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Explore top universities, scholarships, and expert visa guidance for Australia, Canada, the UK, the USA, and New Zealand. Our experienced counsellors are here to help you make the right choice.

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Destination Excellence

United States

A strong option for students seeking academic flexibility, research, assistantships, and OPT or STEM OPT planning.

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520
Global Scholars
10
Partner Institutions
3 Intakes
Enrollment Windows

Destination overview

Why Study in
United States?

The United States offers flexible majors, broad institution choice, research depth, assistantship options, and practical training pathways for eligible F-1 students.

F-1 students may work on campus up to 20 hours per week while school is in session. OPT can provide up to 12 months of field-related work authorization, with a 24-month STEM OPT extension for eligible degrees.

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Academic flexibility

We review this against your grades, budget, intake timing, and long-term plan before recommending options in United States.

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Research and assistantships

We review this against your grades, budget, intake timing, and long-term plan before recommending options in United States.

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STEM OPT planning

We review this against your grades, budget, intake timing, and long-term plan before recommending options in United States.

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Liberal arts and transfer routes

We review this against your grades, budget, intake timing, and long-term plan before recommending options in United States.

Destination guide

United States Guide

On this page
01Quick facts02Why United States03Visa Process04Costs and Scholarships05USA Full Checklist06Universities07Cities08Popular Courses09Living and Jobs10Approximate Visa and Study Fees11IELTS/PTE Requirements12United States FAQs

Guide contents

01Quick facts02Why United States03Visa Process04Costs and Scholarships05USA Full Checklist06Universities07Cities08Popular Courses09Living and Jobs10Approximate Visa and Study Fees11IELTS/PTE Requirements12United States FAQs

Quick facts

United States at a glance

A concise study snapshot before you move into visa, cost, university, city, and work decisions.

Capital
Washington, DC
Main intakes
Fall, Spring, Summer
Student status
F-1 for most academic study routes
Work pathway
OPT up to 12 months, with STEM extension options for eligible degrees

Study signal

Why United States

Strategic takeaways

Why this destination works

  • The US offers broad institution choice, flexible majors, research depth, and assistantship possibilities.
  • Students can build balanced reach, match, and safe lists across public, private, and liberal arts institutions.
  • Graduate applications reward strong statements, recommender planning, research fit, and portfolio evidence.
  • OPT and STEM OPT planning can connect study choices to early career experience when eligibility is met.

Process map

Visa Process

The protocol

The process in focus

  • Secure admission from an SEVP-certified school and receive Form I-20.
  • Pay the SEVIS fee, complete DS-160, and prepare visa appointment documents.
  • Organize financial evidence, academic records, test scores, and clear study intent.
  • After arrival, follow F-1 enrollment, address reporting, and work authorization rules.

Budget lens

Costs and Scholarships

Cost of attendance varies widely by university, state, and program.

Graduate funding may include assistantships, fellowships, tuition waivers, or departmental awards.

Undergraduate scholarships are competitive and may be need-based, merit-based, or institution-specific.

Budget tuition, fees, insurance, housing, books, travel, and emergency funds together.

Study signal

USA Full Checklist

Strategic takeaways

Why this destination works

  • Apply for I-20 with academics from class 10 to +2 or Bachelor level including transcripts, migration/provisional certificates and character certificate; passport; IELTS/PTE; two LORs; one-day bank balance certificate around NPR 60 lakhs; CV; and SOP.
  • Receive I-20.
  • Fill DS-160 form.
  • Book interview from CGI portal.
  • Pay SEVIS fee.
  • Appear in interview with academics, IELTS/PTE, LOR, DS-160 confirmation and interview confirmation paper.
  • Pay tuition fees after visa.

Shortlist

Available Universities in the United States

Published US university profiles from the CMS appear here with official website links where available.

University

Colorado Mesa University

Colorado Mesa University (CMU) is a public university located in Grand Junction, Colorado, with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1925 as Grand Junction Junior College. It has evolved through several name changes, including Mesa College and Mesa State College, before officially becoming Colorado Mesa University in 2011. CMU offers a diverse range of programs, including 100 undergraduate and 11 postgraduate programs across 14 academic departments, making it the largest university in western Colorado. The university is known for its commitment to academic excellence and innovation, with a strong emphasis on liberal arts education and technical programs.

Open details

University

Duquesne University

Academic Programs Duquesne offers more than 150 programs through its nine schools, including the College of Liberal Arts, Palumbo Donahue School of Business, Mylan School of Pharmacy, School of Nursing, School of Law, School of Education, Bayer School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, and McAnulty College and Graduate School of Liberal Arts . Popular undergraduate majors include Nursing Science, Pharmacy, Business Administration, and Management Sciences . The university emphasizes experiential learning, research opportunities, and professional preparation, with 95% of graduates reporting work related to their major.

Open details

University

Goucher College

Goucher College is a private liberal arts college located in Towson, Maryland, founded in 1885. It offers a diverse range of academic programs, including over 50 majors and minors, and emphasizes a liberal arts education that fosters critical thinking and global perspectives. The college is known for its commitment to study abroad, with 100% of undergraduates participating in international programs. Goucher College is recognized for its innovative curriculum and has a strong reputation in the academic community, ranking among the top liberal arts colleges in the nation.

Open details

University

Mercy College

Choosing Mercy College is not just about receiving an education; it’s about embarking on a transformative journey that will shape your future and empower you to reach your fullest potential. With its commitment to academic excellence, diverse community, and array of opportunities, Mercy College provides the ideal environment for international students to thrive and succeed. Join us at Mercy College and unlock a world of possibilities for your academic and professional growth.

Open details

University

Missouri Southern State University (MSSU)

Missouri Southern State University (MSSU), established in 1937, is located in Joplin, Missouri. It serves nearly 4,300 students in over 140 academic programs and is known for its commitment to international education and NCAA Division II athletics. The university offers a range of programs, including Business Administration, Computer Science, Health Sciences, and Criminal Justice, with a focus on providing personalized attention and support to students. MSSU emphasizes a culture of excellence and innovation, preparing graduates to be successful global citizens.

Open details

University

Nova Southeastern University (NSU)

Nova Southeastern University (NSU) is a private research university located in Florida, with its main campus in Fort Lauderdale and Davie. Established in 1964, NSU offers over 150 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs across various fields, including health sciences, business, and social sciences. The university is known for its R1 research classification, emphasizing high research activity and community engagement. NSU has a significant impact on the state economy, with over $6.7 million in economic contributions, and is recognized for its innovative research and workforce development initiatives.

Open details

University

State University of New York

The State University of New York (SUNY) is a comprehensive system of public colleges and universities in New York, United States. It is the largest comprehensive system of universities, colleges, and community colleges in the world. SUNY has 64 campuses across New York State and offers a wide range of academic programs, including research-focused and community-based. The system was established in 1948 and has grown to include 88,000 faculty members and 7,660 different degree and certificate programs. SUNY's administrative offices are located in Albany, with satellite offices in Manhattan and Washington, D.C. The system is committed to providing quality education and research opportunities to students and has a strong global alumni network.

Open details

University

University of Findlay

The University of Findlay, established in 1882, is a private institution located in Findlay, Ohio. It offers nearly 80 undergraduate programs leading to baccalaureate degrees and 11 master's degrees, with a focus on academic excellence and transformative experiences. The university is known for its liberal arts and sciences education, preparing students for meaningful lives and productive careers. Findlay is also recognized for its commitment to experiential learning and has a vibrant campus community. The university is affiliated with the Churches of God and offers a range of programs in health professions, business, education, and sciences, attracting students from around the world.

Open details

City match

Cities

Boston

New York

San Francisco Bay Area

Chicago

Seattle

Austin

Course fit

Popular Courses

Computer Science

Engineering

Business Analytics

Public Policy

Biological Sciences

Finance

Work path

Living and Jobs

On-campus employment

CPT when authorized

OPT after eligible study

STEM OPT extension for eligible programs

Process map

Approximate Visa and Study Fees

The protocol

The process in focus

  • Application for I-20 depends upon university: USD 60 to USD 150, or can be waiver as well.
  • Tuition fee: from USD 12,000 to USD 50,000.
  • Interview fee: USD 185.
  • SEVIS fee: USD 350.

Score plan

IELTS/PTE Requirements

US universities commonly accept TOEFL, IELTS Academic, Duolingo, PTE Academic, or institution-specific English evidence.

Minimum scores vary by institution and department.

Graduate programs may also require GRE, GMAT, portfolios, writing samples, or interviews depending on the field.

Answers

United States FAQs

Can F-1 students work on campus?

Study in the States guidance allows eligible active F-1 students to work on campus within limits, commonly up to 20 hours per week while school is in session.

What is OPT?

OPT is temporary work authorization related to the field of study. Standard post-completion OPT can be up to 12 months, and eligible STEM graduates may qualify for a 24-month extension.

Do I need SAT, GRE, or GMAT?

Testing rules vary by university, program, and intake. Always verify the exact department requirement before building the application timeline.

Application checklist

Check the Requirements

Visa Requirements

Form I-20 from an SEVP-certified school

Review this item with your advisor before filing.

SEVIS fee and DS-160 confirmation

Review this item with your advisor before filing.

Valid passport and visa appointment documents

Review this item with your advisor before filing.

Financial evidence for tuition and living costs

Review this item with your advisor before filing.

Academic and test records requested by the school

Review this item with your advisor before filing.

Document Checklist

Transcripts and certificates

Review this item with your advisor before filing.

English test scores when required

Review this item with your advisor before filing.

Standardized test scores when required

Review this item with your advisor before filing.

Bank statements, sponsor letters, and scholarship awards

Review this item with your advisor before filing.

Resume, essays, portfolio, or research fit materials

Review this item with your advisor before filing.

Eligibility Criteria

Admission to a SEVP-certified institution

Review this item with your advisor before filing.

Ability to fund cost of attendance

Review this item with your advisor before filing.

Clear academic purpose and nonimmigrant intent

Review this item with your advisor before filing.

Compliance with F-1 study and work rules

Review this item with your advisor before filing.

University Fit

We compare your grades, English score, budget, and preferred course against university entry rules before you apply.

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Next Steps

Download the United States Blueprint

Get our comprehensive guide covering scholarship windows, funding proof requirements, and visa application timelines specific to United States.

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