000. Proof includes bank statements, sponsorships, or scholarships. Insufficient documentation is a common reason for rejection.