The USA boasts one of the world’s largest and best education systems, offering programs across all disciplines. Qualifications from US universities are globally recognized for their academic excellence. The country provides a wide range of educational choices and hosts research universities dedicated to higher education and innovation.

The USA is a global leader in technological innovation and is home to the prestigious Ivy League universities. It is a top destination for international students, not only for its academic offerings but also for its rich cultural experiences. The multicultural environment in the USA allows students to build relationships with people from around the world.

Many US universities offer internship opportunities, helping students gain hands-on experience and kickstart their professional careers. These internships can significantly enhance employment prospects after graduation. Additionally, the USA provides good financial assistance and scholarships for international students.

According to the QS World Ranking 2023, 27 of the top 100 universities are in the USA. Similarly, the Times Higher Education Ranking has placed seven American universities in its top 10 list.

The US education system is flexible, allowing students to choose both course content and structure. With over 4,500 accredited universities and institutions to choose from, students have ample options. Moreover, the USA offers post-study stay-back visas (OPT) for up to three years for STEM program graduates. The country also boasts 12 of the best student cities in the world, according to QS Best Student Cities 2023.

Traditions & Culture: While the USA’s culture has Western origins, it is also influenced by a multicultural spirit, including Native American, African, Asian, Pacific Island, and Latin American cultures. Over time, the USA has developed its unique social and cultural characteristics. This large-scale migration of people from diverse countries has resulted in an ethnically and racially diverse culture.

Food: As one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world, the USA has developed distinct flavors. American cuisine is heavily influenced by European and Native American traditions. Popular foods like hamburgers and apple pie are iconic. The USA offers a variety of foods from different cultures and unique fusions of culinary traditions.

Safety: The USA is considered one of the friendliest and safest countries, with high living standards. Universities prioritize maintaining round-the-clock security for their students and are recognized globally for implementing effective campus safety measures.

Welfare:

• Health: The American healthcare system is among the best globally. Most campuses offer general medical facilities and have resident doctors. On-campus medical services are reasonably priced, and students are required to have approved health insurance during their study period in the USA.

Transport:

• Air: Given its vast area, air travel is common for both intrastate and interstate journeys. All major cities are well connected by air.
• Rail: The rail network, once a crucial part of the nation’s transport system, still connects many cities and towns. Students often receive travel cards with attractive discounts.
• Bus: Buses are the most common mode of transport within cities or to nearby towns, especially where self-transport options like cars are unavailable. Both small and large towns have extensive bus networks, and students can avail themselves of discounted bus passes.
• Metro: The USA has one of the largest metro systems globally, operating in 25 of the 50 states. Subways provide 24/7 service and are widely used in major cities like Chicago, New York, and Philadelphia.
• Car: Cars are the most common and widely used mode of transport, thanks to the extensive road network, making travel by car convenient within and between cities.

Languages: While nearly every language is spoken in the United States, the most frequently spoken non-English languages are Spanish, Chinese, French, and German.

Religion: Almost every known religion is practiced in the United States, which was founded on the principle of religious freedom. About 70% of Americans identify as Christians.

Arts & Culture: American arts culture is rich and varied, extending beyond movies and television. New York’s Broadway is a testament to the country’s theatrical history. American folk art, characterized by quilts and other hand-crafted items, is unique. The diversity of American music includes rhythm and blues, jazz, gospel, country, bluegrass, rock ‘n’ roll, and hip hop.

Sports: The USA is a sports-minded country, with millions of fans following football, baseball, basketball, and hockey. Baseball, often called America’s favorite pastime, holds a special place in the nation’s heart.

Celebrations & Holidays: The USA celebrates several unique holidays:

• Independence Day (July 4): Celebrates independence from Britain.
• Memorial Day (last Monday in May): Honors those who have died in military service.
• Labor Day (first Monday in September): Celebrates the country’s workforce.
• Thanksgiving (fourth Thursday in November): Dates back to colonial times to celebrate the harvest and is a distinctive American holiday.

Cost of Studying in the USA

Tuition Fees: Tuition fees constitute a major portion of education costs and vary depending on the type of program chosen.

Cost of Living in the USA: Living expenses for international students vary significantly based on the university’s location. Larger cities like Boston, New York, New Jersey, Los Angeles, and San Francisco are more expensive than smaller cities.

Cost of Accommodation in the USA:

Cost to Get a Student Visa for the USA (as of 31/12/2023):

The USA student visa can be classified as the F1 visa for long-term studies and the M1 or J1 visa for vocational studies or exchange programs.

Application Process: Before applying for a visa, students must obtain an I-20 form from a recognized US university and have an active SEVIS number.

The student visa is issued after an in-person interview at a US consulate office in the applicant’s home country. Any student with a valid I-20 can schedule their interview at their local consulate office. The visa process typically spans two days: the biometric appointment occurs on the first day, followed by the main visa interview on the second day. Most decisions are made on the spot, but cases requiring further information can take between one week and one month.

The F1 study permit is valid for five years, but students must maintain their SEVIS status to keep their visa valid.

US Student Visa Requirements (F1 Visa):

• A valid passport with a validity date at least six months beyond your intended period of stay.
• Recent passport-sized photograph.
• Confirmation page of DS-160.
• Form I-20.
• Payment of application fees for SEVIS.
• Application as a non-immigrant.

US Student Visa Requirements (M1/J1 Visa):

• Passport valid for at least six months.
• DS-160 confirmation.
• Visa appointment letter.
• Recent photographs.
• Fee receipts.
• Educational certificates.
• Proof of financial stability.

Housing Options:

On-Campus: Living on campus is an excellent way to become part of the community. On-campus accommodation usually consists of dormitories or apartment-style facilities with single or shared bedrooms and common kitchen and dining areas.

Off-Campus Shared Apartments: Many Indian students prefer to live off campus in rented apartments or condos with other international students. Off-campus accommodation is often cheaper than on-campus options. Many universities offer guidance to students in finding suitable off-campus housing.

Restricted Items to Bring to the USA:

• Cultural artifacts
• Defense articles
• Dog and cat fur
• Firearms
• Fish and wildlife
• Food products (raw or cooked)
• Fruits and vegetables
• Medication without a doctor’s prescription
• Pets
• Soil

Orientation Week: All institutions conduct an orientation for incoming students to ease their transition. During orientation, students meet other international students and become familiar with campus facilities and services. Orientation week also helps students meet their academic counselors and register for classes.

Opening a Bank Account: To open an American bank account, students will need their passport with a valid visa and the I-94 card issued at the port of entry. Accounts can be opened online or by visiting a bank branch. Universities typically assist students with account opening and other formalities during orientation week.