Study in the United State of America

The United States remains one of the most popular and prestigious study destinations for Indian students. With its cutting-edge research facilities, globally ranked universities, and flexible academic programs, the USA attracts thousands of students from India every year. This 2025 guide outlines everything Indian students need to know — from top universities and application procedures to visa requirements, costs, and common FAQs.

 

Why Study in the USA?

• World-class universities and faculty
• Flexible course structures and interdisciplinary learning
• Strong focus on research and innovation
• Ample career opportunities post-study
• Diverse student population and global exposure

 

Top Universities in the USA

University Name	QS World Ranking 2025	Location
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	1	Cambridge, MA
Stanford University	4	Stanford, CA
Harvard University	5	Cambridge, MA
California Institute of Technology (Caltech)	10	Pasadena, CA
University of Chicago	15	Chicago, IL
Columbia University	18	New York, NY

 

Popular Courses

• STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)
• Business Administration & MBA
• Computer Science & Data Science
• Law and Public Policy
• Medicine & Health Sciences
• Arts and Humanities

 

Admission Requirements

• Valid passport
• Academic transcripts and certificates
• Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT for undergrad, GRE/GMAT for postgrad)
• English language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS)
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Letters of Recommendation (LOR)
• Resume/CV (for postgrad programs)

 

Student Visa (F1 Visa)

 

Visa Requirements:

• I-20 form issued by a US university
• SEVIS fee payment ($350)
• Visa application form DS-160
• Visa application fee: $185
• Visa interview appointment at US consulate
• Proof of financial means to support education

 

Documents Required:

• Passport
• I-20 form
• Admission letter from university
• Proof of funds (bank statements, ITR, scholarships)
• SEVIS fee receipt
• Visa fee payment receipt
• Academic documents

 

Cost of Studying in the USA

 

Tuition Fees:

• Undergraduate: $20,000 – $45,000/year
• Postgraduate: $25,000 – $55,000/year

 

Living Expenses:

• $10,000 – $18,000/year depending on location and lifestyle

 

Scholarships for Indian Students

• Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships
• Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships
• Tata Scholarships for Cornell University
• AAUW International Fellowships
• University-specific grants and assistantships

 

Work While Studying

• On-campus jobs: up to 20 hours/week during academic sessions
• Optional Practical Training (OPT): Up to 12 months after graduation
• STEM OPT extension: Extra 24 months (total 36 months)
• Curricular Practical Training (CPT): Internships during study

 

Post-Study Work Opportunities

• OPT and STEM OPT allow students to gain work experience
• H1-B visa is a common path to full-time employment
• Many Indian students transition to employment and eventually permanent residency (Green Card)

 

Dos and Don’ts When Planning to Study in the USA

 

✅ Dos:

• ✅ Start early — at least 12 months in advance
• ✅ Prepare for standardized tests in advance
• ✅ Attend university webinars and virtual fairs
• ✅ Maintain honest and clear financial documentation
• ✅ Follow visa interview guidelines strictly

 

❌ Don’ts:

• ❌ Don’t miss deadlines
• ❌ Don’t submit plagiarized SOPs
• ❌ Don’t assume all universities are the same — do research
• ❌ Don’t ignore visa processing times
• ❌ Don’t overstay your visa period

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

 

1. Is GRE/GMAT mandatory for studying in the US?

It depends on the university and course. Many universities have made GRE/GMAT optional post-COVID, but some still require it.

 

2. How long can I stay after completing my degree?

You can stay for up to 12 months on OPT, or 36 months for STEM programs.

 

3. How much bank balance is required for a US student visa?

You need to show funds covering the first year of tuition and living expenses — typically $30,000 to $60,000.

 

4. Can I bring my spouse on a student visa?

Yes, under an F-2 visa, but spouses cannot work unless they change their visa type.

 

5. What is the difference between OPT and CPT?

CPT is for internships during your course. OPT is for work after graduation.

 

6. What are some affordable universities in the US?

• University of Texas at El Paso
• South Dakota State University
• California State University system
• Arkansas State University

 

Final Thoughts

Studying in the USA opens doors to a high-quality education and international career prospects. However, success depends on timely preparation, choosing the right university, managing finances, and complying with visa regulations. This guide can help Indian students chart a successful academic journey in the USA in 2025.