Studying in the United States is a dream for many international students due to its renowned education system, diverse culture, and vast opportunities. Here’s a comprehensive description of what it’s like to study in the USA:

Cost of Living and Affordability

USA has the most affordable living expenses when compared to other countries. The estimated cost of living for a student who wants to live on campus would be $9,000 – $12,000 per year (Varied by Location & Experience in top ranked universities), which includes the expenses of room, board, food, travel and accommodation. Whereas, for students who want to live off-campus would be between $500 to $1000 per month. Urban Cities are typically expensive, and living is around $ 1000 per month. Most of the Graduate students from India prefer living off-campus because they can manage to cut down living expenses. Apart from these expenses, there would be some miscellaneous expenses which involve transportation, laptop, entertainment, etc.

Tuition Costs 

It is important to understand the return on your investment and value for your money. The tuition fee for graduate programs varies with the universities, ranging from $15,000 to $30,000 per year. Some of the IVY league and private universities are expensive. However, most of the universities offer merit-based scholarships depending upon students UG percentage and GRE Scores.

Admission Process involves 6 major steps

• University Selection
• Supporting materials
• Online Application Submission (Application Fee Payment)
• Track Applications
• Submitting Financial Statements
• Apply for Visa

Major Intakes

• Fall – August Intake (Fall is Popular for international Students)
• Spring – January intake
• Late Spring – March intake
• Summer – May/ June intake

VISA Interview Checklist

All applicants for a US Non-Immigrant visa in F1 Category need to appear for the VISA Interview at US Consulate/embassy. After getting i20 from USA University (SEVIS ID) of your choice, you can apply for the F1 visa 120 days before you are scheduled to start your program. OFC Appointment: Passport & DS-160 Confirmation Page & Interview Appointment Confirmation Page

• VISA Appointment Letter: DS 160 Confirmation Page
• Passport & I20
• SEVIS Fee $350 Payment Receipt
• Academic Documents
• GRE / GMAT Scorecard /TOEFL / IELTS / PTE / DET Scorecard
• Savings & Education Loan Letter
• Income Proof (Salary Certificate / Income Tax)
• Photocopy of Property Papers
• Work Experience Letter/Certifications/Internships (if applicable)

Online Application process:

• Create Account (Username & Password) & Log in to Start Filling Online Application
• Submit: Contact Information, Program Information, Previous Education History & Work History/Employment History (If Applicant has any work exp)
• Standard Test Scores (GRE & TOEFL/IELTS/PTE/DET)
• Select Letter of Recommendations (Online/Offline)
• Upload Transcripts, SOP, Resume
• Review, Submit & Pay the Application Fee.

Once Admitted, students need to submit their financial documents in order to receive i20. After receiving i20, the VISA process must be initiated by filing DS 160 form, paying the VISA fees, SEVIS Fees and then schedule a VISA date.