Study in the USA

An increasingly popular choice, studying in the United States of America can be costly but can also offer a solid foundation for future success

The USA education system

The education system is one of the most expansive in the world, with approximately 4,000 universities on offer.

These universities can be divided into two types:

• Private universities - are maintained by tuition fees and private donations. They usually have fewer students and are more expensive to attend, but often have state-of-the-art facilities and more funding for international students.
• Public universities - are funded by the state and contain large numbers of students. Tuition fees are less expensive but international students pay out-of-state tuition, which is often expensive.

There are other specialist institutions which focus on certain subjects, such as science and technology, performing arts, and music.

It is important to note that in the USA, universities are known as colleges and postgraduate degrees are called graduate degrees.

Entry requirements

University admission in the USA is competitive, with UK-based students expected to have a minimum of a 2:2 in an undergraduate degree to be considered.

All students must sit an entrance exam, which is in a multiple choice format. Most universities require students to sit the SAT or the ACT exam. They can be taken in test centres around the UK and tests cost roughly £50 each.

You can practice and register for exams at College Board - SAT . USA postgraduate programmes also require two or more reference letters, usually written by university lecturers or former employers.

It is also worth noting that there is no official conversion rate between UK A-level/degree results and USA grades and each university will have its own policy. Therefore it is vital to contact individual universities to find out their requirements.

Course fees

The US education system is expensive. Before you are even accepted into a university it will cost you $50-$100 (£30-£60) per application.

The average cost per year for international students studying at a public university in 2011-2012 was more than $20,000 (£13,000). Those attending a private institution had to pay an average of $28,500 (£18,000), with some prestigious universities charging upwards of $40,000 (£26,000) (College Board, 2011).

There is no standard set fees like the UK and costs will vary between institutions. Prices can even vary between departments at the same university.

Funding to study in the USA

Funding for international students is readily available, although options will vary between universities. Some institutions will provide scholarships covering the entire cost. The most common sources of funding are:

• Merit scholarships - for those with outstanding academic achievement or talent in performing arts.
• Need-based financial aid - for those whose family cannot support them.
• Sports scholarships - available for students who are gifted in a specific sport but also academically eligible for admission.

Competition for funding is fierce so be sure to submit your application early.

Around 30 scholarships are offered each year on The Fulbright Award Programme. Opportunities are available for UK students that want to pursue a postgraduate degree in any subject. For more information visit Fulbright Commission - Awards and Programmes for UK Postgraduates .

USA exchanges and placements

For UK students studying degrees which focus on architecture, engineering, science and technology, the International Association for the Exchange of Students for Technical Experience (IAESTE UK ) provides placements.

It is worth checking with your current universities international office as they may have links with a USA institution.

Student visas

Before applying for a visa you must be accepted and approved for your programme of study. You will then be sent the necessary documentation to start the visa process.

It is best to apply early and you will also need to make an appointment for a visa interview with the US embassy in your country.

The F-1 student visa is for those wishing to study full time at an accredited US college or university.

For a complete guide visit the US Department of State - Student Visas .