Study in USA for International Students 2024

Study in USA for international students is the dream of many Asian and African students including Pakistani students to get higher education. Over time, American universities have gained immense popularity, attracting students from every corner of the globe. Boasting the largest international student population globally, the USA has welcomed over a million students for education, out of which a big chunk of students got themselves enrolled in American universities for higher education.

This significant attraction of students towards the USA underscores that the USA has the world's best universities. The fascination of students with the USA is beyond the academic realm, allowing students to immerse themselves in the rich cultural diversity of the United States. The country's cultural diversity offers a unique and enriching experience for those who choose to study there.

Furthermore, the sheer number of universities in the USA surpasses the collective count of those in Europe, emphasizing the USA's attention to the education sector. Consequently, the USA emerges not merely as an educational hub but as a gateway, teeming with opportunities for students, providing a comprehensive and multifaceted environment for personal and academic growth.

American universities are offering various degrees students can choose from, i.e., bachelor's, master's, and doctorate programs. If you're a student and are thinking about studying in America, Here's the guide, you should check.

Scholarships in USA for Pakistani Students

The USA offers a variety of scholarships to its students. Here are several alternatives that students can explore while taking admission to American universities:

1. Full Bright Scholarship
2. Global Undergraduate Exchange Program
3. Humphrey Fellowship Program
4. Community College Initiative program
5. Education USA Opportunity Funds Program

1. Fulbright Scholarship

Fulbright is a fully funded PhD programs in USA for international students including Pakistani students. This program is funded by the US government as a worldwide prestigious trade software.

It covers all the expenses of students. The scholarship is offered to undergraduate students, graduates, and doctoral programs. Pakistani students are eligible for this scholarship program and can apply for this scholarship program through the American Educational Foundation in Pakistan.

All the students who need to apply for a scholarship under this program have a bachelor's diploma or an afloat 16 years of education, a good academic record, and good communication skills in the English language.

2. Global Undergraduate Exchange Program

The Global Undergraduate Exchange Program is offering scholarships for Pakistani undergraduates to study for one semester in the United States. This program covers tuition, room, board, and transportation costs. Its goal is to promote mutual understanding, cultural exchange, and educational development between the United States and Pakistan. It allows students to improve their academic skills, develop leadership qualities in students, and help them in engaging with the community.

Interested Pakistani students can apply through the US Educational Foundation in Pakistan. The eligibility criteria for students are that he/she should have completed at least one semester at a Pakistani University and have a strong academic record

3. Humphrey Fellowship Program

Humphrey Fellowship Program is an initiative by the USA that brings accomplished professionals from all across the world to the USA. It does not target induvial from any specific country therefore Pakistani aspirants can apply for this fellowship program.

The duration of this fellowship is one year and during this time it is ensured that the professional skills of students may be enhanced with his academic skills. this program is helping foster a relationship between the USA and Pakistan.

The eligibility criteria for the students are that they must have at least five years of professional experience, strong leadership qualities along with a bachelor's degree. The procedure of selection is highly competitive therefore the student must have a grip on the English language.

4. Community College Initiative Program

Community College Initiative Program is a scholarship offered to Pakistani students to study in the USA for one academic year. The program focuses on building technical skills and English language proficiency in students.

Various initiatives have been taken under this program for international students including those from Pakistan to study in community Colleges of the United States. These programs aim to encourage educational opportunities and cultural exchange across the globe.

The requirements for international students to study in community colleges in the USA can vary based on the institution and the program.

5. Education USA Opportunity Funds Program

The program is based on assisting highly qualified but low-income students who cannot support themselves for their higher education. It helps students financially with their application fees, tests, and other related expenses.

Universities in USA for Pakistani Students

Following are the top universities in the USA:

1. Sandford University
2. Harvard University
3. California Institute of Technology
4. Princeton University
5. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

1. Sandford University

2. Harvard University

Harvard University, founded in 1636 ranked 3rd in the world's ranking, is one of the oldest universities in the World. Harvard is known for its great academic programs, global influence, and a notable list of alumni, including numerous U.S., Nobel laureates, presidents, and business leaders. The university's commitment to excellence in education and research has solidified Harvard's position as an inspiration for intellectual achievement and innovation.

3. California Institute of Technology

4. Princeton University

5. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

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Admission Requirements and Documents List

To get admission to an American university, students have to fill out the application Performa is available at every university's official website. The university might ask for additional documents to verify the information, depending on the degree the student is applying for. Students need to give truthful information to the university they want to join. Here are some essential documents every student should have before applying to an American university:

• Application Form
• Educational Documents (Result Cards & certificates)
• English Proficiency Test i.e., IELTS, TOFEL certificate
• Letters of Recommendation (2 at least)
• Statement of Purpose
• CNIC
• Passport
• Passport size pictures
• CV Resume
• Work experience (if any)
• Contact Details
• Research proposal or statement of research interests for Ph.D./Doctoral Program
  

 Visa Requirements and Documents List

To study in the USA, typically international students need a student visa, which is called an F-1 visa. Here's a general overview of the visa requirements and the list of documents needed for a U.S. student visa:

• Application form DS-160 for nonimmigrant visa 
• Receive the Form I-20 from the U.S. university or school where you have been recognized. This form confirms your acceptance and provides information about your program
• Pay the visa application fee.
• A passport with a validity of at least 6 months so that you can stay in the USA.
• Provide evidence of financial ability to cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs. Bank statements, scholarship letters, and affidavits of support are also needed
• Form DS-160 Confirmation Page
• SEVIS I-901 Fee Receipt
• I-20 Form
• Passport
• Bank statement
• Educational Certificates and Degrees
• English Proficiency Test Certificate
• Photographs
• Visa Application Fee Receipt

Please keep in mind that the documents may vary from degree to degree and individual to induvial.

Living Cost in the USA

Living costs in the USA may vary from individual to individual but according to an estimation, it can range from $1000 to $2500 depending on the lifestyle and area you are living in the USA. Students should try to make a budget for their expenditures i.e., travel, food, accommodation, and health, and should try to follow the budget to maintain their finances.

Part-time working hours and income

In the United States students are allowed to work part time during studies. Typically, the students are permitted 20 hours to work in a week during semesters. Students have opportunities to work on campus, off campus, and on internships. this income may support them to be financially independent while studying in the USA.

After Study work permit/Future opportunities

International students in the United States are eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT) after completing their studies. OPT is a program that allows students to work in their relevant field for up to 12 months (and up to 24 months for STEM degree holders) after graduation.

Some students may transition to an H-1B visa, a non-immigrant visa that permits U.S. employers to hire foreigners temporarily.

Obtaining an H-1B visa is a separate process from OPT and generally involves employer sponsorship.

Some students may explore the possibility of obtaining a green card (permanent residency) through employment-based immigration categories, but this is a more complex process.