Study in USA
The “Study in USA” remains the top dream for international students. Known for its cutting-edge academic programs, the USA offers globally recognised degrees and vibrant campus life. With over 4,000 accredited universities and 10,000+ courses across diverse fields, the USA offers unmatched flexibility and innovation in education. Whether you’re planning to pursue undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral studies, studying in the USA opens doors to endless career and research opportunities. Choosing the right university is key—opting for reputed and ranked institutions can make a significant difference in your academic and professional journey.
Popular fields of study in the USA
The USA is recognised for its programs in the fields of Science, Humanities, Engineering, Computer science, Law, Economics, Bio-medical, Medicine, Management and life sciences. Most students from India pursue STEM and Management courses in the USA.
Institutions in the USA
The institutions are classified as Public universities, Private universities, State universities, and Community colleges.
Top Private universities in the USA are the Ivy League colleges (Yale, Cornell, Brown, Harvard, Princeton, Columbia, Pennsylvania and Dartmouth) MIT, Stanford, UBC, and more. For MBA programs, most of these universities have their own business schools such as Wharton Business School, Kellogg Business Schools, Sloan Business School, Fuqua Business School, Haas Business School, Purdue and more. These are best for engineering, medicine, law and management
Top Public universities in the USA are UCLA, UCB, University of Michigan, University of Florida, University of Texas and more. These universities are best known for their courses in Engineering, STEM, Life sciences, Medicine, management and economics
The above-given universities fall under the Top 200 institutions across the world. Particularly, the Ivy League schools, MIT, and Stanford colleges rank in the Top 10-20 rankings. Scholarships are available based on academics, test scores, research opportunities, sports and merits.
You can research how to study in US online at the U.S. Department of Education College Navigator site, where you can search for associate’s, bachelor’s, and advanced degrees.
To know the current rankings of US universities, click here..
Education system in the USA
As an international student, your travel to the US will commence with University selection where you want to pursue your education. An associate’s degree from a US university typically takes two years to complete. Meanwhile, A bachelor’s degree usually requires three to four years of study in the USA. If you planning to continue your studies after a bachelor’s degree, you can consider joining a graduate school. The type of Visa issued will be F1, M and J1 visas which are Student and Exchange visitor visas.
The graduate or postgraduate programs are a master’s degree (two years of study) and a doctorate or PhD (three or more years). Graduate master’s and doctorate programs are focused on a specific academic subject which you would like to pursue, while the associate and bachelor degrees are generic usually.
Cost of Education in the USA
Costs in Public and Private colleges are high compared to State universities and Community colleges are the least expensive colleges that offer liberal arts programs. The cost of Undergraduate ranges from $20k to $40k per year, while postgraduate programs cost between $25k to $45k. Living costs in the USA would cost between $8000 to $11000 per year depending on the location. Also, the health insurance shouldn’t be forgetted. It may cost around $1500 to $2000 per year.
Academic Requirements for US Universities
For US universities, the minimum GPA should be 3 out of 4, the CGPA should be 7 or more, Percentage should be 70% or more for both UG and MS/MBA
Which test should be taken to study in the USA
Most Universities require standardised tests such as GRE, GMAT, SAT or ACT and language tests such as IELTS or TOEFL. International students applying to US Universities should visit the websites to learn about the requirements.
The best scores in standardised tests to get admission to top universities are; GRE- 310 and above, GMAT – 700 and above, SAT – 1400 and above, IELTS – 7 and above, TOEFL – 90 and above. Before taking any tests, check the eligibility criteria to set the targeted scores.
When to start applying for US Universities
International students applying to US Universities should start the process at least 12 – 16 months prior to the intake. This time should allow you to prepare for the tests, profile building, shortlisting the course and college, application process, Visa process, Financial readiness, scholarship application and more.
International students applying for Undergraduate programs should apply between November and January. The early action admission deadline would normally be from November 1 to November 15. In early action admissions, students would have lot of options of universities as well as in the course. It is the best time to apply for scholarships too.
For regular decisions, the deadlines would be between January 1 to January 15. This is the prime admission time where the influx of applications would be in peak. But the seats will be more and the expected course and colleges will be obtained.
There will be a round 3 after the regular decision deadlines are over in which there would be limited colleges with limited seats. Students might not get admission to their expected universities.
Application Process for US programs for 2024 intake.
The application process starts with course selection and country selection.
| Process | Timelines |
| Course/Country selection | July-Aug |
| Test preparation | July – October |
| SOP/Resume/LORS | Sept-Oct (3 LoRs are recommended) |
| Application to colleges | November – January |
| Decisions from College | Within a few weeks from application –March – May |
| Visa application | Immediately after obtaining the Offer letter/I-20/SEVIS application (June-Aug ) |
| Fly off | August / September |
Documents Required for US University Application
For MS / MBA
- Resume or CV
- Transcripts of Mark sheets from 10th, 12th and Bachelors degree
- Degree certificate.
- Standardised tests like GRE or GMAT
- Language tests like TOEFL or IELTS
- Statement of Purpose
- 2 -3 Letter of Recommendations
- Passport copy
- WES certificate
- Work experience certification
- Passport photos
For Undergrad:
- Resume or CV
- Academic Marksheets
- Standardised tests like SAT, ACT or AP score cards
- Language tests like IELTS / TOEFL score card
- ECC / CCA
- Statement of Purpose
- 2-3 Letter of Recommendations
- Passport copy
- Other documents that you deem fit to share.
Documents required for Visa Application
- A passport must be valid for up to 6 months after completion of the course in the USA.
- I-20 form
- SEVIS application and fee receipt
- Visa application form
- Confirmation page of DS-160 Form
- Passport size photographs
- Financial proof with evidence of enough funds to cover the educational and living costs in the USA.
- Include bank statements, scholarships, or other financial support
- Copies of academic transcripts including all certificates, diplomas, and degrees received
Our Admission services to US Universities
University Shortlisting
The first step in the admissions process is to understand the student’s purpose and goals for studying at an international institution. Based on the student’s academic interests, passions, and career objectives, we shortlist appropriate universities. Our shortlisting process considers key parameters such as university rankings, location, program availability, budget, scholarship opportunities, and other essential factors.
Profile Building
We conduct a comprehensive analysis of the student’s profile using a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) framework. Based on the student’s future goals, we identify areas for improvement and highlight strengths that align with university expectations. By strategically enhancing the student’s profile, we increase their likelihood of gaining admission to their desired universities.
Documentation Support
Accurate documentation is a critical step in the university application process. Missing or incomplete documents can delay or jeopardize admission. Our team ensures all required documents are verified, organized, and ready for submission. We create a comprehensive checklist of essential documents and assist students in compiling a complete and accurate application docket.
Test Preparation
We offer expert-led online training programs for key entrance exams, including IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, PTE, CELPIP, GRE, GMAT, and SAT. Our experienced faculty provides personalized support, ensuring students achieve the required scores. Students also gain access to a wealth of practice materials and mock tests to build confidence and improve their test-taking abilities.
Visa Support
After the application and documentation process is complete, we offer guidance on the visa application process. Our support includes assistance with the preparation and submission of visa documents, as well as a dedicated session to educate students on best practices, dos and don’ts, and common pitfalls during visa filing. This proactive approach reduces the likelihood of errors and ensures a smooth visa application experience
Financial Assistance
We partner with reputable financial institutions to offer students access to education loans at competitive interest rates. Our team simplifies the process, providing students with a seamless, hassle-free, and prompt experience. We guide students through the loan application, ensuring they receive timely financial support.
Accommodation Support
Study Group International – India has an extensive network of housing options for students in the USA. From dormitory-style housing to triple-sharing, double-sharing, and single-occupancy options, we help students find accommodation that suits their preferences and budget. Our goal is to ensure students feel comfortable and secure in their new living environment.
Contact our US Education advisor to get your prospective college list.
ISG has a network of more than 150 universities in the USA that gives access to students to apply to their dream universities.
Some of our network colleges in the US are:
- University of New Mexico
- University of South Carolina
- George Mason University
- Drexel University
- Florida International University
- Auburn University, Alabama
- The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa
- University of North Texas
- Johns Hopkins University
- Duke University
- University of Arizona
- Arizona State University
- Virginia Tech Language and Culture Institute
- Washington State University
- University of Alabama at Birmingham
- University of Cincinnati
And more…
To check the eligibility and availability of the universities, the students can drop their resume with their intended course and intake in the given mail id: contact@studygroupinternational.com and you will be provided with a tentative list of prospective institutions.