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Geeting a degree from prestigious universities in the USA can make a big impact on your career. USA is a highly sought destination for higher education, offering world-class universities and best academic opportunities.
For Indian students, securing a student visa for USA from India is the very first step toward completing their dreams. Indian students get access to top universities, research facilities, and a wide range of academic programs.
This guide will walk you through the necessary requirements of obtaining a USA student visa, eligibility criteria, visa types, process, and many other things you should know.
Study in USA: Top Benefits
The United States has long been a global leader in education, attracting students from all corners of the world. Studying in the USA offers a multitude of advantages that can significantly impact your academic and professional journey.
- World-Class Education: The USA is home to some of the world's top-ranked universities, renowned for their academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and innovative teaching methodologies.
- Diverse Programs and Specializations: With a vast array of universities and colleges, the USA offers a range of programs and specializations to suit every student's interest and career goals.
- Global Career Opportunities:A US degree holds immense value in the global job market. It opens doors to prestigious multinational corporations and provides a competitive edge in your career.
- Personal Growth and Development: Studying in the USA fosters independence, critical thinking, and cultural competence. You'll have the opportunity to interact with people from diverse backgrounds, broadening your horizons and enriching your personal growth.
- Vibrant Campus Life: American campuses are known for their energetic and inclusive atmosphere. You can participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations, making your college experience truly unforgettable.
- Opportunities to Earn While Studying: Many universities offer on-campus job opportunities and part-time work options, allowing you to gain valuable work experience and offset your living expenses.
- Post-Study Work Options: The USA provides several post-study work options, such as Optional Practical Training (OPT) and STEM OPT extensions, giving you enough time to gain work experience and explore career opportunities.
USA Student Visa Types
There are three primary types of student visas issued by the United States government:
- Purpose: For academic studies at an accredited U.S. college, university, or English language institute.
- Eligibility: Students enrolled in full-time academic programs leading to a degree or certificate.
- Benefits: Allows on-campus employment, Optional Practical Training (OPT) for up to one-year post-graduation, and potential STEM OPT extension.
- Purpose: For participation in an exchange program, including study, work, or training.
- Eligibility: Students participating in approved exchange programs sponsored by the U.S. government or private organizations.
- Benefits: Offers opportunities for cultural exchange and potential for work authorization depending on the program.
- Purpose: For non-academic or vocational study or training.
- Eligibility: Students enrolled in programs that are primarily vocational or non-academic in nature.
What Exams Are Required to Study in USA?
To study in USA, Indian students are required to submit the scores of the standardized English test scores. It helps universities and institutions to assure that student is fluent in English.
Following are main exams that Indian students can apply to study in USA with:
- IELTS
- TOEFL
- Duolingo
- GMAT
- GRE
- SAT
- PTE
Document Requirements for USA Student Visa
Here is a list of documents you will need to apply for USA study visa from India:
- Passport
- DS-160 form
- I-20 form
- SEVIS fee receipt
- Visa fee receipt
- Financial support proof
- Academic records
- Standardized test scores
Top Universities in USA
Here is a list of documents you will need to apply for USA study visa from India:
USA Study Intakes
USA universities and colleges typically have three major intakes for international students including fall, spring, and summer.
Fall Intake:
It starts in August or September. It is the most popular USA intake for international students having major admissions.
Spring Intake:
Spring intake in USA starts in January. It is considered as the best option for students who have missed the fall intake. This intake offers more time to prepare applications and meet the admission requirements.
Summer Intake:
This intake starts in May or June. Summer intake is limited for a certain number of programs and colleges. It focuses more on intensive courses.
Top Programs to Pursue in USA
International students can pursue their career in various fields. The most demanding programs in USA for international students are:
- Engineering
- STEM
- Computer Science
- Healthcare
- Business and Management
- IT
- Finance
- Arts and Design
- Law
- Social Science and Humanities
Student Visa for USA from India: Eligibility Criteria
Meet the following eligibility criteria to get student visa for USA from India:
- Admission to a SEVP and SEVIS approved school: To get study visa USA from India, you must be accepted into a full-time academic program at a school certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) and Student Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).
- Sufficient funds: You must demonstrate that you have enough financial resources to cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs associated with your studies.
- Intention to return to India:You must convince the consular officer that you intend to return to India after completing your studies, only then after you can get student visa for USA from India.
- English language proficiency:Depending on the program, you might need to prove your English language proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS.
- Academic qualifications:Meet the specific academic requirements of your chosen university or college.
- Valid passport:Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the US.
- Health and Security Clearances: You may be required to provide medical records or undergo additional security clearances, depending on your background and the embassy’s requirements.
USA Student Visa Cost
International students seeking to study in the USA must apply for an F-1 Student Visa for full-time programs at universities accredited by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) and Student Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) .The cost of an F-1 Student Visa ranges from approximately $185, depending on your country of origin, and is subject to change based on current rules and regulations.
Therefore, it’s important to verify the current visa fee before applying. Be sure to apply for your visa at least four months prior to your planned departure.
Cost of Studying in USA
U.S. universities are categorized into two main types: public and private institutions. For international students, tuition costs at public (state-funded) universities are typically lower than those at private universities, though this does not include student visa fees. On average, you should budget between $15,000 and $55,000 per year to cover tuition expenses while studying in the USA.
Process Feels Overwhelming? Connect With Vihaan Overseas
Getting a study visa USA from India requires a lot of things, from exam preparation and isa interview to admission process and beyond. It’s quite a tough job to get done without any guidance and support. While it can't be done single handedly, an expert study in USA consultancy can always.
Vihaan Overseas is one of the top study in USA consultants in Gandhinagar, offering extensive study abroad services from exam preparation to visa preparation and more. Start your career planning in USA with us.
