Overview
More than 4,500 accredited institutions make up U.S. higher education in the United States. Every year, the number of international students in the US rises as more and more students choose the Unites States as the place they wanted to broaden their experience and continue their education. The American education system offers a rich field of choices for international students. Community colleges are another option and provide two-year associate degree programs to prepare students to continue studies for an undergraduate degree or help them gain occupational skills for immediate employment.
With the variety of available U.S. higher education options, students are sure to find the right fit for their academic, financial, and personal needs.
Why Study in USA?
Study at high-quality institutions
Many of the best universities in the world are located in the US. Approximately, fifty percent of the world’s top 50 universities are located in the U.S. Some of the reasons are small class sizes, highly accredited professors, and advanced technology and research capabilities.
At the under graduate level, excellent programs exist in traditional disciplines, as well as in professional fields. At the graduate level, students have the opportunity to work directly with some of the best experts in their field of study, with the chance to become involved with exclusive research and educational opportunities. U.S. degrees are recognized throughout the world for their excellence.
Variety of Educational Opportunities
The United States is home to several thousand colleges and universities. Some U.S. colleges and universities stress broad educational principles; others emphasize practical, employment-related skills; and still others specialize in the arts, social sciences or technical fields. No matter what you plan on studying, you will have a wide variety of programs in your field of interest. You will be able to study some of the most innovative subjects and interact with well-known scholars who will guide you during your study years.
The huge number of US universities and colleges also means you have many options when it comes to choosing the kind of experience you want. Consider the university’s location, courses, accommodation, size, faculty, student body, tuition fees, sports programs, facilities and more.
Campus Life Experience
By attending a US university, you will get the chance to experience one of the most interesting cultures, but also interact with other students from all corners of the world and become truly international.
There is also always a very active social life on US campuses, with many clubs and organizations students can join that will help further career opportunities and allow interaction with students who have similar tastes and interests.
The US overall is such a mix of cultures and that makes it an interesting place to study and to live. In many cities and towns, you will find varied cuisines and entertainment for everyone, whether it be international sports, world famous music festivals, or amazing art galleries and museums.
Improve your English skills
English is the primary language spoken in the US and all courses are taught in English. Students can develop their skills and become more desirable to employers. Most US campuses offer English language courses specifically for international students, as well as study groups and mentoring programs where students can practice their language training.
The current job market requires good levels of English for most international jobs. And what better way to acquire this skill than by immersing yourself in a culture where English is the primary language?
Even if you are already good at English, you will get a better understanding of the language and vocabulary by actually interacting with native speakers on a daily basis and by having to perform all of your daily activities and academic tasks in English.
Employment Prospects
By studying in the US, you will make the first step towards a successful international career. During your student years, you will also have the opportunity to gain experience in your field of study through the extra-curricular activities that provide real-world job experience. The idea is to give you practical experience to hone what you learn in class. This becomes invaluable when interviewing for a job.
All US institutions have a career services department staffed with professionals focusing on helping students with their CV, teaching job interview skills, and helping them find job opportunities, both during and after their studies.
Being aware of the fact that US universities have a great reputation and are well-known for the quality of their education, it’s not surprising that companies are excited to welcome young people with US degrees.
Opportunity for Research, Teaching and Training
The US is at the forefront of scientific and creative innovation, also benefitting from generous funding and offering support to international PhD students. US institutions proudly support the fieldwork their faculty is doing and information is readily available on research opportunities students can undertake. Even undergraduates have the opportunity to attend Bachelors that involve research.
If this was convincing enough for you, choose the degree of your dreams and come study abroad in the U.S.!
Cost of Living
Both the tuition and living costs vary considerably between different universities/colleges, educations and cities. Tuition is usually between $5,000 and $50,000 per year. Costs for food and living are normally between $8,000 and $12,000 dollars per year. In addition to paying tuition, you need money for transportation, course literature and personal expenses.
There are three accommodation options for students in the United States:
On-campus accommodation: You live on the school’s campus in a student room or student apartment. This accommodation can be more expensive, but you get to know a lot of students very fast. On-campus accommodation can be good for your first year at the school to be a part of campus life and meet other students. Meals may also be included in your on-campus accommodation.
Off-campus accommodation: You hire a private/shared apartment outside of campus, usually for a lower price than living on-campus. The International Office at the university can usually help you with information about private apartments and where to look for them. It can also be useful for temporary accommodation in the first few weeks upon arriving.
Host family accommodation: This accommodation alternative is only offered by a few universities. It is more expensive compared to living off-campus, but gives you the extra support of a family and ingrains you in American culture quickly.