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.
Top universities
- • MITApply Now via Partner Counselor
- • StanfordApply Now via Partner Counselor
- • HarvardApply Now via Partner Counselor
- • UC BerkeleyApply Now via Partner Counselor
- • Carnegie MellonApply Now via Partner Counselor
- • ColumbiaApply Now via Partner Counselor
Popular programmes
- • MS Computer ScienceApply Now via Partner Counselor
- • MBAApply Now via Partner Counselor
- • MS Data ScienceApply Now via Partner Counselor
- • MS EngineeringApply Now via Partner Counselor
- • MFAApply Now via Partner Counselor
F-1 Student Visa
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
Official resources
Cost of studying in United States
Tuition, monthly living costs, visa fees and a rupee funding-gap calculator.
F-1 Student Visa document checklist
Every document you need, as a tickable list you can save.
Studying in United States — FAQs
How much does it cost to study in United States?＋
Tuition typically runs USD 25,000 – 75,000 / year, and living costs come to roughly $1,715 per month in a mid-range city — about ₹57.1 lakh for a typical first year including living costs. Use the United States cost calculator to model your own numbers.
What visa do I need to study in United States?＋
You need the F-1 Student Visa. The application fee is USD 185 visa fee + USD 350 SEVIS I-901 and processing usually takes 2–8 weeks (varies by consulate). Apply up to 365 days before your I-20 start date; you may enter 30 days before.
Can I work while studying in United States?＋
On-campus 20 hrs/week during term; CPT after 1 year After graduating: 12-month OPT (36 months for STEM)
Which tests do universities in United States accept?＋
Commonly accepted tests are TOEFL, IELTS, GRE, GMAT, SAT. Requirements vary by university and programme, so always confirm on the programme page.
When are the intakes for United States?＋
Fall (Aug/Sep) primary · Spring (Jan) limited Applications generally open 9-12 months before the intake starts.
How much money do I need to show for a United States student visa?＋
Tuition + living costs for year 1 shown on the I-20, evidenced at the visa interview.