The United States of America needs no introduction. It is the world’s oyster if you want to fulfill your dreams.

The country is a home of diverse ethnicities, the highest number of top-ranked universities, and a picturesque landscape. The USA is truly a land for opportunities, a destination for immigrants seeking new vistas. It’s a country that is not only a pioneer in technological innovation and scientific exploration, but it is also highly regarded for its motion picture industry, and art and architecture. With the most international mix of people inhabiting the US, it is a true amalgamation of various lifestyles and cultures.

The U.S. has the largest population of international students with more than 800,000 students opting this country as their most favored overseas education destination. Being one of the leading studies abroad destinations, the country opens the gateway for ample career opportunities to international students in various fields of work.

TOP MOST REASONS WHY YOU CHOOSE TO STUDY IN THE UNITED STATED OF AMERICA

The country has emerged as a leading study abroad destination known for its top-quality education. Here are the top 10 reasons why you should choose to study in the US:

1. 1. High-quality education
      The US universities can provide the best possible platform to international students, which is evident from their high rankings. Most of the universities have always held a major share in lists of top universities in the world. MIT was ranked #1 in the 2015/16 QS University Rankings, along with 10 American universities found in the top 20. The 2015/16 Times Higher Education World University Rankings placed 14 US universities in the top 20.
      The Country boasts of about 4,000 accredited centers of learning. Favorite amongst the Indian students studying in the USA are the Ivy League, large research universities, private colleges, and state universities.
   2. Wide range of programs and courses
      One of the best things about studying in the US is that this country offers a wide range of study options to students. They can study everything from Russian history to nuclear physics. Engineering and business are, however, the most sought after programs by Indians, followed by legal studies and healthcare.
   3. Flexible and comprehensive course structure
      The Country’s education system offers the most comprehensive coursework to students with an equal emphasis on both practical experimentation and theoretical learning. It also allows you to try a range of subjects before specializing in one. Even if you know exactly what you want to do, you can study additional subjects and add depth to your education.The classes are structured in a way that the students can create their curriculum and study what they love the most. Studying in the USA offers enthralling campus life includes innumerable extracurricular activities, clubs, sororities, and associations. The focus is on creating scholars who also possess strong communication, leadership, and analytical skills.
      Here, students can always have the freedom to include ideas and opinions important to the area of academic interest.
   4. Multiple scholarships and funding opportunities
      The US government offers a large number of scholarships and grants to international students who have opted for their overseas studies. Various other government and non-governmental bodies also offer external funds to students. Scholarship to students further decreases their cost of studying in the country.
   5. The international experience that strengthens your CV
      Most institutes of the country have affiliations and tie-ups with employers and researchers in different fields. This ensures ample opportunities for students to obtain invaluable hands-on experience. In many cases, these opportunities are not available anywhere else in the world which helps students to strengthen their CVs.
   6. Research and Training opportunities
      American Universities are known for its use of latest technology, research, and techniques, providing best available equipment and resources to their students so that they become capable of using the latest technology to carry out research and achieve best process information. Being a student, you can assist a Professor by being a Teaching Assistant to them so that you can broaden your knowledge and skill set.
   7. Make your stay comfortable with a part-time job opportunities
      There are plenty of part-time and full-time job opportunities for international students both on and off university campuses. Students can easily land on interesting part-time jobs while doing their undergraduate or postgraduate programs to make their cost of living easier and comfortable.
   8. Vibrant campus life
      The universities are recognized for their vibrant campus life. Students can join a club, become a leader in student councils, write for the university newsletters or pursue their hobbies. A multitude of other extra-curricular activities are offered to students where they can choose from as per their ability and interests. Students can also participate in numerous extracurricular activities, co-curricular activities, clubs, groups, associations, etc. to pass their free time.
   9. Career Opportunities
      The United States of America is the only country that provides ample career opportunities. Degree from any US University opens up a wide range of career prospects and broadens the scope of their future. International companies all over the world look for aspirants that offer them a diverse take or perspective. Hence graduates from US Universities are in great demand in the international job market.

EDUCATION IN USA

US universities offer various kinds of degrees catering to every student’s needs and interests. Students can study at any of the following levels to earn the following degrees.

• University level first stage
  o Associate Degree (AA)
  o Bachelor’s Degree (BS, BA)
  o Post-bachelor’s Diploma/Certificate
• University level second stage
  o Master’s Degree (without thesis) (MS, MA, Mengg)
  o Master’s Degree research (with thesis)(MS, MA, Mengg)
• University level third stage
  o Doctorate (Ph.D.)

TOP UNIVERSITIES

With more than 4000 universities across the nation, the USA has some of the top universities in the world. The universities and colleges offer a wide range of degrees and courses in all academic fields. One can find excellent programs at the undergraduate and graduate level of study. US degrees are recognized and accepted worldwide for their excellence.

Top 10 Universities for foreign study in the USA are:

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
• Stanford University
• Harvard University
• California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
• University of Chicago
• Princeton University
• Yale University
• Cornell University
• Johns Hopkins University
• University of Pennsylvania

 Top courses to study in the USA for Indian students

Universities in the USA offer every student a variety of courses and programs as per their area of interest. Whether it is an undergraduate or post-graduate program, there are endless options available on one’s platter. The following are the most popular degrees and courses in the USA, sought after by overseas students.

• STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics)
• Aeronautics and Aviation Science
• Business Administration
• Medical Science
• Computer Science and IT
• Biotechnology
• Political Science and International Relations
• Physical Therapy
• Hospitality
• Nursing

STUDY ABROAD IN USA: WHEN AND HOW TO APPLY

US universities accept applications all-round the year. Most programs of several universities accept new students at the start of the fall (Aug-Sep), spring (Jan-March), and very few offer summer (May-June) semesters. However, it is better to apply as early as possible because the visa process might take up a considerable amount of your time. However, if you miss the deadline, your application will be put automatically for consideration for the next available start date.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

The general criteria to apply to universities in the USA are mentioned below:

English language proficiency: 
All applicants are required to take a recognized English language proficiency test.

• For undergraduate courses, a minimum TOEFL score of 80 is required
• For post-graduate courses, a minimum of 90 is required
• For undergraduate and post-graduate programs, a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 to 7 is required

Standardized Tests
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is mandatory for all programs in the US. For certain programs, it is mandatory to have a Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) and Graduate Record Examination (GRE) test scores.

Undergraduate

• High-school diploma or 12 years of school education
• Academic Records: 9th Grade onwards
• Good academic background
• Minimum required IELTS/TOEFL/PTE Academic scores
• Standardized Tests: SAT, SAT Subject, ACT. AP
• Application Form and Application Fee
• Application Essays/ Statement of Purpose
• Letters of Recommendations
• Extra-Curricular Activities
• Financial Documents- Declaration and Certification of Finances forms

 Post-Graduate

• Recognized UG degree certificate or 16 years of education
• Academic Records: Mark sheets and Transcripts of all previous education
• Strong academic background
• Minimum required GRE/GMAT test scores
• Minimum required IELTS/TOEFL/PTE Academic scores
• Application Form and Application Fee
• Application Essays/ Statement of Purpose
• Letters of Recommendations
• Work Experience*
• Resume

STUDENT LIFE IN USA

The United States of America is the epitome of freedom, fun, equality, and opportunities.

The natives are very welcoming and friendly to international students. Most of the universities offer on-campus accommodation facilities to inspire international students to socialize and learn about various cultures. There is always something for the students to do during their time in the States. Towns are well-known for their dynamic and colorful nightlife with live shows, clubs, and entertaining zones.

Safety for International students in the United States

All Universities in the USA have systematized safety plans which offer several safety resources to international students. University Campuses are normally the safest place for international students. Every campus has police assistance for the students. Most universities have staff and faculty members to guarantee better support and guidance to international students.

Universities provide following support for international students:

• Language tuition
• International student counselors
• Visa application and processing assistance
• On arrival orientation programs
• Health, counseling, lodging, and employment service

USA STUDY VISA REQUIREMENTS

Mainly there are 3 different types of study visas issued by the USA for international students:

• F1 Visa,
• J1 Visa, and
• M1 study Visa

F-1 and M-1 study visas can be provided up to 120 days in advance of the students’ orientation day. However, international students will not be allowed to enter the country in F-1 or M-1 status earlier than 30 days before their orientation day.