Study Abroad Guide for International Students Applying to the USA
- Tina Chulet
- Feb 7, 2025
- 6 min read
General Overview
The United States remains the top study destination, with over 900,000 students from more than 200 countries choosing to study there. In 2022, approximately 199,812 Indian students pursued higher education in the US, marking a significant 19% increase from previous years. Indian students are also among the top recipients of high-skilled H-1B visas and represent the second-largest international student community in the country.
Types of Colleges in the USA
US higher education institutions can be broadly categorized into state/public universities, private universities, and liberal arts colleges.
Public Universities are cheaper than private Universities. International students are not eligible for "in-state" tuition.
State universities, also known as public universities, are run and funded by state governments to provide quality higher education at affordable rates. Each state operates at least one public university, many of which offer state-of-the-art facilities and a wide range of academic programs. State universities offer significantly cheaper tuition for people who live in the state. To be applicable for the in-state tuition, largely you need to be in the USA for 2 years prior to attending college.
Private universities, on the other hand, are funded through private sources, including tuition fees, endowments, and donations. As a result, they tend to be more expensive than state universities. Some of the world’s most prestigious institutions, such as Ivy League universities, fall into this category.
Liberal arts colleges offer a different approach to higher education, focusing on a broad-based curriculum rather than specialization in a single field. Students at these institutions are required to take general education courses across multiple disciplines while still majoring in a subject of their choice. This approach helps develop well-rounded individuals with strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
University Timelines and Application Process
US universities typically operate on a bi-semester system, with two main intakes: Fall and Spring. The Fall term begins in September, and students should start their applications as early as November of the previous year. Most application deadlines fall between December and February. Since most students apply while still in their final year of secondary school, universities review applications even before final scores are available.
You need to apply to the USA almost 1 year prior to starting your education. Most USA colleges begin in September.
A common myth is that students can apply at any time or that they must have completed their secondary education before applying. However, application timelines vary by university, and the admissions calendar has specific start and end dates. Universities release admission decisions at different times, with some notifying applicants as early as January, while others do so as late as April.
Gap Year Considerations
For students who have taken a gap year, universities expect them to demonstrate how they have utilized that time productively. Admissions officers will compare a student’s profile before and after the gap year, looking for growth and improvement. The reason behind an academic break can also be a crucial factor in admissions decisions.
Gap year in the USA is not common. During a gap year, you should have significantly improved your profile.
Documents Required for US University Admissions
To apply to US universities, students must submit several essential documents. However it is important to check as individual universities may have different requirements.
Attested copies of academic transcripts from 9th-12th grades
At least two academic reference letters from recent professors
A Statement of Purpose (SOP)
College specific supplemental essays
Detailed extracurricular activities
Detailed honors, and awards
Proof of funds
Official standardized test score reports,
English proficiency test results.
Depending on the program, students applying for art, design, or architecture courses may need to submit a portfolio.
Most universities do not require proof of your achievements (e.g you do not have to present a certificate. There is a strict belief that anything written on the application is accurate and true and should they find anything otherwise, they will rescind your offer.
Fee Required for US University Admissions
Most universities charge an application fee, which varies depending on the institution and program. You can assume the average to be around $70 per application. Some colleges will waive the fee if you can prove financial hardship. Largely this is done either by requesting a fee waiver on the common app or through an email to the university.
How to submit your application
Common App - used by over 1,000 universities including the top universities. By submitting a single application you can apply to numerous schools. Individual requirements by a school are also managed through the Common App.
University of California (UC) Application - one application is required for all 9 schools
Coalition App - used by 170+ schools. Very few schools only use the coalition app and not the common app. It is more efficient to use the Common App if possible.
Cost of Living and Education in the USA
Here are the 2024-2025 average college tuition costs.
Private Universities – USD 43,505
Public, Out of State – USD 24,513
Public, In-State is not applicable for international students.
Major expenses include rent, transportation, food, daily necessities, and entertainment. Tuition alone accounts for 40-60% of overall expenses, but additional indirect costs, such as housing, visa fees, school supplies, healthcare, insurance, and daily living expenses, significantly impact a student’s budget.
Tuition usually makes up 40-60% of what you’ll need to pay for as a college student. It doesn’t include the tens of thousands of additional dollars in indirect costs
The cost of living in the US varies by city and lifestyle.
On average, students spend approximately $3,600 per month.
Health insurance is mandatory for international students and typically costs between $500 and $1,000 per year. Insurance is cashless, meaning students do not need to pay upfront for medical services at the time of hospitalization.
Scholarships
Students are offered financial aid based on their merit and previous academic performance. There are various types of scholarships like country-specific scholarships, subject/major specific scholarships, student-specific scholarships (women, Indian, minority, income) etc.
Students are offered financial aid based on their merit and previous academic performance.
Scholarships for international students in USA are available across all major universities and colleges. Mostly, merit-based scholarships are offered at US universities along with some universities offering need-based scholarships.
Irrespective of the scholarship type, the majority of US universities offer financial aid to international students to study in the USA.
In case aid is promised to be offered, it will be mentioned in the offer letter of the applicant. In case, the need-blind US university does not offer any aid, the applicants will have to see if they can pay for the college and then accept the offer.
Education Loans for Studying in the US
Indian students can apply for education loans from banks such as HDFC Bank, SBI, ICICI Bank, and Canara Bank.
To be eligible for a bank loan, students must have a strong academic record, be accepted into a recognized program, and in some cases, provide collateral.
Public sector banks typically offer loans of up to ₹20 lakh, while private banks may provide higher amounts based on the total cost of education. Repayment generally begins after a grace period of six months to one year following graduation, with loans typically repaid over 5-7 years.
US Student Visa Requirements
Most international students require an F1 visa, which is necessary for full-time study (at least 18 hours per week). Required documents include a valid passport, Form DS-160 confirmation, application fee payment receipt, a photo, and the SEVIS-generated Form I-20 issued by the university. Additional documentation may be required, including academic transcripts, standardized test scores, proof of financial resources, and intent to return home after studies.
Your college will support you for obtaining a F-1 visa by providing the documents needed by the USA government.
Proof of English Proficiency
US universities require proof of English proficiency for international students. This requirement may be waived if the student has attended a school where English is the primary language of instruction, is from a country where English is the dominant language, has studied under an international board, or can demonstrate proficiency through an interview conducted in English.
Accommodation Options in the USA
International students in the US can choose between university-managed accommodation or private housing. University-managed accommodation often includes meal plans and is a convenient option for students new to the country. Alternatively, students can rent apartments or houses from private landlords, giving them more independence but also requiring them to handle rent, utilities, and other living expenses on their own.
Post-Study Work Permit
International students cannot accept off-campus employment during their studies but may work on campus for up to 20 hours per week. During breaks and holidays, students can work up to 40 hours per week.
Conclusion
Studying in the United States offers international students world-class education, flexibility, and global exposure. With diverse universities and unique course offerings, students can explore their interests while preparing for dynamic careers. However, the admissions process requires careful planning, from selecting the right university to securing financial aid and understanding visa regulations.
While studying in the US can be costly, financial aid, scholarships, and education loans help make it accessible. Early preparation is key to building a strong application and managing financial and logistical requirements. For ambitious students, the US provides an excellent opportunity for academic and personal growth, leading to global career prospects.
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