Higher Education in the United States of America
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The United States of America stands as a top choice for international students seeking higher education opportunities after completing their 12th grade. With over 5,300 esteemed educational institutions, including more than 2,000 offering bachelor’s degrees across various disciplines, the USA offers a diverse array of options. However, it’s not merely the quality of education that draws Indian students to pursue studies in the USA after the 12th grade.
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So, why wait? Dive into the article to explore more about studying in the USA for Indian students after the 12th grade.
Education System in the United States of America
With approximately 4,500 accredited higher educational institutions, pursuing studies in America after the 12th grade presents numerous avenues. A full-time undergraduate degree, commonly known as a Bachelor’s degree, typically spans four years. The US education system comprises various types of post-secondary institutions, including:
Type of Institution
State College or University
Affordable option subsidized by local or state government.
Example: University of Virginia, University of Michigan
Private College/University
Operated by private entities or organizations.
Example: Brown University, Harvard University
Community College
Offers two-year associate degrees or certificate courses.
Example: Green River College, Santa Monica College
Institute of Technology
Provides graduate and short-term programs in engineering, technology, and natural sciences.
Example: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Illinois Institute of Technology
Benefits of Studying in the USA after 12th
Studying in the USA after the 12th grade offers a multitude of advantages for Indian students:
- The USA houses some of the world’s premier educational institutions, with 33 of the top 100 colleges listed in the QS World Rankings 2024.
- International students benefit from abundant research and training opportunities, supported by state-of-the-art technology and facilities, preparing them for the competitive global landscape.
- The US education system emphasizes flexibility in organization and curriculum, allowing students to explore diverse courses before declaring a major.
- An international degree from the USA unlocks a myriad of career prospects worldwide.
- The vibrant student culture in the US extends beyond academics, encompassing extracurricular activities like hiking, skiing, and museum visits.
STEM Programs in the USA
Popular Courses and Universities Offering in the USA after 12th
Indian students can excel in various courses in the United States, with bachelor’s programs typically spanning four to five years. Here are some top courses and universities categorized by different streams:
Top Science Courses
Universities Offering
- BSc Nursing (BSN)
- Computer Science, Economics, and Data Science
- Bachelor of Biology
- BSc in Chemistry
- BSc in Mechanical Engineering
- Bachelor of Computer Applications
- BSc in Civil Engineering
- Bachelor of Surgery
- Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cornell University
Top Commerce Courses
Universities Offering
- Bachelor in Economics
- Bachelor of Management
- Bachelor of Entrepreneurship
- BBA in Accounting
- Bachelor of Arts in Accounting
- BBA in Finance
- BSc in Marketing
- Business Administration in Global Business
- Arizona State University, University of California, Berkeley, Texas A & M University
Top Arts Courses
Universities Offering
- Bachelor of Liberal Arts
- Bachelor of Hospitality and Tourism Management
- BA in English
- BA in History
- Bachelor of Fine Arts
- Bachelor of Journalism and Mass Communication
- Fashion Design
- Hotel Management
- Geography
- Sociology
- Bachelor of Social Work
- Yale University, Stanford University, Dartmouth College
Best Courses and Universities to Study in USA after 12th
The USA hosts a plethora of prestigious universities offering diverse bachelor’s courses. Here’s a list of top universities and their featured programs:
Top Bachelors Courses
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Stanford University
- Harvard University
- California Institute of Technology
- University of Chicago
- University of Pennsylvania
- Princeton University
- Yale University
- Cornell University
- Columbia University
Eligibility Requirements and Documents for Studying in the USA after 12th
To pursue studies in the USA after the 12th grade, international students must meet certain eligibility criteria and provide essential documents. Here’s an overview:
- Completion of 12th grade with specified minimum marks
- Minimum GPA (typically 2.50 to 3.60)
- English language proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS)
- Standardized test scores (SAT or ACT)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Letters of Recommendation (LOR)
- Minimum age requirement (usually 18 years)
- University acceptance letter
- Educational transcripts
- Valid passport
- Certificates for extracurricular activities
- Bank statements
- Entrance exam scorecards (SAT/ACT)
- Work experience letter (if applicable)
Duration and Cost of Courses for Studying in the USA After 12th
After completing the 12th grade, international students can enroll in various courses in the USA, each with its duration and cost:
Course | Duration |
Undergraduate Degree | 4 years |
Associate Degree | 2 years |
BSc Nursing | 4 years |
The cost of studying in the USA varies based on factors like the course, university, and student’s lifestyle. While scholarships can mitigate expenses, the average annual bachelor fee ranges from $8,000 to $40,000.
Job Opportunities and Optional Practical Training (OPT) after Bachelors in USA
US universities encourage students to engage in part-time jobs while studying, fostering a culture of self-sufficiency and hard work. Indian students can explore diverse job fields after completing their bachelor’s degrees, with average annual salaries ranging from $35,000 to $164,000.
Scholarships for Indian Students to Study in USA after 12th
Several government and university-based scholarships support Indian students pursuing studies in the USA after the 12th grade, covering tuition and expenses. Notable scholarships include the Clark Global Scholarship Program, Rotary International Ambassadorial Scholarships, Cornell University Tata Scholarship, and United World Colleges International Youth Scholarships.
Optional Practical Training (OPT)
OPT allows international students in the USA to gain practical work experience in their field of study for up to 12 months after completing their degree.
Embark on Your USA Education Journey with GHC ED
Enrolling in a US university post-12th offers a wealth of diverse experiences. Choosing the right university and course is crucial, and our consultants are here to assist you every step of the way. Subscribe to GHC ED services for expert guidance and support.
Explore More:
– Undergraduate Scholarships in USA
– IELTS Accepting Universities in USA
– Education Loan in USA
– Exams to Study in USA
– How to Settle in USA?
– USA Universities with High Acceptance Rate.
Pre-Arrival Expenses for Pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in the USA for Indian Students
Before even stepping foot on campus, the journey of studying undergraduate in the USA for Indian students incurs certain pre-arrival expenses. These expenses, which are solely borne out-of-pocket, are crucial to consider when budgeting for your education abroad. Here’s a breakdown of the pre-arrival undergraduate fees in the USA:
Expense | Amount (in USD) | Amount (in INR) |
IELTS registration fee | $245-255 | 18,750-19,600 INR |
TOEFL registration fee | $190 | 14,550 INR |
SAT fee | $104 | 8,300 INR |
ACT fee | $85 | 6,800 INR |
Visa application fee | $160 | 12,250 INR |
SEVIS fee | $350 | 26,800 INR |
Airfare | $500-1000 | 35,000-70,000 INR |
Insurance | $500-1,000 | 40,000-80,000 INR |
Application Fees | $50-200 | 3000-16,000 INR |
Post-Arrival Expenses for Bachelor’s Degree in the USA
Now, let’s delve into the post-arrival cost of pursuing a bachelor’s degree in the USA. Post-arrival expenses encompass the regular financial commitments you’ll encounter while studying in the USA, primarily revolving around tuition fees and living expenses.
Tuition Fees
Typically, undergraduate tuition fees in the USA range from $30,000 to $60,000 per year on average. Several factors, including the university type, specific course, duration of study, among others, influence the final amount you’ll pay.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in the USA is notably higher than in India, presenting a significant adjustment for international students. Monthly living expenses for international students in the USA typically fall between $800 and $1,500, varying based on lifestyle, accommodation preferences, location within the US, transportation costs, and personal spending habits.
Cost of Undergraduate Degree in the USA for International Students
The USA stands as a premier destination for international students pursuing undergraduate degrees. To grasp the cost of an undergraduate degree in the USA for Indian students, it’s essential to examine the tuition fees charged by universities offering sought-after programs.
University Name | Tuition Fees | Tuition Fees (in INR) |
Massachusetts Institute of Technology | 57,590 USD | 45,85,900 INR |
Stanford University | 57,693 USD | 45,94,000 INR |
Harvard University | 52,659 USD | 41,93,300 INR |
California Institute of Technology | 58,479 USD | 46,56,700 INR |
University of Chicago | 61,179 USD | 48,71,700 INR |
University of Pennsylvania | 56,212 USD | 44,76,160 INR |
Princeton University | 57,410 USD | 45,71,560 INR |
Yale University | 62,250 USD | 49,57,000 INR |
Cornell University | 56,550 USD | 45,03,000 INR |
Columbia University | 65,524 USD | 52,17,700 INR |
Arizona State University | 32,760 USD | 26,08,700 INR |
John Hopkins University | 57,010 USD | 45,39,710 INR |
University of California – Berkeley | 47,768 USD | 37,79,900 INR |
Northwestern University | 58,460 USD | 46,55,170 INR |
New York University | 56,500 USD | 44,99,100 INR |
Living Expenses for International Undergraduate Students in the US
When planning to study in the US, one crucial aspect to consider is the cost of living. It’s important to note that only a select few students receive comprehensive scholarships covering both tuition fees and living expenses for their bachelor’s degree in the USA. On average, the annual cost of a bachelor’s degree in the USA ranges from $10,000 to $18,000, approximately translating to 8,00,000 to 15,00,000 INR for Indian students.
Here’s a breakdown of the monthly living expenses for undergraduate students studying in the USA:
Expense | Monthly Cost |
Rent | 150-250 USD |
Meals | 400 USD |
Transportation | 100-300 USD |
Phone/ Internet | 50-150 USD |
Electricity Bills | 100-120 USD |
Personal Expenses | 300-600 USD |