What would it signify if your résumé mentioned an American university? Why would prospective employers be interested in your American schooling credentials?

You would have considerable intercultural experience as well as advanced English language proficiency. It would demonstrate that you have access to cutting-edge technology and research while studying in one of the greatest higher education institutions in the world. They would be aware that you had comprehensive training, had developed your problem-solving skills, and were knowledgeable about current procedures in your sector.

You get more than simply observable degrees and certifications from your study abroad and domestic experiences. Your life experiences reveal something about you. Living and studying abroad is difficult, and it calls for guts and a positive outlook—especially if your language is not widely spoken there. These qualities might occasionally have a bigger impact than your educational background.

One of the most popular places to study is the United States. Millions of students from all over the world apply to US colleges each year in order to receive the best education possible and guarantee their future.

Despite the fact that candidates now have a seemingly limitless number of alternatives, the United States remains the top choice.

Why Study in USA?

What makes it ideal for so many people?

The majority of the world's foreign students are studied abroad in the United States of America (USA). Numerous Indian students wish to study in the US for a variety of reasons, including the high quality of instruction, the distinctive curriculum, the diversity of the country, and the abundance of chances. Here are the top 5 reasons why choosing to study in the US can be the finest choice you ever make:

  • 1. Academic excellence

    The US is home to some of the best institutions in the world, several of which frequently place high in international university rankings. American colleges are also renowned for having high academic standards, adhering to strict procedures to ensure quality, and being well-supported so they can provide their students with outstanding educations. According to the 2022 QS World University Rankings, 33 of the top 100 universities are American. Seven American colleges were also placed among the top 10 universities by Times Higher Education Ranking.

  • 2. Flexible education system

    There are a wide variety of courses and programmes available in American universities and colleges. You are allowed to choose both the course's structure and its content. Before declaring your major at the conclusion of your second year at the undergraduate level, you are free to take whatever courses you like. This makes it easier to research your area of interest before making a decision slowly. Similar to undergraduate studies, graduate studies provide you the freedom to pursue your preferences, and when you work on your dissertation, you may concentrate on the concepts you wish to emphasise.

  • 3. Excellent support system for international students

    American colleges are aware of the difficulties faced by overseas students and often hold orientation programmes, workshops, and trainings to provide support. In reality, the office for foreign students supports students like you as you adjust to a different way of life. Whether you have a question about academics, culture, or social life, staff members are there around-the-clock to help.

  • 4. Cultural diversity

    There are many diverse cultures, races, and ethnicities in the US. Its multicultural setting assures that all communities are accepted and that discrimination of any kind is not tolerated. Your education will be rich and fascinating since you will be studying with students from all parts of the world. You will develop strong personality traits and marketable abilities as a result of growing up in a diverse environment. Employers today appreciate students with a diverse background, which the US would provide you an excellent taste of. The US will provide you a truly unique international exposure as you learn about a range of foods, traditions, festivals, and forms of art.

  • 5. Lively and vibrant campus life

    The US has unrivalled college life, that is a well-known truth. You will encounter new cultural experiences and the American way of life regardless of the university you attend. Accept it and be receptive to fresh perspectives and new acquaintances.

Here are some benefits of studying in the USA:

USA

Explore Vast Academic Opportunities

Students have access to a wide range of degrees and study opportunities in American higher education. Because of this, there are many options for students to select a course of study that fits with their unique interests and objectives, which may not be possible for them in other nations.
It might be difficult to choose which programme to pursue because there are so many different study opportunities accessible in the U.S. It is crucial for students to consider their personal and professional objectives while making this choice in order to choose the degree programme that best fits their desires.

Improve Your Career Opportunities

Gaining a degree from an American institution may increase your future employment options, regardless of whether you ultimately choose to come to the nation or return home.
Even if moving to the US isn't your ultimate objective, working and studying there may help you land a better job when you return to your own nation, particularly if you'll be working for a multinational corporation, according to Kleber.
International students can benefit from experiential learning, co-ops, and internships to obtain practical experience in their chosen fields while they are still in school. This not only offers worthwhile educational possibilities, but it may also facilitate the development of trusting connections with potential employers and perhaps persuade one to sponsor your visa application.
Furthermore, there are some degrees that are 'STEM eligible' that enable overseas students the chance to stay in the U.S. for an extra two years post-graduation, above the regular limit of one year, while working for a U.S.-based firm.
F-1 students may apply for optional practical training if they hold a qualifying degree in a STEM field from a school recognised by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (OPT). With this STEM OPT extension, these students can stay in the country for a total of 36 months to complete their practical training. Their course of study is tied to this instruction, which is frequently compensated.

Perfect Your English

Perfecting your English while attending a U.S. institution can have some beneficial effects. One of the greatest ways to become fluent in a new language is to totally immerse yourself in it.
If you're not a natural English speaker, improving your abilities might provide you a competitive edge on the job market, particularly if you want to work for a global company. Any company may benefit from your good understanding of many languages and cultures since it shows that you are capable of interacting with people from various cultural backgrounds.
Most of the time, in order to be accepted into a degree programme, applicants must provide evidence of their English language ability in the form of authentic TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE exam results. Nevertheless, those who fall short of the minimal score standards for direct admittance have other possibilities. For instance, Northeastern University advises these students to submit an application for the Global Pathways Degree, which aids in improving English language proficiency and preparing them for their desired programme. Students who complete Global Pathways successfully are enrolled automatically in the degree programme of their choosing.

Gain a Global Perspective

Studying abroad offers enormous personal development prospects in addition to the wide range of academic and professional development options that are provided to foreign students in the United States. Students have the opportunity to broaden their worldwide networks, encounter different cultures, and develop a global perspective by attending an American university.
International students who attend American universities are exposed to a variety of cultures that they may not have otherwise encountered. In addition to studying in a foreign language and interacting with distinct cultural dynamics in the classroom, they also live different lives outside of it.
International students are exposed to opinions from people from all various backgrounds both inside and outside the classroom. You have the chance to think about opinions that you may not have otherwise been exposed to because of the large range of perspectives you can engage with.

Receive World-Class Student Support

International students frequently have access to excellent student assistance from their host university, despite the fact that relocating to a new country might be scary. American colleges and universities work to give students the tools and assistance they require during this phase of their life, from academic and professional demands to personal growth.
For instance, Northeastern University is a genuinely international university with more than 7,500 international students studying there from 140 different countries. As a result, the institution has extensive expertise in giving these students the assistance they need to succeed.

How To Study In USA

You are making a great choice for your future when you decide to study in the US and will be joining more than a million other international students there. There are several benefits to studying in the United States, such as the richness of the culture and professional assistance.

Your trip to the US as an international student will start with choosing the college and academic programme you wish to enrol in. A US university associate's degree usually takes two years to accomplish. In the USA, a bachelor's degree typically necessitates three to four years of study. After earning your bachelor's degree, you may want to think about attending graduate school to further your education.

A master's degree (earned after two years of study) and a doctorate or PhD are available for graduate or postgraduate studies (three or more years). While associate's and bachelor's degrees are often more general in nature, graduate master's and doctoral programmes concentrate on a particular academic field.

You can start looking at associate's, bachelor's, and higher education degrees (such as master's and doctoral degrees). There are no publicly available, uniform college rankings in the United States. Instead, a number of commercial organisations evaluate and rank universities in the USA.
More than 400 educational advising centres are part of EducationUSA, a network run by the US Department of State that spans more than 170 nations.

Choose a University Program

Your major (or the subject of your academic studies) may be the most crucial consideration when deciding which universities to apply to in the United States for many overseas students studying there. You might be possible to complete a double major at a particular institution or university if you have several academic interests. The alternative is to add a minor (a secondary academic focus that requires about half the total classes taken for a major).
Do not worry if you are unclear about what you want to study in the United States: 40 percent of undergraduate students start their first year of college with an undeclared major in the United States, where most students change their minds about what their planned major will be during their time in college.
Academics are crucial, but you should also think about the type of university experience you desire when choosing where to study for your bachelor's degree in the USA. To get you started, consider the following queries:

• Should I enrol in a huge institution or a smaller college?
• Should I attend a private or public university?
• Would I prefer a college campus in a city, a small town, or the countryside?
• What exactly do I want to learn?
• What kinds of student clubs and campus activities am I interested in joining?

Your responses to these crucial questions will aid you in making an educated choice, so bear these preferences in mind while you look into US institutions.
You can target colleges and universities that meet your needs by looking at their locations in the US, climate (weather), test requirements (academic standardised and English proficiency tests), costs, scholarships, international student services, campus facilities, internship and job placement rates, and more.
You may find reputable degree programmes by looking at lists for graduate programmes, such as U.S. News & World Report's Best Graduate Schools. However, just as with undergraduate degrees, you must go past the rankings and ask yourself a few crucial questions:

• Whenever can I begin my graduate programme? Does the university admit new students during the spring (January–February), the summer (May–June), or the fall (August–September)?
• Will the GRE or GMAT be required as part of the application process?
• Is there lodging on campus for married or graduate students?
• Can I obtain a co-op or internship while enrolled in the programme?
• Are there services for overseas students?

Apply to the University

It is time to start applying once you have decided on the curriculum you want to pursue and have created a small list of universities to pick from.

You can start the application process for a programme at a US university online using the websites of the individual schools. You could also be able to apply directly through University Bureau, depending on the university. Regardless of the method you select, you must provide the university's list of needed documents.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT APPLICATIONS

Despite the fact that each US institution has its unique admissions standards, they all have a few things in common. Generally speaking, American colleges want the following from prospective overseas students:

Despite the fact that each US institution has its unique admissions standards, they all have a few things in common. Generally speaking, American colleges want the following from prospective overseas students:

• Transcript
• Standardized test scores
• SAT or ACT
• Acceptance notification
• English proficiency test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, iTEP, PTE Academic)
• Essay
• Recommendations
• Copy of your valid passport
• A replica of your current passport
For overseas students, certain schools and institutions may additionally demand evidence of funding. Some universities may also need an interview, which you may arrange with staff or alumni who are currently living overseas.
Remember that deadlines for college applications are significant. You might need to submit your applications by November or December if you want to be considered for admission to more selective universities that use early action or early decision.
If you're thinking about attending a university in the US, you may apply directly to one or more of them using a separate online application. Many of these institutions don't need international applicants to submit an essay or their SAT/ACT scores.

GRADUATE STUDENT APPLICATIONS

With a few key exceptions, graduate school application standards for overseas students are comparable to those for undergraduate programmes. This is what you could require:
• Academic transcripts from your bachelor’s degree studies
• Test scores
o GRE/GMAT
o TOEFL, IELTS, iTEP, or PTE Academic
• Statement of purpose
• Research proposal
• Recommendations from professors
• Copy of your valid passport
• Proof of finances — Unless you submit additional applications for assistantships or fellowships, you must demonstrate sufficient money to pay for your studies entirely (subtracting any available scholarships)
A video interview (using videoconferencing or a similar technology) or an on-campus interview with the program's admissions committee may also be required of applicants.
Online graduate applications are accepted by all US colleges and universities, often through the institutions' own websites.

Credit System in USA

The majority of institutions in the US employ the Semester Credit Hours (SCH) system, which is predicated on the idea that a full-time study load entails 30 US credits annually. For the span of a semester, a US Credit typically entails a weekly burden of one hour in class and two hours outside of class. This indicates that a US credit requires a minimum of 15 contact hours and a total effort of between 45 and 50 hours.

Scholarships to
Study in USA

At the best colleges in the USA, there are more than 1100 scholarships available for foreign students. These scholarships include tuition, housing costs, health insurance, and travel expenses in addition to an average monthly stipend of $2000.

Apply for fully financed scholarships to realise your ambition of attending one of the finest colleges in the world, such as Yale University in the United States, Harvard University in the United States, Clark University, Boise State University, Berea College, and many others.

  • Fulbright Scholarships USA
    International students can get fully financed scholarships through the Fulbright Program. These grants are exclusively available for graduate and doctoral programmes. The complete cost of education, a living stipend, full housing costs, flights, and health insurance are all covered by the Fulbright Foreign Student Program.

    Institution: USA Universities
    Study in: USA
    Level of Study: Masters / PhD
  • Stanford University Scholarships
    A completely financed award for overseas students is the Stanford University Scholarship. This award is available for graduate and postdoctoral work. This scholarship covers all academic costs, travel expenses, living expenses, and tuition fees.

    Institution: Stanford University
    Study in: USA
    Level of Study: Masters / PhD
  • Yale University Scholarships USA
    A completely financed award for overseas students is the Yale University Scholarship. This fellowship is available for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral study. The average Yale need-based scholarship is over $50,000, although they can range from a few hundred dollars to over $70,000 year.

    Institution: Yale University
    Study in: USA
    Level of Study: Undergraduate / Masters / PhD
  • University of New Haven Scholarship
    International students may apply for the University of New Haven Scholarship, which is completely financed. This award is exclusively available for master's degree programmes. This grant will cover 75% of their graduate program's tuition as well as an hourly pay and a chance for experiential learning.

    Institution: University of New Haven
    Study in: USA
    Level of Study: Masters
  • University of Memphis Scholarships
    International students may apply for the University of Memphis Scholarship, which is completely financed. This grant is available for graduate and undergraduate study. The scholarships range in value and pay the price difference between local and foreign tuition rates for non-Tennessee residents.

    Institution: University of Memphis
    Study in: USA
    Level of Study: Undergraduate / Masters
  • University of Minnesota Fellowship
    International students may apply for the University of Minnesota Fellowship, which is a fully supported grant. This award is available for master's degree programmes. The whole cost of tuition, living costs, travel, and health insurance are all covered by this scholarship.

    Institution: University of Minnesota
    Study in: USA
    Level of Study: Masters
  • AAUW International Fellowship Program
    This award is completely financed by the AAUW Fellowship Program. The American Association of University Women, USA, is the organisation providing this scholarship. All nations in the globe have students studying abroad who are eligible to apply. Only graduate and postgraduate studies in any university-offered field are eligible for this award. The AAUW Fellowship Program offers annual awards ranging from $18,000 to $30,000, subject to renewal requirements.

    Institution: The American Association of University Women
    Study in: USA
    Level of Study: Masters/ PhD / Postdoctoral
  • ACI Foundation Scholarship
    International students may apply for the fully funded ACI Foundation Scholarship. This grant is available for undergraduate, graduate, postdoctoral, and PhD study. For tuition, housing, books, and other educational expenses, this award offers a $10,000–$15,000 US educational stipend.

    Institution: ACI Foundation
    Study in: USA
    Level of Study: Undergraduate / Masters / PhD / Postdoctoral
  • Onsi Sawiris Scholarship
    For overseas students, the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship programme offers fully financed undergraduate and graduate scholarships. This scholarship includes travel, health insurance, a living allowance, and complete tuition.

    Institution: Stanford University, The University of Chicago, Harvard University, The University of Pennsylvania.
    Study in: USA
    Level of Study: Undergraduate / Masters
  • Rotary Peace Fellowship Program
    International students can apply for fully financed scholarships called Rotary Peace Fellowships. These grants are exclusively available for graduate and doctoral programmes. The Rotary Peace Fellowships Program covers all internship and field study costs in addition to tuition, fees, lodging and board, and round-trip transportation.

    Institution: Universities in below countries
    Study in: USA, Japan, UK, Australia, Sweden, Thailand
  • Clark Global Scholarship Program
    A fully financed undergraduate scholarship for overseas students is available through the Clark Global Scholarship Program 2021. For four years, this scholarship programme offers awards between $15,000 and $25,000, subject to the student maintaining the required GPA.

    Institution: Clark University
    Study in: USA
    Level of Study: Undergraduate
  • The HAAA Scholarship
    Arab students who are interested in pursuing undergraduate studies at Harvard University in the United States are encouraged to apply for the HAAA Scholarship. To further its objective of increasing the number of Arab students at Harvard, the Harvard Arab Alumni Association (HAAA) established the HAAA Scholarship Fund in 2010, the first of its type at Harvard.

    Institution: Harvard University
    Study in: USA
    Level of Study: Undergraduate
  • Treasure Scholarship at Boise State University
    For international students, Treasure Scholarships offer fully paid awards. These awards are exclusively available for undergraduate programmes. Each school year, $8,460 is covered by this scholarship.

    Institution: Boise State University
    Study in: USA
    Level of Study: Undergraduate
  • Boston University Presidential Scholarship
    Undergraduates can apply for the Boston University Presidential Scholarship. This scholarship is valid for up to four years of undergraduate study and will pay $25000 off your course expenses each year.

    Institution: Boston University
    Study in: USA
    Level of Study: Undergraduate
  • Berea College Scholarships
    A completely financed undergraduate award for overseas students is the Berea College Scholarship. For the first year of enrolment, the scholarship offers full assistance to all enrolled overseas students.

    Institution: Berea College
    Study in: USA
    Level of Study: Undergraduate
  • Cornell University Financial Aid
    International students can get financial help from Cornell University based on their need. Undergraduate studies are eligible for this award. International students who have been accepted and have submitted a financial aid application and shown a need for financial assistance are eligible for this scholarship.

    Institution: Cornell University
    Study in: USA
    Level of Study: Undergraduate
  • Illinois Wesleyan University Scholarships
    A fully financed undergraduate scholarship is available to international students at Illinois Wesleyan University. Full tuition scholarships at Illinois Wesleyan University are available, ranging in price from $16,000 to $30,000.

    Institution: Illinois Wesleyan University
    Study in: USA
    Level of Study: Undergraduate
  • Jefferson Scholars Foundation National Fellowship
    A fully financed PhD award for overseas students is the Jefferson Scholars Foundation National Fellowship. An office, stack access, interlibrary loan rights, internet access, the chance to give a paper in Hagley's seminar series, and use of Hagley's subsidised scholar's lodgings are all included in the $25,000 fellowship.

    Institution:Jefferson Scholars Foundation
    Study in: USA
    Level of Study: PhD
  • University of Miami Stamps Scholarship
    International undergraduate students can apply for the University of Miami Stamps Scholarship, which is completely financed. This scholarship provides $12,000 for undergraduate research and conferences in addition to full tuition, typical room and board, textbooks, a one-time stipend for the purchase of a computer, and standard room and board.

    Institution: University of Miami
    Study in: USA
    Level of Study: Undergraduate
  • University of Mississippi Scholarships
    For overseas students, the University of Mississippi Award 2021 is a financed scholarship. These financial aid are only available for undergraduate programmes. The programme offers awards from $3,900 to $23,454. International candidates with a cumulative high school grade point average of 3.50 to 4.00 on a 4.00 U.S. scale will be taken into consideration.

    Institution: University of Mississippi
    Study in: USA
    Level of Study: Undergraduate
  • Fairleigh Dickinson University Scholarships
    Undergraduate scholarships for Fairleigh Dickinson University are partially sponsored. Each year, this scholarship will provide £22,000.

    Institution: Fairleigh Dickinson University
    Study in: USA
    Level of Study: Undergraduate
  • Musser Fellowship in Entrepreneurial Studies
    A fully financed master's grant is available to overseas students under the Musser Fellowship programme. This scholarship will pay the $25000 in tuition for the whole duration of the research project.

    Institution:Penn State Great Valley
    Study in: USA
    Level of Study: Masters
  • INSEAD Jacques Nasser Endowed Leadership Scholarship
    For foreign MBA students, the INSEAD Jacques Nasser Endowed Leadership Scholarship is fully financed. This scholarship will pay up to €20,000 in tuition.

    Institution: INSEAD
    Study in: USA
    Level of Study: MBA
  • Harvard University MBA Scholarship
    For overseas students, the Harvard University MBA Scholarship is a fully financed MBA scholarship. This scholarship will pay for tuition expenses in the amount of US$102,200 (US$51,100 each year).

    Institution: Harvard University
    Study in: USA
    Level of Study: MBA
  • Helen Hay Whitney Fellowships
    A fully financed postdoctoral grant for overseas students is the Helen Hay Whitney Fellowship. This scholarship pays up to US$60,000 in annual financial help.

    Institution: Helen Hay Whitney Foundation
    Study in: USA
    Level of Study: Postdoctoral
University USA Rank
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) 1
Stanford University 2
Harvard University 3
California Institute of Technology (Caltech) 4
University of Chicago 5
University of Pennsylvania 6
Princeton University 7
Yale University 8
Cornell University 9
Columbia University 10
Johns Hopkins University 11
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor 12
University of California Berkeley (UCB) 13
Northwestern University 14
New York University (NYU) 15
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) 16
Duke University 17
Carnegie Mellon University 18
University of California, San Diego (UCSD) 19
Brown University 20

Affordable Universities in USA

The US has long been regarded as one of the most costly nations for overseas students to pursue higher education. Students can discover colleges that provide excellent education at reasonable costs. Here is a list of some of the affordable American universities

1. California State University, San Bernardino

2. Southeast Missouri State University

3. Arkansas State University

4. University of Wisconsin

5. Brooklyn College

6. University of Louisiana–Monroe

7. Southwest Minnesota State University

8. Northwest Missouri State University

9. Dakota State University

Course options
in USA

In USA, there are a variety of courses that will firmly meet the demands of International students.

1. Business Management :

Business management is the greatest field to study in the USA for Indian students, with over 20% of international students pursuing related degrees. International students have several reasons to enroll in business management programs at US colleges, chief among them being that these programs lead to the highest-paying positions in the country.
In reality, students who aspire to be business leaders are sufficiently intrigued by names like Harvard, Wharton, and Columbia. Because the US has the greatest economy in the world, there are many job options for students. One of the highest-paying positions in the USA and worldwide requires an MBA, not just in the US market.

2. Engineering :

The best courses to take in the USA for Indian students are in the STEM fields, which include engineering. These fields also have the highest paid jobs there. International engineering students are the second-largest demographic group after business students. Like business schools, the US also dominates the list in this category, with the most engineering universities included in the top 10 QS rankings. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology is regarded as the world's most prestigious engineering school and frequently appears at the top of the rankings.

Of the best degrees to study in the USA for Indian students, the MS, a research-focused master's degree, is the most sought after and given by most US colleges. Of course, engineering is one of the highest-paying professions in the USA and the rest of the globe, with the biggest wages going to those who specialize in civil and mechanical engineering.

3. Maths and Computer Sciences :

After business and engineering, some STEM fields, such as math and computer science, are known to draw the most international students. Math and computer science are also the top courses for Indian students to study in the United States since they lead to the highest-paying employment there. The number of overseas students studying in the US is 30% made up of STEM majors, making STEM the best courses and highest paying careers in the country. The top US universities for computer science and mathematics are MIT, Stanford, and Harvard. Studying in US universities also offers the opportunity to investigate the nation's research possibilities thoroughly.

4. Social Sciences

For Indian students, the social sciences are among the best fields to study in the US, with branches like economics giving some of the highest paying professions. Numerous topics are covered by social sciences and humanities, including anthropology, journalism, international affairs, economics, and more.

5. Physical and Life Sciences

Biology and medicine are two of the most popular physical and biological sciences to study in the USA, and international students love them both. Many students are enrolling in combination courses in traditional disciplines after leaving these fields.

How to apply for a
study visa in USA?

You will need to apply for a student visa if you wish to study in the US but are not a citizen of the US. Make sure you start putting together your application for a US student visa well in advance - at least three to five months before your course is scheduled to begin. Applying for a student visa in the US often involves several processes. It's crucial to check the guidelines on the embassy or consulate website where you intend to apply, as these stages differ at each US embassy or consulate.

When requesting a US student visa, prospective students typically go through five stages:
• Apply to and be accepted by a US institution recognized by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) six to twelve months before beginning US studies;
• Pay the SEVIS fee (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System);
• Fill out the necessary paperwork and submit a recent photo;
• Pay the price for applying for a visa;
• Plan and show up for a visa interview.

1. Apply to a college or university that has received SEVP approval.

Choose a school and program recognized by the US government's Student and Exchange Visitor Program if you are an international student (SEVP).
Accreditation is crucial because it guarantees that your degree will be accepted by other colleges, organizations for professionals, companies, and governmental agencies worldwide. The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and the paperwork required to apply for a US student visa are only available to students enrolled in institutions that have received SEVP approval. Find accredited universities by using the Study in the States website offered by the government.
You must submit separate applications to each college you are interested in because the US does not, unlike several other nations, have a centralized system for handling university applications. You must meet the admissions requirements of each institution, and you often must also show that you have the necessary financial resources.
When a school accepts you, the institution will register you in the SEVIS system and send you a document generated by SEVIS called a Form I-20 if you qualify for an F or M visa or a Form DS-2019 if you qualify for a J visa.
The SEVP manages international students with F and M visa classifications, but international students with J visa classifications and exchange visitor programs are handled by the Department of State (DoS). To manage and oversee institutions, exchange visitor programs, and international students, SEVP and DoS employ SEVIS.

2. Pay the SEVIS fee

At least three days before applying for a US visa, you must pay the SEVIS fee. You must submit a paper or online form to pay the cost. The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) SEVP website provides access to both. Ensure to provide the necessary information precisely as it appears on your DS-2019 or I-20 form.
The I-901 cost is currently $200 for F/M visa holders and $180 for J student visa holders. J visa holders working as au pairs, camp counselors, or in summer work/travel pay $35 instead of this. The website provides instructions for various payment methods, such as Western Union Quick Pay, checks, international money orders, and debit or credit cards. After paying the charge, you can revisit the website to see if your payment was received. The cost may also be paid on your behalf by a third party (such as your sponsor). If the charge is paid on your behalf, the third party should provide you with a receipt.
After processing your payment, you can get and print a payment confirmation from the website anytime. This confirmation will be required at your US student visa interview as proof of fee payment. If you ever change your non-immigrant status or apply for any other US immigration benefits, the customs officer at the US Port of Entry you've chosen might additionally ask you to produce the confirmation.

3. Complete a US student visa application

You can schedule an appointment with a US consulate or embassy in your country to apply for a US student visa after receiving your SEVIS form and paying the SEVIS fee. Regardless of when your program is scheduled to begin, it is best to apply as early as possible because visa processing times can change. Your visa may be granted up to 120 days before your scheduled arrival in the US.
Most nations have specific websites for everything related to applying for a US student visa, which can be reached from this home page. If your country is not listed, you may still be able to locate the US embassy or consulate in your nation by utilizing the website of the US embassy.
Application for a visa online: DS-160
You must always complete Form DS-160, Online Visa Application. You must decide where you want to apply and have all the necessary paperwork and information to complete the application. You will be directed to the form's pages after choosing and responding to a security question. You can locate your application ID at the top. If you need to leave the application and come back to it later, you'll need this ID to retrieve your form.

The DS-160 form must be completed with the following personal information:
• Name and birthdate
• Passport details
• Information about the itinerary and the passengers
• information about prior US travel
• Your American point of contact
• Family, work, and education details
• Security, background, and medical health information

SEVIS ID and the US school or program's address where you plan to enroll.
Additionally, a recent photo of oneself in the format specified in the photo requirements must be uploaded. You will need to provide a printed photo that satisfies the standards of your immigration interview if your photo upload fails.
If you make any mistakes, you could need to reschedule your visa interview, so take care to provide exact and complete answers to all questions. If you have any questions while filling out the application, you can look them up on the travel.state.gov website.
After completing the visa application form, you must electronically sign your DS-160 by clicking the "Sign Application" button. After submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation sheet with a barcode, barcode number, and your application ID number. You must print this document and bring it to your visa interview appointment. It's not necessary to print the entire application.

4. Pay the visa application fee

The Machine Readable Visa Fee, or "MRV charge," is another name for the visa application fee. Please carefully read the fee payment instructions posted on your embassy or consulate's website, as there may be differences in the methods. The non-refundable, non-transferable visa application fee, however, can be paid in one of three ways:
• personally, at a recognized bank
• By phone (you'll get a confirmation number for the charge)
• (You must print your receipt) online
• If you come across the phrase "visa issuance fee based on reciprocity" when doing your research, don't be concerned; this does not apply to those applying for F1, F2, M1, M2, J1, and J2 visas.
When you arrive at your scheduled visa interview, you must present the MRV fee receipt. Suppose they are enrolled in a US Agency for International Development (USAID) program or a federally supported educational and cultural exchange program with a program serial number beginning G-1, G-2, G-3, or G-7. In that case, some J visa applicants won't be required to pay application processing costs.

5. Schedule and attend a US student visa interview

Arranging and attending a visa interview is the last step in obtaining a student visa for the US. You can accomplish this by phoning the American embassy or consulate that is most convenient for you online or over the phone. In either situation, you should first pay the MRV fee because you might need to provide your MRV fee number.
You must attend a consular officer interview before the visa application procedure may be finished. Don't be concerned if you have to make an appointment for your consultation at a different US embassy or consulate than the one you used to submit your visa application. Any US embassy or consulate can get your information using the barcode on your DS-160. However, if you seek a visa outside of your permanent home, be aware that accepting it can be challenging. The length of the wait for appointments for visa interviews varies by location, season, and visa category.

Essential documents for
USA Student Visa:

To ensure you have all the necessary paperwork for your interview, check the embassy website or consulate where you plan to apply. These records could consist of:

A passport will be valid for at least six months after you visit the US. If your passport contains more than one person, each individual who wants a visa must submit a separate application. You might also need to bring every passport you have, both current and old.

• I-20 or DS-2019 SEVIS forms that have been signed (including separate forms for a spouse or children)

• Number DS-7002 (for J-1 Trainee and Intern visa applicants only)

• confirmation page for the DS-160 application containing the barcode and application ID number

• Receipt for confirmation of MRV fee payment

• A printed copy of the appointment letter for the visa interview

• 1-2 photos in the layout specified in the photograph specifications. ought to be printed on picture paper.


Additionally, be prepared to offer the following papers:

• transcripts and degrees from previously attended colleges

• The results of standardized tests that the educational institution requires include the TOEFL, LSAT, GRE, and GMAT.

• Financial proof that you or your sponsor—your parents or a government sponsor—have enough money to pay for your tuition, travel, and living expenses while you are studying or to work in the US.

• You can also bring a separate written list of your former companies and educational institutions for references.


Any application for a derivative visa must pass:

• A copy of the marriage license or birth certificate as evidence of the connection

• A copy of the primary applicant's visa (such as an f-1, m-1, or j-1) or official uscis documentation attesting to the applicant's status.

• A duplicate of the passports' information pages for the main applicants.

• Attending the interview for a visa



It's crucial to arrive on time for your visa interview because those who arrive late can be requested to reschedule for a later date. Most of the time, only applicants having appointments will be allowed entry into a US embassy or consulate. A parent for children under 18, a translator, and an assistant for the disabled are the only exceptions; you must inform your preferred embassy or consulate of the name of the parent, translator, or assistant who will be traveling with you.

To assess whether you are eligible for a US student visa and, if so, which visa category is best for you, the consular officer will ask you questions about your background and goals during the visa interview. Be ready to discuss your ties to your native country, your proficiency in English, your academic background, the US program you have been accepted to, and documentation of your financial means. Additionally, you might be asked to discuss your post-study plans.

They will take digital, ink-free fingerprint scans as part of the application process. This typically takes place during your visa interview.

If your application needs further administrative processing, the consular officer will let you know after your interview; this could extend the time it takes for you to get your visa. Depending on the country, wait times will change. You will be told when, how, and how to return your passport with the visa (usually pick-up or delivery by courier). In some nations, the courier service will email you with a tracking number so you may follow the progress of the delivery of your passport.

You can apply for an F-1 or M-1 visa up to 120 days before the commencement of your program, but you cannot enter the country sooner than 30 days before that time. J-1 visas are always available. You must meet the requirements and acquire a guest visa to enter the US before these 30 days. Students returning to finish their studies may enter the US anytime if they have a valid visa; the 30-day restriction does not apply to them.



Using your visa

Do not make firm travel arrangements or purchase tickets until you receive a visa, as there is no assurance you will be granted one. You should be aware that having a valid visa only entitles you to travel to a US port of entry and submit an entry permit application. A Customs and Border Protection (CBP) representative from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) grants permission to enter.

You must be able to submit your visa-related paperwork at your port of entry; therefore, always have them in your hand luggage. You should carry the following documents:
• SEVIS Form I-20 or DS-2019 for a passport
• A record of your financial resources
• Evidence that you are a student (such as recent tuition receipts and transcripts)
• Your designated school official's (DSO) name and contact details, including a 24-hour emergency contact number at your preferred institution.
• If you are an exchange student, you must submit a letter from your home university expressing your intention.
When entering the US, you must always have your Form I-20/DS-2022. You will need the SEVIS form to re-enter the US if you take a vacation abroad.

Arrival in the US

Before landing, you must complete a Customs Declaration Form (CF-6059) if you are flying into the US. Ask a flight attendant if you need assistance with the form or have questions. A physical or online I-94 Arrival/Departure Record form must also be completed. The expiration date on your student visa for the United States is that date. On your I-94 form, the CBP officer will note a different date or "D/S" (duration of status). This is the deadline for your departure from the US.
Even if your visa expires while in the country, you are still allowed to stay until this day; however, if your passport expires before you leave the US, you won't be able to return and continue your studies. A student visa must be renewed or obtained at a US embassy or consulate overseas; it cannot be done domestically.
The date will be written on a paper I-94 form if you are given one. If you receive an electronic I-94, the CBP officer will stamp your passport with an admission stamp that serves as documentation for your electronic I-94 and will be marked with the D/S.
If you receive an I-94 form on paper, keep it secure in your passport since you'll need to hand it back to a CBP agent when you depart the country. A CBP agent will instead record your departure using manifest data obtained from the air or marine carrier you are traveling with if you have an electronic I-94.
Within 30 days of the course start date listed on your SEVIS I-20/DS-2019 form, you must report to the office of your institution that assists international students. This could be the International Programs Office, Office of International Services, Office of International Education, or a similar office. A Designated School Official (DSO) will verify your intended participation and notify the SEVIS system of your presence. You must complete this within 30 days, failing which your SEVIS record will be immediately canceled, and you risk being accused of violating your immigration status in the US.
The DSO will also be able to provide you with guidance on issues like insurance. It will be a prerequisite of enrollment at your US institution that you present proof of obtaining private health insurance to cover you for medical treatment because the US does not have a social healthcare system.

Arrival in the US

Following the completion of their course, F-1 visa holders are permitted to stay in the US for an additional 60 days; however, M-1 and J-1 visa holders are only allowed to wait for another 30 days. The applicant is given a "grace period," during which they can prepare to leave the US.
The date on each student's I-94 paperwork or stamp must be before departure. You will lose your status if you don't leave the US. Immigration laws must be followed, and become ineligible for future visas due to being out of status in the US. You will require USCIS approval if you want to prolong your stay. As long as you have maintained your student status and have up-to-date SEVIS records, you are eligible to extend your visa at any time if you are a continuing student.

Study Pathways to Permanent
Residence (PR)

You must apply for a work permit after securing full-time employment. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues photo identification cards as work permits (USCIS). It is also referred to as an EAD or Employment Authorization Document.

You require an extremely competitive work visa, known as the "H1B visa," to continue working after your OPT has expired.

Employers must apply for H1B visas; you cannot apply on your behalf. This indicates that you require a work offer from an employer prepared to sponsor your H1B visa (it has a nontrivial fee and is subjected to regulations by the US government.). Only some job categories for which the government believes the local American labor to be insufficiently skilled or available are eligible for H1B visas, for example. For example. Marketing and HR positions cannot quickly obtain H1B visas, so more international students choose computer engineering than, for example, an MS in Marketing.

So, even though there may be a lot of marketing opportunities available in the US, employers are not always required to hire international students (who need H1B visas) for these roles. Even though internships do not require an H1B visa, typically, a company will not give them to candidates if they cannot sponsor an H1B visa in the future. You must comprehend, in essence:

1. An H1B visa sponsored by a US-based employer must work for an extended period in the US.
2. H1B visas are given out for specific jobs, and some industries make it easier to obtain one. IT, software engineering, finance, etc., are some examples.
3. Indian students should consider whether they can obtain employment visas in their selected fields following graduation. If getting an H1-B visa in your field of study is difficult, you might have to return to India once you graduate to find employment.
4. Even if you receive an H1-B visa, you are limited to working for that one business. This means that when working on an H1B visa, you are not permitted to start your own business or work part-time at any other job in parallel.
5. H1B visas are granted for three years, after which they may be renewed for an additional three years, for a total of 6 years. If your company has submitted a green card application by the conclusion of your six years, you may continue to renew your H1B visa each year. However, you must leave the United States for at least a year before applying for another H1B visa for three years if your green card application has not been submitted after six years.
6. Strict quotas and intense competition govern the issuance of H1B visas. The selection of applicants for H1B visas depends on luck if the government gets more applications than the allotted number.

One additional intriguing feature of these visas is that F1 visas are issued based on your plan to return home after completing your studies, demonstrating your lack of interest in working in the United States. As a result, you should be ready to demonstrate your desire to return to India after completing your studies during your F1 visa interviews. On the other hand, you require an H1B visa to continue working in the USA. When you begin working under OPT (the brief period during which you can do so without obtaining an H1B visa), and your employer has applied for an H1B visa, it is a delicate time.

Since your H1B application indicates that you want to work in the US while your F1 visa status anticipates that you will return to your home country once your program is over, if you are traveling to India and re-entering the US during this time on an F1 visa, you may have your entry denied due to a conflict of interests. For this reason, some people would rather wait to travel after graduation until they acquire their H1B visa.

How to Apply for Permanent Residency in the USA?

• You can live and work continuously in the US if you have a Green Card, also known as a Permanent Resident Card.
• Under the following conditions, you may apply for a green card:
• You qualify as a first-preference immigrant worker if you meet the following requirements:
• Have exceptional talent in the arts, sciences, business, or athletics;
• Are you an outstanding professor or researcher;
• Are a global manager or executive who meets the requirements.
• You qualify as a second-preference immigrant worker if you:
• Work in a field that needs a graduate degree,
• Possess remarkable talent in the arts, sciences, or business,
• Are you a member of one of these professions?

As a third-preference immigrant worker, which means that you are one of the following:

• A skilled worker (meaning that your job requires a minimum of 2 years of training or work experience),
• A professional (meaning that your job requires at least a U.S. bachelor's degree or a foreign equivalent and you are a member of your profession), or
• As a doctor (for medical students) who agrees to work full-time in clinical practice in a designated underserve

First, you'll get a conditional green card. You must then apply to have the condition removed in two years from the date of the conditional green card to be granted a 10-year green card. The green card must be renewed every ten years. Simply submit an application for condition removal within 90 days of your status expires.
Keep in mind that there are country-specific annual restrictions on green card issuance. The current projected wait period for green cards through the H1B route is roughly 12 years due to the large number of Indians who apply for them.
You can, however, apply to become a citizen of the United States five years after the conditional green card was issued. A 10-year green card has the same rights and benefits as a conditional green card.

How to Get US Citizenship?

There is no restriction on how often you can renew your green card. Nevertheless, following a minimum of five years with a green card, you may seek US citizenship. We appreciate that many of you are loyal to our country or desire to keep your Indian citizenship, but the most beautiful thing about this place is that it accepts dual citizenship. In other words, you can apply for US citizenship without giving up your citizenship in your nation.

• Currently, to submit a citizenship application, you must:
• Have a Green Card (permanent residency) for at least five years.
• Comply with specific eligibility conditions, such as:
• Must have reached the age of 18 at the time of submitting
• Capable of speaking, writing and reading basic English
• A person with moral integrity
• Complete the naturalization procedure, which entails filling out and submitting Form N-400, the Naturalization Application, and passing the U.S. personal interview and a naturalization test with fundamental US-related questions.

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