Study in USA
Discover everything you need to know about studying in the USA—from leading universities and popular courses to visa guidance, living expenses, and the vibrant student experience.
Why Study in the USA?
Studying in the United States offers far more than just a degree—it’s a life-changing experience that opens doors to academic excellence, cultural diversity, and global career opportunities. With world-renowned universities, cutting-edge research, and a vibrant multicultural environment, the USA remains a top choice for international students.
World-Class Academic Excellence
The U.S. is home to one of the most prestigious higher education systems in the world. Every year, over 500,000 international students choose to study in the U.S., making it the most popular destination for global education. According to QS World University Rankings, 13 of the top 20 universities are located in the United States, a testament to its academic leadership.
Innovative and Quality Education
American universities are known for their strong emphasis on research, innovation, and real-world application. With more institutions of higher learning than any other country, the U.S. offers unmatched access to academic resources, state-of-the-art labs, and faculty who are leaders in their fields. Many breakthroughs and inventions have roots in U.S. university research.
Wide Range of Study Options
One of the biggest advantages of studying in the U.S. is the flexibility and variety of programs. Whether you’re pursuing business, engineering, arts, or sciences, you can specialize in niche areas like international marketing, data science, or biomedical engineering. This range of study options is available at all levels—bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD.
Strong Career Opportunities
Graduates from U.S. universities are highly sought after worldwide. After completing a degree, international students can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows them to work in their field of study for up to a year. Many are offered H1-B work visas by U.S. companies in sectors like tech, finance, education, and engineering, paving the way for long-term career growth.
Improve English Proficiency
Studying in an English-speaking country naturally enhances your language skills. Being immersed in an environment where English is used daily—academically, socially, and professionally—helps students gain fluency and confidence, a crucial asset in today’s global job market.
Required Documents for Studying in the USA
For University Application
To apply to U.S. universities, prepare the following documents:
- Application Fee: Ranges from $40 to $150 (non-refundable)
- Passport: Clear scan of the valid passport bio-data page
- Academic Certificates & Transcripts:
- Bachelor’s/Master’s – original scans or official sealed copies
- SSC/O-Level & HSC/A-Level – certified, notarized, or photocopies of certificates and marksheets
- Academic Reference Letters: Two or three original or certified letters
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- English Proficiency Certificate: IELTS/TOEFL (original or notarized copy)
- Standardized Test Scores: SAT/GRE/GMAT (if required by the institution)
- Job Experience Letter (if applicable)
- Financial Documents:
- Statement of Financial Support Form (non-U.S. sponsor)
- I-134 Form (for U.S. sponsor)
- Bank Solvency Certificate from sponsor
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae (if required)
- Other Supporting Documents: Certificates of extracurricular activities, awards, etc.
For F-1 Student Visa Application
After receiving your I-20 from the university, prepare the following for your F-1 student visa interview:
Valid Passport
DS-160 Confirmation Page (ensure barcodes are clearly visible)
Photograph: One recent photo (2” x 2” or 600px x 600px)
Visa Application Fee: $185 (F-1 Visa)
SEVIS Fee Receipt: $350
Original I-20 Form (issued by your university)
All Original Educational Documents: Certificates, marksheets, and transcripts
English Proficiency Certificate: IELTS or TOEFL
Standardized Test Scores: GRE/GMAT/SAT/ACT (if applicable)
Job Experience Letter (if applicable)
Bank Statements: Minimum 3 to 12 months’ bank statements of the sponsor (NHP recommends at least 3 months)
Bank Solvency Certificate
Affidavit of Financial Support
Proof of Income: Trade license, TIN certificate, or relevant financial documents
Any Additional Supporting Documents to strengthen your application
Application Procedures for Studying in the USA
The application process for studying in the USA is systematic and well-structured. It starts with selecting your preferred universities and submitting essential documents—academic transcripts, English proficiency scores, standardized test results (if required), a Statement of Purpose, and recommendation letters. Once you receive your admission offer and Form I-20, the next step involves paying the SEVIS fee and applying for the F-1 student visa. The process includes a visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. With multiple intakes, diverse programs, and world-class institutions, the USA offers a streamlined path for international students to pursue quality higher education.
University Intakes
U.S. universities typically offer three major intakes each year:
- Fall: August/September (Primary intake with the widest course availability)
- Spring: January/February (Popular secondary intake)
- Summer: May/June (Limited programs available at select institutions)
Most international students apply for the Fall or Spring intake.
English Language Requirements
English proficiency is mandatory for all programs. Requirements may vary by institution and program level:
Undergraduate Programs:
- IELTS: 5.5 – 6.5
- TOEFL (iBT): 79 – 90+
Postgraduate Programs:
- IELTS: 6.0 – 6.5
- TOEFL (iBT): 90 – 100
Some universities may waive English tests if the student has completed previous education in English.
Academic Entry Requirements
For Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Programs
- Completion of SSC and HSC or equivalent
- Minimum GPA: 3.5+ in both SSC and HSC
- IELTS/TOEFL is mandatory
- SAT/ACT may be required by top-ranked universities
For Postgraduate (Master’s) Programs
- A 4-year bachelor’s degree or equivalent
- Minimum CGPA: 2.75+
- IELTS/TOEFL is mandatory
- GRE or GMAT required for many programs in business, engineering, and science
- Some institutions may waive GRE/GMAT based on academic or professional background
U.S. Student Visa Information (F-1 / M-1)
Your course of study and the type of institution you plan to attend determine whether you’ll need an F-1 or M-1 student visa. Once accepted by a U.S. university or college, the institution will issue a SEVIS-generated Form I-20, which must be signed by both you and a designated school official.
You must present the original I-20 at the time of your visa interview. Each applicant, including dependents (spouse or minor children), must have their own Form I-20 if they plan to accompany the student and stay in the U.S. All students and dependents must be registered in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).
- Visa Application Fees:
F-1 / M-1 Visa Application Fee: $185
Payable through Eastern Bank Limited - SEVIS Fee (F-1 Student): $350
Must be paid online at www.fmjfee.com
It’s recommended to schedule your visa interview promptly after receiving your I-20 to ensure timely processing.