Course Fees in the USA

Based on the average fees charged by universities in the USA, Indian applicants will have to pay the following tuition fees depending on their level of study:

• Bachelor’s Degree: USD 15,000 – USD 50,000 per year

• Master’s Degree: USD 15,000 – USD 40,000 per year

When to Pay Tuition Fees in the USA?

In most cases, institutions will require students to make payment for one semester of tuition fees before a specified deadline after the semester starts. Some universities may grant payment plans or instalment options throughout the course under special circumstances.

When Should You Apply to Universities in the USA?

The USA has three intakes for international students:

• Fall Intake: August (Most Popular)

• Spring Intake: January – April (sometimes extending to May)

• Summer Intake: May – August (Limited Programs Available)

Program Duration

• Undergraduate Programs: 3-4 years

• Master’s Programs: 2-3 years

Students should check the specific university deadlines and start their application process at least 6-12 months in advance to secure admission and financial aid opportunities.

Types of Student Visas for U.S. Study

F-1 Student Visa

Most students pursuing full-time study at an educational institution recognized by the U.S. government will enter the U.S. on an F-1 Student Visa.
Spouses or children accompanying F-1 visa recipients will travel on an F-2 visa. Please note that spouses are not permitted to work but may accompany the student
or apply for their own visa to work or study in the U.S.

J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa

The J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa is for students, visiting scholars, or lecturers participating in an exchange program. For example,
Fulbright scholars and many students on short-term study abroad programs from Indian universities travel to the U.S. on a J-1 visa.
Spouses or children accompanying J-1 visa recipients will travel on a J-2 visa. Spouses on a J-2 visa are allowed to work, provided they obtain prior work authorization.

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

To be eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT), students must:

• Maintain valid F-1 student status at the time of application.

• Be enrolled full-time for at least one full academic year in the U.S.

• Be physically present in the U.S. when submitting the application.

Work During Studies

For on-campus work, an F-1 student is subject to the following rules:

• You must maintain valid F-1 status.

• You can work up to 20 hours per week while school is in session.

• You can work full-time on campus during holidays and vacation periods if you intend to register for the next academic semester.

• Typical pay for working on campus is between $10 – $12 USD per hour.

Note: If you work more than 20 hours in any one week, you will be in violation of your visa conditions, which could affect your ability
to obtain a new visa or complete your studies.

Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is defined as a “training program that is an integral part of an established curriculum.” It may include:

• Alternative work/study arrangements.

• Internships, cooperative education, or any other type of required practicum.

• Opportunities offered by sponsoring employers through cooperative agreements with the school.

CPT experiences can be paid or unpaid and must be related to a student’s major. It is typically used by students to obtain work authorization
for internships or other practical training-based learning opportunities before graduation.

What are the English language requirements for US students?  The most common test required by US universities is the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and IELTS. You can take an internet-based digital version (iBT) or a paper-based version(pBT) Both the results are recognized by more than 10, 000 – 11,000 organizations, including educational institutions, employers, professional associations and governments, in 103 – 140 countries around the world. US educational institutions require a minimum score of 6.5 – 7.0 band/s.

Besides, the USA accepts IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE as proof of English language proficiency. The requirements depend on universities and courses. Some universities don’t ask for these tests, so you may be able to Study in the USA without IELTS and other tests. They do, however, need documentation of your English schooling.