Studying in the USA
Studying in the United States offers world-class education but requires significant administrative, financial and academic preparation.
1. American University System
Types of Institutions
Universities
- Research Universities: Large universities with undergraduate and graduate programs (Harvard, MIT, Stanford)
- Public Universities: State universities (UC Berkeley, University of Michigan)
- Private Universities: Private, often more expensive but more financial aid
Liberal Arts Colleges
- Small institutions focused on undergraduate education
- Emphasis on teaching and general education
- Small classes, personalized attention
- Examples: Williams, Amherst, Swarthmore
Community Colleges
- Associate degrees (2 years)
- Less expensive ($5,000-$10,000/year)
- Possible transfer to university for Bachelor's
- Good option to save money
2. F-1 Student Visa
Requirements
- Accepted at accredited university (SEVP-approved)
- Full-time student
- Prove financial capacity (cover tuition + living)
- Maintain residence abroad
Work with F-1
- On campus: Allowed up to 20h/week
- CPT: Internships related to studies
- OPT: 12 months after graduation (36 for STEM)
3. Costs
Tuition (2025-2026)
- Community College: $5,000-$10,000/year
- Public University (in-state): $10,000-$20,000/year
- Public University (out-of-state): $25,000-$45,000/year
- Private University: $40,000-$80,000/year
- Top Universities: $60,000-$85,000/year
Other Costs
- Room & board: $10,000-$18,000/year
- Books: $1,000-$1,500/year
- Health insurance: $2,000-$4,000/year
- Transportation & misc: $2,000-$3,000/year
4. Financial Aid
Scholarships
- Merit-based: Based on academic/athletic performance
- Need-based: Based on financial situation
- Top universities (Harvard, Yale, MIT) offer need-blind admission
Assistantships (Graduate)
- Teaching Assistant (TA)
- Research Assistant (RA)
- Benefits: Tuition waiver + stipend ($20,000-$35,000/year)
5. Admissions Process
Required Documents (Undergraduate)
- SAT or ACT (optional at some universities)
- TOEFL or IELTS (English proficiency)
- Essays: Personal statement + supplemental essays
- Letters of recommendation: 2-3
- Transcripts (translated and evaluated)
- Extracurricular activities
Required Documents (Graduate)
- GRE/GMAT (depending on program)
- TOEFL/IELTS
- Statement of Purpose
- CV/Resume
- Letters of recommendation: 3
- Writing sample (depending on field)
6. Campus Life
Housing
- Dorms: University residence halls (often required first year)
- Off-campus: Apartments
- Greek housing: Fraternities/Sororities
Social Life
- Hundreds of clubs (academic, cultural, sports)
- Greek life: Fraternities and sororities
- Intense sports culture (football, basketball)
- Campus events and traditions
7. After Graduation
OPT (Optional Practical Training)
- Duration: 12 months (36 for STEM)
- Conditions: Employment related to field of study
- Deadline: Apply 90 days before graduation
H-1B Work Visa
- After OPT, transition to H-1B
- Employer must sponsor
- Annual lottery (April)
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