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Higher education in USA for international students

This content was developed and approved with active participation of Qiuhua Liang.

 

In the process of preparing the material, we referenced the following sources:

  • https://ivyleague.com/
  • https://www.usa.gov/study-in-US.
Current page last update date: 2025-07-15
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The USA has gained global popularity among  international students, who are interested in prestigious education. The experts of SMAPSE have prepared a list which includes more than 100 of the best US universities, offering diverse educational programs for foreign students. Each student,no matter his native country, is provided with the opportunity to obtain American higher education. However, significant financial resources are required, as tuition fees are high given the quality education, great career opportunities.

The US higher education is distinguished by specific features, playing a crucial role in attractiveness for foreign students:

  • Top-quality US education:

    • 75% of modern Nobel laureates, practicing scientists and businessmen teach in US universities;

    • 78 American universities occupy leading positions in the global rankings;

  • Social, legal protection of students;

  • High-quality medical care;

  • Comfortable conditions for living. 

The most important benefit, mentioned by a great number of students, concerns a wide range of opportunities. Besides effective academic preparation, students are provided with optimal conditions for creative and physical development. The campuses of American universities are well equipped for organizing diverse leisure activities. By pursuing higher education in the USA, foreign students are offered:

  • Adapt to life in the country;

  • Acquaintance  with the local culture and traditions;
  • Necessary conditions for creative, physical development;
  • Campuses are featured by state-of-the-art infrastructure.

Without careful planning, a foreign student may face difficulties in entering a university in the USA. Experts recommend considering pre-university preparation programs, as American universities have different requirements for the applicants abroad.

Alternative destinations

Why Choose US Higher Education?

Universities in the USA are worldwide recognized, as they provide high-quality education, and the educational process is conducted by experienced teaching staff and by using cutting-edge technology. The cost of higher education in the USA is considered substantial, but the invested funds will pay off quickly in the form of:

  • A prestigious degree recognized worldwide

  • Acquiring sought-after skills and professions

  • Creating a solid foundation for a successful career.

Making Informed Choices About Higher Education Institutions in the USA

It is very prestigious to study in Harvard or Yale, however, enrolment in these schools involves careful academic preparation, and not everyone can easily enter them. Other less prestigious American universities offer high-quality education at a more reasonable price. According to the data of 2024, there are more than 1 million foreign students pursuing education in America, and this number is constantly growing.

In case of admission to higher education programs in the USA, taking entrance exams is not required. Usually, a satisfactory SAT score is necessary. After four years of study, a Bachelor's degree is awarded to graduate. The educational process stipulates that each discipline lasts one semester.

University entrance in America

Flexibility and Specialization in American Higher Education

The specific feature of the American higher education system is flexibility. Students can tailor their educational journey according to their interests and career goals, combining subjects as varied as engineering and theater or finance and journalism. Those seeking a second degree or specialized focus will find a wide array of options.

Pursuing Business Education in the USA

MBA programs are especially popular among foreign students, as taking this program opens great career opportunities. Taking into account the high tuition fee of these programs, the financial resources spent will be quickly compensated by a significant salary increase, ranging from 10-30% for graduates of top business schools.

Good knowledge of the various academic options and the cost of higher education in the USA, will help prospective students to make more informed decisions according to their future goals  and career expectations.

Admissions Process for Higher Education in the USA

Required Documents for Admission to Universities in the USA

Deciding on enrolment in higher educational institutions in the USA, the foreign students must  submit a necessary package of documents. Below there is a list of required documents: 

  • Application Form:  You can submit it either online or via email to the university’s Graduate Admissions Office.

  • Statement of Purpose: It is a detailed essay, which includes an answer to the question, "Why am I worthy to study at this university?"

  • Payment Receipt: Confirmation of paying the non-refundable registration fee, which varies from $90 to $150 USD.

  • Academic Records: School certificate or academic performance reports in case of receiving incomplete higher education in your home country.

  • Language Proficiency Certificate: Usually, it is required to provide a TOEFL or IELTS certificate.

  • Standardized Test Scores: Sometimes it is necessary to provide SAT or ACT scores.

  • Previous Degrees: To apply to a Master's program, a Bachelor’s degree and associated transcripts are compulsory.

  • Letters of Recommendation: Such letters can be prepared by teachers, dean, employers.

  • Translation: All documents must be translated into English and notarized.

Special Considerations for Transfer and Master's Students

If the foreign students transfer or enroll in a postgraduate course they may need to undergo a "diploma nostrification" process. The Graduate Admissions Office will assess your prior academic performance to make a decision on how many credits can be transferred.Often during this process, the number of academic years is adjusted due to differences between higher education systems in the United States and other countries.

Personal Essay and Questionnaire

Personal characteristics of each applicant play a crucial role when applying. Usually, the applicants are required to complete a questionnaire, which includes essay-style questions, such as:

  • "For what reasons did you choose our university?"

  • "Why do you want to pursue this profession?"

  • "What are your future plans?"

  • "Why do you decide on pursuing American higher education?"

Your answers are assessed by such parameters as content, language knowledge, clarity, and logical structure.

Preparatory Courses and Recommendations

In case of your uncertainty about successful enrolment to university, it is recommended to take preparatory courses.These courses are aimed at gaining understanding of the nuances of application requirements and providing valuable recommendations from teachers.

Higher Education in the USA: FAQs

No matter what you decide on the type of educational institution, in any case you will be provided with high quality education in the USA. However, higher education institutions differ in duration of program and the type of degree awarded. In the case of a two-year college allows one to obtain an Associate's Degree, at the same time students are provided with the opportunity to transfer to a Bachelor's program. Upon completing four years of college or university, the graduates are awarded a Bachelor of Science or Arts degree.

Foreign students can continue their education by enrolling in Master’s or Doctorate programs.Obtaining the initial level of higher education will simplify  future transition on educational programs, allowing to save time and adapt to new academic and language environments.

The Cost of Higher Education in the USA

Tuition fee in the universities in the USA significantly fluctuates, stipulated by the chosen institution. It's recommended to assess your financial capabilities in advance,  to effectively the cost of higher education in the USA.

Thorough knowledge of the application process stages, cost of studying, and other particulars allow foreign students to make informed decisions, concerning higher education in the USA.

Higher Education in the USA. Cost and Fees for international students

Factors Influencing Tuition Fees in U.S. Universities

The tuition fees at American universities depend on  the following factors:

 

  • Field of Study: Some specializations are more costly than others.

  • University Ranking: Prestigious universities often have higher fees.

  • Research Requirements: If educational programs stipulate conducting extensive research, it may  lead to additional costs.

The foreign students should be ready to pay a significant sum for higher education in the USA. Studying in the best American universities costs on average $30,000 USD per year. At the same time, graduates from American universities have a competitive advantage in the labor market, as during six months after completing studies students are hired on well-paying jobs.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

The United States is featured by a well-established scholarship system. Students who have achieved great results in studying, creative fields, or sports, can apply for scholarships. Its amount can cover up to 100% of costs concerning pursuing higher education.

Community Colleges as a Cost-Effective Option

Also, foreign students can make an effort to reduce the tuition fee at the US university. If you decide to study at community colleges, the cost of education will vary from $7,000 to $10,000 USD. Community colleges are featured by more loyal  admission requirements, offering two-year programs, after which graduates are awarded an Associate's Degree. Upon completing studies, students are offered to transfer to a four-year university to complete their Bachelor's degree.

What is higher education in the United States?

Higher education in the United States is the level of education students receive after high school. It includes a bachelor's degree (the first level of higher education), a master's degree (the second level), and a doctorate (the third level). A bachelor's degree usually lasts 4 years, a master's degree lasts 1-2 years, and a doctoral degree lasts 4 years or more.

Which type of higher education should I choose: college or university?

Choosing between a college and a university depends on your goals and interests. Colleges usually specialize in narrower fields, such as the arts or technical majors. Universities offer a wide range of programs, including research and academics.

What is the cost of tuition at universities in the United States?

Tuition costs can vary greatly depending on the university and location. The average tuition at private universities can be over $30,000 per year, while tuition at public universities can be much cheaper for state residents.

What are "credit hours" in the U.S. education system?

Credit hours are a system for measuring students' academic workload. Typically, one credit hour corresponds to 1 hour of instruction per week for one semester. To earn a bachelor's degree, students are often required to accumulate 120-130 credit hours.

What are the requirements for a language exam (e.g. TOEFL or IELTS) for international students?

Language exam requirements may vary depending on the university and program. Usually TOEFL iBT or IELTS with a certain score (e.g. TOEFL iBT 80 or IELTS 6.5) is required for undergraduate programs.

What career opportunities does higher education in the United States offer?

Higher education in the United States opens the door to many career opportunities in a variety of industries. Graduates have a better chance of getting well-paying jobs and advancing in their careers.

What are the opportunities for research and scholarship in the United States?

The United States provides many opportunities for research and study both during and after graduation. Many universities have research programs and laboratories in which students can participate during their studies. There are also exchange and internship programs for international researchers.

What is the role of student councils (Student Government) in American universities?

Student councils represent the interests of students and participate in the management of the university. They organize various events, take initiatives and can influence decisions important for the student community.

What opportunities are there for international students to obtain a work visa after graduation?

Many graduates may qualify for an H-1B work visa if they find an employer willing to sponsor their employment. Options may also include STEM Extension, which allows STEM graduates to stay in the U.S. for a longer period of time.

How does the grading system work in the United States?

In the United States, an A-F grading system is used, where A is the highest grade and F is an unsatisfactory grade. The grade point average is expressed as Grade Point Average (GPA) and may be weighted or unweighted depending on the difficulty of the courses.

General statistics on education in the USA - ratings, specialties, universities

Times Higher Education’s top 50 best universities in USA 2025

Rank Name
Country/Region		 No. of FTE Students No. of students per staff International Students Female:Male Ratio
2 Stanford University 14,517 6.4 23% 47 : 53
3 Massachusetts Institute of Technology 11,085 8.0 33% 41 : 59
4 Harvard University 20,050 9.0 25% 51 : 49
6 Princeton University 7,753 7.3 23% 47 : 53
7 California Institute of Technology 2,240 6.1 33% 37 : 63
9 University of California, Berkeley 39,991 17.9 22% 52 : 48
10 Yale University 11,924 5.2 21% 51 : 49
13 The University of Chicago 15,792 6.2 36% 47 : 53
15 Johns Hopkins University 15,772 4.1 28% 56 : 44
16 University of Pennsylvania 21,312 6.2 22% 54 : 46
17 Columbia University 25,914 5.2 35% n/a
18 University of California, Los Angeles 42,634 9.6 15% 56 : 44
20 Cornell University 23,620 10.0 24% 51 : 49
23 University of Michigan-Ann Arbor 45,783 8.1 16% 51 : 49
24 Carnegie Mellon University 13,562 11.9 44% 44 : 56
25 University of Washington 49,486 10.1 16% 56 : 44
26 Duke University 15,527 3.9 18% 52 : 48
27 New York University 48,461 11.8 42% 58 : 42
28 Northwestern University 18,894 13.1 18% 52 : 48
34 University of California, San Diego 40,596 12.0 19% 45 : 55
36 Georgia Institute of Technology 32,079 28.0 29% 34 : 66
42 University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign 50,250 19.6 23% 51 : 49
52 University of Texas at Austin 48,558 16.4 8% 55 : 45
59 University of California, Davis 37,926 13.3 18% 60 : 40
63 University of Wisconsin-Madison 41,209 9.9 13% n/a
=64 Brown University 9,781 10.3 19% n/a
68 Washington University in St Louis 13,825 7.3 22% 52 : 48
69 University of California, Santa Barbara 25,540 27.5 18% 54 : 46
72 University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 30,782 7.7 8% 60 : 40
74 University of Southern California 44,083 14.2 24% 49 : 51
78 Boston University 26,677 10.8 29% 58 : 42
85 University of Minnesota 59,556 11.8 9% 55 : 45
86 Purdue University West Lafayette 42,633 18.3 17% 44 : 56
=92 University of California, Irvine 35,675 16.2 26% 53 : 47
=92 Vanderbilt University 12,971 3.9 17% 55 : 45
=99 Ohio State University (Main campus) 55,538 11.4 11% 51 : 49
=106 Emory University 13,127 4.0 19% 61 : 39
114 University of Maryland, College Park 33,988 17.0 9% 49 : 51
=116 Michigan State University 44,514 16.1 11% 52 : 48
118 Texas A&M University 64,427 20.5 6% 47 : 53
=119 Rice University 7,318 9.8 26% 42 : 58
122 Penn State (Main campus) 45,875 14.2 15% 48 : 52
=123 University of Massachusetts 63,500 13.3 14% 50 : 50
132 University of Florida 48,114 16.7 9% 56 : 44
133 University of Rochester 9,855 7.3 34% 50 : 50
=138 University of Colorado Boulder 35,844 16.5 8% 45 : 55
=145 University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh campus 26,305 5.4 10% 56 : 44
=155 University of Arizona 45,517 19.9 7% 56 : 44
=161 Dartmouth College 6,226 7.4 16% 49 : 51
=164 Case Western Reserve University 10,294 8.8 25% 51 : 49

Best universities in USA by state rankings 2025

Alabama University of Alabama, Auburn University
Alaska -
Arizona Arizona State University, The University of Arizona
Arkansas University of Arkansas
California Stanford University, Caltech, UCB, UCLA, UCSD, University of California Davis, University of Southern California, UCSB, University of California Irvine, University of California Santa Cruz, University of California Riverside, San Diego State University, University of San Diego, University of San Francisco, University of the Pacific
Colorado University of Colorado Boulder, University of Colorado Denver, Colorado State University, University of Denver
Connecticut Yale University, University of Connecticut
Delaware University of Delaware
Florida University of Florida, University of Miami, Florida State University, University of South Florida, University of Central Florida, Florida International University, Miami University
Georgia Georgia Institute of Technology, Emory University, The University of Georgia, Georgia State University
Hawaii University of Hawai'i at Mañoa
Idaho -
Illinois University of Chicago, Northwestern University, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, UIC, Illinois Institute of Technology, Loyola University Chicago
Indiana Purdue University, University of Notre Dame, Indiana University Bloomington, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianopolis
Iowa University of Iowa, Iowa State University
Kansas University of Kansas, Kansas State University
Kentucky University of Kentucky
Louisiana Tulane University, Louisiana State University
Maine -
Maryland Johns Hopkins University, University of Maryland College Park, University of Maryland Baltimore County
Massachusetts MIT, Harvard University, Boston University, Tufts University, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Northeastern University, Boston College, Brandeis University, Clark University, University of Massachusetts Boston, Smith College, Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Michigan University of Michigan, Michigan State University, Wayne State University, Michigan Technological University
Minnesota University of Minnesota
Mississippi University of Mississippi
Missouri Washington University in St. Louis, University of Missouri Columbia, Missouri University of Science and Technology
Montana University of Montana Missoula
Nebraska University of Nebraska
Nevada -
New Hampshire Dartmouth College, University of New Hampshire
New Jersey Princeton University, Rutgers University - New Brunswick, Rutgers University - Newark, Stevens Institute of Technology, New Jersey Institute of Technology
New Mexico University of New Mexico
New York Cornell University, Columbia University, NYU, University of Rochester, University at Buffalo SUNY, Stony Brook University, The Katz School at Yeshiva University, Rensselaer Polytechnic University, New School University, Syracuse University, City University of New York, Clarkson University, University at Albany SUNY, Binghamton University SUNY, Fordham University
North Carolina Duke University, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, North Carolina State University, Wake Forest University
North Dakota -
Ohio Ohio State University, Case Western Reserve University, University of Cincinnati, Kent State University, Ohio University
Oklahoma University of Oklahoma, University of Tulsa, Oklahoma State University
Oregon Oregon State University, University of Oregon
Pennsylvania University of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania State University, University of Pittsburgh, Lehigh University, Drexel University, Temple University
Rhode Island Brown University
South Carolina University of South Carolina at Columbia, Clemson University
South Dakota -
Tennessee Vanderbilt University, The University of Tennessee
Texas University of Texas at Austin, Rice University, Texas A&M University, University of Texas Dallas, University of Houston, Southern Methodist University, Baylor University, Texas Tech University
Utah University of Utah, Brigham Young University, Utah State University
Vermont University of Vermont
Virginia University of Virginia, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, College of William & Mary, Virginia Commonwealth University, George Mason University
Washington University of Washington, Washington State University
Washington D.C. Georgetown University, George Washington University, Howard University, American University
West Virginia -
Wisconsin University of Wisconsin-Madison, Marquette University
Wyoming University of Wyoming

Learning programs-summary information

Name Meaning Equivalent Min. age Duration,
years		 Next stage Cost
GCSE General certificate of secondary education secondary education (non-accomplished) 14 1–2 A-Levels 15,000 USD+
A-Levels Advanced level secondary education (accomplished) 16 2 University 15,000 USD+
BTEC Business and Technology Education Board secondary special education 14 2–3 University/ work 15,000 USD+
Oxbridge Preparation Preparing for Oxford and Cambridge secondary education (accomplished) 17 1 University 15,000 USD+
International Baccalaureate International baccalaureate secondary education (accomplished) 16 2 University 18,000 USD+
Foundation/ Pathway Year Preparatory year admission to the 1st year of university 17 1 University 14,000 USD+
NCUK The Northern consortium 2 year university 17,5 1 2 year University of NCUK 13,000 USD+
Special Preparation (Medics/Math/Business) Specialized training - 14 optional optional 4,000 USD+
Academic English Academic English Language school 8 + 6–12 months School or University 8,000 USD+

Cost of living in United States

Expenses - USD/Month. Min. Med.
Accommodation 396 531
Food 260 454
Transportation 60 166
Communications and utilities 99 113
Clothing 19 71
Sports and leisure 24 91
Total 859 1,425
Accommodation in United States USD/Month.
Shared room outside of centre 400
Shared room in city centre 536
1 bedroom apartment outside of centre 730
1 bedroom apartment in city centre 973

Statistics - Universities

Universities in top 100 37
Universities in top 200 59
Universities in top 500 109
Universities in top 1000 195
Universities in top 5000 1142

Literature and references

References
  1. USA Government — Study in USA item link icon
  2. Higher Education in USA —Wiki item link icon
  3. Times Higher Education item link icon
  4. QS Top Universities item link icon
  5. Ivy League — Wiki item link icon
  6. Ivy League item link icon
Reviews/Comments/Questions
Dinislom Shamilovich Turniyazov
(25.02.2021)
Hello I want to get an education in America!
Answers:
S
Manager SMAPSE
Good afternoon, if you are interested in receiving send your request to our e-mail mail@smapse.ru
Sofia
(08.01.2021)
Good day! Is it possible, after receiving a bachelor's degree in Finland, to apply for a master's degree in the USA?
Answers:
S
Smapse
Yes, through the pre-master program. I wrote to you in more detail by mail.
Camilla
(11.05.2020)
Good evening! This year I’m going to medical university. Is it possible to transfer to the second year in America after the first year of study?
Answers:
S
Smapse Manager
Most likely, due to the difference in the education system, you will be able to do this only after the second year. An academic transcript will be required
Yuliya
(24.10.2018)
I'm from Novosibirsk . In a year I will finish my studies at the Medical University. Then I want to study in the United States. With medical education there is too difficult ... Tell me, please, how does all this happen? Will I need to relearn there or can I enroll in their residency right away, or what?
Answers:
S
Smapse LTD
Julia, good afternoon! The recognition of a Russian medical degree abroad is a long and difficult process. To enter the residency after our university is impossible. Unfortunately, we will not be able to help with enrollment in educational institutions to continue your education in the medical specialty. Best regards, SMAPS
Tarlan
(06.07.2017)
Decided to enroll in the Master of Marketing program in the United States. I am a Bachelor of Management. In 2016 he graduated from SPEU. Year is in the USA language schools. The level has reached C1.2 which universities with this programs offer quality training. i am from Baku
Answers:
S
Manager Smaps
Tarlan, hello! Please consider the following options. We skip to you the links: University of Northeastern http://smapse.ru/northeastern-university/, JMU University http://smapse.ru/james-madison-university/, Jhonson & Wales Providence University http://smapse.ru/johnson -and-wales-university-denver /, Jhonson & Wales Denver University http://smapse.ru/johnson-and-wales-university-providence/. If you need help with the FREE submission of documents to these schools, please write!
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Sam Jones
Sam Jones
Recruitment Director for Partnership with INTO Universities (Europe and Central Asia)

Sam is the Regional Director of Student Admissions at INTO Universities (Europe and Central Asia). Sam has nearly 20 years' experience in international education. Also, he has experience in student recruitment for institutions in the UK, USA, Canada, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand and is a qualified EFL teacher with many years of experience teaching abroad. He understands the challenges faced by international students and is aware of all these difficulties and have vast experience in helping foreign students.
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