🇺🇸 United States – Destination Guide

Study in the United States

Home to Ivy League universities, Silicon Valley, and some of the world’s most innovative campuses, the USA offers global exposure, research-driven programs, and powerful career opportunities.

Capital Washington, D.C.

Currency US Dollar (USD

Main Intakes Fall & Spring

Talk to a US Study Expert

Major Study Cities

New York · Los Angeles · Chicago · Houston · Boston · San Francisco · San Diego · Philadelphia · Phoenix

Top Cities

New York · Los Angeles · Chicago · Houston · Boston · San Francisco · San Diego · Philadelphia · Phoenix

Perfect For

Students seeking research, innovation & global careers

Popular Levels

Undergrad · Master’s · PhD

Tuition Fees

Tuition Fees in the USA

Undergrad: USD 20,000 – 40,000/year
Master’s: USD 20,000 – 45,000/year
PhD: USD 28,000 – 55,000/year

Living Costs

Living Costs in the USA

Accommodation (on-campus): USD 800 – 900/month
Shared rental: USD 470 – 3,600/month (varies)
Food: USD 250 – 700/month
Transport: USD 170 – 200/month
Health insurance: USD 1,200 – 1,500/year
Books & misc: USD 500 – 1,000/year

Entry Requirements

Who Can Study in the USA?

Academic eligibility: Typically 12th-grade certificate (or equivalent) for undergrad; bachelor’s degree for postgrad.
English test: IELTS / TOEFL required by most universities.
Minimum scores: Varies strongly by university; often IELTS ~ 6.5–7.0 or equivalent for competitive unis.
Backlogs policy: Depends on institution — many universities allow some backlog, but too many may reduce your admission chances.
Gap acceptance: Varies — most US universities accept a gap year, but you may need to explain gaps in your application (SOP).

Intakes

Intakes in the USA

Fall (Aug–Sep) — main intake
Spring (Jan–Feb) — fewer programs, but many unis offer spring admission

Scholarships & Funding

Scholarship Options for the USA

Government scholarships (e.g., Fulbright)
University Scholarships: Merit-based, need-based
Merit-based funding (for high GPAs, test scores)
Need-based / financial aid (especially for undergraduates)

During Study

Part-time Work (During Study)

Allowed: Yes, often on-campus or via certain work-authorization programs
Hours: Typically up to 20 hours/week for F-1 students
Types of jobs: Library assistant, admin, campus jobs, tutoring, research assistant (for postgrad)
Minimum wage: Varies by state (could be above minimum wage in many places)

After Graduations

Post-Study Work Options

OPT (Optional Practical Training): After degree completion, students can work off-campus in the U.S.
Standard OPT: typically up to 12 months
For STEM students: extension up to 24 months (or more depending on regulation)
Eligibility: Must have F-1 visa, must apply before course completion (or shortly after)
Path to PR / Work: OPT helps get job experience; after OPT, students may apply for H-1B or other work visas (PR is not guaranteed)