The United States of America is known for it’s cultural diversity like Australia . With thousands of academic programs offered by world- class institutions, the United States is a sought after destination for international students.U.S higher education institutions are known worldwide for their quality of programs and maintain high academic standards and lead in terms of academic specialisations and research program offerings. All states have something to offer and the US Government’s Education USA website.
Availability of Intakes
There are typically three intakes to choose from dependent upon the institution and the program you choose,
- January- April- Spring Term
- May to August- Summer Term
- August to December- Fall Term
Students must plan on their admissions at least a year in advance of the intended start date.
Work while studying
US student visa allows students to work on- campus or at an off- campus location that is affiliated with the school for up to 20 hours per week during school session and full-time with upto 40 hours per week during school breaks. On campus employment does not require approval from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS).There are limited on – campus employment opportunities but also some internship opportunities which not only provide practical work experience but also helps in meeting some of the living costs. International students with F-1 visa are allowed to work on-campus and not allowed to work off campus during their first academic year.
OPT is the common term used if you are international student in US which means Optional Practical Training . International students on F1 visa are permitted to work off- campus both during and after completion of their program but requires prior authorisation from USCIS.
Visa Categories
International students who plan to study in the United States will have the option to choose from the following visa categories,
OPT is the common term used if you are international student in US which means Optional Practical Training . International students on F1 visa are permitted to work off- campus both during and after completion of their program but requires prior authorisation from USCIS.
- F1 Visa allows students to study US college or university programs or an English Language program
- J Exchange Visa allows students to participate in an exchange programs in either a high school or a university.
- M Student visa allows students to undertake non-academic or vocational studies
Study and living costs
The cost of living in the US is dependent upon the city you are living in. In general ,the estimated living cost is around $10000 to $18000 per year, which averages around $1000 to $1500 per month.
The average fee for Community Colleges is around $6000-$20000 per annum while bachelors programs range between $20,000-$40,000 per annum and Graduate programs can cost between $ 20,000- $40,000 per annum.PHD programs can cost upto $55000 per annum but there are quite a few scholarships offered by the US universities for the doctoral programs.
All costs are per year in US dollars. To convert to your own currency, visit
http://www.xe.com
Popular courses in theUnited States
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Engineering
- Business and Management
- Health and Medicine
- Economics
- Digital Design
- Food Studies
- Biological and Life Sciences
- Environment Studies
How to apply
The first step is to apply to a SEVP-approved school in the United States. After the SEVP-approved school accepts student’s enrolment, the student will be registered for the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and is required to pay the SEVIS I-901 fee. The SEVP-approved school will then issue the student a Form I-20. Upon receipt of Form I-20 and register in SEVIS, the student may apply at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate for a student (F or M) visa. Form I-20 must be presented to the consular officer when student attends the visa interview. In addition to this there are other requirements.
Eduleader counsellors will go through in detail with you to check on all documentation and requirements.