How to Study in the USA: A Complete Guide for International Students

Are you an international student who wants to study in the USA, one of the most popular and prestigious study destinations in the world? Do you want to pursue a high-quality education at some of the world’s top universities, experience a diverse and vibrant culture, and enhance your career prospects? If yes, then this guide is for you.

In this guide, I will cover everything you need to know about studying in the USA as an international student, including:

• Why study in the USA
• How to choose a course and university
• How to apply and get accepted
• How to fund your studies
• How to prepare and settle in
• How to make the most of your USA experience

By the end of this guide, you will have a clear idea of how to study in the USA and what steps to take to make your dream come true. Let’s get started!

Why Study in the USA?

The USA is one of the most attractive study destinations for international students for many reasons, such as:

• World-class education: The USA is home to some of the world’s top universities, such as Harvard, Stanford, MIT, and Berkeley. These universities are renowned for their academic excellence, research impact, innovation, and diversity. The USA also offers a wide range of courses and degrees in various fields and disciplines, from arts and humanities to science and engineering. You can find a course that suits your interests and career goals in the USA.
• International recognition: A degree from a US university is highly valued and respected by employers, universities, and governments around the world. It can open up many opportunities for your future career and further education. The US is also a member of the Bologna Process, which means that its degrees are compatible with those of other European countries.
• Cultural diversity: The US is a multicultural and multilingual society that welcomes people from different backgrounds, cultures, and religions. You can meet and interact with people from all over the world while studying in the US. You can also enjoy the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the US, such as its music, literature, art, festivals, and cuisine.
• Student life: Studying in the US is not only about academics, but also about having fun and making memories. The US offers a vibrant and exciting student life that caters to different tastes and preferences. You can join various clubs and societies, participate in sports and events, explore the cities and countryside, or travel to other countries easily.
• English language skills: Studying in the US is a great way to improve your English language skills, which are essential for your academic success and career prospects. You will be exposed to different accents, dialects, and expressions while studying and living in the US. You will also have access to various resources and support services to help you develop your English proficiency.

How to Choose a Course and University

Choosing a course and university is one of the most important decisions you will make when planning to study in the US. There are many factors to consider when making this decision, such as:

• Your interests and goals: You should choose a course that matches your interests, passions, and aspirations. You should also consider how the course will help you achieve your academic and career objectives. For example, if you want to pursue a master’s degree or a PhD after your bachelor’s degree, you should look for a course that prepares you for further research or study. If you want to enter the job market directly after graduation, you should look for a course that provides you with relevant skills and knowledge.
• The course content and structure: You should check the course content and structure carefully before applying. You should look for information such as:
  • The duration of the course: Most undergraduate courses in the US last for four years (except for some engineering programs that last for five years), while most postgraduate courses last for one or two years (depending on whether they are coursework or research-based). However, some courses may have different durations depending on the subject area or university.
  • The modules or units of study: These are the topics or themes that make up the course. You should check what modules are compulsory or optional, how they are assessed, and how they relate to each other.
  • The entry requirements: These are the qualifications or grades that you need to have to be eligible for the course. You should check what subjects or exams you need to have taken or passed (such as SAT or ACT for undergraduate courses or GRE or GMAT for postgraduate courses), what level of English proficiency you need to have (usually measured by tests such as TOEFL or IELTS), and what other documents or evidence you need to provide (such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statement, etc.).
  • The teaching methods: These are the ways that you will learn on the course. You should check what methods are used by the lecturers or professors (such as lectures, seminars, tutorials, workshops, labs, field trips, online learning, etc.). You should also check how much contact time you will have with them and how much independent study you will need to do.
  • The learning outcomes: These are the skills or competencies that you will gain or develop by completing the course. You should check what outcomes are expected from you and how they will be measured or evaluated.
• The university reputation and ranking: You should also consider the reputation and ranking of the university that offers the course. You can use various sources to find out more about the university, such as:
  • Official websites: You can visit the official websites of the universities to find out more about their history, mission, vision, values, facilities, services, achievements, etc.
  • Accreditation bodies: You can check if the universities are accredited or recognized by relevant bodies (such as the US Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation), or by professional associations or organizations (such as the American Bar Association or the American Medical Association).
  • Rankings and league tables: You can consult various rankings and league tables that compare and evaluate universities based on different criteria (such as academic performance, research impact, student satisfaction, employability, etc.). Some of the most popular rankings and league tables are:
    • The Times Higher Education World University Rankings
    • The QS World University Rankings
    • The Academic Ranking of World Universities
    • The US News & World Report Best Colleges
    • The Forbes America’s Top Colleges
  • Student reviews and feedback: You can also read or watch student reviews and feedback to get a personal perspective on the university experience. You can find student reviews and feedback on websites such as:
    • Niche
    • College Confidential
    • Unigo
    • YouTube
• The location and cost: Finally, you should also consider the location and cost of studying in the US. You should think about:
  • The city or state: You should choose a city or state that suits your personality, lifestyle, and preferences. You should consider factors such as:
    • The size and population: Do you prefer a big and busy city or a small and quiet town?
    • The culture and diversity: Do you want to experience different cultures and meet people from different backgrounds?
    • The climate and weather: Do you like warm and sunny weather or cold and snowy weather?
    • The attractions and activities: Do you want to explore historical sites, museums, galleries, parks, etc. or enjoy nightlife, shopping, sports, etc.?
  • The accommodation: You should choose an accommodation that is comfortable, convenient, and affordable. You should consider factors such as:
    • The type and quality: Do you prefer a private or shared room? Do you want an ensuite bathroom or a shared bathroom? Do you want a self-catered or catered option? How is the condition and cleanliness of the accommodation?
    • The location and distance: How far is the accommodation from the university campus? How easy is it to commute by public transport, bike, or walk? How safe is the neighborhood?
    • The cost and availability: How much is the rent per week or month? What is included in the rent (e.g., bills, internet, etc.)? How long is the contract? How easy is it to find and book an accommodation?
  • The living expenses: You should also budget for your living expenses while studying in the US. You should consider factors such as:
    • The tuition fees: How much are the tuition fees for your course? Are there any scholarships or financial aid available for you?
    • The food and groceries: How much do you spend on food and groceries per week or month? Where do you buy them (e.g., supermarkets, markets, etc.)? What do you eat (e.g., home-cooked meals, takeaways, etc.)?
    • The transport: How much do you spend on transport per week or month? What mode of transport do you use (e.g., bus, train, subway, etc.)? Do you have a student discount card or pass?
    • The entertainment and leisure: How much do you spend on entertainment and leisure per week or month? What do you do for fun (e.g., going out with friends, watching movies, joining clubs or societies, etc.)?
    • The health and insurance: How much do you spend on health and insurance per year? Do you have access to free healthcare through the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) or another plan? Do you have a travel insurance policy?

How to Apply and Get Accepted

Once you have chosen your course and university, the next step is to apply and get accepted. Here are some tips on how to do that:

• Check the application deadlines: Different courses and universities may have different application deadlines. You should check them carefully and plan ahead. Generally speaking, most undergraduate courses have a deadline of January 1 through Common App.