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Destination guide
United States
World-leading research universities and the broadest course catalogue on earth.
The US hosts more international students than any other country. Expect a credit-based system, generous on-campus opportunities, and strong industry links — especially in tech, business and STEM research.
Tuition
USD 25,000 – 75,000 / year
Living cost
USD 12,000 – 22,000 / year
Intakes
Fall (Aug/Sep) primary · Spring (Jan) limited
Top universities
- • MIT
- • Stanford
- • Harvard
- • UC Berkeley
- • Carnegie Mellon
- • Columbia
Popular programmes
- • MS Computer Science
- • MBA
- • MS Data Science
- • MS Engineering
- • MFA
F-1 Student Visa
Application fee
USD 185 visa fee + USD 350 SEVIS I-901
Processing time
2–8 weeks (varies by consulate)
Work rights
On-campus 20 hrs/week during term; CPT after 1 year
Post-study
12-month OPT (36 months for STEM)
Application timeline
- 1Shortlist universities and confirm test requirements
- 2Send GRE/GMAT + TOEFL/IELTS scores via ETS to each university
- 3Submit applications by Dec 15 – Jan 15 for Fall intake
- 4Receive I-20 from your chosen university
- 5Pay SEVIS I-901 and complete DS-160 form
- 6Book and attend your F-1 visa interview
Insider tips
- Apply Early Decision/Action where possible — acceptance rates can double.
- Don't skip the optional essays — they often decide borderline cases.
- Look for Graduate Assistantships (TA/RA) — they cover tuition + stipend.
- At the F-1 interview, emphasise ties to your home country.
Tests accepted
TOEFLIELTSGREGMATSAT