Study in USA 2025, Admission Process, Fees, Top Colleges & Universities, Visa Process, Scholarships 

Study in USA remains the number one choice for higher education.. It is no surprise that the country’s universities still remain home to over 1.1 million international students a year, including about 337,630 Indian students in 2024. The USA is a dream destination for those who wish to get academic excellence, global exposure along with world class universities & cutting edge research opportunities with a thriving job market. A complete guide designed for Indian students who want to Study in USA from India and all the key stages involved in the process, including Study in USA eligibility, Study in USA entrance tests, Study in USA visa, Study in USA scholarship, and Study in USA post study opportunity, studying in US after 12th, studying in US after graduation and studying MBA in USA, irrespective of the reason you are looking forward to study in the USA. This guide is all about how to get admission in USA universities, how to study in USA without IELTS and how to receive a scholarship to study in US with content that is completely accurate, engaging and provides action to the audience.

Why Choose to Study in USA for Indian Students?

There are numerous reasons why Indian students choose the USA as the best destination to pursue their education. Given below are the reasons for which you should probably look beyond India and take study in US for Indian students:

• Global Recognition: The USA hosts 51 of the top 200 universities worldwide, including Harvard, MIT, Stanford, and Yale, per QS World University Rankings 2025.

• Interdisciplinary Courses and Electives: Curriculum allows for modification of the student’s academic journey through a variety of interdisciplinary courses and to choose electives from any one branch or multidisciplinary approach for fostering creativity and innovation.

• Good Growth in the Job Industry: 7.6 million job openings were present in the USA as of December 2024, especially in the areas of technology, health care, finance, etc.

• Scholarships and Financial Aid: there are several funding options that lower the total cost of studying in the USA from India, making it affordable.

• Cultural Melting Pot: The exposure to over 100 countries of different students provides an opportunity to cross-cultural understanding and it helps in your personal growth.

• Research and Innovation: Opportunities exist for going to cutting edge projects, efforts and to sponsor research and innovations due to the leading research and innovations in the USA where $671b are invested annually.

Study in USA Benefits

Here are the benefits Study in USA:

Study in USA Admission Process

Planning as a necessity for the study in US is particularly important for the Indian students. Here you will find a very comprehensive, step-by-step guide that will help make your journey easy.

Study in USA Admission Process Step 1: Research Universities and Programs

The beginning is to select universities and courses which match with your trendy subjects and future career expenses. Consider the following:

• University Rankings: Use QS World University Rankings or Times Higher Education to shortlist top institutions.

• Research Faculty Expertise: Research the expertise of faculty and success of alumni.

• Location: Factor in climate, cost of living, and proximity to industry hubs (e.g., Silicon Valley for tech).

• Campus Facilities: It has all the modern libraries, labs and student support services.

Study in USA Popular Courses

• Business and Management: For students in the USA, it is ideal to study in USA for MBA, in the subjects of finance, marketing and entrepreneurship in particular.

• Engineering: High-demand fields like computer, mechanical, electrical, and aerospace engineering.

• Major in Computer Science and IT: Specifically in the area of AI, cybersecurity, as well as software development.

• Healthcare and Medicine: MBBS and nursing for Healthcare and Medicine, pharmacy, and public health program.

• Social Sciences and Arts: Psychology, economics, political science, and fine arts.

What course is best to study in US? In this case, it is a matter of what you want to achieve, and if there are good job prospects and salaries for the job you would like to get into, STEM fields (science, technology, engineering and math) and business programs are a great choice to focus on.

Study in USA Admission Process Step 2: Understand Eligibility Requirements

Eligibility criteria depend on the program level and the university. one needs to study in US after 12th and after graduation below are the requirements which one needs to consider.

Undergraduate Programs (After 12th)

• Academic Qualifications: There should be minimum 65 per cent (humanities) / maximum 70 to 80 per cent (science and commerce) in Class XII from a recognized board (CBSE, ISC or state boards).

• Standardized Tests: SAT (600 – 800 for competitive universities) / ACT (25 – 30). Many universities are test-optional post-2020.

• English Proficiency: TOEFL (70-89), IELTS (6.0-7.0), PTE Academic, or Duolingo (100-120). There are some institutions that allow studying US without IELTS for the students who just graduated from English medium schools.

• Additional Documents: Other documents required include a Statement of Purpose (SOP), 1 or two Letters of Recommendation (LORs), certificates of extracurricular involvement, along with a portfolio (in arts and design programs).

Post Graduate Programs (After Graduation)

• Academic Qualifications: A 4-year bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 (equivalent to 80% or B grade).

• Standardized Tests: And depending on the field you apply for, the Standardized Tests vary like; GRE (310+ average) for the STEM programs, GMAT (650+ for study in USA for MBA), LSAT (for law), and MCAT (for medicine).

• English Proficiency: TOEFL (90+), IELTS (6.5-7.5), or equivalent.

• Further Documents: SOP, 2 – 3 LORs, Resume, Work Experience (1 – 3 years for MBA or Professional Program).

Study in USA Eligibility Indian Students

Here are the eligibility criteria for India Students discussed below:

Step 3: Prepare for Entrance Exams

The entrance exam to study in US varies according to the program. Here’s a detailed overview:

• The SAT or ACT (Undergraduate): The SAT includes a Math, Reading and writing section with competitive ranges between 600 and 800 in each section. Similarly, 25–30 are competitive for ACT.

• GRE/GMAT (Graduate): Accepted universally for STEM and social sciences, competitive GRE/GMAT score is 310+ Again, GMAT is important for study in USA for MBA but top programs require it to be above 650+.

• LSAT/MCAT: The LSAT is required for law schools and MCAT for medical programs.

• English Proficiency Tests: TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, or Duolingo. In most cases, universities do not require IELTS for study in US for international students as they accept alternative tests for students with 4+ years of education in English Medium.

Preparation Tips:

• GRE/GMAT takes 6-12 months, then language tests should be around 2-4 months.

• Practice using ETS, Kaplan, or Magoosh’s resources.

• Track progress and pin down the weaknesses taken by mock tests.

Step 4: Apply to Universities

How to get admission in US universities is structured and time sensitive for the application process. Follow these steps:

• Choose program type: 90% of programs are available for Fall (September) Intake. Limited intake is for Spring (January) and Summer (May).

• Application Platforms:

  • Undergraduate: Common App, Coalition App, or university-specific portals.

  • Graduate: University portals or centralized systems like ApplyTexas.

• Documents Required:

  • Academic transcripts (Class X, XII, or bachelor’s degree).

  • Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT/GRE/GMAT).

  • English proficiency scores (TOEFL/IELTS).

  • 500-1,000 word SOP describing goals & fit to program.

  • 1-3 LORs from teachers or employers.

  • Bank statements, loan approvals (if any) to show that they can pay for fees of studies in USA universities.

  • Valid passport copy.

  • Portfolio (for arts, architecture, or design programs).

• Application Fees: $50-$150 per university. However, there are fee waivers for financial hardship.

• Deadlines: Early decision (November) or regular decision (January) for Fall intake. Apply 8-12 months in advance.

Pro Tip: Apply to 8–12 universities (3 reach, 5 target and 3 safety).

Step 5: Secure Funding

The total cost to study in USA from India may be quite expensive, but there are scholarships, part time working and loans that one uses to manage it. The table below will tell you about the costs and funding options.

Study in USA Cost 

Here is Study in USA cost breakdown discussed below:

The total cost of all living and fees may amount to ₹15L-₹55L, based on university, program, and lifestyle.

How to Get a Scholarship to Study in US

Indian students depend on scholarships as they are a lifeline to them. Here are popular Scholarship to Study in US options:

• Fulbright Foreign Student Program: Covers tuition, living expenses, and airfare for graduate students.

• Tata Scholarship at Cornell University: Fully funds 20 Indian undergraduates each year at Cornell University.

• #YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarship: Gives $12,000-$25,000 for bachelor’s programs at enrolled universities.

• American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship: Partial tuition coverage for high-achieving international students.

• Rotary International Ambassadorial Scholarship: Rotary International Ambassadorial Scholarship provides funds for programs to promote peace and development.

• Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship: Up to $100,000 for Indian students pursuing graduate studies.

Scholarship Application Tips:

• Keeping GPA above 3.5 is critical as well as a good score on the standardized test (GRE - 320+, GMAT – 700+).

• Highlight leadership, community service, and extracurricular achievements.

• Applications should be made 8-12 months before the intake.

• Every scholarship has its set criteria and thus you will need to write a compelling SOP to meet that particular scholarship criteria.

Other Funding Options

• Education Loans: The interest for education loans for Indians ranges from 9 to 12 percent by the Indian banks including SBI, HDFC Credila and Axis Bank until the sum of up to Rs 1 crore.

• Part-Time Work: The on-campus work is 20 hours per week’s part time work for F-1 visa holders, for which there is an earning of $10-$15 per hour (₹800-₹1200 per hour).

• Assistantships (Graduate): Graduate Assistantships offer a stipend ($1,000 – $2,000/month) plus tuition waiver.

Step 6: Apply for a USA Study Visa

Study in USA, you will need an F-1 visa. The below is a detailed guide on how to get a study visa to USA from India and study USA visa requirements.

Visa Requirements

• Form I-20: Issued by your university upon admission.

• SEVIS Fee: You will have to pay a fee of $350 (~₹28,000) before going to the visa interview while filling out the form provided on the website online.

• DS-160 Form: Online nonimmigrant visa application.

• Passport: Valid at least 6 months after the intended stay.

• Financial Proof: Bank statements, loan approvals, or scholarship letters covering at least 1 year of expenses.

• Passport-Size Photographs: As per U.S. visa specifications.

• Visa Interview Appointment: Booked through the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Application Process

1. I-20 Form: This is also sent by the university but only after the acceptance of your admission offer.

2. SEVIS Fee: Pay through the web and keep the pay slip.

3. Complete DS-160 Form: Fill DS 160 Form accurately and save the confirmation page until requested later.

4. Pay Visa Fee: This cost is the same for students and non students. It is $185 (~₹15,000), paid online or at designated banks.

5. Schedule Interview: Schedule interview if required at the nearest U.S. Embassy (New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata).

6. Attend Interview: You will be questioned with respect to how you will study, your financial stability, and your post study intent of coming back to India.

7. Visa Approval: Processing takes 12-36 days. Track your application online.

Interview Tips:

• Arrive 15-30 minutes early in business dress.

• All documents need to be carried in a clear folder.

• Answer confidently and truthfully, stating that you are comfortable with ties with India (for family, future career plans, etc.).

Step 7: Plan Your Arrival

After you get your visa accepted, it is the time for you to begin your journey.

• Book Flights: Arrive 1-2 weeks before classes start to settle into the classroom and get flying.

• Arrange Accommodation: On Campus Housing ($9,800 to $14,400/year): freshmen usually find it convenient to arrange accommodation on campus. In some cities, the alternatives you can arrange off campus will be cheaper.

• Orientation: The Universities also provide the sessions of attending orientation in order to become acquainted with campus life, academic expectations, local laws etc.

• Open a Bank Account: Find your student friendly banks as options such as Bank of America and Chase.

• Get a U.S. SIM Card: T-Mobile or AT&T offer affordable plans if you get a U.S. SIM card.

Which Course is Best to Study in USA?

How you choose a course is very important for the students’ academic and career success. The below are the top courses for Indian students in 2025 according to demand, salary potential and the growth of the industries.

Here are the best courses to study in USA;

Business and Management

• Why Choose?: It prepares you to take up roles in finance, consulting, marketing or entrepreneurship. Especially to study in USA for MBA is especially popular.

• Top Universities: Harvard Business School, Stanford GSB, Wharton (UPenn).

• Average Salary: $70,000-$120,000/year for undergraduates; $120,000-$200,000 for MBAs.

• Key Specializations: Finance, Marketing, Operations, Strategy etc.

Engineering

• Why Choose?: There is high demand for engineers in computer, mechanical, electrical, and civil fields.

• Top Universities: MIT, Caltech, Georgia Tech, UC Berkeley are some of top universities.

• Average Salary: $80,000-$110,000/year.

• Emerging Fields: Robotics, Renewable Energy, Biomedical Engineering.

Computer Science and IT

• Why Choose?: Both Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and startups are booming in the tech industry.

• Top Universities: Stanford, MIT, Carnegie Mellon, UC Berkeley are the top universities.

• Average Salary: $90,000-$130,000/year.

• Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Cloud Computing – these are the key areas where Management functions will be majorly creating the impact.

Healthcare and Medicine

• Why Choose?: Increasing demand for doctors, nurses and pharmacists and public health professionals.

• Top Universities: These include the Top Universities of Johns Hopkins, Mayo Clinic, UCLA and Harvard Medical School.

• Average Salary: $100,000-$200,000/year.

• Pathways: Pre-med, MBBS, Nursing, Public Health.

5. Social Sciences and Arts

• Why Choose?: Diverse careers in psychology, economics, political science, journalism, and creative arts.

• Top Universities: USC, Yale, NYU and Columbia were the top universities.

• Average Salary: $50,000-$80,000/year.

• Emerging Fields: Digital Media, Environmental Policy, Behavioral Economics.

Study in USA Top Courses and Career Outcomes

Here is the Study in USA Top Courses and Career Outcomes discussed below:

Study in USA University Fees

Study in USA university fees differ widely between institutions, program and location. Private institutions and programs such as medicine and MBA are expensive, while public universities are cheaper.

Cost Comparison

• Public Universities: $8,000-$35,000/year (e.g., University of Texas, Purdue).

• Private Universities: $25,000-$55,000/year (e.g., Harvard, Stanford).

• Community Colleges: $6,000-$20,000/year for 2-year associate degrees, with transfer options to 4-year programs.

Cost-Saving Strategies

• Choose Public Universities: Pick Public Universities for the lower tuition fees – especially if you are an in-state resident after 1 or two years.

• Apply for Scholarships: Over 200 Scholarships worth ₹1,315 crores are available for the international students, apply for Scholarships.

• Balance for work: On campus jobs pay ₹10 – ₹15/hour, roughly ₹80,000 – ₹1.2L per year.

• Opt for Community Colleges: Save the first 2 years at Community Colleges and then transfer to a 4 year university.

• Live Frugally: Cook at home, using student discounts, and share apartments.

Top Universities for Indian Students

The best thing about the USA is that it houses some of the best universities in the world which offer numerous programmes as per one’s interest. Here is a list of the top picks for Indian students:

Study in USA Top Universities 

Here are the best Universities for Study in USA:

Study in USA Without IELTS

As far as the question of study in USA without IELTS is concerned, the answer is yes, but the conditions are to be met. There are a lot of alternatives or waivers on offer from many universities.

• English-Medium Education: For English Medium Education, completion of 4+ years at English teaching school, i.e. CBSE/ICSE, can override IELTS/TOEFL.

• Other Accepted Tests are: TOEFL, PTE Academic or Duolingo(100-120)

• University Waivers: Like the University of Colorado, Drexel University, or University of Dayton will waive the language tests on the basis of the academic performance or interview.

• English Preparatory Courses: Students who don’t meet the language requirements are provided with English preparatory courses within the university pathway programs.

Pro Tip: Refer to each university’s site for language requirements and for how to waive the requirement in their college.

Study in USA Post-Study Opportunities

Studying in the USA can also lead you to a promising future in your career and globally. Here’s what you can expect:

• Optional Practical Training (OPT): F-1 visa holders can work for 1 year post graduation in OPT (STEM graduates have 3 year OPT). Average earnings: $40,000-$80,000/year.

• Good Job Market: The job market is generally very good and in high demand in tech (AI, software development), healthcare (nursing and medicine), wall street (investment banking, consulting), etc.

• H-1B Visa: Transition to work visa on H-1B Visa for long term employment. In 2024, 85,000 H-1B visas were issued annually.

• Entrepreneurship: The USA’s startup ecosystem that supports student entrepreneurs with enough funds and with incubators.

Study in USA Challenges

Studying in the USA itself is quite rewarding, but it does not come without challenges. Here’s how to address them:

• High Costs: It all comes down to high costs and to mitigate this we can strike them out with scholarships, part time jobs and attending cheap universities in the form of public institutions or community colleges.

• Cultural Adjustment: Get involved in student organisations, participate in cultural events and get in touch with Indian student associations.

• Academic Pressure: Make use of the university resources that are ready to offer: tutoring, writing centers, counselling services.

• Visa Delays: Apply for your visa 3 6 months in advance and prepare well for the interview.

• Homesickness: Stay in touch with family through video calls and create a group of friends to support each other on campus.

Conclusion

The USA is considered to be a great country for higher studies with its offering of world class education in multiple streams and avenues for Indian students to build their career. One can make their dream of studying in MIT, Stanford or Harvard a reality by mastering the study in USA, excelling in the entrance exams to study in USA along with getting funding and finally clearing the visa step to study in USA. Set out at the start 12–18 months in advance, use the scholarships, and talk to the study abroad specialists to make your journey as smooth as possible. Seize this opportunity to shape your future, if you are looking for your path to study in USA from India.

For more details visit Class24 StudyAbroad.

Study in USA FAQs

1. What is Cost of study in USA from India?

The total cost to study in USA from India includes tuition (8,000 – 55,000 US $) as well as, living cost (9,800 – 14,400 US $), books (1,000 – 2,000 US $) and insurance (1,000 – 1,500 US $) which costs approximately ₹15L to ₹55L per annum. Costs can be offset with scholarships, part time work and loans.

2. Is a USA study visa in India possible?

To study in USA from India, to get a study visa, you first need an I-20 form from your US university, after which you pay the SEVIS fee ($350), fill the DS-160 form and pay visa fee ($185), schedule an interview, and provide financial proof. Processing takes 12-36 days.

3. Which course is more relevant to choose in the US?

The choice of course depends on what your interest is, but Business/MBA, Engineering, Computer Science, Healthcare and Social Sciences/Arts are top choices as they have good salaries ($50,000–$200,000/year) and demand for the jobs.

4. Is it possible to study in US without IELTS?

Yes, you can study in US without IELTS at the universities accepting TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo, or waiving language test requirements for those who studied in English. They consist of the University of Colorado, Drexel University, and similar entities.

5. What is the procedure of a scholarship to attend US studies?

To get a scholarship to settle for studying in the US, have a GPA of 3.5+, score a really good GRE/GMAT, highlight extracurriculars and apply early (8–12 months prior to intake). Fulbright, Tata Scholarship and #YouAreWelcomeHere, among the many popular scholarships are.