In the field of Engineering, the USA offers top courses in computer science and information technology, including artificial intelligence, data science, and cybersecurity. Traditional engineering disciplines such as mechanical, electrical, civil, chemical, and aerospace engineering are also highly sought after due to their strong emphasis on innovation and extensive research opportunities.

Medical and Health Sciences courses in the USA are prestigious and rigorous, including programs in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, nursing, and public health. These courses provide comprehensive training and hands-on clinical experience, preparing students for various healthcare professions. Additionally, biomedical sciences and public health programs focus on research and the application of medical knowledge to improve public health outcomes.

In the category of Other Disciplines, popular courses include business and management programs such as MBAs and specializations in finance and marketing. Social sciences and humanities offer programs in psychology, sociology, political science, and international relations. Natural sciences like biology, chemistry, and environmental science are also in demand. Additionally, arts and design fields such as graphic design and animation, as well as education programs focusing on leadership and curriculum development, attract many students. Mathematics and statistics programs are essential for careers in academia, finance, and data analysis.

USA is one of the strongest economies in the world. In the United States, the highest earning occupational groups are the white-collar professionals including managers, physicians, mathematicians, financial managers, software publishers, computer engineers etc.

The USA has also been on the forefront in telecoms, medicine, health care and genetics. Study in USA for Indian students includes on campus jobs as well. Students are allowed to work 20 hrs per week during semester (on-campus). On-campus jobs may include teaching assistantship or research assistantship where a student is paid on an average $8 to $10/hour.

Thus, students can approximately earn $ 500-$ 600/month or can get a waiver on their tuition fees. With this, a student who decides to study in USA can also undertake an internship in the related field which may be paid. During vacation, the student is allowed to work for 40 hours per week.

Study in USA from India after graduation, enables students to work for 1 year popularly known as OPT (Optional Practical Training). Students with certain degrees in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics) field are allowed to work for 36 months. On completion of their OPT, students can apply for a H1 B visa (Work Permit Visa) for work.

Higher education in USA for Indian students means to be part of the world’s most flexible education system. Students can study their area of interest or specialization.

Types of Institution to study in USA

Public Universities: These are state-affiliated institutions which are financially supported by public taxes and are usually large in size. Tuitions fees are usually less compared to private institutions. Examples: Ohio State University, University of California, Kansas State University, etc.

Private Institutions: A private university runs without the control of any government entity. Tuition fees tend to be much higher than at public universities. Examples: Long Island University, New York University, etc.

Technical Institutes: These are schools specializing primarily in Engineering and Science and are particularly noted for their research and graduate programs. Examples: M.I.T. (The Massachusetts Institute of Technology), NYIT (New York Institute of Technology) etc.

The Ivy League: Members of the Ivy League are: Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Brown, Dartmouth, Cornell, Columbia, and the University of Pennsylvania. All these schools are in the North-eastern part of the USA. Tuition fees at these private schools are among the highest in the country and admission is highly competitive.

Small Liberal Arts Colleges: These schools focus on undergraduate study of traditional Arts and Sciences disciplines: Humanities, Sciences and Social Sciences. Liberal Arts Colleges are often quite old and are usually private schools. Examples: Amherst College, Marist College, Swarthmore College, Manhattan College, Smith College, Mount Holyoke College, etc.

Community Colleges: Community College is an educational institution providing higher education and lower-level tertiary education, granting Associate degrees, Certificates, Diplomas. Example: Foothill and Deanza College, College of San Mateo, etc.

Grading System The grading system followed throughout the United States is on a scale of 0 to 4. To convert the percentage into the GPA, a credential evaluation needs to be done.

Types of Degrees:

Associate Degree: It is an academic degree awarded by the Community Colleges, Junior Colleges, and Business Colleges. Usually for two years (60 credits).

Bachelor’s Degree: Commonly known as an undergraduate degree in India. The duration of the Bachelor’s course is 4 years (120-150 credits). Students who have completed a three-year undergraduate degree and want to study in USA can apply as a transfer student for two types of Bachelor’s degree: B.A or B.S (120-150 credits).

Master’s Degree: The duration of Master’s courses may range from a year or two depending upon the university and area of specialization (30-48 credits). The binding requirement is a Bachelor’s degree.

Doctorate: Commonly known as a PhD, the duration of the same may range from 3 to 5 years. Students may directly pursue a PhD only after the completion of their Master’s degree.

Summer Program: These are offered by most US schools for programs during the summer vacation. Duration may vary from 6 to 10 weeks, depending on the school and the course of study.

1. Research and Shortlist Programs:

   • Identify universities and programs that align with your academic and career goals.
   • Check the program requirements and deadlines.

2. Prepare for Standardized Tests:

   • Take required exams such as GRE/GMAT and English proficiency tests like TOEFL/IELTS.
   • Ensure your scores meet the program requirements.

3. Gather Documents:

   • Academic transcripts and degree certificates.
   • Letters of recommendation (usually 2-3).
   • Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Personal Statement.
   • Updated Resume or CV.
   • Any additional documents specified by the university.

4. Submit Online Applications:

   • Fill out application forms on university websites.
   • Upload necessary documents.
   • Pay application fees.

5. Apply for Scholarships and Financial Aid:

   • Research and apply for available scholarships and assistantships.
   • Submit separate applications if required.

6. Await Admission Decisions:

   • Monitor your email and application portals for updates.
   • Respond to any additional requests from universities.

7. Secure Funding:

   • Finalize funding sources (scholarships, loans, personal savings).

8. Apply for a Student Visa (F-1):

   • Receive the I-20 form from the university.
   • Pay the SEVIS fee.
   • Schedule and attend a visa interview at the US Embassy/Consulate.

9. Prepare for Departure:

   • Arrange accommodation and travel.
   • Attend pre-departure orientations if available.
   • Prepare necessary documents for travel.

10. Arrive and Enroll:

    • Arrive before the program start date.
    • Complete the university’s enrollment and orientation process.