USA 

The huge and diversified United States of America (USA) is well-known for its considerable worldwide influence in several areas, including education, technology, culture, and the economy.

The USA is a vast country that stretches from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean. Its temperatures and topography vary greatly, ranging from the frigid tundra of Alaska to the sunny beaches of Florida. With more than 330 million residents, it ranks among the countries with the widest cultural diversity in the world. International students can enjoy a diverse cultural experience in these diverse places, which is mirrored in the food, customs, festivals, and cuisine.

With several of the finest colleges in the world, including Stanford, MIT, and Harvard, the USA is well-known for having a top-notch educational system. These universities, which are renowned for their cutting-edge research opportunities and strict academic standards, provide a wide range of degrees and programs.

The USA provides strong support services, such as academic advising, career counseling, and cultural events, for overseas students in addition to its excellent educational system. In addition, the nation offers many options for gaining professional experience via internships and post-graduation work programs such as Optional Practical Training (OPT).

The United States of America is the perfect place for students looking to improve both academically and personally because of its cutting-edge infrastructure, friendly and inclusive society, and high standard of life. 

Top reason to consider USA as a study Destination

Studying in the USA offers a multitude of advantages for Nepalese students, ranging from world-class education to diverse cultural experiences. Here are some compelling reasons to consider pursuing your studies in the USA: 

Category Highlights Details

High-Quality Education 

Global Recognition Degrees from American universities are respected globally, offering career opportunities worldwide.

Innovative Research Access to state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technologies. 

Diverse Program Offerings 

Wide Range of Programs 

Programs across various fields, from undergraduate to doctoral levels, tailored to interests and goals. 

Flexible Curriculum Options to customize courses and explore interdisciplinary studies. 

Cultural Diversity Multicultural Environment 

Exposure to diverse cultures enhances global perspective and cultural understanding. 

Inclusive Society Welcoming and tolerant environment for international students. 

Career Opportunities 

Advanced Research Facilities 

Post-Graduation Work Opportunities 

Internships and Co-op Programs 

Cutting-Edge Laboratories 

Programs like OPT allow international students to work for up to three years after graduation. 

Practical experience in the field of study to enhance employability. 

Equipped with the latest technologies to support advanced studies and innovative research projects.

Research Funding Opportunities for grants and funding to undertake significant research. 

Language Proficiency 

Personal Growth & Development 

English Language Skills 

Independence and Self-Reliance 

Immersion in an English-speaking environment enhances global job market readiness. 

Studying abroad fosters critical life skills and independence. 

Global Network Building connections with peers and professionals for lifelong benefits. 

Quality of Life High Standard of Living 

Student Support Services 

Types of Institutions in the USA 

Excellent healthcare, safety, and recreational opportunities. 

Universities provide robust support, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health care. 

  • Community Colleges: Provide affordable two-year programs that often serve as a stepping stone to bachelor’s degrees. 
  • Liberal Arts Colleges: Focus on undergraduate education with a strong emphasis on a well-rounded education. 
  • Universities: Offer a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees, with a research-driven approach.

Education System in the USA

To study in the USA, international students must apply for an F-1 visa (for academic studies). This process requires proof of enrollment in an accredited institution, financial stability, and the intention to return home after completing your studies. AIP Education provides expert guidance on the visa application process to ensure a smooth experience. 

Prerequisites for US student visas

The US government provides three distinct kinds of student visas: 

S.N Types of student visa Description
F-1 Student Visa to study at an accredited US college or university or to study English at an English language institute
J Exchange Visa (J-1) for participation in an exchange program, including high school and university study
M Student Visa (M1) for non-academic or vocational study or training in the US

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements vary by institution but generally include: 

  • Academic transcripts and certificates 
  • Standardized test scores (SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT) 
  • Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS,PTE ) 
  • Letters of recommendations 
  • Personal statement or Statement of Purpose (SOP) 
  • Resume or CV 

A few universities may have different admission criteria. Please consult with AIP experts or check the university’s website for specific requirements. The documents mentioned above are the common ones typically required for admission. 

Student Visa Process 

The process to obtain a student visa (F-1 visa) involves: 

  1. Acceptance from a SEVP-Certified School: Obtain an I-20 form from your school. 2. SEVIS Fee Payment: Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee.
  2. Complete the DS-160 Form: Fill out the online nonimmigrant visa application form. 4. Visa Interview: Schedule and attend an interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. 

*For detailed information, please visit the US Government’s Department of State website. Scholarships and Financial Aid 

Numerous scholarships and financial aid options are available to international students, including: 

  • Fulbright Scholarships: For graduate students and professionals, covering tuition, living expenses, and airfare. 
  • University-Specific Scholarships: Many universities offer scholarships based on academic merit or financial need. 
  • Government and Private Scholarships: Various scholarships from governmental and private organizations are also available. 

Intakes in the United States

An outline of admissions and their duration in US colleges and universities is provided below: 

Intake Duration
Fall Term From September to December
Spring Term From January to April
Summer Term From May to August

Note: Intake may vary as per the choice of program and institution. Visit AIP education and talk to your counselor for more updates or check the institute website for details. 

Tuition Fees in the United States 

Tuition is typically the most significant expense when attending a university in the United States. American universities are divided into two main categories: public/state and private institutions. Generally, tuition fees at public/state universities are lower than those at private universities. Costs vary depending on the type of degree you pursue and the institution you attend.

Tuition fees can range from $8,000 to $55,000 (USD) per year. Fields like humanities, arts, and education usually have lower tuition costs compared to more specialized majors such as medicine and engineering. Postgraduate programs also tend to have higher tuition fees, with costs varying by program. 

Below is an indicative breakdown of tuition fees for different types of study programs: 

School Type Tuition Fees (USD) 

Details 

English Language Studies 

    • $700 – $2,000 per month
    • Intensive language courses

Community Colleges $6,000 – $20,000 per year 

Two-year programs (associate degree) 

  • Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) $20,000 – $40,000 per year 
  • Graduate Programs (Master’s) $20,000 – $45,000 per year

Doctoral Degree $28,000 – $55,000 per year 

Ph.D. or Doctorate programs 

Keep in mind that costs vary depending on the institution, location, and field of study. It’s always recommended to research specific universities and programs for more accurate and up-to-date tuition rates. 

The United States is renowned for its diverse and high-quality educational programs. Here are some of the top programs and universities that attract international students:  

Field of Study Specializations Top Universities 

Engineering Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, Computer Engineering 

MIT, Stanford University, University of California—Berkeley

Computer Science & IT 

Business & Management 

  • Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Cybersecurity
  • MBA, Finance, Marketing, Entrepreneurship
  • Stanford University, Carnegie Mellon University, University of
  • California—Berkeley
  • Harvard Business School, Wharton School, Stanford Graduate School of Business 

Health Sciences Medicine, Pharmacy, Public Health, Nursing 

  • Johns Hopkins University, Harvard University, University of
  • California—San Francisco 

Natural & Applied Sciences 

Social Sciences & Humanities 

Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Science 

Psychology, Sociology, Political Science, International Relations 

Harvard University, Caltech, Stanford University 

Harvard University, University of Chicago, Yale University 

Law International Law, Corporate Law, Human Rights Law 

Arts & Design Fine Arts, Graphic Design, Fashion Design, Performing 

Arts 

Education Educational Leadership, Curriculum Development, Special Education 

  • Harvard Law School, Yale Law School, Stanford Law School
  • Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), SAIC, Pratt Institute
  • Harvard Graduate School of Education, Stanford Graduate School of Education, UCLA 

Media & Communications 

  • Journalism, Public Relations, Digital Media, Film Studies
  • University of Southern California (USC), New York University (NYU), Northwestern University 

Top Universities in the USA 

Here’s a summary of some top institutions and their highlights: University Known For Highlights

  • Harvard University Law, Business, Medicine, Social Sciences, Humanities. Oldest US university, extensive library system, notable alumni
  • Stanford University Engineering, Business, Computer Science, Education. Located in Silicon Valley, entrepreneurship culture, many Nobel laureates.
  • MIT Engineering, Computer Science, Physical Sciences, Economics
  • Caltech Engineering, Physical Sciences, Biology. Cutting-edge research, high  innovation output, STEM focus.Small student body, high faculty-student ratio, strong research focus.
  • University of Chicago
  • Princeton University Economics, Law, Sociology, Business, Political Science. Public Affairs, Humanities, Engineering. Intellectual inquiry, home to Nobel Prize winners. Undergraduate focus, significant endowment, beautiful campus.
  • Yale University Law, Drama, Political Science, History. Prestigious law school, vibrant arts scene, historic campus
  • Columbia University 
  • University of Pennsylvania Journalism, Business, Law, International Relations. Business, Law, Medicine, Education. Located in NYC, home to the Pulitzer Prize, influential alumni network. Strong interdisciplinary programs, renowned Wharton School.
  • UC Berkeley Engineering, Computer Science, Environmental Science, Politics
  • UCLA Film, Medicine, Engineering, Business. Strong research output, vibrant campus life, located in the Bay Area. Diverse student body, strong athletic programs, located in Los Angeles
  • Johns Hopkins University Public Health, Medicine, Biomedical Engineering. First US research university, significant medical contributions
  • NYU Law, Business, Arts, Social Sciences
  • Duke University Law, Business, Public Policy, Medicine. Located in NYC, strong arts programs, global network. Strong athletics, significant research output, beautiful campus
  • Northwestern University Journalism, Business, Engineering, Law. Prestigious journalism school, strong interdisciplinary focus, vibrant campus

For information on top-ranked universities in the USA, you can explore websites like: 

      • US News & World Report – Best Colleges
      • QS World University Rankings – USA
      • Times Higher Education Rankings -USA