Why Choose the USA?

The United States is home to the world’s most prestigious universities, cutting-edge research facilities, and unmatched academic flexibility. With over 4,000 institutions offering diverse programs, the U.S. provides unparalleled opportunities for innovation, networking, and career advancement.

All accredited U.S. colleges and universities are recognized by agencies approved by the U.S. Department of Education. International students are protected under federal regulations and supported through dedicated international student offices on every campus.

Key Facts at a Glance

Fact	Detail
Primary Language	English
Visa Type	F-1 Student Visa (We provide full DS-160 and interview support.)
Major Intakes	Fall (August/September – main intake), Spring (January), and limited Summer (May)
Required Exams	IELTS/TOEFL/PTE (for English proficiency); SAT/ACT (undergrad); GRE/GMAT (grad, if required)
Program Levels	Associate, Bachelor’s (4 years), Master’s (1–2 years), Doctoral (PhD), and Certificate Programs
Est. Annual Fees	Public Universities: USD 20,000–40,000 Private Universities: USD 30,000–60,000+
Funding Sources	Scholarships, assistantships, educational loans, part-time on-campus work, and personal savings

Top-Ranked Universities (QS 2024)

The U.S. dominates global rankings with its research output, faculty excellence, and industry partnerships.

University	QS Rankings (2024)
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	1
Stanford University	5
Harvard University	4
University of Chicago	11
University of Pennsylvania	12
California Institute of Technology (Caltech)	15

Popular Fields of Study

International students in the U.S. gravitate toward high-impact, STEM-focused, and career-driven disciplines:

Computer Science & Engineering: AI, machine learning, robotics, and software development at top tech hubs.
Business & MBA: World-famous programs with strong corporate recruitment (e.g., Wharton, Kellogg).
Data Science & Analytics: High demand across finance, healthcare, and tech sectors.
Biomedical Sciences & Public Health: Cutting-edge research and clinical opportunities.
Finance & Economics: Pathways to Wall Street and global financial institutions.
Fine Arts & Design: Creative programs supported by vibrant cultural ecosystems in cities like NYC and LA.

Admission & Visa Requirements

To study in the U.S., you must be accepted by a SEVP-certified institution and obtain an F-1 student visa.

1. Academic & Standardized Testing

Accreditation: Your school must be certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
Undergraduate: High school transcripts + SAT/ACT (optional at many schools) + English test.
Graduate: Bachelor’s degree + GRE/GMAT (if required) + English proficiency + SOP/LORs.

2. I-20 Form & SEVIS

Once admitted, your university issues Form I-20. You must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee (USD 350) and schedule a visa interview at a U.S. embassy.

3. Financial Proof

You must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover the first year’s tuition and living expenses (typically USD 40,000–70,000 total, depending on location and program).

Excel's Support: We guide you through I-20 verification, DS-160 form completion, mock visa interviews, and financial documentation.

Important Application Intakes

U.S. universities primarily admit students in the Fall, with additional Spring options.

Intake	Timeframe	Recommended Application Period
Fall (Main)	August/September to December	October to February (for priority consideration)
Spring	January to May	July to October of the previous year
Summer (Limited)	May to August	December to March (only for select programs)

Cost of Study & Living Expenses

Budgeting accurately is essential for your U.S. study journey.

Expense	Estimated Cost Range (USD)
Tuition Fees	Public: USD 20,000–40,000/year Private: USD 30,000–60,000+/year
Living Expenses	USD 12,000–20,000/year (higher in NYC, LA, Boston; lower in Midwest/southern states)
Health Insurance	USD 1,000–3,000/year (mandatory; provided by university or private plan)
Additional Costs	USD 2,000–4,000/year (books, transport, phone, personal)

Available Scholarships

U.S. institutions offer generous merit-based aid to international students:

Fulbright Foreign Student Program (U.S. Government)
Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship
University-specific merit scholarships (e.g., USC Trustee, NYU Wagner Dean’s Award)
Graduate Assistantships (tuition waiver + stipend)
Private foundation scholarships (e.g., AAUW, PEO)
Athletic and talent-based awards (for eligible students)