Study in the USA
Flexible degrees, world-leading research and practical training after graduation — with extended work options for STEM graduates.
- Intakes: Fall · Spring
- Flexible degrees
- OPT + STEM OPT
Study in the USA to unlock new possibilities
The United States has the world’s largest higher-education system, with thousands of accredited institutions and an enormous range of programmes. Its flexible curriculum lets undergraduates explore subjects before choosing a major, and its research universities lead in STEM, business and the creative industries.
Many universities offer scholarships, assistantships and tuition waivers, especially for strong postgraduate applicants — so a well-planned application can make the US more affordable than its reputation suggests.
Why study in the USA?
- Flexible degrees: explore different subjects before you declare your major as an undergraduate.
- STEM advantage: up to 12 months of OPT, plus a 24-month extension for eligible STEM graduates.
- Funding options: scholarships, assistantships and tuition waivers for strong applicants.
- Career networks: internships and employers across every industry, coast to coast.
Key facts
Key facts to study in the USA
Education
Country stats
Weather
Weather shows typical average winter lows and summer highs.
Requirements
What you’ll need
Exact requirements depend on your course and university. Your counsellor will give you a personalised checklist and review every document with you.
- Academic transcripts & certificates
- Valid passport
- English test score (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo or PTE)
- SAT/ACT (some UG) or GRE/GMAT (some PG)
- Statement of purpose & essays
- Letters of recommendation
- Form I-20 from your university
- SEVIS I-901 fee receipt
- DS-160 & visa interview
Intakes
When can you start?
Planning around the right intake gives you more course choice, better scholarship chances and time for your visa.
Fall (Aug / Sep)
Main intakeThe most programmes, scholarships and assistantships. Start 12–15 months ahead.
Spring (January)
Second intakeA good range of postgraduate programmes, with fewer funding options.
Summer (May)
Limited intakeOffered by a small number of universities for specific programmes.
Costs
What will it cost?
Indicative figures to help you plan. We’ll build an exact budget for every university on your shortlist.
| Tuition — public universities | ≈ $20,000 – $40,000 per year |
|---|---|
| Tuition — private universities | ≈ $35,000 – $60,000+ per year |
| Living costs | ≈ $12,000 – $25,000 per year, depending on the city |
| Visa costs | F-1 visa application fee plus the SEVIS I-901 fee |
Figures are approximate and change regularly. Always confirm current fees and visa requirements with your counsellor before you apply.
Work rights
Working during and after your studies
Work rights help you gain experience and support your living costs. Here’s how it works in the USA.
While you study
F-1 students can usually work on campus up to 20 hours a week during semesters and full-time during breaks. Curricular Practical Training (CPT) may allow internships related to your course.
After you graduate
Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows up to 12 months of work in your field, with a further 24-month extension for eligible STEM degrees. US policy can change, so we’ll brief you on the latest rules before you apply.
Universities
Universities & colleges in the USA
We guide applications to a wide range of institutions in the USA. Tell us your course, academic profile and budget, and your counsellor will share a shortlist of options that genuinely fit.
FAQs
Questions about studying in the USA
Can’t find your answer? Ask your counsellor — we’re happy to help.
Is the GRE still required?
Many US universities have made the GRE optional for some programmes, while others still require it. We’ll check every programme on your shortlist so you only take the tests you need.
How do you help with the F-1 visa interview?
We help you prepare your documents and run mock interviews so you can explain your study plans, finances and goals clearly and confidently.
Can I get a scholarship in the USA?
Yes — many universities offer merit scholarships, and postgraduate students may qualify for teaching or research assistantships. A strong, early application gives you the best chance.
Want to study in the USA?
Get a free counselling session
Speak to a Voco Vision counsellor about courses, costs, scholarships and visas for the USA.