Do you want to study in the USA for the upcoming intake? The USA is a hub for innovation and research, and a diverse blend of cultures, traditions, and ideas. The student visa success rate in USA is approximately 65%-68%.
However, International students from all over the world choose to study in the US because it has a lot to offer. There are many well-known universities, diverse cultures, and exciting cities, making it a popular choice for everyone.
In this blog, we’ll discuss the admission process, entry requirements, and guidelines for studying in the USA. Hopefully, this guidance will help you fulfill your dream.
The education system in the USA
As an international student wanting to study in the US, you need to start by choosing a university and deciding which degree you want to pursue. There are different types of degrees in USA for international students:
- Associate Degree: Takes about 2 years to complete.
- Bachelor’s Degree: Requires about 120 credits and usually takes 4-5 years to finish.
- Master’s Degree: Common types are MA (Master of Arts) and MSc (Master of Science), and they usually take 2-3 years to complete.
- Doctorate or PhD Degree: These focus on specific academic subjects and are advanced degrees you can pursue after a Master’s degree.
Bachelor’s degrees provide a broad education, while Master’s and PhD degrees are more specialized.
Why study in the USA?
There are many reasons that students like to come to the USA to study at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Here are some benefits of studying in USA for international students:
Academic Excellence
The U.S. boasts one of the world’s top university systems, with globally recognized degrees and exceptional programs across various fields. Students benefit from working with leading experts and engaging in exclusive research opportunities.
Diverse Educational Opportunities
With thousands of colleges and universities, the U.S. offers a vast array of programs in broad educational principles, practical skills, arts, social sciences, and technical fields, ensuring options for every interest.
Cutting-Edge Technology
U.S. universities provide access to the latest technology and resources, enhancing research and learning in all fields and keeping students connected with global experts.
Research, Teaching, and Training
Graduate students can gain experience and financial support through teaching and research assistantships, benefiting from the fresh perspectives international students bring. This practical experience is invaluable for future careers.
How to study in the USA?
When you make up your mind to study in the USA, you must follow some steps to get enrolled in a US university, college, or school. Here, we will discuss how to study in the USA step by step.
Research Your Options
Researching the best school, college, or university in the US that fits your interests and goals is the first step. Since there are no official rankings, focus on finding institutions that meet your academic, financial, and personal needs. Start your research 12–18 months before your planned academic year. Define your priorities by asking:
- Why do you want to study in the US?
- Which institutions match your requirements?
- Do you need scholarships or financial aid?
- When is the application deadline?
- What are the requirements to study in the USA for international students?
Contact a professionals
If you need more information after the initial inquiry, contact the US Higher Education expert at AIMS Education. They will suggest the most suitable universities based on your qualifications. You can also meet representatives from US universities and colleges at our university fair.
Choose a university program
Choosing a university program is key to starting your studies in the U.S. If you have multiple interests, consider a double major or a major and a minor. Many students begin with an undeclared major, so don’t worry if you’re unsure. Identify your passions and career goals to help select a major. When choosing a university, consider its ranking, tuition fees, location, and available programs.
Apply to a University
When you are sure about the program and have shortlisted the university, it’s time to start applying. To apply to a university, you need to fill out an application form that can be done online. While applying, arrange all the required documents together and submit them with an application form to complete another step to studying in the USA.
Arrange Your Finance
Investing in education is essential. Studying in the US can be affordable with careful planning. Start financial arrangements early, as many international students receive financial aid each year. Although studying in the US is expensive, knowing your financial limits helps. If you need aid, apply now. The US offers various scholarships, including academic, athletic, artistic, service-based, and need-based.
Complete An Application Form
While studying in the UK, the first thing is to complete an application form without making an error. No matter which degree you want to take in the US, it starts with an application. When you make a successful application with all the necessary documents that match the entry requirements to study in USA, it will create a high chance of getting an offer letter. The requirements to get an offer letter from a US university may include strong proficiency in the English Language, good academic results, no criminal record, and required financial solvency. To complete an application form, you may need these documents:
- Academic transcripts.
- Standardized English test scores such as SAT, IELTS, TOEFL, ACT, PTE, GRE, GMAT etc.
- Essay
- Recommendation
- Copy of the valid passport.
- Some colleges and universities in the UK also require proof of finance.
Accept An Admission Offer Letter
Finding acceptance from multiple universities can indeed be exhilarating! However, it also brings about the daunting task of choosing the right one among them. Consider factors like scholarship opportunities, accommodation, location, and tuition fees to make an informed decision.
Apply For The Student Visa To Study In The USA
So after getting an offer letter, it’s time to apply for a visa. There are 3 categories of student visas available in the US. These are the F1, M1, and J1 student visas. These visas are granted to people who can prove that they have no intention to stay in the US permanently and they will study there as full-time students.
- F1 Visa to study in the USA
The F1 visa is for international students who want to study a language program, academic program, and degree program in the US by the Immigration and Customs Control Service. The visa will be issued to you after you get a valid I-20. You can stay in the US until you have a valid I-20. It is for the student visitor.
- M1 Visa to study in the USA
M1 visa is for the vocational student who wants to enrol in a non-academic program. This visa duration is only 1 year. Students can request to stay in the US for a maximum of 3 years with this visa category.
- J1 Visa to study in the USA
The J1 visa is an exchange visitor visa. It is for anyone outside of the US who wants to take part in a study or work-related exchange program. People like Camp counsellors, Government visitors, International visitors, physicians, professors, research scholars, specialists, teachers, trainees, interns, Au Pair, and many more. The duration of staying in the US with this visa depends on the program you want to pursue. The duration of staying in the US with a J1 student visa depends on the program you want to pursue.
Get Ready For Departure
So all of the processes have already been fulfilled and you get the visa. It’s time to plan the departure procedures. Do remember, students on the F or M visas, are not allowed to enter the US earlier than 30 days. Pack wisely, confirm your plane ticket and get ready for departure.
Final words
So these are the guidelines for studying in the US for an international student. Getting documentation ready and finding the appropriate university that can be your best fit is very crucial. Besides, learning about the university’s location, accommodation facilities, tuition fees, financial aid, and job opportunities are very important when you want to study in the US. For a free guide to study in USA visit AIMS Education, a student consultancy firm. The USA expert counsellors of AIMS Education will help you from the beginning to the end.
FAQ
How to study in USA step by step?
Ans: The first step to studying in USA is to research the universities and courses. After that check the requirements and make an application. Response as soon as possible once you’ve got the offer letter.
What is required to study in the USA?
Ans: Students might need to take a few tests like the SAT or ACT for college and either the GMAT or GRE for grad school. If they’re going into specific subjects, they might also have to take exams like the PCAT, VCAT, MCAT, or DAT.
How to study in the USA from Bangladesh?
Ans: Students from Bangladesh who want to study in the US need special permission called a student visa. To get this visa, they must have a valid passport, a confirmed spot in a school, and proof that they can pay for their studies, and they need to fill out a form called DS-160.
How do I begin if I want to study in America?
Ans: Get your passport and papers that show you have enough money (like bank statements or scholarship papers). You’ll need these to ask for a student visa, usually called an F-1 visa. When you go for an interview and they say yes, they’ll put a stamp on your passport. Then you can come to the U.S. and start studying.
Can I study in the USA for free?
Ans: You can try getting scholarships and grants to help pay for your college. Some jobs, like military or teaching, might cover your tuition costs. Also, some colleges and states have programs where you can go to college for free.
How much money do I need to go USA to study?
Ans: Studying in the US can cost between $7,000 and $55,000 each year. The price changes depending on which university you go to and what you’re studying. Living in the US can cost between $10,000 and $25,000 each year.
