The United States is home to 6 of the world’s top 10 universities: MIT (#1 QS), Stanford (#4), Harvard (#4), Caltech (#10), University of Chicago (#21), and Princeton (#22). With over 4,000 accredited institutions and 1 million+ international students, the USA offers unmatched academic choice. F-1 visa holders can work 1–3 years after graduation via OPT/STEM OPT.
Why Study in United States? Key Facts for 2026
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | $25,000–60,000/year (elite private); $15,000–30,000 (state universities) |
| Living Costs | $1,500–3,000/month |
| Student Visa | F-1 Student Visa |
| Language | English (TOEFL 80–100+ / IELTS 6.5–7.0) |
| Academic Year | September/October start (some: February/March) |
Source: OECD Education at a Glance 2024, official government immigration websites, QS World University Rankings 2026. Last updated: February 2026.
What Are the Top Universities in United States?
| University | Best For | Global Ranking |
|---|---|---|
| MIT | Engineering, Sciences, Economics, AI | #1 QS |
| Stanford University | Technology, Business, Medicine | #4 QS |
| Harvard University | All subjects, Law, Medicine, Business | #4 QS |
| Caltech | Engineering, Physics, Chemistry | #10 QS |
| University of Chicago | Economics, Law, Business | #21 QS |
What Scholarships Are Available in United States?
| Scholarship | Details |
|---|---|
| Fulbright Program | Full funding for graduate students from 155+ countries |
| Knight-Hennessy Scholars (Stanford) | Full funding for any Stanford graduate degree |
| Harvard Graduate Fellowships | Full funding + stipend for PhD students |
| AAUW International Fellowship | For women pursuing graduate study |
How Do You Apply to Universities in United States?
- 1. Identify target universities (reach, match, safety) and programs
- 2. Take SAT/ACT (undergrad) or GRE/GMAT (grad) and TOEFL/IELTS
- 3. Request academic transcripts, obtain letters of recommendation (3 required)
- 4. Write personal statements and supplemental essays
- 5. Apply via Common App (undergrad) or directly (grad) – deadlines Nov 1–Jan 1
- 6. Receive decisions (March/April for undergrad) and choose university
- 7. Pay SEVIS fee ($350) and apply for F-1 visa at US Embassy/Consulate
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the F-1 student visa for the USA?
The F-1 visa is the most common student visa for the USA. It allows study at an SEVP-approved school (university or college). Requirements: I-20 form from your school, SEVIS fee payment ($350), DS-160 application, visa interview at US Embassy/Consulate, and proof of financial support. Processing: 2–8 weeks.
What is OPT and STEM OPT?
Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows F-1 graduates to work in the USA for 1 year in a field related to their degree. STEM OPT extends this to 3 years total for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) graduates. OPT does not require employer sponsorship; STEM OPT requires employer E-Verify enrollment.
How do I get financial aid as an international student in the USA?
International students are generally not eligible for US federal financial aid but can receive university-specific merit scholarships (based on grades and test scores), grants, and assistantships (for graduate students). Ivy League and elite universities meet 100% of demonstrated financial need, even for international students. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is only for US citizens/residents.
What are the Common App and Coalition App?
The Common Application (Common App) and Coalition Application are centralized platforms used for undergraduate applications to 900+ US universities. Most top universities use Common App. Students write one main personal essay (650 words) plus supplemental essays for each school. Deadlines: Early Decision (Nov 1/15), Early Action (Nov 1/15), Regular Decision (Jan 1).
How competitive is admission to top US universities?
Acceptance rates at elite universities: Harvard (3.4%), Stanford (3.7%), MIT (4.1%), Columbia (4%), Princeton (5.8%). Most good universities have 20–50% acceptance rates. International applicants face the same or slightly lower acceptance rates than domestic applicants. Strong grades, test scores, extracurriculars, and compelling essays are all required.
What is the H-1B visa and can I get it after graduating?
The H-1B is a work visa for specialty occupations requiring a US bachelor’s degree or equivalent. It is employer-sponsored and subject to an annual lottery (65,000 regular cap + 20,000 master’s cap). Competition is extremely high – fewer than 30% of applicants receive H-1B in recent years. STEM OPT’s 3-year extension provides time for multiple H-1B lottery attempts.
Information on this page is compiled from official government immigration sources, OECD data, and university websites. Last verified: February 2026.