USA : Postgraduate study

How does the higher education system work?

Universities offer four-year degrees, which are similar to UK Bachelor degrees, except that they are more varied in content and allow for study of a wider range of subjects. Universities also offer postgraduate courses, although these are usually known as graduate courses. 

There are two types of universities in the US:

• Public universities - these institutions are state-funded and have more students and lower tuition fees. Overseas students pay higher fees due to their status as non-state residents (students who don’t live and pay taxes in the same state in which the university is located).
• Private universities - are mainly funded by tuition fees, private donations and grants. They usually have fewer students than a public university and higher fees. The same fees are charged for state and non-state residents.

What courses are available?

There are two types of graduate degrees: Masters and Doctoral.

• Masters degrees are offered in many different fields, and there are two types of programmes: academic and professional. They last between one to three years, depending on the subject. Most academic Masters provide entry to a career in academia or research, while professional Masters tend to be for entry to a particular profession. 
• Doctoral degrees are the highest level and usually require original research for academic programmes and the practical application of knowledge and skills for professional programmes. They usually take between four to eight years to complete, which includes the time it takes to write and present a dissertation. 

Where can I study?

There are over a thousand universities that offer postgraduate courses. You can find a list of all the universities and colleges at Braintrack University Index. StudyUSA.com is the education guide for international students and universities can be searched according to the level of programmes they offer.

Applying for postgraduate study

University admission in America is extremely competitive, especially for international students. You should contact individual universities to find out their specific entry requirements, but a minimum of a 2:2 is usually expected. They will also take other factors into consideration such as sufficient financial resources, proficiency in the English language and other academic and extracurricular achievements. You will also need to take an admissions test, which measures aptitude and achievement. It is a standardised test that can be taken at centres around the world. 

It is best to start the process of course selection and application 18 months in advance of enrolment. This allows enough time to do all that is required to request application materials, prepare for and take the admissions tests, and submit applications. Application deadlines vary, although most fall between November and February for Masters and Doctoral programmes. The Fulbright Commission provides a helpful timeline and checklist for making applications.

Applications are made directly to the university. It is a good idea to apply to more than one university as you may not be accepted onto your first choice. As part of the application process it is likely that you will need to complete a personal statement, send a transcript of your results and give letters of reference. You may also be required to attend an interview, although for international students this may be conducted over the phone.

Fees and scholarships

Education in the USA is not cheap. The application process alone involves a fee of $50-$100, which is paid per application to the universities. As an international student, as part of the visa application, you will also have to pay a SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee. Tuition fees vary across each university but may range from $5,000 to $30,000. Edupass has further information on the costs involved in graduate study in the USA. 

Scholarships and grants are available in the US, although competition for them may be high. The Fulbright Commission offers awards for postgraduate students, which provide grants for study. More information on the types of scholarships available can be found at the following:

• Edupass 
• International Education Financial Aid 
• Students.gov 

You may also be able to access university funding. Check universities’ websites to see what might be available to you.

Are there any exchange programmes?

The IAESTE (The International Association for the Exchange of Students for Technical Experience) organises exchanges for UK-based students who are studying science, engineering, technology and architecture. Your university may also have exchange programmes in place with US universities. Contact your university’s international office to see what is available.

Will my qualification be recognised in the UK?

UK NARIC (National Recognition Information Centre for the United Kingdom) has information on the comparison of American and UK qualifications and higher education structures.