While you may be surrounded by a swarm of people who aspire to pursue higher education abroad at different locations, you will find one common country name in most of the aspirants’ lists: the United States of America.
But what makes the USA such a popular study abroad destination? Why should you study in the USA? Let’s look at the top reasons we found in our research that make the USA one of the most sought-after study destinations globally.
The USA is one of the most sought-after countries in the world due to its lifestyle, career opportunities and the varied courses offered by the colleges and universities. Let us discuss some more reasons that make it worth studying in the USA:-
1. World-Class Education System
The foremost reason people choose to study in the USA and not in India is because of its education system. The USA has over 5,300 colleges and universities, and is home to some of the world’s best educational institutions listed high in the QS world rankings 2024.
American universities offer a variety of higher education degrees, promoting research opportunities to transform every industry. Here’s the list of Ivy League universities in the USA that are globally renowned for their high education standards:
The excellent academic facilities and top-notch curriculum attract students and help them find exceptional career opportunities all over the world.
3. Flexible Education System
The USA universities offer a wide range of subjects which students can choose from based on their interests. What we have found is that the universities also provide flexibility to students to make a subject choice.
For instance, there is no pressure on the students to declare the field they want to major in the first year of their bachelor’s. They can decide their major in the second year as well. This flexibility gives students time to figure out their field of interest. Students might not get this flexibility in their home countries.
4. Diverse Career Opportunities
An international degree expands global exposure and opens multiple opportunities. Many students, after studying abroad, return to their home countries in search of highly payable jobs. The universities in the USA also offer internships to students looking for permanent work opportunities. Most students find an internship and get hands-on experience to access better-paying jobs.
5. Get Higher ROI on Your Investment
Per our findings, most students take study loans for their education abroad which further mounts up with increasing interest rates. It becomes necessary to choose a university based on the ROI, which not only adds to your skill sets but also equips you with better returns post studies. Below are a few benefits of choosing universities based on the ROI:-
It helps you to survive the economic downfall.
You can pay off your debts and student loans in a shorter span.
Job security becomes high.
You get wider job opportunities.
6. Excellent Support for International Students
The universities in the USA are renowned for supporting international students in adjusting to a foreign country. They conduct workshops, webinars, training, open days, orientation programs, and more to ensure students feel connected.
Universities also organize language workshops for international students so that they can align themselves better with the new culture. Few universities also aid international students with proper support and facilities.
7. Research and Training Opportunities
One of the major benefits of studying in the USA is that students at the graduate level can avail themselves of opportunities for research and training at the universities. A student can even take the role of a Teaching Assistant to assist a Professor. This also helps them in funding their education and broadens their knowledge and skill set.
8. Cutting-Edge Technology
The USA is known for its cutting-edge technology. You will find all the universities are equipped with the latest technology and state-of-the-art infrastructure. This makes the life of the Professors as well as students much simpler as information is distributed easily and smoothly.
9. Diversity in Programs
In addition to the diversity of fellow students, universities in the USA also provide a wide range of top-notch programs and courses. Universities provide a wide variety of specialty degrees, whether at the undergraduate or master’s level. The high in-demand and the best courses to study in the USA are mentioned below:-
Business Management
Engineering
Computer Science
Medical Science
Journalism and Mass Communication
Social Science
Legal Studies
Fine & Applied Arts
10. Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT)
Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT) are two opportunities available to international students in the USA to get hands-on experience in their chosen fields of study.
The CPT Training is an integral component of your degree program and is directly related to your area of study. As long as you are enrolled in your degree program full-time, including during the summer months, you are eligible to engage in CPT part- or full-time.
OPT is a form of temporary employment authorization that enables F-1 students to work in a field that is directly related to their main area of study. You are allowed to work for up to a year before or after completing your graduation studies.
To the main question: “Why do you wish to study in the USA and not in India," many students answer that it is for the excellent and lively student life there. The student community holds various events and creates exclusive life experiences for cultural exchange. These events eventually help students make better connections.
12. Earn While Learning
The USA facilitates students to get F-1 visas that allow them to work on-campus for 20 hours per week during a semester. And during holidays, the students are allowed to work 40 hours per week. Students can work in their university’s cafeteria, library, etc.
However, F-1 visa holders are not allowed to work off-campus. If they still wish to work off-campus, permission from the US Immigration Services is required. Students can connect with their university’s career office to know their eligibility to apply for a permit.
The United States is also called the nation of immigrants, as people of different cultures, values, and beliefs stay together. In 2023, the US government issued 10.4 million temporary visas for tourists, students, and others.
Indian students benefit from this multicultural aspect of the country by learning to swiftly adapt to cultural variations and expanding their global exposure, thereby resulting in their holistic development.
14. Travel Opportunities
The USA states are known for their beauty, iconic monuments, historic places, and career opportunities. While all states provide opportunities in almost every industry, each state is renowned for its unique experience.
Midland, TX, is known for its retail and oil and gas companies. Similarly, Durham-Chapel Hill in NC is known as the research triangle. Another city in TX -Dallas-Fort Worth, Arlington, is home to the headquarters of many renowned multinational companies.
Students can take advantage of the opportunity to explore career prospects in different states across the country after completing their courses.
The USA hosts the largest number of international students from across the world. Over the past few years, it has become one of the most popular destinations for studying abroad. Reasons such as best-ranked institutions, excellent support facilities, flexible academic environment, and cultural diversity contribute to making it the most preferred destination amongst students planning to study abroad.
Top Universities in USA for 2024
Studying abroad is an enriching experience in itself but where you are studying matters a lot. Therefore, you need to select a college or university very carefully, so that it adds value to your learning and helps you in shaping a promising career.
The top five universities in the USA, along with the popular programs are given in the table below:-
Listed below are the top reasons why studying in the USA is considered better than India:-
Key Parameter
USA
India
Employment
60.20%
46.80%
Literacy Rate
79%
74.04%
Number of Universities (QS WUR 2025)
196
46
This shows that the USA has more high-ranked universities than India. Even the employment rate shows a vast gap between both countries. Hence, most students feel they have a better chance of getting employed after studying in the USA.
Moreover, the USA's higher literacy rate indicates a higher level of social and economic development. This is because a higher literacy rate means more educated people, and thus more job creators and job seekers.
Quality of education, abundant opportunities, internationally-recognized degrees, and multicultural environment are some of the reasons why choosing the USA for study can be a great idea. Huge numbers of students from across the world choose American universities every year to pursue their preferred courses.
How much does it cost for the students to live in the USA?
The students would need around $12,000 to $20,000 yearly to live in the USA. The monthly average would be around $1000 to $1500.
Is studying in the USA costly?
With some of the best universities in the world, the USA is one of the top education destinations that anyone can consider. But, studying in the USA is a costly affair.
What requirements must be met to study in the USA?
The study requirements for the USA requires the following:-
Accurately filled application form.
School graduation certificate and mark sheet.
English Language proficiency test scores.
Financial support proof covering the academic and living expenses for the course duration.
Can I work for financial support while completing my program?
Students with F-1 visas can work while pursuing their programs. While enrolled in college, they are permitted to work for a maximum of 40 hours per fortnight, and during vacations, they may work full-time.
Is the USA the best place to study?
The United States of America is home to some of the top universities in the world, such as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Harvard University, Stanford University, University of California- Berkeley, University of Chicago, etc.
Its vast academic programs, unmatched flexibility to students, research opportunities, etc. allow students to expand their global exposure, making it one of the best places to study.
Why do Indian students prefer to study in the USA?
Indian students prefer the USA for its rich culture, top universities, and numerous academic options. Besides, students are also interested in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) option of up to 12 months of temporary employment area of study that they can avail with the F-1 visa.
Which state is better in the USA for Indian students?
Boston, New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Chicago are listed among the top 50 best student cities in the world, according to the QS Rankings 2024.
The U.S. News and World Reports lists Florida, Utah, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Colorado as the top five when considering US states for education. If one considers affordability, Baltimore, Maryland, is more cost-effective than other big US cities and states.
Why study in the USA, why not in the UK or Canada?
The USA has outshined the UK and Canada because of its quality of education and the reputation of the universities. Another reason that persistently contributes to its popularity is the possibility of a high return on investment.
Why choose the USA for higher studies?
Some reasons to choose the USA for higher education include quality of education, choice of courses, practical training and internship opportunities, better career opportunities, student-friendly policies, scholarships and financial aids, and quality of life.
Why do masters in the USA not in India?
Students looking for top-notch education and global exposure are drawn to the United States. Pursuing a master's degree from there provides advanced education, possibilities for cutting-edge research, a varied range of cultural experiences, and improved professional prospects.
Why choose the USA for bachelors?
You can consider the USA as your study abroad destination if you want to study a bachelor's degree. This is because of its high ranking universities, varied academic offerings, innovative research possibilities, possible return on investment, multiculturalism, and active campus community.
Rakhee Talukdar is an edtech expert with five years of experience in the education technology sector, focusing on K-12 and higher education systems in various countries, including Canada, USA, Finland, France, and Germany. Her background includes founding a startup and working with early-stage educational ventures, giving her a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities within these educational landscapes. Additionally, Rakhee specializes in helping students craft compelling Statements of Purpose (SOPs) for studying abroad, leveraging her insights into different education systems to guide students in articulating their academic and professional goals effectively. Her comprehensive knowledge and strategic approach make her a valuable resource for students navigating their educational journeys and financial planning.
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