The United States is known for its higher education opportunities along with the home of diverse ethnicities, the highest number of top-ranked universities.
It is the number one and largest destination for international students seeking higher education overseas because of its versatility and flexibility in higher education system for international students in the world.
Why study in the USA?
Have you ever wondered what makes U.S. higher education so popular in the world?
Academic Excellence
The U.S. has one of the world's finest education systems, with excellent programs across all disciplines and qualifications awarded are recognized throughout the world for its academic brilliance.At the undergraduate level, outstanding program options are available in conventional subjects as well as professional fields. At the Master's and Ph.D. level, students regularly get the opportunity to work with and learn from some of the finest researchers in the world.
Diversity of Education Opportunities
The U.S. higher education system lays equal emphasis on building a strong theoretical base along with significance on practical, employment-related skills.
Cutting-Edge Technology
U.S. universities have been leading the world in terms of technology and scientific techniques, and are committed to providing the same resources to students. The emphasis is to acquaint students with the latest in the field of science, engineering and related fields. And eventually, they produce work-ready graduates with appropriate skills using the most recent technology.
Opportunity for Research, Teaching and Training
In the U.S., at the graduate level students gain valuable experience in research and teaching through the many assistantship programs available ,which are also tremendously beneficial for students finance their higher education in USA. The outstanding practical experience they can gain ensures significant career growth in teaching and research.
Flexibility
The U.S. higher education system offers multifarious options within a program and the opportunity to change majors or opt for multiple specializations. At the advanced stages of an undergraduate program, a student can even tailor the program to meet specific career aspirations like combining courses in contemporary jazz music with engineering! At the graduate level, you can make your own timetable and complete course credits at a comfortable pace within the stipulated time frame.
Campus Life
U.S. universities offer variety of academic, cultural and athletic activities to choose from which prove useful to enrich the educational experience and assist students make new friends and become global citizens. Some of the examples are fraternities, regional and ethnic clubs , and even cricket team.
Global Education
Academic study and experience from a U.S. university has a very positive reputation in the international job market. A U.S. education dramatically enhances a student's long-term career goals. The experience builds critical thinking skills, develops self-confidence and cross-cultural skills and all of these attributes are highly valued by employers worldwide.
Employment Opportunity:
There are various job opportunities available for students in USA. Many international students look for paid extra-curricular work while they are studying. During the first year while studying, students cannot accept off-campus employment. They are not allowed to work more than 20 hours per week. During holidays and breaks, they may work up to 40 hours per week.
Working on campus is among the most popular choices for international students, but there are many different jobs from which to choose.There are many jobs offered at restaurants, bars, and cafes on campus, and are the easiest to find. You can find employment at computer centers and being less physically demanding, it can be a good choice for those preferring an office environment.
Apart from this, there are ample opportunities available in USA after you receive permission to work full time. Along with internship opportunity, graduates can get various options to work as they are in high demand, especially in the field of healthcare, film production, real estate, retail sector, agriculture, engineering and computers & information technology. Moreover, due to skills shortage across various sectors in the American market, skilful international students are in demand and those who are willing to settle in America have the option to apply under a Skilled Worker Visa and permanently work and reside in the country
Application procedure
Before applying for a visa, all student visa applicants are required to be accepted and approved by their school or program. Once accepted, educational institutions will provide each applicant the necessary approval documentation to be submitted when applying for a student visa. Students can apply within 120 days from the start date of I-20 and can travel within 30 days from the start date of I-20.
Admission Procedure:
- Select the university/college you wish to study according to your profile
- Prepare documents as per the guidelines of college/university
- Complete all entrance/language tests required by the universities
- Collect required application forms from the website or by request to universities
- Complete application form along with required documents, payment of required fees and submit the same
You may be required to write essay providing personal information for USA
- You will receive acceptance letter from university/college
- Pay your deposit as per the requirement of university/college
Application for US Student Visa (F1 Visa):
- Receive Form I-20 from your college. It is recommended that you pay the SEVIS I-901 fee before you start your US visa application
- After paying the SEVIS fee and getting a receipt, you can apply for a DS-160 visa form
- Print the application form confirmation page to bring to your interview.
- Pay the visa fee through NEFT or at authorized bank locations
- Schedule a Biometric appointment and Interview appointment
- For the Biometric appointment, you will be required to appear in person to get your photograph clicked for the visa and get your fingerprints scanned
- At the Personal interview, the interviewer will ask you questions about your choice, of course, college, finances, and intent of coming back. If s/he is convinced, they will keep your passport with them to get the visa stamped
Remember, F1 student visas can be issued up to 120 days before the starting date of your course of study. However, you will not be allowed to enter the United States on F1 status earlier than 30 days before your start date.
List of Visas
F-1 Student Visa
It is required for students interested in academic studies in the US at an approved school, such as an accredited U.S. college or university, private secondary school, or approved English language program and if your course includes more than 18 hours of study in a week.
M-1 vocational / non-academic Visa
If you plan to engage in non-academic or vocational study or training at a U.S. institution, then you need an M-1 visa.
More information about each of these visas and opportunities for studying in the United States can be found at the Education USA