A Guide to Life in the United States for Indian Students
The “American Dream” is something that many foreigners dream of achieving. the United States Census Bureau projects that the country’s population will reach over 332 million by January 2022.
Living in the United States has many advantages, and that is why the country has been attracting a significant number of migrants and international students for decades. Among them are South Asians, with the Indian population leading the pack.
According to a report by Open Doors, the United States hosts largest international student population in the world, numbering 914,095 as of November 2021. Nearly a fifth of the international student population includes Indian students, totaling 167,582 students.
For international students from India who are planning to study and live in the United States, here is a definitive guide to help them:
Living in the United States: What Indian Students Need to Know
Quality of education
Higher education in the United States is unparalleled. Students have access to seasoned academics and world-class learning facilities. Source: Yana Paskova/AFP
The United States is home to some of the best universities in the world. In fact, 17 of its institutions are listing in the top 50 universities in the world, according to the latest QS World University Rankings 2022. Not only is the quality of education defined by its leading institutions, but many are known for their the diversity and open admissions. This is a testament to its superb learning facilities and access to seasoned scholars who bring out the best in its students.
Many immigrants thrive in the United States. immigrants have been reward nearly 40% of Nobel Prizes won by Americans in chemistry, medicine and physics since 2000, Forbes reports. For Indian students, it could be them.
Tuition fees, scholarships and financial aid
There are many scholarships, grants and financial aids that Indian students can apply for which could cover their tuition and living expenses. Credit: Mark Wilson/AFP
Higher education at four-year colleges or universities in the United States can be expensive.
According to the National Center for Student Statistics, the average annual tuition at a four-year private, nonprofit university is US$36,700. in 2019-20; the average annual tuition at a public four-year university is well under $9,400 for the same period. However, this should not deter international students from applying to study there.
For a complete list of what tuition would cost at a specific US university or college, see this online tool by the US Department of Education.
There are many merit- and need-based financial aids by government agencies, foundations, and universities that provide full or partial funding to students, depending on their academic or financial background. Types of student funding awarded to students include scholarships (full or partial), bursary programs, work-study jobs, loans, bursaries and other opportunities.
English proficiency
Although some universities may make an exception, many colleges and universities in the United States require international students to submit proof of English proficiency to be accepted into a program.
The two most popular English proficiency tests accepted by US institutions include the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).
IELTS have two components: in particular for academic or general training purposes. International students must take the academic version of IELTS. It assesses their English skills in listening, reading, writing and speaking.
Alternatively, register for a pre-sessional English course in the United States can help students who have not yet met the English language requirements of American universities or colleges to improve their English skills.
Housing options
Before moving to the United States, international students from India must settle their accommodation. Their housing costs will depend on whether they live on or off campus, surrounding amenities, type of housing, city or town as well as state. Source: Mark Makela/AFP
All international students must pay for their accommodation before moving to the United States. There are many things to consider when looking for the right accommodation.
Housing costs will vary depending on whether the student chooses to live on or off campus, the type of housing, nearby amenities, and the city and state in which the student will be living.
In big cities like New York, a one-bedroom apartment can cost on average US$3,260 for rent per month, according to Zumper’s latest National Rent Report. Although student accommodation usually consists of a private or shared room, this gives students an indication that location is a huge factor in determining housing costs.
For newcomers to the United States, international students are encouraged to stay in student housing operated by their college or university. For a cheaper option, students can check out local Facebook groups or student housing near their city or school. Cheaper accommodation may have flaws, such as being partially furnished or unfurnished. This means that students may have to shell out more to buy furniture and everyday essentials.
Living costs
Living in the United States can require some financial savvy from students, making it essential to choose the right location and accommodation that suits their budget.
The five least affordable places to live in the United States, according to a 2022 study by Goodhire are:
- Los Angeles, California
- Hartford, Connecticut
- Corpus Christi, Texas
- Bakersfield, California
- Shreveport, Louisiana
On the other hand, the five most affordable cities are:
- Sioux Falls, South Dakota
- Reno, Nevada
- Provo, UT
- Madison, Wis.
- Huntsville, Alabama
Click here for National Center for Education Statistics data on the cost of attending college or university in the United States, as well as living conditions.
Study permit
There are several types of visas available to Indian nationals who aspire to study or work in the United States. Source: Chris Delmas/AFP
For Indian students who have secured an offer to study in the United States, the next step to ensure a smooth transition to their new life abroad is to apply for a student visa.
There are two types of student visas that Indian students can consider: the F-1 student visa, which is the most common type of student visa needed to continue their studies at a US college or university, or the M-student visa. 1, for those who want to pursue vocational training in the United States.
Documents or payment required to travel to the United States include the following:
The fee for an F-1 or M-1 student visa is $160.
To apply for an interview slot, Indian students must Check with the nearest US Embassy or Consulate in India.
Indian students can track the progress of their US visa application here.
Working while studying
As an international student, it is possible to work part-time in the United States while studying. Source: Roy Rochlin/AFP
Yes, it is possible for international students to work in the United States while studying. With an F-1 student visa, students are allowed to work until 8 p.m. working part-time when school is in session, according to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website.
On the other hand, more than 20 hours per week during breaks and annual leave.
PR/Citizenship course
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yb6hAPPDDOI
Upon graduation, many Indian students aspire to continue their American journey by obtaining work in the local job market.
There are several ways for an Indian student to obtain permanent resident status or citizenship in the United States. Here are the five ways Indian students can get a green card (permanent residency) to work and live in the United States:
- Marry a US Citizen
- Immigration by family reunification (click here for more details)
- Apply for political asylum in the United States
- EB-1 Visa (Employment Based Immigration): Indian students who demonstrate extraordinary abilities or is an outstanding professor or researcher, or is an executive or manager of a multinational company, can apply for this visa. Applicants for this visa can obtain a green card within 18 to 24 months
- Investment Immigration (EB-5 visa): Under this Visainvestors and their immediate family members can obtain a green card if they make the necessary investment in a business venture in the United States and plan to create or maintain 10 permanent full-time jobs for qualified American workers
For students from India who are considering or will be moving to the United States, we hope this guide will be helpful in preparing for and making a smooth transition to the land of the free.