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Study in USA
The USA is a striking name providing perfect education to the youths from across the globe. In fact, the quality of the education offered by the USA universities is beyond comparison. The scaled-up job opportunities anticipated from a USA degree cannot be expected from any other country. Let’s understand the unmatched benefits of studying in the USA .
With the ever-increasing number of international students in America, a study conducted in May 2017 showed that around 206,698 students were from India that year alone. The maximum number of students studying STEM (Science. Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) in the US are from India, at an overwhelming figure of 84%.
New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Jose, Dallas – Which city is your dream destination? Take the first step towards your inner calling by getting in touch with our team at Aspire Square.
Advantages to Study in USA
- High-end Education System
- A Reputed Degree Valued Across the World
- Dedicated Services to Support International Students
- Cultural Diversity
- Admirable Campus Life
- Wide Variety of Available Courses
High-end Education System
The USA is the home of many finest universities holding a remarkable world-ranking. The appreciable academic standards and innovative teaching approach followed by the universities make the USA a recognized designation for many aspirants yearning to study abroad.
A Reputed Degree Valued Across the World
The USA universities hold a strong presence among the world’s best-ranked universities. Hence, the degree acquired from a USA university is ideal to prepare you for the international job market and achieve your desired job at the place of your choice.
Dedicated Services to Support International Students
The USA universities continually endeavor to support international students to adjust to the new environment they come across after entering the country. Many orientation programs, training, and workshops are conducted to aid students in resolving their language, visa, cultural, and other relevant issues.
Cultural Diversity
The USA welcomes students from almost all parts of the world. This cultural diversity allows students to get familiar with the people coming from distinct countries and regions, get familiar with new languages, and understand the world in a better way.
Admirable Campus Life
The USA offers an unmatched campus life regardless of the university you are studying in. In addition to the high-class training programs, the USA universities also encourage regular cultural and athlete activities to enhance the social and other skills of the students.
Wide Variety of Available Courses
The USA universities are known for offering a tremendous range of courses in almost all the trending fields. Hence, students can easily adopt a course that matches their interests and passion without making any compromise.
Facts
- USA is a top provider of excellent teaching and research opportunities to international students.
- USA offers a bulk of educational and other benefits capable of bounding international students to study in USA.
- The support facilities provided by USA to the international students cannot be expected from any other study abroad destination.
- USA is home to a large number of world-class universities holding an excellent global reputation.
- The international students in the USA can work during their study period.
With the ever-increasing number of international students in America, a study conducted in May 2017 showed that around 206,698 students were from India that year alone. The maximum number of students studying STEM (Science. Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) in the US are from India, at an overwhelming figure of 84%.
New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Jose, Dallas – Which city is your dream destination? Take the first step towards your inner calling by getting in touch with our team at Aspire Square.
Types of USA Student Visa
Studying in the USA is the dream of many international students. Each student planning to study in the USA requires a USA student visa to attain his study in the USA dream. A USA student visa can be divided into three main categories namely F1 student visa, J1 exchange visitor visa, M1 student visa.
F1 student visa
The F1 visa is ideal for international students willing to pursue an academic degree from a USA university or want to learn English from an English language institute. All undergraduate and graduate programs (such as MS or MBA) that require above 18 hours of study per week can be accomplished via an F1 student visa.
The dependents (spouse or children) who want to accompany an F1 student visa holder can apply and travel on an F2 visa.
Please Note:
- The F2 visa does not give employment permission to the spouse.
- To be eligible for an F2 visa, the age of the child must be under 21 years.
- F1 visa permits on-campus employment of up to 20 hours per week to the visa holder.
J1 Exchange Visitor Visa
The J1 exchange visitor visa is for the youths seeking to participate in an exchange program in the USA. The program may include a medical, business, any other kind of training, or a research program. The applicant must meet the eligibility criteria of the underlying program to acquire a J1 exchange visitor visa successfully. The dependents willing to accompany a J1 exchange visa holder can travel on a J2 visa.
M1 Student Visa
The M1 visa allows international students to attend a non-academic or vocational training program in a USA institute. The application process for an M1 and an F1 visa is almost the same. The difference here is,
- unlike an F1 visa, an M1 visa allows the stay for a fixed duration and cannot be extended
- No employment (off-campus or on-campus) is permitted to the visa holders
The dependents can acquire an M2 visa to accompany an M1 visa holder to the country.
USA Student Visa – Entry Requirements
- The minimum academic qualification of the candidate must be 12th.
- The candidate must hold at least a 5.5 band in the IELTS exam or equivalent (in case of other exams such as GRE/ GMAT/ SAT and TOEFL/ PTE).
- The intakes are allowed in the months of January, May, and September.
GMAT – for management-related subjects.
GRE – for other subjects (such as engineering, and science, and STEM).
SAT – for getting scholarship (Only undergraduate)
Language proficiency exam (such as IELTS, TOEFL. PTE) – for admission in a USA school or university
USA Student Visa – Document Requirement
Academic certificates
Proof of financial stability (such as bank statements, Bank balance certificate, Affidavit of financial sponsor)
Proof of language proficiency (such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE)
Passport size photographs
Employment experience letter (if any)
Validity of USA Student Visa
The validity of a USA student visa depends on the type of visa you choose to study in USA. The F1 visa is the most common type of visa applied by international students wishing to study in USA and the maximum validity of the same is five years.
Step by Step Process to Apply for a USA Student Visa
The process starts with putting an application of enrolment in a USA SEVP school or university. You are likely to obtain an I-20 form from the underlying school after you get an admission successfully. The next important steps to go ahead are
- Settling the SEVIS fee.
- Acquiring form DS-160 (an online visa application form required to apply for a USA student visa).
- Filling the DS-160 form.
- Collecting a copy of the form submission success page.
- Paying the visa fees.
- Planning for an interview in your convenient US embassy.
- Appearing in the interview as per the schedule.
- Awaiting a reply from the US embassy.
Acquiring a USA student visa is a lengthy process that involves a certain set of steps. Hence, a student is required to prepare in advance (three to five months before the commencement of the study program). The general steps involved in a USA student visa process are given as under
Applying to a USA university or institution
The process starts with putting an application of enrollment in a USA school or university. Being an international student, you must assure that the institute you choose to apply to is SEVP (Student and Exchange Visitor Program) approved. After your application gets accepted, the university will enter your details in the SEVIS system and send you an I-20 form (for F and M visas) or Form DS-2019 (for J visas).
Settling the SEVIS fee
The fees must be paid at least three days before the submission of the US student visa application. The task can be accomplished using US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) SEVP website.
Make sure to enter the exact details as mentioned in your I-20 or DS-2019 form. Don’t miss to fetch and retain the payment confirmation proof as it will be required in the further steps.
Completing the Application
The next step is to complete your USA student visa application. For this, you need to fill an online application form called (DS-160). All the mandatory documents should be ready in digital format while you complete the application form. The personal details to be given in the form include your name, DOB, contact details, address, passport details, educational background, health details, SEVIS ID, and so on.
Paying the Visa Fees
You can pay either offline or online. Ensure to collect the fee receipt as it will be needed during your visa interview appointment.
Scheduling and attending an interview in your convenient US embassy
It’s time to complete the final step now i.e. attending the visa interview. You can do so by appearing for a physical interview at your nearby US embassy. Below is a list of documents that you may need during your visa interview
Your I-20 or DS-2019 form.
A valid passport (must be valid for at least six months besides your expected stay duration).
- SEVIS fee receipt.
- DS-160 confirmation page.
- Receipt of fee payment.
- Copy of interview appointment letter.
Do carry your academic records, employment experience letters (if any), marriage certificate (if applicable), and other important documents while heading towards the visa interview.
Awaiting a reply from the US embassy.
Now, it’s time to sit patiently and await the decision from the US embassy. This may take some time. You will be notified once the decision is ready.
F-1 or M1 visas are Student visas, and they can be your entry ticket for studying in the USA. While F-1 visas permit candidates pursuing an academic program or a language course, M-1 visas are applicable for candidates seeking non-vocational courses.
With F-1 And M-1 Visas, International Students Are Permitted To Stay In The Country For 60 Days Or More, Or Until The Course Completion.
Qualifying for Student Visas
There are specific pre-requisites to be fulfilled by the applicants. They are:
- Proof of Foreign Residence: To show the authorities that you have your residence in your home country or another foreign land and that there are binding factors to return home to on course completion.
- Proof of Admission: To prove that you have secured a place in one of the institutions in America. You will be allowed to study only in the institution which sponsors you for an F-1 visa.
- Proof of Financial Capability: This documentation has to be submitted to confirm that you can bear your education and living expenses during the period of your stay in the US. Proof of funding from family, sponsorships from the country or through private international student loans, or other documents will be required to be submitted as a proof of financial capability.
How to Apply for F-1/M1 Visa
- Your application must be accepted in one of the SEVP (Student and Exchange Visitor Program) approved academic institutions.
- On receiving acceptance, you must pay the SEVIS (Student Exchange Visitor) 1-901 fee as applicable. You will be enrolled in the SEVIS system. The educational institution will provide an eligibility certificate in the Form I-20, which is mandatory to take the application process further.
- You can fill Form-DS 160 online and produce a printout of the form in your visa interview. You may have to bear a visa application fee which is non-refundable.
- Schedule your visa interview with the consulate well in advance.
- During the visa interview, the documents you produce will be verified for their authenticity. You will be questioned about your study plans, financial position, and other areas.
Documents Required
Be prepared with the following before the visa interview:
A valid passport
Form DS-160
Application fee payment receipt
Form 1-20
Sanction of visa is based on the consular officer’s discretion. You may also have to remit visa issuance fees on approval.
Visa denial can be a huge impediment to pursuing your education in the US. To ensure there are no slippages talk to Aspire Square today, the best-in class-visa consultants in Ahmedabad!
Education USA
The glorious land USA provides a wide variety of study programs contributing to all levels of study. Let’s understand the different study levels and qualifications available in the boundaries of the USA in brief.
Exploring education options in the US implies choosing the best in class infrastructure, advanced coaching in globally accredited universities, and unbeatable employment opportunities in the US, and all around the world.
Stages Under the USA Education System
- Elementary school
- Middle School
- High school
- Post-secondary (college)
USA Qualification Framework
USA’s education system is made up of various study levels and qualifications. The prominent education stages that make up the USA’s education system include elementary school education, middle school education, high school education, and post-secondary education. Again, the post-secondary education level presents many distinct types of qualifications and degrees including the following
Different qualifications available in the US
| Qualification | Duration |
| Associate Degree | 2 years |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 4 years |
| Master’s Degree (Professional) | 1-3 years |
| Master’s Degree (Academic) | 2 years |
| Doctorate or PhD | 5-8 years |
With the ever-increasing number of international students in America, a study conducted in May 2017 showed that around 206,698 students were from India that year alone. The maximum number of students studying STEM (Science. Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) in the US are from India, at an overwhelming figure of 84%.
The USA has continuously been engaging international students with top-class education services for several decades now. With an astounding number of 3281 universities, the USA ranks second globally in the number of educational institutions. The top four universities in the world: MIT, Harvard, Stanford, and Caltech are all in the United States of America.
Exploring education options in the US implies choosing the best in class infrastructure, advanced coaching in globally accredited universities, and unbeatable employment opportunities in the US, and all around the world.
Are you aspiring to go the USA for your education? Are you interested in exploring universities in the US for higher education? Do you already have a course or university in mind? You can be reassured that with our guidance, your career goals will be focussed towards the right direction.
New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Jose, Dallas – Which city is your dream destination? Take the first step towards your inner calling by getting in touch with our team at Aspire Square.
When you look for a guide to take you through the scope of education in the USA, we are here to help you. We have an able team of advisors who are guiding several students every single day.
Overview of USA Education System
The USA’s federal government mandates each state to have its individual department of education that defines the curriculum and guidelines. Most often, the institutions are funded by the state.
School education in the USA consists of elementary, middle, and high school. Highschool comprises of grades 9 to 12. High school pupils study several regular and vocational courses. Each course extends to one or two semesters. Education is compulsory to all children until the age of 16-18 in the United States, as defined by the state.
After high school, the students can attend a two-year junior college which offers them an Associate degree.
Overview of Higher Education
Usually, a student progresses into Undergraduate/Bachelor’s program > Master’s Program > Doctoral Program.
Students can pursue their education in:
- State Colleges or Universities
- Private Colleges or Universities
- Community Colleges
- Institute of Technologies
Most courses last for a semester. Each course is alloted a specific number of credit hours ranging from 1 to 5. The credits are purely based on the number of hours spent in class per week. Students in the bachelor’s program are required to complete a prescribed number of credit scores to be graduated to the next level.
On completion of the Bachelor’s program, a student qualifies to do the Master’s program. However, the GPA (Grade Point Average) achieved at the undergraduate level also defines eligibility.
A classroom in the university can either have lectures with a large student strength or have discussions in smaller groups. The course will encompass a mixture of lectures, discussions, presentations, assignments, and examinations that eventually lead to course completion.
Each university follows different guidelines. It is highly recommended that you may be entirely aware of the process followed in the University of interest, and the requirements for the course well in advance to avoid last minute surprises.
Approach Aspire Square who are international consultants in global education for all that you need to know about pursuing your higher studies in the USA.
List of Top Universities to Study in USA
The USA has continuously been engaging international students with top-class education services for several decades now. With an astounding number of 3281 universities, the USA ranks second globally in the number of educational institutions. The top four universities in the world: MIT, Harvard, Stanford, and Caltech are all in the United States of America.
Popular Universities to Study in USA
- Harvard University
- Stanford University
- University of Chicago
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Arizona State University
- Northeastern University
- The University of Texas at Dallas (UT Dallas)
- New York University (NYU)
The USA houses many of the top Universities in the world. The diverse curriculum, flexible programs, and the broad spectrum of employment prospects allure students from all over the world to study in the US.
There are a plethora of courses being offered by the top Universities and colleges.
Here are some of the courses that top the chart in the United States.
- Business Management
- Engineering
- Maths and Computer Sciences
- Social Sciences
- Physical and Life Sciences
QS World University Ratings is an annual publication of university rankings by Quacquarelli Symmonds, a British company specialising in Education. We have listed out the QS ranking of top Universities in the US, in some of the most popular subjects.
USA is a home of many world-class universities offering well-organized lesson plans and a highly reputable degree. The most prominent names in the list are
Harvard University
Founded in 1636, Harvard University is one of the oldest and widely known educational destinations existing in the USA. The university is situated in Massachusetts, Cambridge, and is continually supporting local as well as international students to attain a bright career with the help of world-class faculties and well-organized lesson plans.
Stanford University
Stanford University was established in 1885 and is one of the top names in the arena of learning and innovation. The university is a great place to experience the quality of education and enhancing ourselves personally as well as professionally. The university is located at Stanford, California.
University of Chicago
The University of Chicago is another popular name offering education to more than 4,000 international students every year. The university is located in Chicago, the third most popular city in the USA, and has many additional campuses in different parts of the world.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Commenced in the year 1861, MIT is a research institute situated in Cambridge, Massachusetts. With the contribution of over 1000 qualified faculties, the university holds a leading position in the first-class education providers and is driving the future of the youths in the right direction.
Arizona State University
The Arizona State University is a renowned name offering a noble degree in the fields like mathematics, education, engineering, health, law, science, and so on. The wide array of masters, bachelors, engineering, and other courses facilitate the freedom for the students to move with a course that matches their enthusiasm and area of interest.
Northeastern University
Northeastern University is a private university established in 1898 and located in Boston, Massachusetts. The university welcomes youths from 144 countries and gives them the chance to grow with their clear and innovative training methods.
The University of Texas at Dallas (UT Dallas)
UT Dallas is a Texas based public university that was found in 1969. It’s an open research university offering a huge range of undergraduate as well as postgraduate degree programs.
New York University (NYU)
The New York University is one of the most significant higher education institutes existing in the USA. The university is a superb choice for students endeavoring a reputed degree and a career in the fields of social science, fine arts, nursing, and dentistry.
Business Management
| University | QS Ranking |
| Harvard Business School | 1 |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 4 |
| University of Pennsylvania | 5 |
| Stanford University | 6 |
| The University of California, Berkeley (UCB) | 8 |
Engineering – Electrical & Electronic
| Name of the School | QS Ranking |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 1 |
| Stanford University | 2 |
| The University of California, Berkeley (UCB) | 8 |
| Harvard University | 10 |
| California Institute of Technology | 16 |
Mathematics
| University | QS Ranking |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 1 |
| Harvard University | 2 |
| Stanford University | 3 |
| Princeton University | 6 |
| The University of California, Berkeley (UCB) | 7 |
Computer Science
| University | QS Ranking |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 1 |
| Stanford University | 2 |
| Carnegie Mellon University | 3 |
| The University of California, Berkeley (UCB) | 4 |
| Harvard University | 6 |
Economics and Econometrics
| University | QS Ranking |
| Harvard University | 1 |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 2 |
| Stanford University | 3 |
| The University of California, Berkeley (UCB) | 4 |
| Princeton University | 5 |
Life Sciences and Medicine
| University | QS Ranking |
| Harvard University | 1 |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 4 |
| Johns Hopkins University | 5 |
| Stanford University | 5 |
| The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) | 9 |
Stating the evident, we can see that the United States of America has been fostering world business leaders, research scientists, world-class engineers, entrepreneurs, and top-notch professionals in every single stream.
Globally accredited education with path-breaking technical facilities and enriching experiences have been making students highly competent and innovative.
If you have dreams of studying abroad, all you must do is choose an area of interest. We, at Aspire Square, have a team of academic counsellors with expertise in overseas education. They will guide you to select the right program, at the right university.
Popular Courses to Study in USA
Are you aspiring to go the USA for your education? Are you interested in exploring universities in the US for higher education? Do you already have a course or university in mind? You can be reassured that with our guidance, your career goals will be focused towards the right direction.
List Of Courses:
- Engineering and Computer Science
- MBBS
- Liberal Arts
- Applied Sciences
The versatile education system of the USA offers a huge range of valuable courses opening the doors for much better employment opportunities. The greatly popular among them that are mostly preferred by international students are
Engineering and Computer Science
The USA universities provide a broad range of valued courses for the student seeking a degree in the field of engineering and computer science. The list includes
- Petroleum Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Software Engineering
- Health informatics Technology
- Computer Engineering
- Data Sciences, Robotics
- Aerospace Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Material Engineering and many more.
The courses such as ethical hacking, virtual and augmented reality can also be attained from a USA university. The most recommended universities to become an expert in the field include
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- The University of California, Berkeley (UCB)
- Harvard University
- Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech)
- Business Administration
A degree in business administration holds a remarkable value both in the USA as well as other countries. The degree opens an ample range of employment opportunities to the youths looking to kick off their career with a reputable organization. The education, internships, and workshops provided by USA universities in the field are unmatchable. The most prominent specializations in the field offered by the USA universities include
- E-Business and E-Commerce
- Business Management
- Automotive Business
- Master of Business Administration
- International Business
The Top Universities to Become Masterly in the Field Include
- Harvard University
- Stanford University
- Northwestern University
- University of Chicago
- Auburn University
- University of Illinois, Chicago
- University of South Florida
- California State University Sacramento
- University of South Carolina
- Washington State University
MBBS
MBBS is another prevalent career choice for many youths aspiring for a secure career. Many youths prefer to study abroad to pursue an MBBS degree and the USA is the dominant choice. The medical courses in the USA are of very high standards and taking admission in a US-based medical school is not a piece of cake.
The Top Universities to Pursue a Medical Course from the US Include
- University of Alabama Medical School
- Harvard University
- San Diego School of Medicine
- Davis Medical School
- University of Oklahoma College of Medicine
- George Washington University Medical School
Liberal Arts
USA offers various liberal art courses to international students. The student can choose a course depending on their ability and career plans. The most popular courses on the list are
- Creative Writing
- Political Science
- Fine Art
- Education
- American History & Literature
- Theatre
- Psychology
- Economics
List of Top-Rated Universities to Pursue a Liberal Arts Course in the USA
- University of Massachusetts
- Williams College
- University of South Florida
- Pomona College
- University of South Carolina
- Harvey Mudd College
- Amherst College
- California State University East Bay
Applied Sciences
Applied Science courses are becoming prevalent among the youths latterly. The courses proffer a huge extent of learning in the different fields of science. The most popular fields of specialization are
- Computer Science
- Astrophysics
- Forensics
- Information management
- Criminology
- Communication
- Biochemical engineering
Top Universities to Undergo an Applied Sciences course
- Auburn University
- University of Dayton
- Washington State University
- Lyle School of Engineering
- University of South Florida
- Boston University
- Accounting
A highly-qualified accountant is in great demand to handle the financial system of a business. USA offers plenty of Accounting courses including short-term as well as long-term options. The recommended universities are
- Western New England University
- The University of New Orleans
- Sacred Heart University
- Florida Institute of Technology
- University of Cincinnati
Student Life in the USA
You may find a huge difference in the experience of studying in the USA and studying in India or any other country like the UK and Canada. The residential life, climatic conditions, weekend funs, communication patterns, holidays and traditions, all can bring a new, exciting experience if you fly to the USA with the intent of studying abroad. The sudden change can put you into a state of distress at first, however, as time passes, you may start enjoying the distinct learning experience and may crave to explore more and more.
Scholarship Options To Study In USA
Studying in USA is a costly affair. The costs associated to study in USA do not allow many aspirants to achieve their goal of study in USA despite being deserving and skillful. To ease the financial issues of such students, the USA offers great scholarship options. The academic capabilities and past records of the students are the crucial factors that decide the eligibility of the students to leverage these scholarships.
Post Study Work Options To Study In USA
The ever-growing economy of USA holds plenty of career prospects for the talents interested and skilled in different fields. The USA has many different post-study work visas and PR options to offer to the international students willing to explore USA’s job market for great career opportunities post the completion of their studies. The main one’s of them are
- OPT (Optical Practical Training)
- H-1B visa
- and Green Card
Working in the USA
When studying in the US, students have limited opportunities to work on campus and, off campus. The Designated School Official (DSO) can advise you on authorized work you can take up as a student.
However, after graduation in the USA or other countries, securing a job is currently tricky owing to the political scenario. Highly competitive candidates with sought-after skills and experience will make their mark undoubtedly.
Types of Work Permits
There are several temporary work visas that the US government offers. Each facilitates a specific period of stay and has different sets of pre-requisites. An applicant must understand the requirement and choose the best fit. The type of work, the relationship with the employer, the duration of stay are some factors that decide the type of visa.
These are some options to consider:
- E2 and E1 Visas – For individuals who wish to invest in a business or engage in a trade in the US
- H1B Visa – For speciality occupations
- H2B Visa – For non-agricultural, skilled and non-skilled workers
Exchange Visitor Visa (J1 Visa Permit) – Individuals who are in the US for educational purposes like internships, or teaching in a university, and more.
Non-US citizens who wish to be authorised to settle in the US for work must consider being a permanent resident.
A Green card is the permit to live and work in the US for an unlimited period. EB-1, 2, 3, and 4 Green Cards are different employment-based authorizations to live in the US.
The work permit for the USA is also called an Employment Authorization Document or EAD. This is a photo identity card issued by the U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Process for Getting US Work Permit
- A duly filled in Form I-765 must be submitted. I-765 is an application for employment authorization in the United States of America and can be downloaded from the USCIS website.
- Attach documents that substantiate your eligibility for work.
- Remit the USCIS fees by check or money order. Debit cards, credit cards, or e-transfer is allowed from banks in the US, in the case of e-filed applications.
- The application form with all the supporting documents can either be mailed or be submitted online.
All information about the application process and required documents are available in the Instructions for I-765 which can be viewed in the USCIS website.
You aspire to work in the US, but the processes are overwhelming! Approach Aspire Square. Legal procedures related to your travel and work in the US is our responsibility.
A prominent factor that makes the USA a favorite student destination for many students is the possibility to work after studies. The USA allows international students to stay and work in the country after they complete their studies. There are many work options that enable you to join employment in the USA post your studies of which the most prevalent is OPT (Optional Practical Training). The other options are an H-1B visa and a green card.
OPT
OPT is a one-year work permit using which international students can gain some valuable work experience in the USA. OPT is of two types-
- Pre-completion OPT
- Post-completion OPT
The pre-completion OPT is utilized during the studies and post-completion OPT is to be used after the completion of the degree. A pre-completion OPT allows working only up to 20 hours per week (during running sessions).
The permitted stay duration associated with an OPT is one year, however, the visa can be extended up to two years if required.
Please note, the only students pursuing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) courses are eligible to extend their OPT.
Prerequisites to Get an OPT
- The student applying for OPT must be an F1-visa holder
- The student’s selected employment must be relevant to the course he completed
- The OPT must be applied before the completion of the course. The student must get a job within 90 days of the completion of the study program
H-1B Visa
The F1 student visa can be transferred to an H-1B visa if the student has a sponsoring US employer. The visa permits you to reside and work in the country for up to six years. The visa does not allow you to change your employer in the associated six years duration and if you wish to do so, you are required to apply for a new H-1B visa.
Green Card
A green card is a key to permanent residency in the US and is the dream of every non-native resident residing in the US for a long time. The cardholder is free to reside in the country for an indefinite period and work anywhere. Green cards are generally difficult to attain and the process takes a lot of time to complete.
Expense Vs Earning
- Expense
- Earning
Once you made the decision to study in the United States of America, you have also decided to give yourself the best. However, the best education system in the world comes with a price, which may be deemed expensive by many. However, it is a choice to invest in oneself, and there are several ways in which one can minimise the living expenses, earn and save while studying.
A high living cost is a major concern for many international students seeking to study in the USA. Although the cost can vary depending on the city you live in, you need around 1,000 USD on average to regulate the expenses apart from your tuition fees. The overall living cost can be divided into many factors including accommodation, traveling, food, groceries, entertainment, stationery, and so on. The approximate monthly expense pertaining to various factors can be seen in the below table
| Expense type | Approximate monthly cost |
| Accommodation | $200 |
| Entertainment | $100 |
| Mobile | $50 |
| Electricity | $20 |
| Groceries | $150 |
| Petrol | $75 |
| Clothes | $100 |
Of course, the list is not comprehensive, however, it will give you a general idea of the basic expenses you have to manage while studying in the USA.
Program Fee
School fees in the USA can go up to US$60,000 in the top tier universities. There are many economical options. Public universities, funded by the State are affordable while the private universities are expensive.
The cost of education depends upon the program, the university, and the city. Here are some sample estimates from popular cities in the US.
| City | Public | Private |
| Massachusetts | ~$15,5255 / year | ~$34,370 / year |
| New York | ~$13.200 / year | ~$23.870 / year |
| Pennsylvania | ~$18,615 / year | ~$26,360 / year |
| North Carolina | ~$10,890 / year | ~$21,600 / year |
| Florida | ~$13,525 / year | ~ $17,975 / year |
Living Expenses
Expenses might differ based on whether you live in the urban or suburban areas. Living in urban areas is expensive. Students can choose to stay on-campus or rent an accommodation outside. Food, transport, and entertainment contribute to other expenses.
Living on campus is economical with at least $400 to $500 for shared rooms. When renting out an apartment, you could spend between $600 to $3000.
There are utility charges like electricity ($50 to $100), internet ($45 to $50), phone ($50 USD/month).
Be prepared for miscellaneous expenses.
Financial Aids
Some institutions provide financial assistance to international students. Students should consult their universities to identify if assistantships, fellowships or partial waiver of fees is possible. Universities may have funds allocated to help international students on a need basis and merit basis. Private, non-profit, or corporate scholarships may also be available for deserving candidates.
Additional costs
The additional costs involve secondary expenses and depend on how much you prefer to spend. The factor include
- Traveling expenses if you choose to fly to your country during vacations.
- The money you spend on buying new furniture, PC, car, etc.
- Medical expenses such as routine checkups, eye-care, dental, and so on.
- Your vacation and weekend trips.
- Social gatherings and birthday parties and so on.
The above list demonstrates the need to search for a way to support yourself financially. Let’s explore what are the earning options for you.
Once you made the decision to study in the United States of America, you have also decided to give yourself the best. However, the best education system in the world comes with a price, which may be deemed expensive by many. However, it is a choice to invest in oneself, and there are several ways in which one can minimise the living expenses, earn and save while studying.
Earning options
The US government provides privilege to the F1 visa holders to join employment in the country. The employment options can be categorized into on-campus and off-campus and provide the restricted working permission of up to 20 hours per week (during term time).
On-Campus Opportunities
The prime purpose for international students being education, USCIS authorizes only on- campus employment for F-1/J-1 visa holders only during the first year. A maximum of 20 hours per week during regular sessions and 40 hours per week during holidays and breaks are permitted. UCIS also allows off-campus options that are related to the candidates’ education in the form of internships and assistantships.
- The on-campus job options include working in libraries, computer labs, cafeterias, receptionist jobs, etc.
- On-campus jobs – approximate earning
- S7 to $12 per hour that can give you around $560 per month (if you work for 20 hours a week).
Off-campus job options
The off-campus job options include working in malls, restaurants, as a customer care executive, as a cashier, and so on.
Please note, it is illegal to work off-campus without permission from respective authorities (especially if you are on an F1 visa) and you may encounter serious hazards if you found guilty.
Off-campus Jobs – Approximate Earning
Although, the pay may vary depending on the negotiation and the minimum wages associated with the job role, the average pay for an off-campus employment can be around $5 to $10 per hour.
International student work rights
The US government allows international students to work in the country during their studies. Whether you want to regulate your living expenses or add some valuable work experience to your CV you have options to do so. However, there are regulations you are supposed to abide by if you work as a student visa holder.
Employment options
As an F1 visa holder, you have four options to join employment in the country which include
- On-Campus Employment
- Off-Campus Employment
- Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
- Optional Practical Training (OPT)
- On-campus employment
On-campus employment is the most convenient type of employment available for F1 visa holders. It allows you to work somewhere within your school premises (such as in the library or cafeteria). On-campus employment can be started as soon as your class starts. The working hours are restricted (up to 20 hours per week) during sessions but can be extended in holidays and breaks. You can join more than one on-campus job but the total working hours should not go beyond the allowed time i.e. 20 hours per week.
Off-campus Employment
The students can join part-time employment outside of the school’s campus. The job can be joined only after completing one academic year and in certain circumstances such as loss of financial help, increment in the tuition fees, or the cost of living. Approval from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is mandatory to commence off-campus employment and the students are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week if their request gets approved.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
The CPT gives you the chance to gain real-world work experience (such as an internship) in the field pertaining to your study. In contrast to the other employment options, the CPT does not impose any restriction on the working hours. The student must complete one full academic year to get qualified for a CPT except under specific conditions.
Please note, if you undergo a full-time CPT for a year or above, you lose your eligibility to get an OPT.
Optional Practical Training (OPT)
OPT is a 12 months work permit that allows international students to gain some valuable work experience in their field of study. OPT is of two types-
- Pre-completion OPT
- Post-completion OPT
The pre-completion OPT is used while studying and permits students to work only up to 20 in a week. Post-completion OPT is to be used after the completion of the degree and allows full-time employment.
The general validity of an OPT is one year and can be extended if required. However, only the students pursuing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) courses are eligible to extend their OPT.
While the cost of living is high, and education is expensive, students do have various options to earn and save. Our counsellors can advise you on economic stay and study options in the US. Call us today!
When you look for a guide to take you through the scope of education in the USA, we are here to help you. We have an able team of advisors who are guiding several students every single day.
No one understands your aspirations and interests better than us. We provide customized counselling according to your needs.
We give you honest reviews about universities and courses that match your educational needs. You can evaluate your options and make clear decisions towards how you want to progress.
We help you prepare for the universities that you aspire, and handhold you through the admission process.
We help you with hassle-free documentation and paperwork for your student visa with assured financial assistance. We also provide mock sessions and personalised coaching to make it a smooth sail from here.
All you need to do is have a dream. Entrust your dreams in the hands of Aspire Square, the experts who relentlessly strive in making them real. Get your wings to fly to the United States!
FAQS
01 What is Form I-20? What purpose does it solve?
Form I-20 is a government form that confirms your eligibility to obtain an F1 student visa. The form is issued by the USA school or university you are enrolled in and acts as a mandatory document to complete the USA student visa process successfully.
02 What is SEVIS?
The full form of SEVIS is the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System. It is a system executed in the USA to maintain the information of the students to whom the Form I-20 has been issued. Entry into the system is mandatory to get a USA student visa without the hassle and should be made by the USA school or university you are enrolled in.
03 What happens if your USA student visa is postponed or not approved?
Postponement doesn’t mean that your application is rejected. It only means that you have to wait a little longer to get the decision. In case your visa application gets rejected, you can apply again with a new application. Our USA education consultant can guide you better in this respec
04 What should I carry while appearing for a USA student visa interview?
- Your passports.
- I-20 (Offer letter)
- A printed copy of the DS-160 success page.
- SEVIS payment receipt.
- VFS appointment letter.
- Visa application fee receipt.
- All original academic documents
- Financial documents
05 What kind of questions can I expect in a USA student visa interview?
The general questions like the questions about your academic background, study plans, your purpose of going to the USA, your employment experience (if any), the reasons to choose the USA for further studies, and so on. A USA education consultant can provide a thorough list of questions you are likely to come across while attending a USA student visa interview.
06 When should I apply for a USA student visa?
120 days prior to the date of enrolment (as mentioned in the I-20 form).
07 What is the possibility to change school or university after reaching the USA on a USA student visa?
You have to complete at least one year in the school or university from which you received the I-20 Form. After that, you can try changing it, however, taking a cautious decision at the beginning itself is a smart move in which a USA education consultant can proffer the right assistance.
08 Is it possible to overstay in the USA on a USA student visa?
It’s illegal to stay in the USA beyond the duration allotted by your visa. You may encounter heavy punishments (such as a ban on re-entry for a specific duration) if you found guilty.
09 Does a USA student visa give employment permissions to the visa holders?
Depends on the type of visa you acquire. For example, an F1 student visa permits on-campus employment of up to 20 hours per week whereas an M1 student visa does not allow any off-campus or on-campus employment.
10 For how long my passport should be valid to apply for a USA student visa?
At least six months besides your expected duration of stay.
