Why Study in the USA in 2024: Top Reasons, Scope, Universities and More

The USA has been attracting international students seeking high-quality education and diverse career opportunities. The USA universities consistently rank in the highest position in the world. Indian students are primarily attracted to STEM courses in the USA. It gives you the skills to succeed in the workforce, encourages innovation and research, stimulates international cooperation, and teaches you to solve global concerns. 

According to the Economic Times, in 2022, Indians were issued the highest number of student visas and employment visas. The F1 student-type visas for 17.5%, and employment-type visas accounted for 65%. The student visa F-1 is a non-immigrant visa that permits you to enter the USA and study at institutions certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).  A work visa is one type of visa which permits the holder to take up employment in a foreign country. To take part in paid work, entry into the country is necessary.

Some primary tech headquarters are in the USA, like Google, Apple and more. The USA is recorded as one of the best countries with extensive career opportunities, advanced levels of education, and it has one of the highest paying scales.

Top Reasons to Study in the USA in 2024

The reasons why the USA is preferred for higher education are aplenty. From cultural diversity to economic factors, many things add up to why studying in the USA is desirable for international students. The USA is not only known for tech-related courses, but it is also popular for its management courses in universities like Princeton University and Harvard University.

Below are some reasons students should consider studying at renowned universities in the USA.

1. Diversity of Students

Students from different countries and diverse cultures travel to the USA for higher studies. Globally, students from 150 – 170 countries study on college campuses daily in the USA. If you want to meet new people and experience a different social and multicultural environment, then you should plan to study in the USA. The diversity of students will allow you to take on leadership roles in cultural or diverse organisations or events, enhancing your leadership and organisational skills.

2. Flexibility of Subjects/Courses

You can select from the various courses and develop a specific study plan. If you’re unsure of your major, consider applying to universities in the United States. During your first two years, you will be given the possibility of taking classes in various subjects under “the liberal arts and sciences” philosophy before concentrating on one specific area of study.If you already know what you want to study, then you can complete a “double major,” degrees in two academic fields often completed within the standard four years of study or a “major” and a “minor”.

3. Benefits of Technology

The USA is considered one of the technology leaders in the world. The USA is home to major technology hubs such as Silicon Valley, where you can access the wealth of technology-related events, networking with different people and internships with leading tech companies.

The major companies headquartered in the USA are –

• Google
• Tesla
• Facebook
• Apple

Cross-disciplinary collaboration in the USA allows you to develop a holistic understanding of technology and its applications. Studying in the USA allows you to be at the epicentre of technological advancement. The access and exposure to the progress of technology and industry leaders provide you with a unique advantage in your respective fields.

4. Unparallel Scope For Research

Employers globally often value candidates who have engaged in high-quality research, as it represents your ability to demonstrate your ability to think analytically and work independently.

The USA offers various grants, funding and scholarship opportunities for research publications. This financial support can help you pursue your research interests and reduce some of the financial burden of your education. You get to work alongside leading experts, conduct groundbreaking research and contribute productively in their chosen fields.

5. Highest Paying Jobs for a Successful Career Launch

No one can deny that the highest-paying jobs are in the USA. Many talented candidates move to the USA after they study for better pay. Students studying in America can learn employment-related skills in USA universities and access various job opportunities. The USA job market is known for its dynamism and opportunities for recent graduates.

First, the two reasons students who study in top USA universities advance in their careers are- skill-oriented courses. Unlike many other universities, the top-ranking universities in the USA offer optional practical training. 

Second, the vast network that one builds during college later opens various career opportunities to grow.

The Optional Practice Training (OPT) program allows you to work in your respective field of study for up to three years after graduation, offering an advantage to start your career.

6. Acceptance of USA degree globally

 The USA has an influential position among the best-ranked educational institutions globally. This is partly because US universities have a high level of funding and support. However, it is also an issue of high academics and the rigorous requirements they place on their students.

The US universities are courageously working every year to change the education they deliver so that foreign students from all over the world are prepared to return home and find excellent career opportunities.

7. Supportive Facilities for International Students

One of the most important benefits of studying in the USA for Indian students coming from other countries is the excellent supportive facilities they provide. You can attend different workshops, training programs and orientations that help you to adjust to the new environment. You can contact the school’s international student service office anytime with any issues you face. Apart from this, most USA universities also offer financial support through grants, loans, or scholarships. They also help them look for internships and work opportunities.

8. Vibrant Campus Life

The USA is famous for its vibrant student lifestyle. The university’s campus is or has been home to most USA college students. Not only will your campus life consist of academics, but there will be a lot of exciting activities. Therefore, you will be able to take part in a lot of planned and informal activities with other students, such as hikes, skiing, museum visits, and trips to new cities or local tourist sites.

Top Universities to study in the USA in 2024

The universities mentioned below are among the top universities in the world. At the same time, the list of top universities can vary depending on your chosen course. The top universities in the USA are based on their academic reputation and research contributions.

University Name	Tuition Fee (INR) Conversion rate: 83.41INR = 1 dollar
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	47,94,068
Harvard University	62,43,360
Stanford university	68,26,073
University of Chicago	53,11,101
Princeton University	47,79,083
Northwestern University	52,44,422

_{*Note- All the expenses mentioned above are approximate figures per existing data and are subject to change. Your expenses will vary based on factors like the university you attend, its location, and the type of university it is. The expense numbers provided are meant to give you a general idea and can vary.}

The above-mentioned tuition fees are the average for both UG & PG programs. Choosing the best from these top universities will depend on your academic interests, location preference, and career goals.

Other Popular Universities in the USA

The popular universities in the USA include private and public institutions with strengths and academic specialties. The table below represents some of the popular universities based on the ranking. The below-mentioned tuition fees are the average fees for both UG & PG programs.

Name of the university	Tuition Fees (INR)Conversion rate: 83.41 INR = 1 dollar
Duke University	31,40,000
Columbia University	58,20,000
University of Pennsylvania	51,37,036
Yale University	53,85,938
University of California	38,55,884
Brown University	56,79,035

_{*Note- All the expenses mentioned above are approximate figures per existing data and are subject to change. Your expenses will vary based on factors like the university you attend, its location, and the type of university it is. The expense numbers provided are meant to give you a general idea and can vary.}

Intakes in the USA in 2024

The USA is one of the biggest study-abroad destinations in the world. Usually, Indian students prefer to study in the USA for STEM courses. It records that 190,000 Indian students are studying in the USA, which is dominated by the preference for STEM courses. The Fall or September intake is considered the main intake, and it has the most course options across all disciplines, including popular programs like MBA, Engineering, Law, and Medical courses. The table below is a quick overview of the intake in the USA.

Intakes in the USA	Duration
September Intake/Fall Intake	September – December
January Intake/Spring Intake	January –  April
May Intake/Summer Intake	May-August

The USA universities and colleges offer three intakes. Intakes are also referred to as a term in some institutions. The three intakes available in the USA are:

• Fall: Starts in August/September- 90% of courses are available
• Spring: Starts in January; it’s best for you if you miss the September/Fall intake- 30% of courses are available
• Summer: Available for only limited programs and universities. The Summer intake usually starts around May-10% of courses are available.

Student visa types to study in the USA

All Indian students can study in the USA, but you must get a student visa. Your age and the type of study you want to pursue in the United States will determine the type of visa you need. An overview of the types of study visas is given below.

Types of student visa	Description
F-1 Student Visa	to study at an accredited USA college or university or to study English at an English language institute
J Exchange Visa	for participation in an exchange program, including high school and university study
M Student Visa	for non-academic or vocational study or training in the US

The student visa application fee is 13346 INR, and the application can be filled out online. As a primary step, you must apply and be accepted by a USA school or university certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). Upon acceptance, you will receive a form I-20 from your institution’s international student office a paper record of your information in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, SEVISUS.To learn more about study visa requirements.

Scholarships to study in the USA in 2024

There are various ways to make your education abroad affordable. There are various institutions which offer scholarships to talented international students, such as yourself, from the highest schools and colleges through NGOs and government bodies. Whether you’re looking for partial or fully paid scholarships in the USA, there’s something out there to suit your needs and course requirements.

Government-Funded USA Scholarships

Name of the scholarship	Eligibility
Hubert Humphrey Fellowship Program	PG & PhD students who have a minimum experience of 5 years can apply
Fulbright-Nehru Fellowships	PG & PhD with at least 55% in their UG from an Indian university and at least 3 years of work experience are eligible

USA University Scholarships

Name of the scholarship	Eligibility
Stanford University Scholarships	Master’s & PhD students in the university are eligible
Yale University Scholarships	UG, PG & PhD students in the university are eligible
University of New Haven Scholarship	Master’s students in the university have a chance to get this scholarship
Cornell University Financial Aid	available for all Undergraduates in the university

You should also remember that the estimated student living cost in the USA is between 8,34,136 – 20,85,341 INR per academic year, making the average monthly expenses in the USA for Indian students 74,000 – 1,60,000 (INR). The choice of location and lifestyle to adopt will have a bearing on this.

Why is the USA better than Canada?

The USA and Canada offer excellent educational opportunities, and the choice between the two depends on your specific goals, preferences, and circumstances. Both Canada and the USA have their unique advantages. 

However, some factors make studying in the USA more appealing to specific individuals-

• Research Opportunities
• Abundance of technological innovations
• Worldwide recognition of USA degrees
• Industry Networking 
• Diversity in program selection
• Opportunities for entrepreneurship
• Comprehensive educational exposure

Canada has advantages, including a comprehensive education system, a multicultural environment and a high quality of life. It strikes a balance between a world-class education system and a diverse culture. However, the pay scale in the USA is much higher than in Canada.

Ultimately, the decision between the USA and Canada should be based on your personal and academic goals.

Top Careers in the USA in 2024

The US offers top careers in various industries. The ultimate choice of career depends on your interest, skill and education. Below are some of the popular and top career opportunities in the US.

Career	Average Salary (INR) Conversion rate: 83.41 INR = 1 dollar
Data Scientist	1,03,62,866
IT Manager	78,99,464
Marketing Manager	63,10,267
Physical Therapist	72,19,259
Software Developer	97,62,225
Physician	1,49,61,760
Nurse Practitioner	1,01,56,383

_{*Note- All the above salaries are approximate figures per existing data and are subject to change. Your salary will vary based on factors like the company you work for, its location, and the type of business it is. The income numbers provided are based on ‘per annum salary’ and are meant to give you a general idea and can vary.}

Career	Course Name	Tuition fees in INR Conversion rate: 83.41 INR = 1 dollar
Dentist	Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)	45,87,750
Petroleum engineering	Bachelor of Science in Geosciences	37,09,000
Psychiatry	Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) and Doctor of Medicine (MD)	2,75,26,504
Lawyer	Juris Doctor (JD)	35,66,267
Financial Manager	Master of Financial Management	59,00,000

_{*Note- All the above tuition fees are approximate figures per existing data and are subject to change.}

These careers drive data-driven decision-making, technological innovation and healthcare support. The salary of different job profiles can keep changing according to the market trends.

Final Thoughts

The USA study offers academic excellence, cultural diversity, and personal and professional growth opportunities. If you plan to study in the USA, your first step should be researching the universities. Once accepted to your dream university, you should apply for visas accordingly. You should start applying for eligible scholarships to reduce your financial dependency. Remember to keep in mind the September intake duration of USA universities for the availability of courses.

Frequently Asked Questions