Study in the United States of America (USA)
The United States of America (USA) is one of the world's leading destinations for higher education, attracting over one million international students every year. With 50 states, thousands of accredited universities and colleges, cutting-edge research facilities, and a globally recognised education system, the USA offers exceptional academic and career opportunities.
The country is renowned for innovation, technology, entrepreneurship, and academic excellence. Home to world-famous cities such as New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Boston, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C., the USA provides students with an enriching educational experience, multicultural exposure, and countless career possibilities.
Whether you are planning to pursue an undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral degree, studying in the USA equips you with internationally recognised qualifications and practical skills valued by employers worldwide.
Top Reasons to Study in the United States of America
1. World-Class Education
The USA is home to many of the world's highest-ranked universities, offering internationally recognised degrees, outstanding faculty, modern teaching methods, and excellent student support services.
2. Flexible Education System
Unlike many countries, American universities allow students to choose electives, change majors, pursue minors, or even study double majors, giving students greater flexibility to shape their education according to their interests and career goals.
3. Practical Learning & Research Opportunities
Students benefit from:
Modern laboratories
Research centres
Industry projects
Paid internships
Innovation hubs
Real-world learning experiences
This practical approach helps graduates become highly employable globally.
4. Excellent Career Opportunities (CPT & OPT)
International students can gain valuable work experience through:
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) during their studies
Optional Practical Training (OPT) after graduation
24-Month STEM OPT Extension for eligible STEM graduates
These opportunities significantly enhance career prospects.
5. Scholarships & Multicultural Environment
Many universities provide:
Merit-based scholarships
Need-based financial aid
Graduate Assistantships (RA/TA)
Tuition discounts
Students also experience a diverse and welcoming environment, studying alongside peers from more than 150 countries.
Higher Education System in the United States of America
Associate Degree (2 Years)
Typically offered by community colleges, Associate Degrees provide affordable education with the opportunity to transfer into the third year of a bachelor's degree.
Bachelor's Degree (4 Years)
Bachelor's programmes combine general education with specialised study and often allow students to pursue:
Double majors
Minors
Elective subjects
Internship opportunities
Master's Degree (1–2 Years)
Graduate programmes focus on advanced coursework, professional development, or research within a specialised field.
Doctoral Degree (PhD) (4–7 Years)
Doctoral programmes emphasise original research and often include funding opportunities such as teaching or research assistantships.
Types of Higher Education Institutions in the United States of America
Public Universities
Government-funded
Lower tuition compared to private universities
Wide range of academic programmes
Strong research opportunities
Private Universities
Privately funded
Smaller class sizes
Extensive campus facilities
Higher scholarship availability
Community Colleges
Affordable tuition
Two-year associate programmes
Transfer pathways to four-year universities
Career-focused education
Intakes in the United States of America
Intake | Duration | Availability |
|---|---|---|
Fall Intake | August–September | Main intake with the largest number of programmes and scholarships |
Spring Intake | January | Good programme availability with fewer courses than Fall |
Summer Intake | May–June | Limited programmes, mainly specialised or transfer courses |
Suggested Application Timeline (Fall Intake)
Timeline | Activity |
|---|---|
12 Months Before | Prepare IELTS/TOEFL/PTE, SAT, GRE or GMAT (if required) |
9 Months Before | Research universities and submit applications |
6 Months Before | Receive admission offer and Form I-20, arrange finances |
4 Months Before | Pay SEVIS fee and prepare visa documentation |
3 Months Before | Complete DS-160 and book visa interview |
1–2 Months Before | Attend visa interview and prepare for departure |
Documents Required for a Student Visa to the United States of America
Personal Documents
Valid Passport (minimum six months validity)
Passport-size photographs
Academic Documents
Undergraduate Applicants
SEE/SLC Certificate
Grade 11 & 12 Certificates and Transcripts
SAT/ACT (if required)
Postgraduate Applicants
Bachelor's Degree
Academic Transcripts
GRE/GMAT (if required)
English Language Requirements
IELTS
TOEFL iBT
PTE Academic
Duolingo English Test (accepted by many universities)
(English language waivers may be available depending on the institution.)
University Documents
Admission Letter
Form I-20
Scholarship Letter (if applicable)
Application Documents
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Letters of Recommendation (2–3)
Updated CV/Resume
Financial Documents
Bank Statements
Affidavit of Support
Education Loan Documents (if applicable)
Scholarship Award Letter (if applicable)
Visa Documents
DS-160 Confirmation Page
SEVIS I-901 Fee Receipt
MRV Fee Payment Receipt
Visa Appointment Confirmation
Estimated Cost of Studying in the United States of America
Expense | Low Cost | Medium Cost | High Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
Tuition Fees | USD 6,000 | USD 20,000 | USD 50,000+ |
Accommodation & Living | USD 10,000 | USD 15,000 | USD 22,000 |
Health Insurance | USD 600 | USD 1,000 | USD 1,500 |
Books & Supplies | USD 800 | USD 1,000 | USD 1,200 |
SEVIS & Visa Fees | USD 535 | USD 535 | USD 535 |
Estimated Total | USD 17,935 | USD 37,535 | USD 74,235+ |
Approximate Equivalent in Nepalese Rupees (NPR):
Low Cost: NPR 23–25 Lakhs
Medium Cost: NPR 48–52 Lakhs
High Cost: NPR 95 Lakhs to 1 Crore+
Note: Costs vary depending on the university, programme, state, accommodation, and personal lifestyle.
Scholarships Available in the United States of America
International students may be eligible for:
Fulbright Nepal Scholarships
EducationUSA Opportunity Funds Program
University Merit Scholarships
Need-Based Financial Aid
Research Assistantships (RA)
Teaching Assistantships (TA)
External Scholarships (ADB, NGOs, Foundations)
Tip: Apply 8–12 months before your intended intake to maximise scholarship opportunities.
Work Opportunities for International Students in the United States of America
Opportunity | Details |
|---|---|
On-Campus Employment | Up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions |
Vacation Periods | Up to 40 hours per week during official breaks |
CPT | Paid internships related to your programme while studying |
OPT | Up to 12 months after graduation |
STEM OPT Extension | Additional 24 months for eligible STEM graduates |
Popular Courses to Study in the United States of America
MBA (Master of Business Administration)
Computer Science
Information Technology
Data Science
Artificial Intelligence
Cyber Security
Civil Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Public Health
Nursing
Finance
Accounting
Economics
Environmental Science
Hospitality & Tourism Management
Why Choose PRH Global Consultancy?
Choosing the right education consultancy is just as important as choosing the right university. At PRH Global Consultancy, we are committed to helping students achieve their international education goals through professional, transparent, and personalised guidance.
Start Your Study Abroad Journey Today
Take the first step toward earning a globally recognised qualification in the United States of America. Whether you're planning to study for a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree, PRH Global Consultancy is here to guide you through every stage of the process—from university selection to visa approval and beyond.
Book your FREE counselling session today and turn your dream of studying in the USA into reality.