Canada is one of the best places to study if you’re looking for quality education, global career opportunities, and a diverse culture. You’ll find top universities, strong research facilities, and plenty of work options after graduation.
International undergraduate tuition typically falls between CAD 20,000 and CAD 30,000 per year, with graduate fees varying based on the field of study.
Students should budget around CAD 15,000 annually for rent, groceries, transport, and miscellaneous expenses.
Use public transportation, buy textbooks second-hand, and consider part-time campus jobs to help manage expenses.
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
UBC International Leader of Tomorrow (ILOT)
McGill University Scholarships for International Students
Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship
Get an offer letter from a university that’s approved by the Canadian government.
Apply for a study visa.
Work while you study.
Stay back after graduation with a Post-Graduation Work Permit.
Build a long-term plan.
Choose based on rankings, career opportunities, and tuition fees.
Most universities require transcripts, English test scores, and an SOP.
Apply before deadlines with all required documents.
Once accepted, you’ll receive a confirmation from the university.
Submit your visa application with proof of funds and other documents.
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You’ll need an offer letter from a recognized university, proof of funds, a valid passport, and English proficiency test scores (IELTS/TOEFL). Some programs may have additional requirements like entrance exams or work experience.
Yes, some universities accept alternatives like TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo English Test. Others may waive the requirement if you’ve studied in an English-speaking environment.
Most universities accept a study gap of up to 2–5 years for undergraduate programs and even longer for postgraduate studies, provided you have a valid reason such as work experience or additional certifications.
Over 1 million students from around the world chose USA universities in the 2022-23 academic year. The number is all the more impressive because it marks a whopping 12% jump from the year before. This article is a guide to study in USA.
That’s the fastest growth in over four decades.
What’s more – international students now make up 6% of all students in the USA higher education and contribute nearly $38 billion to the U.S. economy.
So, if you want to study abroad, the USA – quite understandably – the #1 choice for most students. That’s because the USA offers a world-class education, exciting campuses, and strong post-graduation career prospects.
However, for someone only at the cusp of their study abroad search, information can be overwhelming.
As a student from India who wants to study in the USA after 12th, you must first know a few things.
Let’s learn about the process for getting a student visa for the USA. It’s a five step process.
Here’s what you need to do:
There are three main types of student visas:
Before you can apply, you have to be accepted by a USA school approved by the Student Exchange and Visitor Program (SEVP).
After that, you can fill out the visa application form (DS-160).
Then you will schedule an interview at a US Embassy or Consulate.
Book an interview at a US Embassy or Consulate.
You’ll need a few things for this:
At the interview, you’ll need to show that you qualify for the visa. Be ready to discuss your study plans, school, and how you’ll pay for everything.
If your visa is approved, you can travel to the US.
But remember, a visa doesn’t guarantee you’ll be allowed to enter the country. That decision is made by a Customs and Border Protection officer when you arrive in the US.
Once in the USA, you must follow certain rules to keep your student status. This means going to school full-time and not staying in the USA longer than allowed.
The benefits of studying in the USA for international students are many. For instance, your US education means you get access to world-class universities, a diverse range of programs, and excellent career opportunities.
But that’s not it. There are more:
The USA is home to some of the world’s top universities, like Stanford, Harvard, and MIT. Dozens of American universities rank in all the reputed lists of global top universities.
The variety of study programs is vast. You can pursue degrees in Analytics, Finance, and Healthcare. Plus, STEM programs—Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics—are a big draw. These programs, along with traditional fields like Medicine and Business Management, are great to jump-start your career.
Studying in the USA gives you the chance to improve your English skills. This can be a big advantage in the global job market, where English is often the language of business.
American universities have strong connections with industries and offer internships and Co-Op programs. Co-op programs mix classroom learning with real work experience. So, while you’re studying, you also take turns working full-time in positions related to your major.
You’ll meet students from all over the world, giving you the chance to learn about different cultures and make lifelong friends.
Universities in the USA offer a range of support services to help international students adjust to life in a new country. These include academic and career counseling and assistance with immigration and visas.
The opportunities in research in the USA are unprecedented. Universities like Johns Hopkins and Caltech are often at the forefront of breakthroughs in medicine, technology, and science. Moreover, students have opportunities to work in projects funded by institutions like the National Institutes of Health or the National Science Foundation.
Living in the USA offers a cultural experience that many Indian students desire.
The USA is home to the most innovative companies in the world. These include giants like Google, Apple, and Microsoft, but the list can include 100s more.
The admission process for studying in the USA for international students can be time-consuming. So it’s important to start early and stay organized.
Here’s a step-by-step guide.
Pick the schools you’re interested in. Look at their programs and what they offer.
Understand the specific requirements to study in the USA for each university. Make sure you know what they are.
It could include things like your grades, English language tests, and specific exams like the GRE, GMAT, SAT or ACT.
You might need to take study abroad exams like the SAT, ACT, TOEFL, or IELTS.
Plan to take these well before your application deadlines .
Fill out your application forms carefully.
You’ll also need to write a personal essay and get letters of recommendation .
Send your application to the chosen universities.
Make sure you meet their deadlines.
After you submit your application, you’ll have to wait to hear back from the universities. This can take a few weeks.
If you are accepted, you will need to confirm your spot and pay a deposit.
Once you’re accepted, you’ll need to apply for a student visa to study in the USA.
Choosing the right course is a big decision, and with tons of amazing options in the USA, it can feel overwhelming.
5,000+ programs is a lot. Let SelectRight guide you to the best fit.
SelectRight is absolutely free. It uses smart technology to match your unique educational background with universities that are a great fit.
All you need to do is…
Share your grades, test scores (if needed), interests, and what you want to do after graduation.
SelectRight does the rest for you…
SelectRight:
Here are some questions you can ask yourself to begin the process of narrowing down your search for the best university in the USA.
The fields like Computer Science, Engineering (think Electrical, Mechanical, etc.), or Data Science might be perfect for you!
These are in high demand right now and can lead to exciting careers.
Business Administration, Finance, and Marketing could be great options. They’ll equip you with the skills to excel in the business world.
Business Analytics is another field in demand, combining your business sense with data analysis skills.
The USA has fantastic healthcare programs – Medicine, Nursing, and Public Health are just a few examples. These can lead to fulfilling careers making a real difference.
This is just a starting point, of course.
There are many other fantastic courses available in the USA, from creative fields like Design and Media to social sciences like Psychology and Education.
The key is to figure out what YOU’RE passionate about.
What are your strengths and interests?
What kind of career do you see yourself in?
Once you have a better idea, you can start researching specific programs that align with your goals.
The USA is home to some incredible universities.
There are many ranking systems that claim to offer a fair listing of US universities.
For instance, there’s one by U.S. News and World Report.
From the bustling campuses of the Ivy League to the vibrant energy of state universities, each institution offers a unique learning experience.
Here are some of the most popular places in USA to study:
But there are many many more incredible options to explore.
The US education system offers incredible opportunities, but the cost can be a big question mark.
Let’s break down the key factors that affect how much you’ll spend:
This is the main cost, it will vary depending on the university type.
Public universities are generally more affordable, with in-state students paying less than out-of-state or international students.
Private universities are typically more expensive than public options, but may offer scholarships or financial aid.
On average, the costs per year can be somewhere in the range:
Costs differ based on location (big city vs. small town), your lifestyle, and accommodation choices (dorms, apartments, etc.).
On average, living expenses range between ₹7 to ₹12 lakh per year.
Here’s a breakdown of some common expenses:
Many universities require students to have health insurance. So the approximate costs would be:
Scholarships are a fantastic way to bridge the financial gap and make studying in the USA a more realistic possibility.
Here’s a breakdown to get you started:
These highly regarded awards cover tuition, living expenses, health insurance, and even airfare for international students pursuing graduate studies (Master’s or PhD) in the US.
Open to international students in any field of study at participating USA colleges and universities. These scholarships focus on applicants who demonstrate a passion for promoting intercultural understanding.
These fully-funded scholarships target students from specific countries pursuing a Master’s degree in the USA or another host nation, focusing on leadership in civil society.
This program offers scholarships for Master’s students who want to study at a designated Rotary Peace Center, like Duke University or UNC Chapel Hill, with a focus on international peacebuilding.
Many universities offer their own scholarships specifically for international students. Here are a few examples:
Scholarships are a fantastic way to fund your USA education, but they might not cover the entire cost. This is where education loans step in.
Here’s a quick overview of education loans for USA for international students:
Apart from this, you also need to keep in mind a few other things like interest rates, and co-signer requirements.
Or, you can use FundRight to simplify your search.
You just need to fill out a quick online form, and FundRight does the legwork for you. It connects you with a network of lenders waiting to offer you an education loan, leading to more favorable interest rates and terms.
Save up to 23 lakhs on your education loan with FundRight. See how much you can save.
International students in the USA have a range of job prospects across various sectors.
These roles offer a taste of the professional world while you study. Think library assistant, helping students find research materials. Teaching assistant, supporting professors and classmates.
Or campus tech support, keeping the university network running smoothly. These jobs typically pay $7 to $12 per hour, giving you some income and building your resume.
After your first year, the possibilities expand with off-campus jobs. These roles can be in retail, hospitality, or even administrative positions in companies.
Remember, visa requirements apply here, so research what’s allowed for your specific situation.
Certain sectors offer great prospects for international students with the right skills.
Engineering, for example, needs civil engineers to design infrastructure. They can earn an average of over $85,600 annually.
Healthcare is another strong area, with nurses and pharmacists making up to $163,000 per year. And in the booming tech industry, data scientists and IT managers are highly sought after, often earning over $100,000.
After completing your studies in the USA, you have several options to stay back and work, depending on your visa status and field of study:
This program allows F-1 visa holders to work full-time for up to 12 months after graduation in a job directly related to their field of study.
Important: Apply for OPT before you finish your program, and start early to avoid delays.
If you graduated with a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math (STEM), you might be eligible for an additional 24 months of OPT. This extension gives you a total of 36 months to work in the USA and gain experience in your field.
There are some requirements, though: your employer must be part of a government program called E-Verify, and you need to apply before your initial OPT ends.
CPT is typically part-time during semesters but can be full-time during breaks.
So, you can gain practical experience related to your major without jeopardizing your studies.
After your OPT period is over, you might be eligible for an H-1B visa. It allows you to work in a specialized occupation in the US, sponsored by a USA employer.
The H-1B Visa starts with a three-year validity period and can be extended up to six years.
Generally, the annual cost of living for international students in the USA falls between ₹7.3 lakhs and ₹18.2 lakhs. We know it’s hard, but these are facts about studying in the USA.
This includes essential expenses like:
Major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco are notoriously expensive, while smaller towns often offer a more affordable lifestyle.
Also Read: Cost of Studying in USA for Indian Students (Guide)
Passport, visa application form DS-160, SEVIS fee receipt, I-20 form, financial proof, academic transcripts, and test scores.
Most students need an F-1 visa for academic programs. J-1 and M-1 visas are for exchange visitors and vocational students, respectively.
The visa application fee is $160. Additional costs include SEVIS fee ($350 for F-1 visa) and living expenses.
Acceptance from a SEVP-approved school, financial stability, strong ties to home country, and a valid passport.
Yes, with restrictions. F-1 students can work on-campus for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year.
Duration of your academic program plus 60 days grace period after program completion.
Yes, through Optional Practical Training (OPT) or by applying for a work visa like H-1B.
Yes, most universities require international students to have health insurance coverage.
To study in the USA, a minimum academic record of 65% or higher in the humanities stream and 70-80% or higher in the science/commerce stream in class XII is required.
Yes, spouses and unmarried children under 21 can apply for F-2 visas.
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