Study in the USA
The Ultimate Guide for Indian & International Students
Discover everything you need to know about studying in the USA
from top-ranked universities and application requirements to visa processing, scholarships, part-time jobs, and long-term stay options.
Why Study in the USA?
The USA remains the top destination for higher education, hosting over 1 million international students. With globally ranked institutions, flexible course structures, and unmatched research opportunities, it offers both academic excellence and career growth. From STEM to arts, business to medicine — U.S. education opens global doors.
Key Benefits:
- Home to 8 of the top 10 global universities
- OPT & STEM OPT allow 1–3 years of work after graduation
- Multicultural campus life & support for international students
- Access to scholarships & assistantships
- Opportunity to transition to H1B and Green Card
Top Public Universities:
- University of California, Berkeley
- University of Michigan
- University of Texas at Austin
Top Private Universities:
- Harvard University
- Stanford University
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Public vs Private Universities in the USA
| Factor | Public Universities | Private Universities |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $10,000 – $25,000/year | $25,000 – $55,000/year |
| Class Size | Larger | Smaller, personalized |
| Funding | State-funded | Privately funded |
| Prestige | Strong local reputation | Many ranked globally |
| Admission | More affordable | Slightly easier in some cases |
| Degree Level | Duration | Language |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s | 4 years | English |
| Master’s (MS/MBA) | 1–2 years | English |
| PhD | 4–6 years | English |
| Diplomas | 1 year | English |
Popular Courses & Programs in the USA
Whether you're pursuing a Bachelor’s, Master’s, MBA, or PhD, the U.S. offers unmatched academic flexibility and cross-disciplinary study options.
High-Demand Courses for Indian Students:
- Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science
- MBA, Finance, Marketing, Supply Chain
- Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil)
- Health Sciences, Nursing, Public Health
- Psychology, Media, International Relations
Entry Requirements – UG & PG
For Undergraduate (UG):
- 10+2 with strong GPA (75%+ for top schools)
- SAT (optional at many universities)
- IELTS 6.0+ / TOEFL 80+ / Duolingo accepted
- SOP, 1–2 LORs, resume
For Postgraduate (PG):
- 3/4-year UG degree with 60%+
- GRE/GMAT (depends on course/university)
- IELTS 6.5+ / TOEFL 90+
- CV, SOP, 2–3 LORs
Optional But Recommended:
- Extracurriculars
- Research work or internships
- Financial proof during visa stage
USA Student Visa (F1 Visa)
Visa Type: F1 Non-Immigrant Visa
Issued for academic programs in accredited U.S. institutions.
Requirements:
- Valid I-20 from SEVP-approved institution
- SEVIS registration & fee payment
- DS-160 form and visa fee ($185)
- Proof of financial capacity (~$30,000+)
- Valid passport
- Strong ties to home country (for visa interview)
Visa Processing Time:
15–45 days (appointments via VFS/US Embassy in India)
Tuition Fees & Living Costs
Tuition (Annual):
- Public Universities: $10,000 – $25,000
- Private Universities: $25,000 – $55,000
Total Annual Estimate: $30,000 – $50,000 (₹25–₹40 Lakhs/year)
Living Expenses (Annual):
| Expense | Monthly Cost ($) |
|---|---|
| Rent & Utilities | $600 – $1,200 |
| Food & Groceries | $200 – $400 |
| Transportation | $50 – $100 |
| Health Insurance | $80 – $150 |
| Misc. | $100 – $200 |
Scholarships for International Students
Popular Scholarships for Indian Students:
- Fulbright-Nehru Masters Fellowships
- Inlaks Scholarship
- AAUW International Fellowships
- University-specific aid (NYU, Columbia, UChicago)
- Need-based and merit-based financial aid
Tips:
- Apply early (along with admission)
- Highlight GPA, SOP, and career goals
Part-Time Jobs & Work Opportunities
While Studying (F1 Visa):
- On-campus work: Up to 20 hours/week
- Jobs: Library, Cafeteria, Research Assistant
After Graduation:
- OPT (Optional Practical Training): 12 months
- STEM OPT Extension: +24 months
- H1B sponsorships from U.S. employers
Average Pay:
$10 – $25/hour depending on location & job role
Post-Study PR Pathways – H1B to Green Card
Work Visa Route:
- Apply for H1B during or after OPT
- Requires employer sponsorship
- Pathway to U.S. Green Card (EB categories)
Green Card Process:
- PR through employment or marriage
- EB-2/EB-3 categories popular for international grads
- Priority date + PERM process applies
Public vs Community Colleges
Community Colleges:
- 2-year associate degrees
- Lower cost ($3,000 – $8,000/year)
- Open admissions, flexible eligibility
- Transfer to university via 2+2 pathway
Testimonials & Success Stories
Our Client Have Trusted
Us for our work
We’re proud to have helped thousands achieve their dream of settling abroad. Our success stories, high approval rate, and transparent processes have built a solid community of happy clients
“I had a positive experience with the immigration services. Milan and Sahil Sharma (Case Manager) guided me through every step, clearly explaining documentation and providing timely updates. I'm grateful for their support and would recommend them to anyone needing immigration assistance.”
“Countrywide Visas delivered exactly what they promised! They helped me secure my Canadian work visa smoothly, with no complications. Their clear, step-by-step guidance and complete transparency made the entire process stress-free and easy to navigate. Truly a reliable and professional team.”
“I'm happy to share that my Australia PR visa was approved in just five months. Thanks to Pooja Ma'am for her outstanding support and guidance. I truly appreciate Countrywide Visas' professionalism and would gladly recommend their services to others.”
“Countrywide Visas delivers on its promise of reliable timelines, efficiently processing applications according to a set schedule. This consistency offers clients clarity, confidence, and peace of mind throughout the immigration process, making them a trusted partner in achieving visa-related goals.”
“What sets Countrywide Visas apart is their ability to find innovative solutions. They approach challenges creatively, ensuring each application is handled smoothly and efficiently, resulting in a seamless experience for clients aiming to achieve their immigration goals with confidence and ease.”
“Countrywide Visas restored my confidence when I needed it most. After experiencing fraud with another agency, I was cautious—but this team proved to be 100% genuine. They handled my documentation flawlessly and offered constant support. Truly a commendable and trustworthy service.”
“Countrywide Visas made the entire process feel effortless. They handled my documentation with professionalism and offered timely support. Having faced fraud before, I was skeptical—but this team changed everything. Today, I’m happily placed in a job that matches my skills and aspirations.”
Contact with Us
Talk to India’s Trusted Immigration Experts – We’re Just a Call Away
Need professional advice on your visa profile? Our experts are available to answer all your queries with zero consultation fees.
Success Stories
From Hope to Reality: Our Canada PR Journey
My wife and I just received our Canadian PR visas—such a surreal moment! Huge thanks to Countrywide Visas for their professional and transparent support throughout. The document checklist helped a lot. Highly recommend them to anyone planning to migrate abroad.My wife and I just received our Canadian PR visas—such a surreal moment! Huge thanks to Countrywide Visas for their professional and transparent support throughout. The document checklist helped a lot. Highly recommend them to anyone planning to migrate abroad.
Mr. Aditya
10 January 2018
Hurrey!! PR Visa Confirmation
I’m incredibly grateful to Countrywide Visas for their professional guidance throughout my Canadian PR journey. Their timely execution and dedicated support made the entire process smooth and stress-free. Big thanks to the case managers—I couldn’t have done it without you! Highly recommend Countrywide Visas to anyone pursuing immigration.
Ms. Tanu Sharma
20 December 2018
Dream Come True – I’m Moving to Canada!
Just received my passport—truly grateful to Countrywide Visas! Special thanks to my case manager, who guided me every step of the way, even when things got tricky with document submissions. Their expertise and support made all the difference. Highly recommend them to anyone looking for reliable immigration services.
Abhishek
25 July 2018
Grateful for Exceptional Service and Support
Dear Countrywide Visas,I’m extremely grateful for your assistance in obtaining my Canadian PR visa. Every agent involved was highly cooperative, guiding me through each step, from document preparation to WES evaluation and medical submission. Thanks to your efforts, I received my invitation and visa in record time. Highly appreciate all your support.Regards,V.V.K.
Mr. Viswan Kalarikkal
10 October 2017
Thank You for Your Support and Guidance
Dear Mamta,I’m thrilled to share that I’ve successfully obtained my PR, and I owe it all to your guidance. Your expertise and Countrywide Visas’ professionalism made the entire process smooth and transparent. I truly appreciate your support and will gladly recommend your services to others.Kind Regards,Harsh Chandola
Mr. Harsh Chandola
10 January 2018
A Smooth Journey with Countrywide Visas
I began my journey with Countrywide Visas in November 2016, starting with the eligibility points calculation, which I successfully passed. The documentation process for Express Entry was tough due to my work schedule, but the Countrywide Visas team was patient and supportive. Special thanks to my case manager for the timely updates, which made the whole process easier. By October 2017, my visa was stamped, and I’m grateful for the continuous support and dedication from the team. Highly satisfied with the service!
Mr. Yashodhan
10 October 2018
Exceptional Support for My Canadian PR Journey
A huge thank you to Countrywide Visas for their invaluable support throughout my Canadian PR process. From the initial consultation to the final approval, my case manager was incredibly patient, thorough, and always ready to help. She made the entire process smooth with her expert guidance and timely reminders. I’m deeply grateful for the professional and seamless experience, and I will continue to recommend Countrywide Visas to others.
Mr. Nishant Kumar
17 January 2018
We're proud to work with our preferred partners
