Financial Aid for Students
The dream of studying abroad often comes with financial considerations. However, the USA offers many financial aid options to ease the burden, from grants and scholarships to work-study opportunities and loans.
- Grants: Private companies, charities, and individuals offer grants to help international students financially. The best part is that you are not required to pay back the grant. However, the eligibility criteria for these grants varies and are usually set high. The competition is fierce.
- Scholarships: The government provides various scholarships, such as Fullbright Scholarships, Stanford University Scholarships, and GyanDhan Scholarships. These can cover part or all of your fees, living costs, and even travel expenses. The eligibility criteria for these scholarships vary and depend on factors such as your course, university/college, nationality, age, previous higher education course, and academic performance.
- Work-Study Jobs: Some universities offer part-time jobs on campus for students. This allows them to earn money while studying, which can help with living costs. The eligibility criteria for these vary and depend on visa status, academic standing, and employment restrictions.
- Loans: Financial institutions offer loans to students to fulfill their dream of studying abroad. They primarily cover the cost of the tuition fees. They also cover living expenses, travel expenses, cost of health insurance, and any other course related expenses. The eligibility criteria for this varies from bank to bank but typically depends on citizenship, academic performance, admission, co-signer’s credit score, age, and collateral.
Flexibility of Subjects/Courses
One of the hallmarks of the American higher education system is its flexibility. You have options when it comes to picking your courses and making a study plan. Even if you are not sure what you want to focus on yet, you should still apply to universities/colleges in the US. This way, in your first couple of years, you can try out different subjects in a wide range before deciding on one to specialise in. If you already have a clear idea of what you want to study, you can do a double major, which means you earn degrees in two subjects, usually within four years, or you can do a “major” and “minor”. This flexibility will allow you to choose the right path for you.
Benefits of Technology
The major companies headquartered in the USA are –
- Tesla
- Apple
The integration of technology into academic and professional spheres is a defining feature of studying in the USA. From attending technology-related events to networking with industry leaders and securing internships at tech giants like Google, Tesla, Facebook, and Apple, you have access to more opportunities in the US than anywhere else. This can be a catalyst for your professional and personal growth by offering you invaluable real-world experience. You will increase your productivity level, improve your communication, gain access to valuable information, connect with people globally, and be encouraged and inspired to focus on innovation and creativity.
Part-Time Work Opportunities for Indian Students in the US
For Indian students studying in the USA, part-time work opportunities can provide valuable hands-on experience and supplemental income. With an F-1 or M-1 visa, you can work part-time. You can work on-campus as a research assistant, help customers in retail stores, serve coffee in a café, intern at tech companies, write content as a freelancer, tutor other students, promote brands on campus, or work remotely as a virtual assistant.
F-1 visa holders can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during holidays, while M-1 visa holders usually can’t work during their studies, but they might be able to train after completing their program.
Highest Paying Jobs for a Successful Career Launch
If you are looking for well-paying jobs in the US for a successful career launch, consider jobs like medical practitioner, data scientist, full stack developer, and blockchain developer. These jobs offer great opportunities in fields ranging from healthcare to technology.
Additionally, the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program offers a significant advantage to international students, allowing them to work in their respective fields of study for up to three years after graduation. After gaining this valuable experience in your respective field, you can come back to India as in the next 10 years, the employment value in India is estimated to increase by 569 million. This will create exceptional employment opportunities in the coming years.
Read More – How to Transfer Money From India to Canada
Top Universities to Study in the USA in 2024
| University Name | Tuition Fee (INR)Conversion rate: 83.41INR = 1 dollar |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 47,94,068 |
| Harvard University | 62,43,360 |
| Stanford university | 68,26,073 |
| University of Chicago | 53,11,101 |
| Princeton University | 47,79,083 |
| Northwestern University | 52,44,422 |
Did you know that transferring tuition fees to the USA might cost you more than you can imagine? Apart from the tuition fees, you have to pay bank charges, exchange rate margins, transfer fees, etc. All of these can add up and increase the cost of the transfer. Luckily for you, your support system, HiWiPay can help. HiWiPay offers competitive markup fees and transfer fees, much less in comparison to other financial institutions. Visit our website or download the app today.
Student Visa Types to Study in the USA
If you are an international student wanting to study in the USA, you have three main visa options:
| Types of Student Visa | Description |
| F-1 Visa | This is for academic studies at a recognised school or university or for studying English at an English language institute. The overall cost of this visa is around INR 42,427. |
| J-1 Visa | This is for exchange programs that involve both work and study. It is for students, research assistants, teachers, and trainees. The overall cost of this visa is around INR 37, 503. |
| M-1 Visa | If you are going for non-academic or vocational training in the USA, you will need this visa. The overall cost of this visa is around INR 13, 348. |
Each of these visas has different requirements and restrictions, so it is important to choose the one that best fits your plans. Also, these costs are approximate and can vary. It’s always recommended to check the specific requirements and procedures on the official U.S. government websites or consult with an immigration expert.
Top Careers in the USA in 2024?
The next step after studying abroad is naturally to find a job. So, here is a list of the top careers in the USA in 2024:
| Career | Average Salary (USD) |
| IT Manager | $164,070 |
| Financial Manager | $139,790 |
| Software Developer | $127,260 |
| Physician Assistant | $126,010 |
| Nurse Practitioner | $121,610 |
| Information Security Analyst | $112,000 |
| Medical and Health Services Manager | $104,830 |
Final Thoughts:
Studying in the USA offers academic excellence, cultural diversity, and personal and professional growth opportunities. These trends provide insight for students planning to study abroad in the dynamic world of American higher education. Understand and embrace them to improve your educational journey and prepare for a successful career.
Why should I choose to study in the USA?
The USA offers quality education, diverse opportunities, career advantages, networking opportunities, financial aid, and cultural experience, making it a popular study abroad choice. However, the decision to study abroad should be made based on personal academic and career goals.
Is it expensive to study in the USA?
Yes, studying in the USA can be quite expensive. Tuition fees, accommodation costs, living expenses, visa fees, and travel costs make up for most of the expenses you have to incur. However, you have loans, scholarships, and grants to help.
Can I travel outside the USA while on a student visa?
Yes, you can travel outside the U.S. while on a student visa. However, to re-enter, you must have a valid passport, student visa, and recent sign on Form I-20.
Can I work while studying in the USA?
International students with F-1 and M-1 visas are allowed to work on-campus jobs. They are not allowed to work off-campus jobs in their first year.
Are USA degrees recognised worldwide?
Yes, USA degrees are recognised worldwide; however, the level of recognition varies depending on the country and the specific field of study.
What options do I have in the USA to launch my career?
Here’s how you can launch your career in the USA:
1. On-campus Employment
2. Off-campus Employment
3. Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
4. Optional Practical Training (CPT)
5. High Paying Jobs
6. Co-op programs and internships
Which exams are accepted in the USA universities?
The following exams are accepted in the USA universities:
1. IELTS
2. TOEFL
3. PTE
4. SAT
5. ACT
6. GRE
7. GMAT
8. MCAT
9. LSAT
Can I study in the USA after the 12th?
Yes, you can study in the USA after 12th. You will need to pass the SAT.
References :
Works Cited
Desk, Fly Finance News. “Top 3 Trends You Should Know If You Are Planning to Study in the USA in 2024.” Fly Finance, 24 Jan. 2024, fly.finance/blog/news-updates/top-3-trends-you-should-know-if-you-are-planning-to-study-in-the-usa-in-2024-news-01/. Accessed 29 Apr. 2024.
Institute, ALLEN Career, and ALLEN Global. “The Benefits of Technology for International Students.” AGSD – Your Gateway to Abroad Studies, 30 Oct. 2023, www.allenglobalstudies.com/blog/benefits-of-technology-for-international-students/. Accessed 29 Apr. 2024.
“These Are the Best, and Best-Paying, Jobs in the Country, according to U.S. News & World Report.” Journal Sentinel, www.jsonline.com/story/money/careers/2024/01/11/highest-paying-jobs-in-america-in-2024-according-to-u-s-news-report/72187881007/. Accessed 29 Apr. 2024.
“Types of Financial Aid.” Federal Student Aid, 5 July 2019, studentaid.gov/understand-aid/types. Accessed 29 Apr. 2024.
Why Study in the USA: # Top Reasons for International Students. 11 May 2022, leapscholar.com/blog/why-study-in-the-usa-top-reasons/. Accessed 29 Apr. 2024.
