Can I work while studying in the USA?

F-1 students can work up to 20 hours/week on-campus during the academic year. Off-campus work requires CPT (Curricular Practical Training) authorization through your university.

What is the difference between F-1 and J-1 visas?

F-1 is the standard student visa for academic programs. J-1 is for exchange visitors and may have a two-year home residency requirement. Most degree-seeking students apply for F-1.

How much funding do I need to show for a US student visa?

You need to demonstrate funding for at least the first year of study, covering tuition fees and living expenses as listed on your I-20 form.

Is GRE/GMAT required for all US universities?

Not all. Many universities have made GRE/GMAT optional post-pandemic. Requirements vary by program and institution. Check individual university requirements.

Study in United States – Universities, Fees, Visa, Scholarships & PR

Country Overview

Why Study in United States?

The United States boasts the largest number of top-ranked universities globally, offering unparalleled academic resources, research opportunities, and campus experiences. With flexible curricula, diverse program options, and Optional Practical Training (OPT) allowing up to 3 years of post-study work for STEM students, the USA remains the most popular destination for international students worldwide.

6+ leading universities to choose from
5+ scholarship programs available
Intakes: Fall (August–September), Spring (January), Summer (May)
Living costs: $15,000 – $25,000/year

Book Free Consultation Browse Scholarships

Landmarks and student life in United States

Study in United States

STEM OPT Extension: 3 Years

Key Advantages

What Makes United States a Top Choice

The standout benefits international students gain when choosing this destination.

Top-Ranked Universities

MIT, Stanford, Harvard, and hundreds of research-intensive institutions.

Flexible Academics

Broad curriculum choices, interdisciplinary programs, and cutting-edge research labs.

OPT Work Authorization

12 months OPT standard; STEM graduates can extend up to 36 months of work experience.

Career & Startup Ecosystem

Access to Silicon Valley, Wall Street, and a thriving innovation economy.

At a Glance

Key Facts for International Students

Essential numbers and policies to plan your budget, timeline, and work expectations.

Avg. Tuition

$20,000 – $55,000/year

Living Cost

$15,000 – $25,000/year

Work Rights

20 hrs/week on-campus, CPT/OPT for off-campus

Visa Processing

4–6 weeks

Intakes

Fall (August–September), Spring (January), Summer (May)

Popular Courses

Computer Science & ITBusiness & MBAEngineeringData ScienceHealthcareLiberal Arts

Top Universities

MIT

Stanford University

Harvard University

Caltech

University of Chicago

Columbia University

Tuition Fees & Living Expenses

Average Tuition Fees

$20,000 – $55,000/year

Living Expenses

$15,000 – $25,000/year

Fall (August–September)

Spring (January)

Summer (May)

Scholarships

Fulbright Scholarships

Prestigious US government-funded program for graduate students, scholars, and professionals. Covers tuition, living expenses, and airfare.

Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship

Non-degree program for experienced professionals offering 10 months of academic study and professional development.

University Merit Scholarships

Most US universities offer merit-based scholarships ranging from partial to full tuition waivers.

Graduate Assistantships

Teaching and research assistantships that cover tuition and provide a monthly stipend for graduate students.

Need-Based Financial Aid

Many private universities (Harvard, MIT, Stanford) offer generous need-based aid that meets 100% of demonstrated financial need.

Work Rights for Students

During Studies: 20 hrs/week on-campus, CPT/OPT for off-campus

Student Visa Requirements

Form I-20 from a SEVP-certified institution

SEVIS fee payment (I-901)

Completed DS-160 online visa application

Valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond intended stay

Proof of financial ability to cover tuition and living costs

Visa interview at the US Embassy/Consulate

Evidence of ties to home country (intent to return)

Estimated Processing Time

4–6 weeks

Required Documents

Valid passport

I-20 form from university

DS-160 confirmation page

SEVIS fee receipt (I-901)

Financial documents (bank statements, sponsor letters, loan approval)

Academic transcripts and certificates

Standardized test scores (GRE/GMAT/SAT/TOEFL/IELTS)

Passport-size photographs

Admission offer letter

Statement of Purpose

Resume/CV

PR & Immigration Pathways

The US does not offer a direct post-study PR pathway. However, students can use OPT (12 months, extendable to 36 months for STEM) to gain work experience, transition to an H-1B work visa through employer sponsorship, and eventually apply for a Green Card. The EB-2/EB-3 employment-based immigration categories are common pathways for international graduates.

Career Opportunities

Technology – Silicon Valley and tech hubs across the country offer abundant opportunities at companies like Google, Apple, Amazon, and startups

Finance – Wall Street and major financial centers provide careers in investment banking, consulting, and fintech

Healthcare – Massive demand for healthcare professionals, researchers, and biomedical engineers

Engineering – Aerospace, automotive, civil, and software engineering roles across multiple industries

Research & Academia – World-leading research universities with funding for cutting-edge research

Entrepreneurship – Strong startup ecosystem with access to venture capital and incubators

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to the most common questions students ask about studying in United States.

Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows F-1 students to work in the US for 12 months after graduation. STEM graduates can extend this by an additional 24 months, giving up to 3 years of work authorization.