The United States, the no.1 educational system, may offer students a top-notch education, a chance to explore a variety of cultures, and excellent professional opportunities. Students opt to study in the US for a variety of reasons, including the high standard of instruction, possibilities for research, diversity, employment prospects, flexibility, language, culture, and cultural experiences. American colleges provide students with the choice to tailor their education to their interests and professional aspirations by providing a wide selection of programs and courses. The US is home to a wide range of cultural experiences and activities, from museums and art galleries to music festivals and athletic events, and English is the predominant language of teaching. Employers throughout the world are very interested in hiring graduates from American colleges, giving students access to vital skills and networking possibilities.
Why USA:
The decision to study in the USA rather than places like the UK, Australia, or Canada will be based on personal preferences and circumstances. Yet, there are several elements that can make the USA a more desirable study location for some students:
- Academic Excellence: The United States is home to some of the most regarded and well-known universities in the world, including Harvard, Stanford, and MIT. These academic institutions offer a wide range of academic programs and are renowned throughout the globe for their brilliance in research and teaching.
- Broad Variety of Programs: Students have a multitude of choices and the freedom to customize their studies to their interests owing to the USA’s broad range of academic initiatives in a variety of subjects.
- Cultural Diversity: Since the United States is a melting pot of cultures and because students from over the world come to study there, there is a multicultural and diversified setting that can enhance the educational experiences for pupils.
- Professional Opportunities: The USA is a hub for many multinational corporations and industries, giving students the chance to network with experts in their field of study and get significant job experience.
Top Universities:
The following list of top institutions in the States is based on the most recent worldwide rankings published by QS World University Rankings 2022:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is ranked first globally.
- Stanford University ranked second globally.
- Harvard University, ranked 3rd globally,
- California Institute of Technology (Caltech), ranked 4th globally,
- The University of Chicago ranked 10th globally.
- Princeton University is ranked 12th globally.
- Cornell University is ranked 18th globally.
- Yale University is ranked 19th globally.
- Columbia University ranked 20th globally.
- The University of Pennsylvania ranked 21st globally.
Other top-ranked universities in the USA include:
- Johns Hopkins University
- University of Michigan
- Duke University
- Northwestern University
- University of California, Berkeley
- The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
- The University of California, San Diego (UCSD)
- University of Washington
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
The rankings are simply one aspect to consider while selecting an institution. It’s crucial to investigate and evaluate several institutions depending on your unique academic interests, objectives, and personal circumstances.
Our Partner Universities:
We are having a number of prestigious partner universities at our panel. Some of them are:
- Johns Hopkins University
- University of California
- University of Arizona
- Portland State University
- Pacific Lutheran University
- MIU City University Miami
- Kent State University
- Gonzaga University
- California State University
- University of California
- University of Central Florida
- University of Connecticut
- Colorado Denver University
Scholarship:
There are several scholarships available for Pakistani students who wish to study in the USA. Some of them include:
- Fulbright Scholarship: This scholarship is a merit-based program that provides funding for Pakistani students to pursue graduate-level study or conduct research in the USA. The program covers tuition, airfare, living expenses, and health insurance.
- Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (UGRAD): This scholarship is funded by the US Department of State and provides full scholarships for Pakistani undergraduate students to study in the USA for one semester or one academic year.
- The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program: This fellowship is aimed at mid-career professionals from Pakistan who wish to pursue non-degree academic study and professional development in the USA.
- American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship: This scholarship is offered to international students who demonstrate leadership potential and wish to pursue an undergraduate degree at American University in Washington, DC.
- Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship: This scholarship is offered to outstanding Pakistani students who wish to pursue postgraduate studies at universities around the world, including the USA.
- The Pakistani American Cultural Center Scholarship: This scholarship is available to Pakistani-American students who are pursuing higher education in the USA.
Study without IELTS:
There are some options for Pakistani students who want to apply to universities in the USA for undergraduate and postgraduate programs without providing an IELTS score. Here are a few examples:
- Medium of Instruction Waiver: Some universities in the USA may waive the IELTS requirement if the language of instruction of the applicant’s previous degree was English. In this case, students would need to provide documentation proving that they received their education in English.
- Duolingo English Test: Some universities may accept the Duolingo English Test as an alternative to the IELTS. This is an online English proficiency exam that can be taken from anywhere with an internet connection.
- Pearson Test of English (PTE): Some universities in the USA may accept the PTE as an alternative to the IELTS. This test assesses English proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
It’s important to note that the eligibility requirements and conditions for IELTS waivers may vary by university and program, and some programs may require a higher level of English proficiency than others.
What is a student visa in the USA?
A student visa for the USA is a non-immigrant visa that allows foreign nationals to study at a U.S. educational institution. It is typically referred to as an F-1 visa, and it is issued to individuals who plan to pursue academic or language courses, vocational training, or other types of study programs in the United States.
To obtain an F-1 visa, the applicant must first be accepted by a U.S. school that is authorized by the U.S. government to enroll foreign students. Once the applicant has been accepted, they will receive a Form I-20 from the school, which is required to apply for an F-1 visa at the U.S. Embassy.
Student Visa Requirements:
To apply for a student visa to study in the USA, Pakistani students must meet the following requirements:
- Acceptance at a SEVP-approved school: Students must have a valid acceptance letter from a school approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) before applying for a student visa.
- Enrollment in a full-time academic program: Students must be enrolled in a full-time academic program, such as a degree program, at a SEVP-approved school.
- Financial support: Students must demonstrate that they have sufficient financial resources to cover their tuition, fees, and living expenses during their stay in the USA. This may include bank statements, financial aid documents, or scholarship award letters.
- English language proficiency: Students must demonstrate proficiency in English by taking an approved English language proficiency test such as the TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test.
- Non-immigrant Intent: Students must show that they have a residence outside the USA and do not intend to abandon that residence. This can be shown through documentation such as property deeds or family ties.
- Visa application: Students must apply for a student visa at the US embassy or consulate in Pakistan and pay the visa application fee.
- Interview: Students must attend a visa interview at the US embassy or consulate and provide additional documentation as requested by the consular officer.
It’s important to note that the visa application process may vary depending on individual circumstances and the specific embassy or consulate.
Employment during studies:
International students studying in the USA on an F-1 visa are eligible to work on-campus and off-campus during their studies, subject to certain conditions. Here are some employment opportunities for international students studying in the USA:
- On-campus employment: International students are eligible to work on-campus for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during scheduled breaks, such as summer and winter vacations. On-campus jobs may include working in the library, cafeteria, or other campus departments.
- Optional Practical Training (OPT): OPT is a temporary employment authorization that allows international students to work off-campus in a job related to their field of study. Students are eligible for up to 12 months of OPT during or after their academic program. Students in certain STEM fields may be eligible for an additional 24 months of OPT.
- Curricular Practical Training (CPT): CPT is a temporary employment authorization that allows international students to work off-campus in a job related to their field of study. CPT is authorized by the academic institution and must be an integral part of the student’s curriculum.
It’s important to note that there are specific eligibility requirements and limitations for each type of employment opportunity, and international students must comply with all regulations related to their F-1 visa status.
Living Expenses:
The cost of living for international students in the USA can vary depending on the location, type of accommodation, and individual spending habits. For a single person living on their own, here are some approximate average costs:
- Housing: The cost of housing can vary depending on the type of accommodations and location. On-campus housing may range from $5,000 to $15,000 per year, while off-campus housing may range from $8,000 to $20,000 per year. For a single person, renting a one-bedroom apartment may cost around $1,000 to $2,500 per month, depending on the location.
- Food: The cost of food will depend on the student’s eating habits and preferences. On average, a single person may spend around $200 to $400 per month on food.
- Transportation: The cost of transportation can vary depending on the location and mode of transportation. Students may need to budget for expenses such as public transportation or car rentals. On average, transportation expenses may range from $50 to $100 per month.
- Health insurance: International students are required to have health insurance while studying in the USA. The cost of health insurance may range from $500 to $1,500 per year.
Overall, for a single person living on their own, international students should budget for an average cost of living of $15,000 to $30,000 per year, depending on their location and individual spending habits.
Accommodation:
International students in the USA have several options for accommodation, depending on their preference, budget, and location. Here are some common options:
- On-campus housing: Many universities offer on-campus housing for their international students. This can include dormitories, shared apartments, or suites. On-campus housing can be a convenient and affordable option, and it also provides opportunities to connect with other students and participate in campus activities.
- Off-campus housing: International students may also choose to live off-campus in private apartments or houses. This can provide more flexibility in terms of location, amenities, and roommates. However, off-campus housing can be more expensive and may require more planning and research.
- Homestay: A homestay involves living with a local family in their home. This can provide a unique cultural experience and an opportunity to practice English language skills. Homestays may include meals and some household amenities, but they can also be more restrictive in terms of privacy and independence.
- Shared housing: International students may also consider shared housing, which involves renting a room or sharing an apartment with other students. This can be a more affordable option and also provide opportunities for socializing and making friends.
In the USA, many universities may require first-year international students to live on campus as a condition of their admission. This is often done to provide additional support and resources for new students who may be adjusting to a new country and culture.
It’s important for international students to research their accommodation options thoroughly and consider factors such as location, safety, cost, and convenience.
