Overview
The United States is one of the most attractive and popular study destination for international students. It has enriched culture, diverse history and world-renowned universities. United States provides great opportunities for international students and by experiencing multiple cultures it enables students to get more exposure and improves their capability of competing in global market.
Studying in the U.S. opens up a world of opportunities, from top-tier education and cutting-edge research to diverse cultural experiences. It’s the ultimate destination for those looking to excel academically and professionally in a global setting.
332 Million
Population
1.1 Million
Inter. Students
4000+
Universities
$ 26.5 Trillion
GDP
Why Study in The US?
- Home to world-renowned universities like Harvard, MIT, Stanford, and Yale.
- Offers flexibility in academic programs, allowing students to explore diverse fields.
- Strong emphasis on research and innovation, with ample research funding.
- Degrees are globally recognized and valued in various industries worldwide.
- Extensive support services for international students, including academic counseling, career services, and visa assistance
Top Universities in US
| University | City | QS Ranking (2024) | THE Ranking (2024) |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | Cambridge, MA | 1 | 5 |
| Stanford University | Stanford, CA | 3 | 4 |
| Harvard University | Cambridge, MA | 5 | 2 |
| California Institute of Technology (Caltech) | Pasadena, CA | 6 | 6 |
| University of Chicago | Chicago, IL | 11 | 13 |
View more Universities in USA…
Higher Education in USA
There are several levels of degrees offered in U.S. higher education, excluding the Ph.D.:
International Year:
The International Year One (IY1) provides an intensive combination of first year university subject modules with extra study and English language skills.
- Duration: 1 year
- Offered by: Community colleges and some universities.
- Example Fields: Business, Computer Science, Healthcare, Engineering
- Bachelor’s Degree (B.A., B.S.):
- Duration: Typically 4 years.
- Offered by: Universities, liberal arts colleges, and other four-year institutions.
- Bachelor of Arts (B.A.): Focuses more on the humanities, social sciences, and liberal arts (e.g., English, History, Political Science).
- Bachelor of Science (B.S.): Emphasizes scientific, technical, or quantitative subjects (e.g., Engineering, Computer Science, Biology).
- Example Majors: Economics, Psychology, Environmental Studies, Mathematics, and International Relations.
- Master’s Degree (M.A., M.S., MBA, M.Ed., etc.):
- Duration: 1 to 2 years (full-time).
- Offered by: Universities and some specialized institutions.
- Focus: Master’s programs are more specialized and aimed at providing advanced knowledge in a particular field. These programs are designed to prepare students for professional roles, advanced practice, or further academic study (excluding Ph.D.).
- MAP (Master Accelerated Program): Students can get into MAP before master’s program if the cGPA is lower than required cGPA for the direct admission in US universities. It is like pre master program.
- Adv MAP (Advanced Accelerated Program): Typically, 1 semester if language test scores (IELTS AND PTE) are lower than required scores for direct admission.
IVY League Universities
The Ivy League universities are
- Brown University
- Columbia University
- Cornell University
- Dartmouth College
- Harvard University
- The University of Pennsylvania
- Princeton University
- Yale University
The most sought-after universities in the nation and the world are thought to be Ivy League schools. These eight elite private schools in the Northeast are renowned for their exceptionally competitive admissions process, stellar academic records, and bright futures for graduates. Not to mention the social standing and name recognition.
Ivy League universities, which were originally grouped by athletic conference, have a reputation for producing highly accomplished graduates, future presidents, and Nobel Prize winners in addition to well-rounded student-athletes.
Popular Programs in USA
Business and Management
Health and Medicine
Law and Legal Studies
Engineering
Social Sciences
Education
Computer Sciences & IT
Biological and Life Sciences
Mathematics and Statistics
Intakes
The U.S. typically has three intakes:
- Fall Intake: Starts in September (major intake)
- Spring Intake: Starts in January
- Summer Intake: Starts in May
The most sought-after universities in the nation and the world are thought to be Ivy League schools. These eight elite private schools in the Northeast are renowned for their exceptionally competitive admissions process, stellar academic records, and bright futures for graduates. Not to mention the social standing and name recognition.
Ivy League universities, which were originally grouped by athletic conference, have a reputation for producing highly accomplished graduates, future presidents, and Nobel Prize winners in addition to well-rounded student-athletes.
Costs
FEE STRUCTURES:
- Bachelor’s Degree: $15,000 – $40,000 per year
- Master’s Degree: $15,000 – $40,000 per year
LIVING EXPENSES:
living costs can range from $10,000 to $20,000 annually, depending on the location
The cost of living in the U.S. varies by city and region. Here’s a rough estimate:
| Accommodation | $700 – $2,500 per month |
| Food | $200 – $400 per month |
| Transport | $50 – $100 per month |
| Books and Supplies | $400 – $1,000 per year |
| Health Insurance | $500 – $1,500 per year |
Admission Process
The U.S. typically has three intakes:
- Fall Intake: Starts in September (major intake)
- Spring Intake: Starts in January
- Summer Intake: Starts in May
The most sought-after universities in the nation and the world are thought to be Ivy League schools. These eight elite private schools in the Northeast are renowned for their exceptionally competitive admissions process, stellar academic records, and bright futures for graduates. Not to mention the social standing and name recognition.
Ivy League universities, which were originally grouped by athletic conference, have a reputation for producing highly accomplished graduates, future presidents, and Nobel Prize winners in addition to well-rounded student-athletes.
Scholarships
There are numerous scholarship opportunities in the U.S. for international students, including:
- Fulbright Foreign Students Scholarship
- Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program
- Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
View more Scholarships in USA.
US Visa Process
The US student visa process typically involves applying for either an F-1 (for academic students). To start, you must first be accepted by a US institution that is part of the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). Once accepted, the school will provide you with a Form I-20, which is essential for visa application. You will then need to complete the DS-160 form online, pay the SEVIS fee, and schedule an interview at the US embassy or consulate in your country.
The process involves preparing all necessary documentation, such as financial proof and academic records, and successfully completing the visa interview to demonstrate that your intent is to study and return to your home country after completing your studies.
Types of Student Visa
- M Student Visas are for students enrolling in non-academic or vocational study or training programmes in the USA
- F Student Visas are intended for students who wish to study at an accredited USA college or university or to study English at an intensive English language institute. This is the most common type of visa.
- J Exchange Visas are typically granted to students for participation in a short-term exchange programme, including high school and university study.
Steps for Visa Process
- Receive Visa Decision: After the interview, if approved, you will receive your visa, allowing you to travel to the US to begin your studies.
- Get Accepted by a SEVP-Certified Institution: Receive your Form I-20 from the school.
- Pay the SEVIS Fee: Pay the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). All students receiving a new initial I-20 must pay the SEVIS fee of $350 online.
- Complete the DS-160 Form: Fill out the non-immigrant visa application form (DS-160) online. $160
- Schedule Visa Interview: Make an appointment at the nearest US embassy or consulate. In Pakistan embassy is in Islamabad and consulate is in Karachi.
- Prepare Required Documents: Collect your Form I-20, DS-160 confirmation, passport, financial statements, academic records, and proof of visa fee payment.
- Attend Visa Interview: Appear for your interview, where you will explain your study plans, financial situation, and intent to return home after completing your studies.
Documents for F1 Visa
- Original Passport
- Passport sized pictures (4)
- Printed filled visa application form (DS160)
- Original i20 form
- Printed receipt of visa fee payment
- Printed receipt of SEVIS fee
- Bank statement, account maintenance certificate from the bank,
- All academic documents in original
- English language test result in original
Spouse Visa
To obtain a visa for your family or dependents, your university needs to issue an I-20 form.
International students who want to bring their spouse or child to the US can apply for an F-1 visa and then add an F-2 visa application for every family member.
The US International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) requires evidence of funding to the amount of $7000 per year for a spouse, and $6000 per year per child in order to issue an I-20 form.
- Proof of funding
- Valid Passport
- F-2 I-20 or J-2 DS-2019
- Proof of relationship to student (for example, marriage certificate translated into English)
- Proof of birth for dependent children (Only needed if applying for an F-2 or J-2 child dependent)
Work Opportunities
- Work During Studies: International students can work part-time (up to 20 hours/week) on-campus during their studies. The wage rate is 10-15 USD per hour.
- OPT (Optional Practical Training): Allows students to work in the U.S. for up to 12 months (24 months for STEM fields) after completing their degree. Students enrolled in most of the STEM approved degree programs qualify for an OPT. students must check before applying to a university and program whether their program is STEM approved and if they will be eligible for the OPT.
- H-1B Visa: After OPT, students may qualify for an H-1B visa to work longer term in the U.S.
Undergraduate Applications
While every US university has its own admissions criteria, there are several common requirements they share. In general, American universities require the following from international student applicants:
- Information on extracurricular activities
- Personal information
- Transcript (GPA of 3.0 and more)
- Standardized test scores
- SAT or ACT
- English proficiency test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, iTEP, PTE Academic)
- Essay
- Recommendations
- Copy of your valid passport
Common App
The Common Application is a single online college application form used by over 900 colleges and universities. Instead of filling out the same general information—like your address, GPA, and extracurriculars— a dozen times, you only have to do it once.
The platform itself is free to use, but every college charges their own application processing fee (usually $30 to $75 .
Some States have their own portal- CAL STATE, PEN STATE…
SAT
SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) is a standardized test accepted as an Entrance Exam (entry test) by top ranked universities in Pakistan and around the world for admissions at Bachelor’s Level. It is 3 hours long.
Validity
SAT scores are valid forever as they never expire. However, many colleges have policies limiting score validity periods to 1-5 years. Highly selective schools often prefer scores from the past 1-2 years, while less selective colleges may accept 5-year-old scores.
SAT Registration Fee:
In Pakistan, the SAT registration fee is $60, plus a $43 regional fee.
| SAT Test Date* | Registration Deadline |
| Dec 7, 2024 | Nov 22, 2024 |
| Mar 8, 2025 | Feb 21, 2025 |
| May 3, 2025 | Apr 18, 2025 |
| June 7, 2025 | May 22, 2025 |
https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat/dates-deadlines?gad_source=1
SAT SCORE
SAT scoring is on a scale from 400-1600. The highest SAT score you can possibly earn is 1600. The lowest is 400. Score of more or less 1440 is usually considered good enough for entry in most US universities.
Your total SAT score is comprised of a Math section score and an Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score. Each SAT section is scored between 200 and 800 points.
GRE
GRE is the qualified test for verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning and analytical writing and critical thinking. It is valid for 5 years.
TEST STRUCTURE:
The total testing time for the GRE is 1 hour and 58 minutes.
Analytical Writing: one section with one timed writing task-30 minutes.
Verbal Reasoning: two 41-minute sections- 27 questions in total.
Quantitative Reasoning: two 47-minute sections- 27 questions in total
Scores:
There are two sections on the GRE: verbal reasoning and quantitative reasoning. Each section is worth up to 170 points, and the highest total possible score is 340 points.
GRE FEE
| Test | Fee |
| The GRE revised General Test Fee | US$221 |
| The GRE Subject Test Fee | US$150 |
| Rescheduling fee | US$50 |
| Partial Refund Amount | US$110 |
SCORING
Between 150 and 160 is considered as average score that you should have in each section to get into US universities.
There are three different sections of the GRE; these are scored in two different ways:
- Verbal Reasoning: The Verbal Reasoning score range is typically between 130 and 170, in one-point increments.
- Quantitative Reasoning: The Quantitative Reasoning score range is also between 130 and 170, in one-point increments.
- Analytical Writing: Each task is scored on a scale of 0 to 6, in half-point increments. The two scores are then averaged to get the Analytical Writing score, which ranges from 0 to
RETAKES:
You can take the GRE General Test once every 21 days, up to five times within any continuous rolling 12-months period (365 days)
Here is the list of universities in the USA without GRE for 2025:
- University of Central Missouri
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Purdue University
- Stevens Institute of Technology
- The University of Dayton
- California State University
- Wichita State University
- University of Bridgeport
- Boston University
- University of Cincinnati
- University of North Texas
- Northeastern University
- San José State University (SJSU)
- Oklahoma City University
- George Mason University
- New Mexico State University
- California Baptist University
- State University of New York at New Paltz
- Saint Peter’s University
- Virginia State University
- St. John’s University
- University of Pittsburgh
- Long Island University
- Jacksonville State University
- University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Concordia University Chicago
- Washington State University
- Florida International University
- Rivier University
- Villanova University
GMAT
The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) has been required for global business schools for more than 50 year.
The content on the GMAT is broken down into three scored test sections, each of which is scored separately:
Exam Fees:
| Testing & Services Fees | |
| The GMAT Test Fee | US$250 |
| Rescheduling fee | US$50 |
| Cancellation fee: More than seven days before appointment | US$80 refund |
| Within seven days of appointment | No refund |
SCORES
https://www.mba.com/exams/gmat-exam/scores
Total Score
- Score range: 205-805
Quantitative Reasoning Score
- Score range: 60-90
Verbal Reasoning Score
- Score range: 60-90
Data Insights Score
- Score range: 60-90
VALIDITY
Scores from the GMAT Exam (10th Edition) will continue to be valid for 5 years from your appointment date.
ENGLISH PROFICIENCY TEST
IELTS
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is the world’s most popular high-stakes English language proficiency test.
Test Format:
Four modules: Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking
Scores: IELTS results are on a 9-band scale; they are known as band scores on a scale from 1 to 9, 1 being the lowest and 9 being the highest.
TIME:
The total test time is under three hours.
For undergraduate programs, the minimum IELTS band score for USA is 6 or higher band overall with no individual section score lower than 5.5.
For graduate programs, minimum IELTS score for USA is 6.5 to 7.5 or above.
Study in US FAQ
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