Study in USA

Since the inception of the first university in America, Harvard University (1636), the United States of America has had one of the best higher education systems in the world. For this reason, you’ll find some of the world’s most highly-ranked institutions in the U.S. like Harvard, Stanford, MIT and Princeton.

In addition, the USA has nearly 4,000 higher education institutions, making it the top host destination for international students. Currently, more than 1,000,000 students from all over the world study in the USA.

In this detailed guide, you shall learn why many students study in the USA, their experience, and what you need to fulfil your dream of studying in the country. More topics to cover include: 

• Study in USA Statistics
• Why Study in USA
• Top Universities to Study in USA 2025
• Affordable Universities and Colleges in USA 2025
• Scholarships in USA
• Top In-Demand Careers in USA 2025
• Top Courses to Study in USA 2025
• Grading System in USA
• Eligibility Criteria to Study in USA
• Study in USA Application Process
• Important Timelines for Study in USA
• Cost of Living and Studying in USA
• Student Life In USA
• Best Cities to Study and Live in USA
• Top Jobs in USA for International Students
• Temporary Graduate Visa in USA
• Permanent Residency (PR) After Study in USA
• Conclusion

Study in USA Statistics

Since the academic year of 2005/2006, the USA has experienced a surge of international students until 2019/2020, when the COVID pandemic slowed down international student mobility. 

However, the USA is back on track in welcoming more students after the pandemic and has even reached the 1.1 million mark in 2023/2024 academic year.      

Here is a graphical representation of the trend in the international student population in the USA.

Here are other interesting facts and figures about studying in the USA.

• The total number of international students in the academic year 2023/2024 was at an all-time high of 1,126,690.
• A record high of 242,782 international students remained in the U.S. to gain practical work experience through Optional Practical Training (OPT) in the 2023/2024 academic year.
• According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, International students in the U.S. contribute more than $50 billion to the country’s economy.
• Compared to other regions in the world, the Sub-Saharan African region experienced the highest growth rate (13%) in 2023/2024.
• 56% of all international students pursued STEM fields with a majority taking math and computer science in the academic year 2023/2024.
• As of the academic year 2023/2024, California (140,858) had the largest share of international students, followed by New York (135,813), Texas (89,546), Massachusetts (82,306), and Illinois (62,299).
• The majority of International students in the academic year 2023/2024 came from India and China. Together, they made up more than 50% of all international students. 
• In Africa, the largest source markets of international students are Nigeria (20,029), Ghana (9,394), Kenya (4,507), Ethiopia (3,078), and South Africa (2,814).
• About 12% of undergraduate international students and 23% of Master’s international students find employment in the state where they studied.
• Between 2021/2022 and 2022/2023, the USA experienced the fastest growth rate (12%) for international students in 40 years.

Why Study in USA

Students usually have various personal and career objectives when studying in the USA. Whether you want to achieve the American Dream or you are after the coveted certification from U.S. universities, here are the main reasons why international students choose to study in the USA.

a) World Class Education

The USA is an education hub consisting of many top-ranked universities, such as Harvard, Stanford, Yale, and MIT. Higher education institutions in the USA have a good reputation in research, offering world-class learning environments and industry-relevant courses and programmes.

Graduates from top U.S. universities often have an easier time finding employment and building strong networks through their classmates and alumni.

b) The USA has a Diverse Student Population

As of the academic year 2022/2023, the USA had an international student population from more than 210 countries. This is a significant number that is indicative of the cultural diversity present in most campuses in the USA.

For international students, this is a great way to meet more people, make new connections, explore other unique cultures, and broaden their perspective to a much more global one.

c) Plenty of Course Options and Flexible Curricula

Whether you’re looking for an associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s, or doctorate, the USA offers plenty of courses for international students. This is due to the diversified American economy, which creates the need for skilled labour in various sectors.

In addition, the USA curriculum is flexible in that you can explore various subjects and elective courses before fully committing to a major. You can change your major if you discover new interests and passions. The advantage of this flexible education system is that you can develop a broader and richer perspective in various disciplines.

This is very different from countries like the UK, where students often specialize immediately when beginning their studies.

d) Lively Student Lifestyle

In many U.S. cities, international students experience a vibrant lifestyle that cuts across all aspects of their life on and off campus. In school, it’s not only about books. You can join clubs, societies, and sporting activities that align with your interests and hobbies. Many American colleges are also famous for their fraternities, sororities, and college sports programs.

You can also take advantage of the many student-friendly amenities available off campus, like restaurants, cafes, gyms, and gaming hubs.  

e) Opportunity to Work During and After Study

In the U.S. it is possible to work up to 20 hours in a week during your studies as an international student provided you have an F-1 visa. During the holidays, you can even work up to 40 hours in a week.

International students also have the option of utilizing the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. It allows you to work in the U.S. during your studies or after you complete your program for up to 12 months. This period can extend up to 24 months if you intend to work in a STEM-related field. 

Top Universities to Study in USA 2025

According to QS, a global higher education network, the following 10 USA universities are ranked highly worldwide.

Affordable Universities and Colleges in USA 2025

If you wish to get access to USA’s world-class education at a budget-friendly cost, check out the following 10 universities that Craydel partners with.

Scholarships in USA

Scholarships in the USA may be offered to international students based on merit and financial needs. If you’re looking to save as much as possible on education costs, the following common scholarships are available for international students in the USA.

• The Fulbright Foreign Student Program – It is a government-funded scholarship granted to international students at graduate level in all fields except medicine. Around 4,000 international students get the scholarship every year.
• Tortuga Backpacks Study Abroad Scholarship – International students currently enrolled in a 4-year undergraduate program at a U.S. university can apply for this $1,000 scholarship.
• AAUW International Fellowships – This is a $20,000 to $50,000 financial aid available to non-US citizen women undertaking graduate studies in the country.
• The Aga Khan International Scholarship Programme – This scholarship is available to students from African countries to study in the USA.
• MPOWER Financing – This scholarship is awarded to international students who are enrolled in a program at a U.S. university supported by MPOWER. This scholarship is available throughout the year and has a wide reach and eligibility criteria.
• The P.E.O International Peace Scholarship – It is awarded to international student women who wish to study for a graduate degree in a U.S. university. 
• Institution-specific scholarships – Universities and colleges in the USA often offer financial aid, especially for graduate studies.
  • In other instances, submitting your Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) or American College Test (ACT) scores may make you eligible for scholarships in some U.S. universities as an international student. However, it’s important to note that submitting these scores is not a requirement for applying to a U.S. university as an international student.

At Craydel, we understand how important it is for students to save costs, so if you apply to any of these universities through Craydel, you’ll get the following awesome scholarships and discounts.

• Illinois Tech Global Education Center (OnCampus) – Up to $25,000 every year for undergraduate
• INTO Saint Louis University – Up to $25,000 every year for undergraduates and up to $20,000 for postgraduate
• Suffolk University – Up to $22,000 scholarship every year for undergraduates and $20,000 every year for postgraduate
• George Mason University – Up to $20,000 scholarship every year for undergraduate
• OnCampus Boston – Up to $20,000 scholarship depending on progression route
• Rowan University & Webster University – Up to $19,000 every year for undergraduate
• ISC University of Hartford – Up to $15,000 for undergraduates and up to $28,000 for years 2 to 4 of undergraduate. Up to $8,000 for the first year of postgraduate
• INTO Hofstra University – Up to $13,000 every year for undergraduate progression programs
• INTO Oregon State University – Up to $12,000 scholarship every year for undergraduate
• INTO Suffolk University – Up to $10,000 for the first year of studies
• INTO Drew University – Up to $10,000 every year for undergraduate
• INTO The University of Alabama at Birmingham – Up to $9,000 Scholarship for the first year of studies, Integrated Masters and Graduate Pathway Programs
• ISC James Madison University – Up to $8,000 for first-year undergraduates and up to $5,000 every year for years 2 to 4
• ISC – Long Island University, Brooklyn and Post – Up to $6,000 in the first year for direct admissions into undergraduate and postgraduate
• INTO George Mason University – Up to $6,000 every year for undergraduate progression programs
• Mercy University International offered by OIEG – Up to 4,000 every year for undergraduate
• ISC Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi – Up to $4,000 for postgraduate
• INTO Illinois State University – Up to $2,000 scholarship every year for undergraduate and postgraduate 
• Navitas Richard Bland College Of William And Mary – Up to $1,000 every year
• Western Washington – Up to 44% off your first year
• Nexford University – Up to 20% off
• Hult International Business School – Based on the application profile & Scholarship essay

Top In-Demand Careers in USA 2025

In pursuit of the American dream, there are many careers that you can choose from in the USA. However, some careers are more promising based on their remuneration, their need for more skilled personnel, and ability to get a stay-back visa to continue to live and work in the USA post-studies.

Here are the top 5 in-demand careers in the USA for 2025.

1. Engineer

Engineering jobs are increasing in demand with technological advancement in the USA. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that the engineering industry will have 140,000 more jobs between 2016 and 2026.

In addition, a career in engineering can pay an annual salary of $91,420, which is above the national average for all occupations. This makes engineering careers one of the top in-demand careers in the U.S. in 2025.

2. Computer Programmer

The U.S. Bureau of Statistics projects that the country needs 6,400 new computer programmers every year between 2023 and 2033.

The need for these specialists is attributed to an ageing workforce resulting in retirement and the thriving technology and startup scene in Silicon Valley and the U.S.A in general.

With only a Bachelor’s degree, international students can become computer programmers in the U.S., earning a lucrative salary of $99,700 per year.      

3. Microbiologist

If you’re passionate about learning about living organisms and their processes, then you should consider pursuing a life science career such as microbiology.

It’s a high-paying career where you can make around $78,280 per year on average and as high as $85,470 with only a Bachelor’s. In addition, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that jobs in this field will grow by 853,600  between 2016 and 2026.

4. Doctor

Projections by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) point to a need of up to 86,000 doctors in the country by 2036. 

In addition, according to the Centre for Health Workforce Studies,the healthcare sector is expected to grow by 20% between 2016 and 2026, creating around 3.5 million jobs with an annual income that can go up to $200,000 per year for doctors.

This is good news for international students in the USA pursuing a career in healthcare.

5. Finance Analyst and Accountant

The demand for finance professionals is on the rise in the U.S as the country’s business world continues to grow. The need for Financial Analysts is expected to reach 11% by 2026, according to the Occupational Outlook Handbook of the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In addition, between 2021 and 2031, around 136,400 jobs are expected every year in the field of accounting and finance.

International students who train in Finance and Accounting have a chance to thrive in a career that pays an average of $79,880 per year.  In addition, if students study a STEM-designated Finance and Accounting Degree, they can get an additional 2 years on their F-1 visa via the OPT programme.

Top Courses to Study in USA 2025

With plenty of reputable programs available for study in the U.S., you may wonder which to choose. We have done the research for you and came up with the following top 5 courses of study in the USA.

1. Computer Science

Computer science is a broad area of study that involves the study of computers and their systems. In the USA, it typically takes four years to earn a Bachelor’s degree in computer science.

After graduation, students can work in a variety of companies including technology companies, technology start-ups, financial services, game development studios and the government.

According to QS rankings, U.S. institutions of higher learning dominate the top 10 spots for the best computer science schools in the world. This makes the USA a good study destination for computer science.

2. Business Analytics

The Business Analytics course teaches you on how you can use data to improve the decisions of a business.

This is an important part of many organisations in the USA and the world as it improves the efficiency of a business by improving customer satisfaction and increasing revenue and profits. A Bachelors in business analytics usually takes 4 years to complete.

3. Nursing

Are you passionate about promoting health? Then nursing is a course that you should consider. It involves the study of how to provide care to individuals who are ailing or in need of support in their journey to recovery.

After studying nursing in the USA, students go on to work as registered nurses in hospitals, schools, physician offices, outpatient clinics, and even home healthcare.     

4. Civil Engineering

There is a high chance that you have used a road, bridge or dam, which is a result of the work of a civil engineer. Their importance in today’s society is vital for carrying out our day-to-day activities.

A course in civil engineering gives you the expertise to design and build transportation projects. In the USA, it can take around 4 years to complete an undergraduate course consisting of theory and hands-on learning.  

5. Medicine

Medicine is the science of diagnosing and healing ailments. It may also involve taking preventative measures to thwart the occurrence of an illness in the future. In the U.S. the medicine course takes 4 years of study in a medical school plus an extra 3 to 7 years of residency.

In addition, the country’s universities offer the best medical programmes in the world as is evident by their dominating number (5 universities) in the top 10 institutions offering medicine. 

Grading System in USA

The USA utilises a letter grading system, as well as GPA. In the letter grading system, A+ is the highest grade, while F is the lowest. Here is a table representation of the grading system in the USA.

Eligibility Criteria to Study in USA

While every university in the USA has its criteria for admitting international students, the main requirements are generally the same. Your dream of studying in the U.S. is a step away once you have the following documents ready for application.

• Academic transcripts
• Results of your English proficiency test
• A personal essay for Undergraduates and Statement of Purpose for Graduates
• Copy of your passport
• Recommendation letters
• Proof of financing through a bank statement
• Some universities may require additional documents like:
  • A resume/ C.V
  • Portfolio
  • SAT, GMAT, or GRE score

Study in USA Application Process

Are you ready to fulfil your dream of studying in the USA? Here are the steps to follow to ensure you get a placement at a U.S. university of your choice.

1. Choose a Course of Study and University

With thousands of courses available in nearly 4,000 universities and colleges in the USA, deciding what to study can seem like an uphill task. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Craydel makes sure this step is easy for you in the following ways:

• Providing you with the services of an expert counsellor who will guide you through the process of selecting the best course and university for you.
• We also provide an industry-leading Career Match Assessment tool on our platform that finds the perfect course for you based on your interests.
• Through Craydel, you’ll get access to top-flight institutions located all over the U.S. You’ll also get access to exclusive scholarships and discounts that may help save dollars on your university education.

2. Applying at Your Chosen University

In this step, the process is also smooth as a Craydel counsellor will help you to determine which documents you need to submit to the university for your specific program. It is also important to note the following when making an application:

• Only one application is accepted at a time to a specific university
• Most universities will require that you pay a small, non-refundable fee with your application 
• While most applications are done on a university’s web platform, your Craydel counsellor can also help you use the Common App. 

3. Getting a Conditional Letter

It takes about two weeks to get a conditional letter at many U.S. universities, depending on your level and course of study. You’ll be required to provide more information to the university that you may have left out or is needed by the institution. This may include:

•  Proof of funds to cover tuition and living costs in the USA. Some universities may require that you pay a tuition fee deposit, which will be stated in the conditional letter. However, some universities may not include this in the condition letter.  
• You may get a student enrollment contract with the conditional letter, which you are required to sign and send back to the admissions office of the university

After the admissions office of the university is satisfied with the application, you will get an Acceptance letter confirming your place in the university.

You will also receive an I-20 document which is your Certificate of Eligibility. With the I-20 form, you can now apply for an F-1 student visa at the U.S embassy in your country.

4. Applying for a USA Study Visa

With your I-20 Form in hand, you can now apply for an F1 Student Visa online on the U.S Department of State website. Requirements include:

• Register on the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and pay a fee of $350.
• Complete your DS-160 Visa application and pay a fee of $160.
• In total you’ll need $510 to apply for the F1 visa as an international student

Afterwards you can book an interview at the U.S embassy in your country.  The USA is one of the only study abroad destinations where you require an interview and will receive a decision in part based on your performance in the interview.

You’ll need to produce originals of the following documents in the interview.

• An acceptance letter and Form I-20, which is proof of full-time enrollment in a U.S university approved by SEVP Immigration and Customs Enforcement
• Non-immigrant visa application and the Form DS-160 confirmation page, which you can get by completing the online visa application
• Academic documents
• English Language Proficiency scores
• Proof of funding to cater for academic and living expenses. This includes a 12-month bank statement from your sponsor, preferably with a personal current account. The minimum balance required is the remainder of the tuition fee balance for the first year plus living expenses
• A valid passport, which should be valid for at least 6 months beyond your period of stay in the U.S.
• A digital photo on a white background
• Evidence that you’ll leave the U.S upon completion of your studies. This can be in the form of evidence of strong ties to your native country like assets, family properties or even an air ticket out of the U.S to your home country.

Preparing for your Visa interview at the US embassy is important. Your Craydel Counsellor will work with your university to offer detailed interview preparation including tips on what to expect and how to answer questions regarding your chosen study program, your stay in the U.S and career intentions.

Good news! You will usually receive your visa decision right after your visa interview, so there will be no waiting or uncertainty.

5. Preparing for your Stay and Enrollment

If you have reached this final step, congratulations. Only a few things stand in your way of studying in the USA. In this stage you’ll need to make the following arrangements:

• Plan for your travel by booking a flight to the USA
• Do some research on the weather in the state that you’ll be residing in and pack accordingly
• Gather all the necessary documents necessary for reporting to your university. It’s also important to check with your school for any special requirements such as health insurance
• You can also attend a pre-departure orientation if there is one. Your Craydel counsellor can help to confirm if EducationUSA has such programs organised online or one on one sessions in your locality

Important Timelines for Study in USA

Having knowledge about the right time to apply to a U.S university can be the determinant to getting a spot in your dream university early enough. In America, the academic year usually consists of two semesters; Fall and Winter. Students break during spring. With this in mind, here are the important timelines you should keep in mind when applying. 

Popular Intakes for Study in USA

The USA has two main intakes; one in September for the Fall semester and the other in January for the Winter semester. The September intake is the most popular with international students. Some universities also offer a May (Summer) semester.

When Should You Apply?

To ensure the timely processing of your application and securing your spot in your dream university, you should strive to apply at least 10 to 12 months prior to your reporting date. Deadlines for the different semesters is as follows:

• September intake – Applications start in November of the previous year. Deadline is in May of the current year.
• January intake – Applications start in May of the previous year. Deadline is in September of the previous year.
• May intake – Applications start in August of the previous year. Deadline is in October of the previous year.

Course Duration for Study in USA

The time spent on different levels of higher education in the USA is as follows:

• Undergraduate studies – This includes a 2 year associate’s degree and a 4 year Bachelor’s degree.
• Graduate studies – This includes a 1 or 2 year Masters and a PhD that can take from 4 – 6 years depending on the field of study.

Cost of Living and Studying in USA

For the high-quality education that you’ll be getting when you study in the U.S, international students pay an average of $26,290 at public universities and $35,800 at private institutions, but this can vary greatly by university, city and scholarships available

The cost of living fluctuates across different states and regions. The amount that students spend on food, transport and housing ranges between $1,504 to $1,850 per month.  Accommodation takes up a majority share of this amount at 60% especially when students live off-campus.

Student Life In USA

You have probably seen the vibrant campus life in the USA through movies or heard it from a friend or relative who has experienced it. More often than not, international students get to have this wholesome experience consisting of academics, extracurricular activities, adventure, American culture, and social interactions.

Academics

In school, it’s okay if you don’t choose a major right away in your first year. The higher education system in the U.S is flexible in that you can declare your major later on. In fact, about 50% of students declare their major in the second year of their studies.

Extracurricular

It’s not all about academics when you study in the USA. As an international student, you can engage in various activities that serve as networking opportunities with fellow students and like-minded individuals. These activities include school-based clubs, sporting teams and community volunteering.

Tourist Destinations

With an F1 student visa, you are also free to travel domestically within the USA. This means that you can cross state lines and engage your adventurous spirit. Top sites to visit as an international student include:

1. The Grand Canyon in Arizona,
2. Yellowstone National Park in Montana
3. Brooklyn Bridge Park in New York, New York
4. Times Square in New York
5. Smithsonian National Museum of History in Washington, D.C.
6. Central Park in New York
7. Niagara Falls in Buffalo, New York
8. National Mall in Washington, D.C.
9. Balboa Park in San Diego, California
10. Golden Gate Park in San Francisco, California  

Accommodation

Housing is a key factor in your journey as an international student as this is where you’re likely to spend most of your leisure time. Most accommodation options are located in areas that support your transition into the country as an international student making you feel safe and at home.

The housing options available to you include, on-campus dormitories, off-campus apartments, shared housing, and homestays. 

Culture

America is a highly-developed country with high standards of living. While at first you may experience a culture shock, this quickly develops into a deep love for the country when you get acquainted with the way of life.

English is the primary language in the country and the main medium of instruction in universities

The food scene is lively and is a representation of the mix of cultures in the country. With delicacies ranging from pizza, tacos, nachos, hamburgers, burritos and the American barbecue, there is something for everyone. If you’re feeling a bit nostalgic, there are also plenty of restaurants from your home country in most states.

Best Cities to Study and Live in USA

The USA has some of the best urban places in the world that offer international students a safe and friendly environment. Here are five of the best cities for students based on indicators like top universities located in the city, population of international students, safety, desirability, affordability, diversity, and employability. 

Boston

Boston is the largest city and capital of Massachusetts. It is regarded as the epicentre of education in the USA since it is home to many prestigious universities. Additionally, it was also home to the first public school in the USA. International students study in Boston for the following reasons. 

a) Get quality education from top institutions

MIT and Harvard University, two well-renowned institutions in the world, are located in the Greater Boston area. Other notable institutions include:

• Fisher College
• Wentworth Institute of Technology
• Western New England University
• University of Massachusetts, Boston
• Suffolk University
• MGH Institute of Health Professions

b) Easily commute in Boston

Moving around the city in an efficient and quick way is easy with the city’s public transport system. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) manages the subway, commuter rail, and bus systems.

International students can make their commute to school, residence or job easier by getting the CharlieCard. It’s a contactless smartcard that allows you to pay your fare. The card also helps you save on money and time.

c) There are plenty of fun activities to engage in 

You’ll be spoilt for choice when you’re away from the books and looking for a fun activity to do. Whether attending the Boston Calling Music Festival, strolling in Boston Common park or the Boston Harborwalk or visiting the Museum of Fine Arts, there is always sth fun to do in Boston.

d) It has a landmark stadium and event centre

While in Boston, you’ll quickly discover that the locals love watching and supporting their favourite baseball team, the Red Sox, at Fenway Park. The iconic stadium is the oldest baseball park in the U.S and has a capacity of almost 40,000 seats.

As an international student, you can meet other people here and enjoy a baseball game or even other events and music concerts held throughout the year at Fenway park.  

Another popular landmark stadium is TD Garden, which is home to the renowned Boston Celtics professional basketball team and the Boston Bruins professional ice hockey team.

e) Opportunities to get great student discounts

As an international student living in Boston, you can get discounts and even free access to games, galleries, museums, and some events if you present your student ID card. This makes the city ideal and budget friendly for students.

New York

New York City, also known as NYC or ‘the Big Apple,’ is the largest city in the state of New York and the United States. As of the 2020 census, the city had a population of 8,804,190. It is located on the East Coast in the Northeastern part of the USA. 

Throughout the years, the city has been the gateway for immigrants looking for the American dream. International students, in particular, love New York because of the following reasons.

a) The city is home to world-class universities

 New York City hosts elite universities like New York University (NYU) and Stony Brook University, which rank among the top 500 universities in the world according to QS. Other first-rate academic institutions in the city include:

• St Bonaventure University
• AMDA College of the Performing Arts
• Hult International Business School
• Fairfield University

b) It is a hub for students

New York City is home to over 120 institutions of higher learning, which attract thousands of international students every year. This creates a unique student environment that you can relate to as you live in the bustling urban metropolis of New York city. 

c) There are plenty of work opportunities in New York for students

With an unemployment rate of only 4.8% as of June 2023, New York city has opportunities for jobs in almost every sector. Finance students particularly love New York because it is considered the financial centre of the world, thanks to Wall Street.

Students also get jobs through Curricular Practical Training (CPT), Optional Practical Training (OPT) and the H-1B Visa to work in top companies like Amazon, IBM, JPMorgan Chase, New York Times, Deloitte and Verizon.     

d) Enjoy New York’s Pizza

Pizza may have origins in Italy, but New Yorkers love their crust, sauce, and toppings delicacy. It’s normally topped with mozzarella cheese, tomato sauce, and various other toppings.

The New York Pizza is extensive in size but this is a plus for residents in the Big Apple as they usually take the pizza on the go. They fold it in half along the crest to minimize spillage and eat it with one hand.

Whether you’re heading to school or work, be on the lookout for the various pizza joints on the streets to enjoy the New York-style pizza! 

e) It’s the cultural capital of USA

With decades of welcoming foreigners, New York city has slowly but truly became the culture capital of the U.S. Around 700 languages are spoken in the city which shows the city’s diverse nature. In addition, the cultural diversity can be seen in the arts scene of NYC, fashion, theatre, music, dance, media and even in food which you will deeply appreciate as an international student.

San Francisco

San Francisco, is a city in California on the west coast of the U.S. It has a population of  873,965 making it the 4th most populated city in the state after Los Angeles, San Diego and San Jose.

Popularly known for its Golden Gate Bridge that connects the city to Marin county in the North, here are other reasons why international students study and live in San Francisco.

a) Chance to study in a multicultural university 

San Francisco State University, ranked no. 7 for ethnic diversity by U.S News and World Report is a haven for international students looking for a culturally diverse university. Infact, the college was the first in the U.S to have a College of Ethnic Studies.

You can have access to this university by taking a pathway programme through Oxford International Education Group (OIEG) when you apply through Craydel. 

b) Iconic landmarks

Every year the city draws in tourists from all over the world who come to experience interesting sites like the Golden Gate Bridge, and the infamous Alcatraz federal prison which is now a historical landmark. As a student, you’ll have the advantage of experiencing these important landmarks on a deeper level to appreciate their significance in the country’s history.

c) It’s easy to travel around the city

San Francisco’s public transport system is ideal to get students from one part of the town to another in an easy, fast and convenient way. From the iconic cable cars, street cars, buses, and light rail metro trains, the Muni system works perfectly.

In addition, the city experiences a Mediterranean climate so you can take a walk in the city any time of the year and admire the city while at it. 

d) Amazing delicacies

If you are a food lover, then you’ll like what the city has to offer in terms of sweet mouth watering delicacies. Make sure to try out iconic food like the Sourdough Bread, Mission Burrito, and Dim Sum as you live in San Francisco as an international student. 

e) The city is home to sporting giants

Wondering what to do with your free time after studies? Worry not, because San Francisco is home to iconic teams that deliver quality entertainment and action. Basketball lovers will enjoy watching the Golden State Warriors, and Golden State Valkyries. Baseball fans will enjoy thrilling matches from the San Francisco Giants.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles (popularly referred to as LA) is the largest city in California, with a population of 3,898,747 as per the 2020 census. While the city is famous for its TV and Movie industry, here is why it’s also a popular study destination.

a) You’ll have access to a top-performing arts institution

The city has a thriving entertainment scene. A major contributor to this industry is the institutions that teach and release highly skilled professionals. If you have a dream of becoming a Hollywood star, AMDA College of the Performing Arts has amazing art courses.

However, if you would like to study something different from the performing arts, consider enrolling at a reputable institution like Westcliff University.  

b) Plenty of employment opportunities

Los Angeles has a conducive environment for businesses to thrive, mainly driven by the creative economy. However, other industries like technology, tourism, and trade are also significant contributors. This means that international students quickly get employment during and after study.

c) Los Angeles has awesome beaches

In classic California style, Los Angeles has a Mediterranean climate. This means that the opportunity to enjoy the beach comes more often than not. During your free time, you can visit Venice, Hermosa, Playa Del Rey, Dockweiler, and Manhattan Beach.

d) Students get discounts in Los Angeles

Several establishments and locations offer discounts to university students, thereby lessening the cost of living in LA. For example, you may get discounts at movie theatres, museums, restaurants, clothing retailers, gyms, and the Greyhound bus.

e) Los Angeles is culturally diverse

The city’s cultural scene is vibrant and creates an atmosphere of inclusivity. International students thrive in such an environment because their uniqueness is valued. In addition, you may find natives and even food from your country right within the metro area of Los Angeles.

Chicago

Chicago is the largest city in Illinois, with a population of 2,746,388. It is the third-largest city in the U.S., behind New York and Los Angeles. Chicago is known for its amazing urban architecture, set against the backdrop of Lake Michigan.

Here are reasons why Chicago is also a student city.

a) It has world-class institutions

According to QS, the 8th-ranked university in the U.S. is the University of Chicago, located in the Hyde Park neighbourhood of Chicago. Other notable institutions include:

• Illinois Tech Global Education Center
• Roosevelt University
• Trinity Christian College
• DePaul University
• University of Illinois at Chicago

b) Chicago offers students an excellent quality of life

International students enjoy the numerous green parks and beaches in the city as one way of unwinding after studies. You can also explore the urban area on foot or by bike and savor the well-thought-out urban space. In addition, moving from residence halls to school to work is very easy with the efficient public transportation system. 

c) There are career opportunities

Chicago’s economy is mainly driven by the manufacturing sector. However, other industries like food processing, financial services, and transportation also play a key role in making Chicago a thriving city. This means there are plenty of jobs for students after graduation, as plenty of Fortune 500 companies have set up their operations in the city. 

d) It’s architecture is exceptional

Chicago is often referred to as the birthplace of modern architecture. Its urban setting is a testament to the ambition and creativity of architects who design buildings. Chicago even produced the first skyscraper in the world, the Home Insurance Building. The city is also home to the largest structure in the world (St. Regis), designed by a woman (Jeanne Gang).

Architectural students, in particular, can be inspired to design other engineering feats when they study and live in Chicago.

e) Chicago has an animated entertainment scene

As a student, you can never get bored in the city as there is always something fun to do. For example, you can eat a Chicago-style hot dog, visit a museum, watch a Broadway show at the theatre, cheer a Chicago Bulls basketball game, go shopping, or attend a Chicago-style jazz concert or festival.

Top Jobs in USA for International Students

A general concern for many international students is whether they can work as they study in the USA.

According to the Office of the United States Trade Representative, America’s economy is the largest in the world. According to Forbes, it has a GDP of $28.78 billion.

This means that the country can support students’ needs for jobs during study and after graduation. International students can work but under some strict rules and regulations set by the US government, which include:

• You must have the F-1 Student Visa
• You are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during a school session and up to 40 hours per week during holidays
• To get a job outside campus, you must have completed one full academic year at your institution
• To gain work experience related to your field of study, the US government provided the Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT) programs. 

However, it is important to note that if you work off campus or pursue a CPT or OPT during your studies, this time will be reduced from your post-study stay-back option.

It is also good practice to contact your Designated School Official (DSO) for any assistance with getting a job in the U.S as a student. They can help you identify suitable jobs and give you a letter of approval to start working as a student.

On-Campus Jobs in USA

These are jobs located within the school premises and are the easiest to get as an international student. To get an on-campus job, you must apply 30 days before the start of your classes. On-campus jobs include:

• Library assistant
• Cafeteria worker
• Research assistant
• Residence hall assistant
• Campus tour guide

Off-Campus Jobs in USA

These are jobs located outside the vicinity of the campus. While it’s possible to get a job outside the school, you can only start working in your second year of studies. In some instances, you may have to prove to the Department of Homeland Security that you are undergoing some economic hardship. Off-campus jobs include:

• Sales assistant
• Cashier
• Waiter
• Receptionist
• Barista
• Web and mobile developers
• Call centre customer service representatives
• Digital marketing specialists

Temporary Graduate Visa in USA

After graduation, you have up to 60 days from the end date of your program to leave the USA. However, you can extend your stay in the country through the following ways.

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

It allows you to stay in the U.S. for up to 12 months. Important details to note about OPT include:

• Your employment must be related to your field of study
• It’s available for lawful F-1 Student Visa holders
• You can complete the training after graduation and while still enrolled in school.
  • However, it is important to note that once 12 months have elapsed since the start of your OPT while still enrolled, you are not eligible for another OPT after you finish school.
• When applying for OPT, you need to have Form I-765, which will allow you to get the Employment Authorization Document (EAD). The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues this document.
• Leaving the U.S before getting your EAD hinders your chance of getting OPT 

If you are studying a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) course, you can be eligible for a 24-month STEM OPT extension. 

This means that you can get a 3-year stay-back visa to work in a job that is related to your field of study, as long as your course is STEM-designated!

H-1B Visa (Non-Immigrant Visa)

It’s also known as a Person in Specialty Occupation Visa, is another pathway that students can use to stay in the U.S. It is valid for 3 years with the option to extend. You can get it after securing a job after graduation. Your employer is responsible for initiating the process to get the visa, but you’ll need to meet the following conditions:

• You must have completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD
• The job must be related to your course of study
• You’ll also need to get a Labor Condition Attestation (LCA) document from the Department of Labor. It serves to protect you as a worker in the USA.

Permanent Residency (PR) After Study in USA

Has the U.S. grown on you? Do you, too, wish to pursue the American dream? If yes, then you should know that while it is possible, there are limited ways to get Permanent Residency. One popular way is by getting a Green Card.

The process to get the Green Card begins by first securing a job after graduation. Afterward, your employer can sponsor your Green Card by making an EB-2 or EB-3 application.

Getting the Green Card accords you several rights as a permanent resident of the USA, such as the right to work, travel, get social security benefits, and be protected under the law. You will also be required to be compliant with and follow laws such as filing income tax and carrying around your proof of residency.

However, it typically takes 2 to 10 years to get a Green Card.  This time can be reduced to 10 months to 3 years if you are married to an American citizen.

Conclusion

With a world-class education, a flexible curriculum, a diverse student population, higher chances of employment, and a lively student experience, it’s easy to see why the USA remains a popular study destination.

At Craydel, we want to make the American Dream possible for you with our expertise and also give you access to studying in our USA partner universities. To learn how you can take advantage of this opportunity, contact Craydel today and begin your journey to enrolling in an American university of your choice.