Studying in the USA: Your 2025 Guide | All you need to Know

September 23, 2024

Ishita Soni

Why Study in USA?

The USA is the top choice for international students, attracting over a million each year—nearly double that of the UK. In fact, the number of international students in the US is almost equal to the total in all of Europe. However, it’s important to choose between American and European education based on what suits you best, rather than simply following trends.

So, why do students prefer studying in America? First, the world-class universities are a major draw. Additionally, studying in vibrant cities offers access to global businesses and tech innovators. Lastly, experiencing the unique culture of a nation that has significantly influenced the world is another appealing reason.

Best MS Specializations in the USA

Which are the Top Universities in America?

You might think the Ivy League has the best universities in America, but other rankings show that many US universities are exceptional. Here are the top five universities in America, all of which are also in the world’s top ten.

1. MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology): Rated the best university in both America and the world according to QS rankings. Despite its name, MIT offers strong programs in non-technology fields as well.

2. Stanford University: Founded by a railroad tycoon, Stanford has produced many academic and political leaders. Its alumni have founded businesses that, if combined, would make it the seventh-largest economy globally.

3. Harvard University: The only Ivy League school in the top five, Harvard is America’s oldest university, established 140 years before the Declaration of Independence. It has a strong reputation, particularly for its graduate schools.

4. Caltech (California Institute of Technology): Known for its excellence in science and technology, Caltech manages NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory and has 79 Nobel Laureates associated with it.

5. University of Chicago: Completing the QS top five, the University of Chicago is known for its strong research culture, influencing various fields and creating a well-respected academic community.

These universities are not only highly rated in America but also recognized worldwide for their academic excellence.

Tuition Fees for Studying in the USA

Studying in the USA requires paying tuition fees, which can range from about $10,000 to over $60,000 per year for a Bachelor’s degree. Most fees are around $25,000 to $40,000, while Master’s degrees typically cost about $30,000, though some may be cheaper.

In addition to tuition, there are other fees to consider. An American education can be costly, and international students need to prove they can cover these expenses for a visa.

Private universities, like Harvard and Stanford, are usually the most expensive, costing $40,000 to $60,000 a year. State universities are cheaper, with non-residents paying about $20,000 to $25,000, and in-state students around $10,000.

Keep in mind that actual costs can vary, and there are ways to make your degree more affordable.

Language requirements

Although the USA has no official language, English is the main language used in universities. You will need to prove your English fluency, and there are two main ways to do this:

1. Previous Education: Many universities accept earlier education in English as proof. This usually means you’ve studied for at least three years in English, such as in school or during your Bachelor’s degree.

2. English Tests: You can also take recognized English proficiency tests. Requirements can vary by university and program, but common tests include:

• IELTS Academic: Most universities look for a score of at least 7.5.
• TOEFL iBT: A score of 100 or more is typically required.
• PTE Academic: A minimum score of 68 is often needed.
• iTEP: You’ll need a score of 4.5 or higher.
• C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency (Cambridge)**: A score of 190 or more is required.
• Duolingo English Test: Increasingly accepted, with a typical score of at least 125.

Be sure to check the specific requirements for the universities and programs you’re interested in!

Cost of studying MS in the US

This table provides insight into the tuition fees to study an MS Degree in the USA and the approximate cost of living for several top universities. Though the tuition fee to study MS in USA will be in the range of INR 10 L – INR 40 L or more, however, a majority of the top-ranked universities have tuition fee ranging from INR 20 L – INR 40 L or more.

Student Visa Costs for the US

All international students require a USA Student Visa to study at a university in the USA. The student visas are segregated into F1 and J1 visas. The J-1 visa, also known as the J-student visa is specially designed for international students participating in exchange programs in the United States. This visa category allows students to engage in academic or cultural exchange activities. International students who are applying for J-1 Visa must have a sponsorship.

Coming to F1 Visa is tailored for full-time academic study.  one would need to possess Form I20, Certificate of Eligibility for Non-Immigrant Student Status. The F1 visa student fee is $185.

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