Study in USA: Top Universities for Indians & Application Process
The United States is a popular choice for international students wanting to pursue higher education. Every year, more than 211,000 students choose the USA as their study destination, according to the Ministry of External Affairs. Students strive to study in USA as it is a land of various opportunities in all fields. It is important to mention that universities and institutions in the US actively encourage diversity and work to break down cultural barriers whenever they can.
Why Study in The USA?
Various reasons justify why International students opt to study in USA. Here are some reasons why choosing the USA is a better option:
- The UShas many top-ranking universities, making it a preferred destination for international students.
- US degrees hold global recognition, thereby expanding job prospects for individuals.
- The US education system is known for its flexibility, alleviating stress on students.
- US universities provide excellent exposure by admitting students from diverse countries and cultural backgrounds, fostering inclusivity.
- Various support programs are offered to international students to ensure their comfort and well-being.
- Students enrolled in US universities are allowed to work 20 hours per week during the semester and 40 hours during breaks.
Top Universities for Indian Students in the USA
Here is a table showcasing the top universities in the USA for Indian students:
| University | QS Rankings | US News & World Report Ranking | International Students Percentage |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 1 | 2 | 29.1 |
| Stanford University | 3 | 3 | 24.1 |
| Harvard University | 5 | 1 | 22.9 |
| California Institute of Technology (Caltech) | 6 | 9 | 29.94 |
| University of Chicago | 10 | 22 | 21 |
| University of Pennsylvania | 13 | 15 | 19 |
| Princeton University | 16 | 16 | 24 |
| Yale University | 18 | 11 | 21.6 |
| Cornell University | 20 | 21 | 21.8 |
| Columbia University | 22 | 7 | 30 |
| Johns Hopkins University | 24 | 10 | 19.2 |
| University of Michigan-Ann Arbor | 25 | 19 | 17 |
| University of California, Berkeley (UCB) | 27 | 4 | 12 |
| Northwestern University | 32 | 24 | 22 |
| New York University | 39 | 31 | 27.6 |
| University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) | 44 | 14 | 7 |
| Duke University | 50 | 25 | 23 |
| Carnegie Mellon University | 52 | 118 | 35 |
| University of California, San Diego (UCSD) | 53 | 20 | 21.4 |
| Brown University | 63 | 129 | 14 |
| University of Lincoln | 801 | 935 | 126 |
Eligibility Requirements to Study in USA
Eligibility criteria vary depending on the university and course. However, some common requirements applicable to all universities and courses include:
- Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
- Students are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week or less on-campus during the semester and full-time during academic breaks.
- Applicants must hold an F-1 student visa.
- Required exams for university applications in the US include the GRE, GMAT, and SAT.
- Language proficiency exams such as IELTS and TOEFL are necessary.
- Document requirements for US university applications typically include a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, resume, and other specific entry documents.
Note:If you want to study in Europe, it’s important to note that the eligibility requirements will differ from those of other regions.
Entrance Exam Requirements to Study in USA
The entrance exam requirement varies based on the university. However, the approximate scores for each test required to obtain admission are provided in the table:
| Entrance Exam | Score Range/Requirement |
| TOEFL | Graduate and postgraduate courses: 65-85 (minimum 20 in each section) – Ph.D. courses: 90-100 (minimum 20 in each section) |
| IELTS | Average score: 6.5-9 for Indian students – Over 3400 colleges and universities accept IELTS scores for admission |
| PTE | Required score: 70 – Some courses may require higher scores |
| SAT | Minimum score for undergraduate courses: 1300 – Minimum score for top universities: 1520 |
| GRE | Minimum score: 3320 – GRE accepted for MBA applications instead of GMAT |
| GMAT | Minimum score: 700 – Minimum score for top business schools: 740 |
Application Process to Study in USA
While the application procedures may differ among universities and courses, there are several common steps in the application process for higher studies in the US that candidates should not overlook:
- Begin by researching the best colleges and desired courses.
- Reach out to selected colleges directly or visit their websites for additional information.
- Review the list of colleges or universities and narrow down options as much as possible.
- Prepare for and take the required entrance exams for your desired course, such as the ACT, SAT, TOEFL, GRE, IELTS, and GMAT.
- Have your Statements of Purpose (SOPs) and Letters of Recommendation (LORs) ready for submission as needed.
- If selected for admission, be prepared for a video interview round for confirmation.
- Upon acceptance, receive notification and initiate the visa application process.
If you have any questions or require assistance with your application process, feel free to reach out to our Overseas Education Consultant at 8595338595 or via email at [email protected].
