From top universities to scholarships, student visa requirements, living costs, and career opportunities—discover everything you need to know about studying in the United States.
The USA remains one of the top destinations for higher education due to its globally ranked universities, flexible curriculum, advanced research facilities, and diverse cultural exposure.
Monthly Cost (USD)
Rent: $1,651
Groceries: $231
Dining Out: $83
Transport: $67
Utilities: $347
Pro Tip: Cities like Austin, Houston, and Atlanta are cheaper alternatives to New York, San Francisco, or Boston.
Annual Fees (USD)
Tuition fees for UG in USA: $20,000 – $50,000
Tuition fees for Ms in USA: $25,000 – $60,000
Tuition fees for PhD in USA: $15,000 – $45,000
Note: Private universities generally charge more than public universities. STEM and MBA programs also tend to be more expensive.
- Funded by: U.S.-India Educational Foundation (USIEF)
Many U.S. universities offer merit-based and need-based scholarships to international students, including:
👉 Apply for Scholarship Guidance: Inforens Plans
Up to 20 hours/week during the semester
Full-time during scheduled breaks
• Federal: $7.25/hr
• California: $16.00/hr
• New York: $15.00/hr
"What helped me stand out? Intentionality. From the start, I knew I couldn’t afford to take a passive approach. I connected with alumni, reached out to professionals, and asked for coffee chats—even when I didn’t know exactly what to say. Networking was a learning process, but over time, it became an essential tool to build genuine relationships—not just to hunt for a job." - – Nayanika, International Law Graduate
"Crafting a personal brand was key. I spent hours refining my résumé to highlight not just tasks, but outcomes. I created a deal sheet showcasing my work and used LinkedIn to network, not just as a digital résumé, but as a platform to share ideas and connect with people whose work genuinely inspired me."
To read more about this journey and how she cracked the US job market, click here.
Choosing between studying in the UK or the USA can be a tough decision, as both countries are home to some of the world’s most renowned universities and offer top-notch research opportunities. However, the two countries have distinct differences that may influence your decision as an international student.
The US educational system is known for being more practical, with a focus on projects, research, and internships. The British system, on the other hand, places more emphasis on theory. Usually, all levels of study take less number of years to complete in the UK compared to US.
When it comes to the cost of education, the UK tends to be a more affordable option compared to the US, mainly because courses in the UK are typically shorter in duration.
In terms of the cost of living, the USA is generally more affordable than the UK.
Both countries offer great opportunities, but the best choice depends on your priorities, whether it’s cost, work opportunities after graduation, or the type of education you’re seeking. To explore the full details and decide which option is best for you, click here to read more.
If you're an international student planning to pursue higher education abroad, it's essential to understand what exams are required to study in USA. These exams help U.S. universities evaluate your academic capabilities and language proficiency. Below is a breakdown of the most common exams to study in USA:
English language proficiency is a must for studying in the United States. Most universities accept one of the following:
These exams to study in USA are required for students from non-English-speaking countries.
If you’re applying for a Master’s or PhD program, especially in engineering, sciences, or social sciences, you may need to take the GRE. However, some universities have made it optional in recent years.
Planning to study business or management? The GMAT is required for most MBA programs in the U.S. It assesses quantitative, verbal, and analytical writing skills.
Undergraduate students need to appear for either the SAT or ACT. These exams test your readiness for college-level academics and are a key part of the application process—although many universities now offer test-optional policies.
Certain professional courses may require additional exams:
Understanding what exams are required to study in USA can help you plan your application timeline and prepare effectively. Always verify the latest admission requirements on the official university websites.
