The United States is known for its technological advancements and has the largest economy globally. Many international students are interested in studying in the United States because of its high-quality education, unique curriculum, diverse culture, and numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Some of the top-ranked universities in the USA are- Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Harvard University, California Institute of Technology, University of Chicago, Stanford University, etc. One of the main reasons why people are attracted to these universities is because they are considered the best in the world.
However, there are also other appealing aspects such as the chance to study in major cities, benefit from connections with international businesses and technology innovators, or simply experience the rich culture of a country that has had a significant influence on the world.
Why Study in USA
Top universities in the U.S. are well-known for being highly ranked globally due to their strong funding, support, and emphasis on high academic standards and rigorous requirements for their students. These universities are constantly updating their classrooms and attracting students from around the globe. They are dedicated to transforming education to ensure that international students are well-prepared for successful careers in their home countries.
Universities in the United States provide top-notch support services
U.S. universities provide extensive support to help international students prepare for their classes, offering workshops, English-language practice courses, orientations, and training to ensure a smooth transition. Additionally, there are initiatives in place to enable international students to remain in the United States after completing their studies in order to seek employment opportunities at leading global companies.
A significant endeavor was made in 2016 to grant graduates in STEM fields the opportunity to stay for a period of 24 months, allowing them to gain work experience and prolong their stay. This opportunity allows you to search for employment in industries that are constantly in need of driven and diligent students. Additionally, this extension enables you to remain in the United States and establish yourself at prominent corporations.
American universities are focusing on improving classroom experiences
University classrooms are adapting to the fast-paced changes in technology and information delivery. Universities can provide students with a contemporary classroom experience by offering web-based classes, computer-based tests, and access to various labs and resources.
Adaptable Educational Framework
US universities offer a variety of subjects for students to choose from based on their interests. They also allow students the freedom to select their major later on in their undergraduate studies, unlike in their home countries where this decision is usually made in the first year. This flexibility allows students more time to determine their area of interest.
You may Make Money While Learning
The US provides F1 visas to students, allowing them to work on their university campus for 20 hours a week during the semester and 40 hours a week during holidays. They can work in places like the cafeteria or library. However, in order to obtain permission from the US Immigration Services to work off campus, you must first determine your eligibility by contacting the university’s career office.
Top Cities to Study in The USA
Boston- Boston is a popular destination for higher education due to its historical significance and strong academic reputation. It houses a significant number of students, including those from abroad, and boasts numerous prestigious colleges and universities like Harvard and MIT. The city offers ample opportunities for learning, is culturally diverse, and provides favorable career prospects. Additionally, public libraries offer extensive research materials for students. There are certain places that you must visit-
- Fenway Park
- Freedom Trail
- North End
New York City
New York is the top city in the US for students and offers excellent opportunities in education, innovation, arts, entertainment, banking, and architecture. It is a bustling hub for internships and careers, particularly for international students pursuing professional degrees such as MBA, MS, or MSc. New York has more than 10 universities, including prestigious institutions like Columbia University and New York University. The city is known for its diversity and receives high rankings and positive feedback from students. Popular attractions in New York include-
- The Brooklyn Bridge
- Empire State Building
- Statue of Liberty.
Chicago
Many international students choose to study in Chicago because of its renowned food, efficient transportation, and impressive nighttime views. The city is known for its affordable living expenses, welcoming residents, and vibrant cultural activities, which attract numerous students each year. Chicago offers a vibrant entertainment scene, opportunities for leisurely walks in parks, and the chance to cheer on renowned sports teams. It is also a wealthy city, home to numerous major corporations. Must-visit places are-
- Field Museum
- Cloud Gate
- Chicago Architecture Center
San Francisco-
San Francisco is the ideal city for international students seeking higher education due to its vibrant academic environment and multicultural society. Renowned universities such as Stanford, UCSF, and the University of San Francisco offer a wide range of academic prospects and are highly regarded globally. Many students also choose San Francisco for their Ph.D. or doctoral studies. Additionally, the city’s tech hub, Silicon Valley, provides abundant job opportunities with major companies like Apple, IBM, Google, and Facebook. Moreover, San Francisco’s iconic attractions like-
- the Golden Gate Bridge
- Alcatraz Island
- Golden Gate Park
Los Angeles
Los Angeles is famous for its rich history in music, TV, and film. It is known as a top destination for creative education in the US and offers numerous job opportunities in various industries such as business, technology, fashion, medicine, and sports. This is why students often choose to pursue short-term courses, diplomas, or certificates in Los Angeles. Some iconic places are-
- Beverly Hills
- Disneyland
- Sunset Boulevard
Washington DC
Washington, DC is a highly regarded city for students, with prestigious universities and a variety of industries and organizations. It is known for its law firms, non-profits, lobbying firms, trade unions, and more. Tourism is a major industry, along with education, finance, public policy, and scientific research. Its importance as the center of the United States is highlighted by iconic landmarks such as:
- The White House
- The Lincoln Memorial
- National Gallery of Art
Atlanta
Atlanta is a city with a rich history and prestigious universities. It has a unique combination of education and culture, with museums and art institutes that preserve its Civil War-era past. Atlanta is known for its pleasant climate and abundance of wildlife, earning it the nickname “City in a Forest.” It is also home to major corporations, providing many job opportunities. Must-visit places are-
- Georgia Aquarium
- Atlanta Botanical Garden
- Zoo Atlanta
Philadelphia
Currently, the city is a popular destination for students pursuing higher education, and it is home to a prestigious university that is ranked in the top 20 globally. Interestingly, 13% of the university’s first-year undergraduate students come from other countries. Some places to visit are-
- Liberty Bell
- Reading Terminal Market
- Philadelphia Museum of Art
Study in the USA with GMC STUDIES
- Our head office is in the UK and has multiple branches all over the world.
- We provide quality services.
- Get a quick offer letter.
- Many universities are in direct partnership with us.
- Our professionals will help you with everything from course selection to travel planning, visa application, enrollment, and even academic support.
- Free Counseling
- On-spot assessment.
- Guidance for obtaining scholarships.
- Our success rate is 100% so far.
- Student Accommodation Services.
Check Out Our Study in Canada Guide
Our Success Stories & Student Review for the USA
“GMC STUDIES is highly recommended as a consultancy agency. They have been extremely helpful and knowledgeable in assisting with my visa application at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities. The success and recommendations from their clients speak for themselves. I hope they continue to guide and support others like me who have the dream to study in the USA. Thank you from the bottom of my heart”– Muhtasim Fuad Jeet.
USA Student Visa Requirements
International students coming to the US can be issued three different types of student visas-
- The F-1 visa is given to students who are enrolled in either an academic or English language program. It remains valid until the student finishes their studies.
- The M-1 visa is for students who want to study at a non-academic or vocational school, but not at a language school.
- The J1 visa is specifically for exchange students.
Since the F1 Visa is the most popular study permit for foreign students wishing to pursue a full-time degree in the US, it is what we will be concentrating on.
- USA Student Visa Fees- The Visa Application fee is $185 which is around 20382 BDT.
- USA Study Visa Documents List-
Checklist for University Admission
- All Academic Certificates & Transcripts
- Updated CV
- Copy of Passport
- IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/Duolingo/Other Approved Test
- Two/Three Recommendation letters for Bachelor/Master (one must be Academic)
- Job Certificate (If Any)
- Previous Visa copy (If any) and Visa Refusal Copy (If any).
Visa Documents List
- All Academic Certificates & Transcripts
- Updated CV
- Copy of Passport
- IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/Duolingo/Other Approved Test
- You need to provide documents such as bank statements or proof of financial support while you are studying.
- Previous Visa copy (If any) and Visa Refusal Copy (If any).
- Complete the Online Form DS-160 for a non-immigrant visa and bring it with you to your interview.
- Standardized photo that is digital and in color.
- Receipt of payment of $185 for the application fee.
USA University Tuition Fees Range
- Tuition Fees at Public University-
- Bachelor- 8000- 35000 USD/ Year
- Masters- 10,000 – 35000 USD/Year
- Tuition Fees at Private University-
- Bachelor- 25000 – 50000 USD/Year
- Masters- 22000- 55000 USD/Year
Popular USA University Courses-
- Business Management
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Medical Science
- Journalism & Mass Communication
- Data Science
- MBA
Available Scholarships to Study in USA
The US government and American universities provide scholarships to international students based on various factors such as merit, financial need, sports, and extracurricular achievements. These scholarships cover major expenses like tuition and living costs. It is essential to remember that there is fierce competition for these scholarships. Some of them are-
- Financial Scholarships- Most of these scholarships are specifically for US residents, but there are a few universities that offer needs-based scholarships to international students as well.
- Merit Scholarships- This is for students who have exceptional academic abilities, were successful in sports during high school, or had outstanding achievements in community or entrepreneurial endeavors.
- Government-Funded Scholarships- The US government provides various scholarship programs for international students, a few of which are mentioned here-
- The American Association of University Women- A fellowship is being offered for international women who want to pursue a master’s or doctoral degree in the US. Preference will be given to those who show dedication to supporting the progress of women and girls.
- The Next Gen Scholarship- A scholarship is available for international students who want to study in Maryland, Washington, or Virginia. It is open to current students as well, but applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0.
Study Options in The USA
- Foundation Studies
- Bachelors/Undergraduate
- Pre-Masters
- Masters
- Master of Research (MRes)
- PhD
Study in the USA from Bangladesh without IELTS
There are few more options except IELTS to study in the UK-
- MOI (Medium of Instruction)
- Duolingo
- PTE
- OIETC/ELLT
Costs of studying and living in the USA
The American higher education system consists of various models, all providing a good education, but their main distinction lies in their cost. In addition, there are additional expenses that you will need to cover in order to stay enrolled. While an American education can provide numerous advantages, it comes with a hefty price tag. International students must demonstrate their ability to pay for tuition in order to obtain a visa, so the cost is an important factor to take into account. For a basic idea, you can check our “USA University Tuition Fees Range”.
The cost of living in the USA varies depending on the location, with cities being more expensive and southern and midwestern states being cheaper. Rent is typically the biggest expense, with prices ranging from $3,000 in major cities to $600 in midwestern universities. However, other costs such as owning a car should also be considered. Living further away from the city center and utilizing public transportation can help save on rent in cities.
Part-Time Jobs/Work Opportunities
- International students on the F-1 Visa have the opportunity to work in the United States, but there are stringent restrictions in place. International students in America are only allowed to work 20 hours per week while in session but can work full-time during vacations as long as they are enrolled for the next semester.
- The second limitation is that you can only work on your college campus. This means there are many job options available, such as working in stores or in technical roles, and possibly even tutoring if you are pursuing a higher degree. However, there will be a lot of competition for these limited jobs.
Post Study Work Permit
- The post-study work visa in the USA is crucial for international students pursuing higher education. F1 visa holders have the opportunity to gain practical work experience in their field of study for up to a year through Optional Practical Training (OPT) after completing their studies.OPT is a one-year temporary work permit for students who want to stay in the USA and work part-time while studying or after finishing their degree. There are two types of OPT in the USA-
- Pre-completion OPT is utilized while the candidate is still studying.
- Post-completion OPT is used after the candidate has finished their course.
Study in USA – FAQ
Are visas required for international students who want to study in the United States?
If you plan to pursue a full Bachelor’s or Master’s program, you will require an F1 visa, as there are various student visas available for different circumstances.
Is it possible to pursue education in the USA without taking the IELTS exam?
If you want to study in the United States, you must demonstrate your English fluency. The IELTS is one of the accepted tests, but there are other options as well. However, if your medium of instruction is in English for a few years, you do not need to show your proficiency, that is MOI is also accepted.
What factors make the USA the top choice for studying when compared to other countries?
The education system in the USA is strong and offers a wide range of academic options, making it a popular choice for students who want a high-quality education.
What is the top city in the USA for studying?
Boston, New York, Chicago, and San Francisco are top choices for studying due to their outstanding education systems, numerous opportunities, and diverse cultural environments.
Which academic institutions are the most popular among international students attending American universities?
Many international students are attracted to various institutions for their studies, with some popular universities located in cities such as Boston, Network, and San Francisco.
What is the number of intakes in the United States?
USA universities have three intake periods: January/Spring, May/Summer, and September/Fall.
Are post-study work permits available for international students in the USA?
International students in the USA can obtain temporary work visas called OPT to work either full-time or part-time. During the school term, they can work up to 20 hours a week, and during breaks, they can work up to 40 hours a week.
Is it possible to obtain a work permit after completing my studies in the USA?
It is possible to apply for a work permit while studying or after completing a course. The permit is usually valid for 12 months and can only be obtained after finishing a full-time term at a recognized university.