Study in USA

The ultra-modern education system of the United States catches the huge attention of international students. Quality education, the latest trend curriculum, and endless career opportunities are the few reasons to study in the USA. Let's find out your reasons for choosing USA for higher studies.

aec2add2d380759346442220ef51e8f8.webp

Reasons to Study in the USA

Today, we will elaborate on the top 10 reasons to study in the USA. Be glued to your screen and decide on which ground you should choose the USA for studying.

1. Academic Brilliance

There is no doubt the USA is considered to be the hub of the world's largest universities and colleges in the world. There are around 4,000 universities and colleges, many of which rank in the top 100 universities globally. The academic institutions over there adhere to high academic standards that pursue a stern approach to sustain the excellence of Education. According to the QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education World University Rankings system, many US universities secured their place in the top 10. Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), University of Chicago, and California Institute of Technology are a few of them.

2. Diversity of Programs

Students who want to pursue a course they don't find in their native land always turn to follow their Education in the USA. Because the nation has numerous study programs, students can choose any course per their interest. Students are also free to pursue different methods simultaneously at the graduation level. Later, at the end of the second year, students must finalize their major subject to continue the course. Students are always satisfied when looking for distant American universities and college classes.

3. Practical skills Education

USA study programs offer students practical knowledge and skills mandatory to survive in the workplace. Universities in the USA focus majorly on providing practical skills with a combo of theoretical concepts. This way, students have huge job opportunities.

4, Scholarship Opportunities

The USA is a bit expensive place to study, yet it always stays on the priority list of international students. The reason is that USA Scholarships for International Students cut the study cost. There are popular scholarship options students can apply for when planning for USA study. UEFA (Non-Government scholarship) and AAUW International Fellowships (Non-Government scholarship) are some of them. Students are offered up to 100% scholarships in the USA.

5. Safest Country

Is safety your primary concern for studying abroad? If yes, then the USA would be a great destination. USA immigration authority always ensures the safety of international students at a priority level. Plus, the country's crime rate is almost negligible compared to other countries. People in the USA enjoy a happy life that inspires international students to select the USA for higher studies.

6. US degrees - Globally accepted

US degrees carry a huge value all over the world. Global employers prefer candidates who have certifications from US universities or colleges. There is a World recognition of US degrees, massive career boosts, and unparalleled job options worth the study cost in the USA for Indian students. So, free your mind from the why pop-ups and engage in the USA VISA process.

7. Strong International Student Support System

The friendly environment in the US deserves a big thumbs-up. And it also inspires international students to be part of the nation. US international educational bodies promote many activities to support global students. And facilitate them to pursue Education free-minded. Special privileges are also granted to pupils to handle difficult situations. So study in the USA and have a pleasing education experience.

8. Multi-culture Country

People from different cultures, breeds, and races share a platform here. There is no place for inequality, discrimination, and prejudice. Every community is treated equally, and that spreads positive vibes. Here, cultural diversity also promotes personality development skills among students.

9. Education Quality

Apart from top-level universities and colleges, the USA is also known for quality education. Well-qualified teaching staff and professional faculty help students to pursue their dream careers. Teachers are well-qualified and have extensive experience in their respective fields. Their knowledge and expertise make students' walkways easy to go on. Modern education approaches and high-level research programs incorporate students' skills to overcome the learning barrier. So, considering the USA for higher Education won't be a wrong step in your way to pursue a smooth life.

10. Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Work privilege for students during their studies is the main cause students opt for US study courses. CTP (internship) and OTP (post-study work) programs assist students with their work rights. Students are allowed to work on-campus or off-campus during/after their studies. And it makes students capable of paying their huge expenses.

Students still need clarification about choosing their destination for higher Education and must consider all the points mentioned above to get out of the dilemma. You can also meet genuine VISA experts to finalize the decision for a country. Western Overseas, India's best US VISA consultants, has been helping students sort out visa queries. Learn the best options for universities and colleges in the USA for your Education by visiting our nearest branch.

USA Intakes

The USA has been the study destination for many students from India and other countries. The USA welcomes thousands of pupils to do their dream courses every year. So, before heading to plan US study, a student must be familiar with different intakes in the USA. Here, we will discuss popular and non-popular US intakes and how students should choose the right option. The US education system is different from the one in India. So, it becomes mandatory for students to learn everything about the hierarchy of getting an education in the US. All US universities and colleges allow students to apply for any of three intakes that offer flexibility to start studying throughout the year.

8c5b06ed2853b6a6e231d7d6d1c909d0.webp

Fall intake

Fall intake in the USA is a popular intake that offers countless study programs to enroll in. It starts in August or September month. Students who look for a wide range of courses according to their academic qualifications must consider this intake. Most public and private universities are open for admission and offer various UG and PG programs.

Spring intake

Spring intake in the USA is the second sought-after intake that starts in January. Many spring intake universities in the USA allow students to enroll in different programs. As compared to fall intake, there are fewer options for undergraduate programs. However, students going to the USA for post-graduation must count on this intake over other US intakes.

Summer intake

Summer intake in the USA is available to students for a limited number of programs. It begins in May. Few May intake universities in the USA open admissions for specific study courses. So, students who miss the fall or spring intakes can opt for this intake.

USA Intakes Durations

It's the student's personal choice to go for a particular intake. There is no specific reason to be partial to any seasonal program. Students should consider preferred courses, academic qualifications, English proficiency test marks, career opportunities, and preparedness to start the program. Accordingly, they can finalize the choice. To get an overview of the duration of US intakes, check out the added table:

Intake Duration
Fall/August intake From August/September to December
Spring/January intake From January to May
Summer/May intake From May to August

Is Fall intake a better option?

Why USA fall intake is popular among students in India is a million times-asked question. So, let's compare it to have a better overview.

1. Maximum Scholarship Options

Fall intake: The intake is open to maximum study programs for which students get several scholarship options. Significant financial aid is available to students through various scholarship programs. 

Spring/Summer intake: Compared to fall intake, there are fewer scholarship options. So, students with brilliant profiles show less interest in this intake.

2. Wide range of courses

Fall intake: Public and private universities are open for admission to any course or program. Students can choose from the countless options for undergraduate or postgraduate programs.

Spring/Summer intake: Relatively fewer options are available regarding courses and level of education. UG programs are minimal, and only private universities are open for admissions.

3. Part-time job opportunities

Fall intake is the beginning of the academic session, so most on-campus job opportunities are readily available. Students can join as assistant researchers for any research program during this intake.

Spring/Summer intake: Slightly few options are left for students to do a part-time job. Most places get occupied as information starts in the middle of the year.

4. Active Participation

Fall intake: Students can join social groups to show their talent in extra activities. It enables students to expose themselves as social leader.

Spring/Summer intake: Students find it challenging to get into social groups as no place is available for freshers. So, newbies feel isolated somehow.

5. More Internship programs

Fall intake: Internship programs available for students are maximum in the fall intake. There is a criterion of being a student for nine months before applying for the internship, and students enrolled in this take quickly meet this rule.

Spring/Summer intake: Students need to meet the condition of 9 months' enrolment to apply for the internship. Mid-year beginning programs don't let students get internships.

6. Work opportunities

Fall intake: More options are available to work during the study programs. Universities start consulting companies to recruit potential students during this session.

Spring/Summer intake: Students are left with limited jobs as recruitment companies have already hired the candidates. So, aspiring students have fewer options for employment during this intake.

Take your time. And before making a decision, consult our experienced US VISA consultants. We counsel students for the available USA intakes, courses, and programs in various universities and colleges. Discuss your profile with us and start the USA visa process to enroll for the next intake.

Eligibility Criteria for USA Student VISA

The US VISA authority sets many rules and regulations to make its immigration system robust. Students aspiring to study there must fulfill certain conditions for a successful journey to study in the USA. By fulfilling VISA requirements, let's examine how a student can obtain a USA study VISA.

Before knowing the USA student VISA requirements, let's look at the types of visas the US provides to students for different purposes of temporary stay in the nation. Major USA student VISA categories are

84ab11c0622ef8246ae1680836466319.webp

F-1 Students VISA

This category of VISA is for students going to the US to study academic programs at accredited US colleges or universities or study English programs at recognized English language schools.

J exchange VISA

Students flying to the US for exchange programs at a school or university level are issued J exchange VISAs. Students get sponsorship from their schools or universities to attend the programs.

M student VISA

Students interested in non-academic or vocational programs or training should apply for the M student VISA. It is related to programs designed to get specialization in a particular industry/area.

Are you Eligible to apply for F-1 VISA?

Students who are planning to apply for F-1 VISA must know the eligibility requirements before heading into the process. Read the following USA student VISA requirements given below:

  • Applicants should be aged 16 years or above

  • Must have a passport having validity till the completion of studies in the USA

  • Must have done 12th to enroll for UG program and graduation for admission in PG programs

  • Must have taken an English proficiency test. Consider taking IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL

  • Must have enough funds to support study and living in America

  • Must have an I-20 letter from a SEVP-certified university or college.

  • Must have paid the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee

Students who meet the terms mentioned above are qualified to start the process of lodging F-1 student visas.

Documents requirements for admission application at US universities

Bachelors

  • 10th certificate/mark sheet

  • 12th certificate/mark sheet

  • IELTS- 6/5.5

  • TOEFL-71-75

  • SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test)

  • ACT (American College Testing)

  • 2-3 LOR

  • RESUME

  • SOP

  • Funds proof

Masters

  • 10th certificate/mark sheet

  • 12th certificate/mark sheet

  • Bachelors's sheets & Degree

  • Transcripts (if required)

  • WES (if required)

  • IELTS- 6.5/6 or 7/6.5

  • TOEFL-80

  • GRE (Graduate Record examination)

  • GMAT (Graduate Management Aptitude Test)

  • 2-3 LOR

  • RESUME

  • SOP

  • Funds proof

Must read: Some Universities assess students' academic performance using the GPA (Grade Point Average) system. It is an average score obtained by the students in different courses.

USA Grading system

4.0 -> (Excellent)

3.0 -> (Good)

2.0 -> (Satisfactory)

1.0 -> (Needs Improvement)

0.0 -> (Fail)

U.S. Equivalent Scale in India

A 70-100
B 50-69
C 35-49
F 0-32

Documents requirements for US F-1 student VISA

Along with documents required for admission to US universities, students must also submit additional documents to apply for the visa. The USA student VISA requirements list is as follows:

  • You must have a valid passport for at least six months beyond your stay in the US during studying time.

  • Must have an I-20 letter from a SEVP-approved university.

  • Must have receipt of paying SEVIS registration fees

  • Must have DS-160 confirmation printout

  • Passport-size photographs, as recommended by the embassy

  • Must have proper proof of funding for education, living in the USA, and extra expenses. It can be in the form of bank statements, scholarships offered by the institutions, or proper paper from a sponsor of education.

  • It is strong proof that you intend to leave the US after completing your studies. It can be a return ticket, employment tie-up, or an engagement in an upcoming business project in the native country.

Students need help to collect the essential documentation for the US VISA process. But now, there is no need to worry; meet our experienced VISA consultants. It is the best place to learn about the requirements to study in the USA for Indian students. We have the best VISA consultants in Chandigarh, Amritsar, Jalandhar, Bathinda, Patiala, Ambala, Kurukshetra, Karnal, and Sonipat available to students at any time to support them throughout the procedure. So visit the nearest office and get your passport stamped with USA VISA.

USA Student VISA Process

The USA is the dreamland of many Indian students who wish to pursue higher education abroad. Being the world's largest economy, the USA always doublechecks its immigration policies to restrict any illegal entry. So, the USA student VISA process will likely be complicated for outsiders. Here, we will study how a systematic approach helps students get their study visas. Students need to start by finding a perfect university. A thorough research at the official websites of American universities and colleges gives a clear idea to students for selecting their desired institution. The critical phase of the USA student visa process needs to be carried out carefully as it decides the VISA outcome. Choosing a recognized university and an appropriate course per the previous academic education are critical to VISA success. So be attentive when you select a USA university for pursuing your course. Now you have sorted out the list of preferred universities; it is time to learn how to apply for your USA student visa.

8e1ad0a393c6dab4581f84386e9b6f17.webp

Step 1: Apply to a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) Certified School

The first-ever step is to apply to a SEVP-certified university with proper documentation and correct information. The university accepts the admission application depending on the documents and details you provide. Accordingly, you are issued the confirmed enrolment letter. If you get selected, you will be registered for the SEVIS, and registration charges that need to be paid on time will also be applicable.

Application Fees: Application fees depend upon the university. Some universities have application fees ranging between U.S. $100 and $200. Some universities also waive the amount, while others ask for payment after issuing the offer letter of confirmed enrolment.

Must Read: SEVP is a department that records the information of non-immigrants whose primary purpose of coming to the USA is to study. It works on behalf of DHS (Department of Home Security), which keeps track of SEVP-approved academies and details of non-immigrants under the F and M VISA. Further, SEVP uploads the information on SEVIS, a web-based system accessed by the DHS to maintain the data.

Step 2: Receive the I-20 from the institution

Once you get accepted by the school, you will receive an I-20 form, the most crucial document you need to carry out during the USA visa application process. It is the eligibility certificate for non-immigrants coming to the USA to pursue their study.

Time limit: USA student VISA process till getting the I-20 takes around 40-45 business days. So, students need to keep patience during the period.

Must read: Try to apply for 3-4 universities to get a confirmed seat in the course. It helps you a lot to justify the intent of visiting the USA. Official counselors at interview time always ask a student how many I-20s you have. The reason for asking the question is simple: they want to be sure if you are a genuine student.

Step 3: Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee

After receiving the I-20 letter from the university, students need to pay the non-refundable SEVIS I-901 fee, which is the fee of registration done by the university for SEVIS. Payment is made online at the Fmjfee.com portal. You must pay the fee by entering the SEVIS ID, Name, and DOB. You can collect the SEVIS ID from the I-20 letter.

SEVIS fee: U.S. $350

Must Read: Students who have multiple I-20 letters from different universities may have mood swings for finalizing their dream university. Once you pay the SEVIS fee for a university and want to change the college and transfer the fee to the now-chosen university before getting the visa. Select the transfer option by clicking the "Check I-901 Status" button at Fmjfee.com. Do needful as instructed by the website.

Note: If you want to change college after getting VISA then postpone it till arrival in the U.S. to avoid any complications.

Step 4: Choose your nearest U.S. embassy

In India, five U.S. embassies are available to file a visa application. Here is the list of U.S. embassies.

  • U.S. Embassy New Delhi

  • U.S. Embassy Mumbai

  • U.S. Embassy Chennai

  • U.S. Embassy Kolkata

  • U.S. Embassy Kolkata

For contact details, students can check out U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Select the nearest center to save transportation costs and have the convenience of reaching soon.

Step 5: Fill DS-160 form to lodge your VISA application

The next step is to go online and fill out the DS-160 form to apply for your U.S. student VISA. It is a critical step during the USA student VISA process from India. DS-160 is an online non-immigrant VISA application designed to allow students temporary stay in the U.S. The form can be accessed and filled out at Ceac.state.gov. Print the application in PDF that contains the confirmation number and other mandatory details to be used later.

Must read: Make sure you fill the form carefully with no mistakes, as it can put you in trouble later in the USA student visa process.

Step 6: Book an appointment for the interview at the U.S. embassy and pay U.S. visa fees

It is the student's end process to schedule an appointment with the Embassy for the USA VISA interview and make the payment for the VISA application. To do the steps, students must visit Ustraveldocs.com, create an account to pay the VISA fees and book the slot at the desired location. You will be needed

  • Passport number

  • DS-160 confirmation number

  • I-20 letter for the SEVIS number, University name, and university zip code

to proceed with the process. Once you fill in all the details, you are asked to pay the non-refundable VISA application charges.

VISA application fees: U.S. $160 OR INR 12800

Payment Mode: The user can make the payment electronically or in cash. In both cases, you must print out CGI containing the reference number and other points. Payments can be made through any branch of Citibank or Axis Bank. Once you submit the amount and the CGI printout, a receipt number is automatically generated within 48 hours and reflected in the account. 

Book the interview slot: The next page will choose a convenient date for your interview at the desired U.S. embassy. If you are uncomfortable with available interview slots, you can revisit the site because slots keep changing. Waiting time to get the proper appointment may depend upon the location, rush of applications, visa type, and intake. So be sure to apply for VISA early according to the beginning of the enrolled course.

On booking the interview date, students get the confirmation mail for the interview and biometrics, usually one or two days before the scheduled interview.

Add on points: At the time of the interview, you need to submit the passport to the Embassy, which issues stamped passports after approval. During the above process, students are also asked to choose the option for stamped passport delivery. You can pick up the passport physically or go for the chargeable premium delivery, which costs INR 650.

Must read: More options are available to students, including canceling and rescheduling the interview. One can also book an emergency slot for the interview.

Step 7: Go for biometrics and Attend the VISA interview

A day before the interview, a student must visit the Embassy for the biometric. Then, the final stage of the USA student visa process arrives. This step plays a decisive role. Approval of a VISA depends on how you perform in the interview. So considering a US VISA, an interview-based visa will be right. So, show potential and confidently answer the officer's questions.

Step 8: Decision on VISA application

How Long a U.S. student visa takes to process will be a matter of time taken by the Embassy. Once the Embassy grants the Visa, they return the passport with the visa either by shipping or by asking to pick it up physically.

Happy hours: Congratulations, you've got the USA student VISA, so plan the departure and book the ticket to fly to the USA.

Why Western Overseas?

78409ebc7ca6ecbad7c339bacb241a7e.webp

We assist students in their journey to the U.S. Our free US VISA counseling helps students during the complicated process. "Does the USA give student visas easily?" OR "What are the requirements for a U.S. student visa?" are commonly asked by students. So, we conduct friendly counseling sessions to inform students about the USA student visa process. Still in a dilemma? Meet any of our best VISA consultants in Chandigarh, Amritsar, Jalandhar, Bathinda, Patiala, Ambala, Kurukshetra, Karnal, and Sonipat, and honor us to help you.