Why Choose the USA as a Study Destination?
The United States is an all-time favourite and the first choice for Indian students as a study destination. It offers world-class education, cultural diversity, and unparalleled research opportunities. Home to millions of international students, the USA is known for its innovation, academic excellence, and career-driven programs.
General Geography of the USA
The USA is the third-largest country in the world by area and population. It comprises 50 states with diverse geographies—from the beaches of California to the skyscrapers of New York, and the academic hubs of Boston to the tech capital of Silicon Valley. Top cities that always attract students include New York, Boston, Chicago, San Francisco, and Los Angeles.
Number of Universities in the USA
There are over 4,000 accredited higher education institutions in the United States, including Ivy League schools, public universities, liberal arts colleges, and community colleges.
Cost of Studying in the USA
Tuition Fees:
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Public universities: $20,000 - $35,000/year
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Private universities: $35,000 - $55,000/year
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Living Costs:
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Range between $10,000 - $18,000/year depending on the city and lifestyle
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Popular Courses Among Indian Students
Indian students in the USA commonly pursue:
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Computer Science & IT
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Business Administration & Management (MBA)
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Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil)
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Data Science & AI
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Public Health & Biological Sciences
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Finance & Economics
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Why Study in the USA?
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Academic Excellence: Home to top-ranking universities like MIT, Stanford, and Harvard
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Research Opportunities: Strong emphasis on innovation and research funding
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Flexible Curriculum: Choose from a wide range of electives and majors
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Cultural Exposure: A truly multicultural environment
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Post-Study Work Options: The OPT program allows international students to work for up to 3 years after graduation in STEM fields
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Read all about studying in the UK at - -- add the link of the UK page
USA Education System
The education system in the USA is flexible and offers multiple entry points:
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Undergraduate (UG): Associate (2 years) and Bachelor's (4 years) degrees
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Postgraduate (PG): Master’s (1-2 years) and MBA programs
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Doctoral: PhD programs (4-6 years)
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Timeline to Plan Your Studies in the USA
For Undergraduate (UG):
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May - August (Previous Year): Research and shortlist universities
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September - December: Take SAT/ACT and TOEFL/IELTS
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November - January: Apply via Common App or individual portals
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March - April: Receive decisions and accept offers
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May - July: Apply for visa and arrange accommodation
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August - September: Begin your course
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For Postgraduate (PG):
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April - June (Previous Year): Shortlist programs
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July - October: Take GRE/GMAT and language tests
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October - January: Submit applications
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February - April: Receive admission offers
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May - July: Apply for F-1 visa and prepare to move
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Come to us to discuss your timeline at www.covanedu.com
Admission Requirements
UG Admissions:
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High school transcripts (Grade 10-12)
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Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT - optional at some universities)
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TOEFL/IELTS
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SOP and 1-2 LORs
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Extracurricular achievements (optional but recommended)
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PG Admissions:
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Bachelor's degree transcripts
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GRE/GMAT scores (depending on the program)
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TOEFL/IELTS
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SOP and 2-3 LORs
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Resume/CV and work experience (for MBA)
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Student Visa Process (F-1 Visa)
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Receive the I-20 form from the university
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Pay the SEVIS fee ($350)
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Fill the DS-160 form and pay the visa fee ($185)
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Schedule a visa interview at the US Embassy or Consulate
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Attend the interview with all necessary documents
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Documents Required for F-1 Visa
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Attend the interview with all necessary documents
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Valid passport
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Form I-20
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SEVIS fee receipt
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DS-160 confirmation
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Visa fee receipt
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Admission letter
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Academic transcripts
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Test scores (IELTS/TOEFL, GRE/GMAT)
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Financial documents
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Ties to home country (proof of return intention)
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Learn more at US Department of State – Student Visas
Scholarships for Indian Students in the USA
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Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships
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Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships
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AAUW International Fellowships (for women)
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Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship (for MBA)
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University-specific scholarships like:
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Harvard University Financial Aid
MIT Scholarships
University of Chicago Merit Scholarships
Eligibility for Scholarships
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Strong academic background
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English language proficiency
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Leadership qualities and extracurricular achievements
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Financial need (in some cases)
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Get your eligibility checked with us at www.covanedu.com
How to Apply
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Research scholarships on university and government websites
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Prepare a compelling SOP and resume
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Provide academic and financial documents
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Apply directly or via scholarship portals
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Learn more about scholarships with us at www.covanedu.com
Job Prospects in the USA
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OPT (Optional Practical Training) for F-1 visa holders: 12 months (STEM fields: 24-month extension)
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CPT (Curricular Practical Training) allows internships during studies
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Sectors hiring international students: Tech, Business, Healthcare, Engineering
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H-1B Visa: Sponsored employment after OPT period
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Average starting salary: $50,000 - $70,000/year, higher for STEM/MBA graduates
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FAQs
No, but most universities accept either IELTS or TOEFL. Some waive tests if your previous education was in English. Read more about IELTS preparation at www.covanedu.com
In 2023, the USA F-1 visa approval rate for Indian students was around 85%, subject to correct documentation and interview performance.
Yes. F-1 students can work up to 20 hours/week on-campus during term and full-time during breaks.
Yes, both merit-based and need-based scholarships are offered by the US government, private bodies, and universities.
Not always. Many universities have made GRE/GMAT optional post-COVID, especially for non-STEM courses.