Study in the USA at top universities: easy access for international students

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Frequently asked questions about studying in America

You may find the answer to a specific question you have about going to university in the USA on this page. You can read frequently asked questions about:

US universities and degrees

Why should I study in America?
An American education is known throughout the world for excellence, flexibility and for the range of opportunities it affords. A degree from one of the carefully selected universities or colleges we work with will give you the qualification you need to be internationally successful. Read more about the benefits of choosing a US university.
Colleges and universities: what's the difference?
In many countries, a college is of lower ranking than a university, and offers only vocational courses. This is not the case in America. In fact, many of the finest private universities in the country are called colleges. We work with both two-year associate colleges, from which you can progress to top tier institutions to complete your studies, and four-year colleges, offering full bachelor's degree programs. Traditionally, only universities offered graduate studies, but today this is no longer the case, and many of the colleges we work with also offer graduate programs.
Which universities can I apply for through Universities in the USA?

You can apply for the following colleges and universities:

What programs can I study through Universities in the USA?
The American universities we partner with provide a wide choice of degrees at both undergraduate and graduate level. Find out more about academic programs, including ESL programs and degree preparation, available through Universities in the USA.
Which subjects can I study through Universities in the USA?
The universities we work with offer a wide variety of 'majors' - the main subject that you study on your degree. Use our interactive map tool to find universities and colleges that offer majors of interest to you.
How long does it take to earn a degree from a US university?
Undergraduate degrees: In general, it takes 2 years to earn an Associate degree and 4 years to earn a Bachelor's degree. Read more about the structure of undergraduate degrees in America.

Graduate degrees: A graduate (or Master's) degree is usually studied for 1-2 years, but the length of time varies depending on the number of credits required. Read more about the structure of graduate degrees in America.
When do I have to choose a major?
Although some students choose a major before starting their undergraduate program, it is not essential. At most universities, you do not have to decide on a major until the end of your second academic year. Find out more about choosing a major.
What can I expect while living in America?
When you first arrive you may notice differences in the way people behave compared to your own country. It is difficult to say what is the 'American' way of life as attitudes and outlooks vary considerably according to where you are in the country. As you become accustomed to living here you may find yourself adapting to all sorts of new experiences. Find out more about adapting to American culture.

Fees and costs at US universities

How much does it cost to go to university in the USA?
At the universities we work with, an undergraduate degree costs between $25,400 and $43,500 per year, and a graduate (Master's) degree costs between $11,925 and $57,240 for the entire program. Tuition fees in US dollars (USD) are shown on the fees page. Tuition fees are likely to rise each intake.
How can Universities in the USA save me money?
You can attend our partner universities in the USA at a price that is significantly less than the university's published price. We offer a reduced price which makes the cost of applying through us less than that of applying directly to the University. Find out more about our package price, which offers exceptional value.
Can I get a scholarship?
Unfortunately there is no scholarship available by applying through Study Group to a university in the USA. Our all-inclusive prices already include an international student discount which we extend to all our international applicants. Study Group cannot offer you any further discounts. We encourage you to contact your relevant government agency to inquire about international study scholarships or student loans. Find out more about scholarships and other aid for international students.
Can I split the cost of my tuition into more than one payment?
Yes. Payment plans are available for undergraduate and graduate students. Find out more details about payment plans.
Which universities have lower prices?
The price of an American education varies according to institution. Public universities generally charge lower fees than private universities. Use our interactive map tool to search for universities by price.
When are the fees payable?
Once you accept an offer of a place, we require a deposit (usually $500) in order to release your immigration documents. The remaining fees can either be paid in two installments, or in full in advance if preferred. Fees for the Fall semester are due on 1 July, and for the Spring semester on 1 November. Delayed payments incur a $500 late fee. Find out more about fees.
How can fees be paid?

We accept payment by Visa, Mastercard, or American Express credit cards, by check or bank draft drawn in US dollars, or by bank transfer to:

Bank name: Bank of America
Address: 1185 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10036, USA
Account name: Study Group
Account number: 9417-201482
ABA Routing number: 0260-0959-3
Swift code: BOFAUS3N

Payments made by credit card after the due date will be subject to a fee of 2% of the total program value unless you have paid for an optional payment plan.

Do I get a refund if I cancel my place?
If possible, we strongly recommend that you defer to the following semester rather than cancel. If you do need to cancel, you will receive a full refund less a service fee of $500 if your cancellation is received: before July 1 for fall semester; or before November 1 for spring semester. If your cancellation is received after these dates, but before the academic year begins, you will be refunded 50% of the year's tuition fees. The application deposit is non-refundable. If you defer or withdraw on or after the start of the academic year you are not eligible for a refund.
What is included in the fees?
Undergraduate, Foundation, Foundation Diploma and ESL Transition program fees include:
  • Application fees
  • Orientation fees 
  • University/College deposit
  • Tuition
  • Shared dormitory accommodation (with American roommate whenever possible)
  • Full meal plan
  • Comprehensive accident/illness insurance
  • Transfer to campus from nearest domestic airport on initial arrival
  • 24-hour telephone service

    • Graduate and Pre-Master's program fees include all of the above items, except accommodation and meals. Learn more about the all-inclusive fee.
What is the cost of living in the United States?
The cost of living varies widely throughout the United States. Read our guidance about cost of living and additional expenses.

Admissions requirements

Am I eligible to apply for a place at a US university?

To qualify for an undergraduate degree program, you must be aged 17 or older, and have a Diploma or acceptable certification of graduation from a High School or Secondary School in your home country. To qualify for (post) graduate study you must have successfully completed the international equivalent of a US secondary education, and the international equivalent of a US bachelor's degree.

All students must prove that they have spoken and written English sufficient for university study, by submitting a TOEFL or IELTS score, or successfully completing a university-based ESL program if available. See below for more details of English language requirements.

There are additional eligibility requirements for undergraduate and postgraduate studies. Find out more about admissions requirements.

What grades will I need for Universities in the USA?
You will need the equivalent of a minimum GPA of 2.0 in your previous studies to qualify for an undergraduate degree at the universities we work with. Some universities require up to 3.0 GPA. For Master's degree you will require between 2.5 and 3.0 GPA. Find out GPA requirements for each university.
What is GPA?
GPA means Grade Point Average and it is used in the American education system to indicate the level of a students' academic success. An average score is calculated for each student on a scale of 0-4, with O being a fail and 4 being the maximum academic achievement. World Education Services (WES) offers a free grade conversion guide for more than 120 countries, so you can compare your grades to an American university's GPA requirements.
Do I need to take a SAT or ACT exam?

No. Undergraduate international students who apply with us are not required to take the ACT or SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) exams - the standardized testing for US college applicants.

Do I need to take GMAT or GRE graduate admissions tests?
Maybe. Some of the universities we work with require graduate applicants to take the GMAT (Graduate Management Admissions Test) for business Master's programs, or the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) for other Master's programs. Check the GMAT and GRE requirements for Universities in the USA. 
How do I get an evaluation or translation of my academic records?
You will need to provide an official copy of your academic transcripts, translated into English, with your application. Additionally, some universities will require that you provide a professional evaluation of your academic credentials. World Education Service will review your transcripts and prepare a transcript evaluation report for a fee (starting from $100). 

English language levels and preparation

How can I find out my English Language level?
The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) will indicate your English level. Find out more about the TOEFL and other English Language tests. Or, if you are applying for a preparation program, you can take our English Test.
Do I need to take a TOEFL or IELTS exam before submitting my University application?
No. An official TOEFL or IELTS score is not required when you submit your application for a degree program, but you will need to send proof of your English level before the start of the semester. Alternatively, you can join on-campus ESL program, Foundation, Foundation Diploma or Pre-Master's program, at a number of the universities we work with, which allows you to qualify for entry without the need for an official TOEFL or IELTS score.
What level of English do I require to study at an American university?

The requirements vary at each University.
- for direct entry to undergraduate programs, you need a TOEFL iBT score between 61 and 80
- for direct entry to graduate programs, you need a TOEFL iBT score between 61 and 96
- for conditional admission through a university-based ESL transition program, you usually do not need an official TOEFL or IELTS score, but you'll need a minimum equivalent English level between TOEFL iBT 32 and 45. See detailed English proficiency requirements for all programs.

What is an ESL (English as a Second Language) transition program?
ESL transition programs are a pathway to some of our partner universities for international students who don't have the required TOEFL or IELTS score for direct entry to a degree program. You must meet all the university's other requirements for degree admission. ESL transition programs are taught on campus and will improve your language proficiency to the level necessary for admission to that university. Read more about university-based ESL programs.
How long is an ESL transition program?
This depends on how quickly you make progress, and your level of English on entry. Most students reach the appropriate level of English proficiency in one or two semesters.
Where can I join an ESL transition program?

ESL transition programs are offered on campus at the following universities:

Am I guaranteed progression to a degree after an ESL transition program?

Yes. By qualifying for an ESL transition program you have the security of knowing that you have satisfied the University's academic requirements and received a conditional offer. When your English language level has reached the required proficiency, you will transition into full-time degree-level study at that university.

Applying for university

What is the application fee?
There is no application fee to apply through us to the universities we work with in the USA. You can apply to three universities with our online application form.  
How long does it take to apply through Universities in the USA?
Universities in the USA has developed a simplified application process which focuses on helping you achieve your goals as quickly and easily as possible. Our application form allows you to apply to up to three universities at the same time. We can confirm a decision within three weeks in most cases - much faster than via the traditional process. Find out more about the application process.
What is the deadline for applications?
There is no deadline - we offer rolling admissions. There are two intakes per year for the vast majority of programs. However, we do recommend that you apply as early as possible, and at least ten weeks before your program starts, because the visa application process may cause delays to your admission.
When can I start at university?

Universities accept new students into undergraduate degrees and ESL programs at the start of the Fall semester, or at the start of the Spring semester. A few graduate programs have only one intake a year, but most have the same two intakes like undergraduate programs.

 
Who will help me with my application?
One of our team of expert International Student Advisors will support you with your application and with the visa process right up until you arrive at the university.
Can I transfer credit from my previous university to a university in the USA?
If you have been a student at an accredited higher education institution in your home country, you can transfer to one of our partner universities. The number of credits eligible for transfer will be determined by the university. Your application must be accompanied by an official transcript in your original language and accompanied by certified (English) translation. A certified evaluation of your transcript may be required upon request.

Visas

What kind of visa do I need?
You will need an F1 Visa, which is for full-time students enrolled in an academic or language program. Learn more about visas.
What is the I-20 form?
The I-20 form allows you to apply for a student visa at the American consulate or embassy in your country. Following university acceptance, a deposit will be required to release the I-20 immigration document. This deposit is refundable in the event of a visa denial. Learn more about the I-20 form and visas.
How long will my visa be valid?

When you enter the United States on a student visa, you will usually be admitted for the duration of your student status. That means you may stay as long as you maintain full-time student status, even if the F-1 visa in your passport expires while you are in America. However, if you depart the USA with an expired visa, you will need to obtain a new one, applying at an Embassy abroad, before being able to return to America and resume your studies.

When you complete the course of studies shown on your I-20, and any authorized practical training, you are allowed an additional 60 days in the USA, to prepare for departure from the country, or to transfer to another university.

When will I receive the documentation required for my visa application?
If your application is successful, we will offer you a place at the University. To accept your place, you must send us a deposit (usually $500). Once we have received your deposit payment we will send you by mail (usually through Fedex) the official I-20 document along with the acceptance letter from the university, and other pre-arrival documentations. You will need to submit this with your visa application.

Our services

How can Study Group help me apply to a university?

We have an unrivaled expertise in the American education system. We will be your team in America, helping you both before and during your time here. We organize all medical, housing, and insurance arrangements. You will benefit from:

  • a simplified application process to up to three partner universities
  • international student discounts
  • no application fees
  • a confirmed decision within three weeks in most cases
  • preferred access to a comprehensive selection of colleges and universities

Read more about how we support you with university admission.

How will you help me once I am at university?
Universities in the USA will continue to support your progression toward your degree with services that include ongoing help, access to internships and work/study options, and a 24 hour emergency hot line to resolve non-medical problems and issues.
What if I need additional academic and personal support while at university?
Our optional Student Advising and Support Service is a unique one-on-one service that offers the very best chance of success at university in the USA. It provides enhanced academic and personal support to supplement the services offered by your university. With Student Advising and Support, you will receive ongoing, intensive, personalized and individual support by an experienced and dedicated professional Advisor.
How are universities chosen by Universities in the USA?
All colleges and universities are carefully chosen by our team of experts for their excellent academic reputations, superb facilities and an average student/faculty ration of just 14:1.
Do you offer student insurance?
Yes. The StudyCare insurance policy is included in our package fee for all the Universities in the USA we work with. StudyCare is a comprehensive insurance policy designed for international students, covering loss of personal possessions as well as medical insurance. Read more about StudyCare insurance. 

Accommodation

What type of accommodation is available to me?
When you apply for an undergraduate degree, Foundation, Foundation Diploma or ESL transition program through Universities in the USA, we arrange your accommodation for you and it is included in your fee. You will probably live in a room shared with one or more other students. Your room will be equipped with basic furniture like a bed and mattress, a desk and chair, and some storage space for each student. Internet (wireless or Ethernet), telephone, and television connections are normally provided. Bathrooms are usually shared with a number of rooms.

Graduate and Pre-Master's students who need accommodation should arrange it through the university. Most universities and colleges require you to live on campus, at least for the first two years of undergraduate study. Juniors, seniors and graduate students can usually live off-campus if they choose. Residence hall accommodation varies, but most are co-educational, meaning that men and women live in the same building, but on separate floors.
Can I stay in my room over the vacations?

Most US universities are closed during the Thanksgiving holiday in late November, the Christmas holiday (which normally lasts about four weeks), the Spring vacation in April (approximately 10 days), and the summer vacation. Depending on the university, you might be allowed to stay in your campus accommodation at an extra charge, or you will need to find other accommodation outside the campus while the university is closed.

Pre-arrival

When should I arrive at university?
You should aim to arrive at the university in time to be ready to start the international orientation program at your selected institution. The orientation program will usually take place a few days before classes start.
What documents should I bring to the airport when traveling to America?
Remember to bring your University acceptance letter, I-20 and F-1 visa along with you on the plane. You may be asked by an immigration officer why you are in the US, please be clear that you understand where you are going and what you intend to study. Find out more about arriving in the United States.
Is there an insurance policy offered to international students?
Yes, our StudyCare plan offers comprehensive insurance and is included in the fee. The insurance has been developed specifically for international students and includes accident and medical insurance. Find out more information about StudyCare insurance.
When I arrive in the United States, how will I get from the airport to the university?
You will be met by a private car driver as you come through the arrivals lounge at the airport. They will hold a sign with your name on. The driver will take you straight to your accommodation on the university campus.

Working in the United States

Can I work while I am a student in the US?

Yes. The US government allows students on an F-1 visa to work on-campus up to 20 hours a week during the university semester. You can work on-campus 40 hours a week during breaks and the summer vacation. You must apply for US Immigration Department permission before you can work off campus, and again only up to 20 hours per week. There are three types of off-campus work authorizations for full-time students:

1. Unexpected, extreme financial hardship
You must have been studying on an F-1 visa for at least one year to be eligible. You must prove you have less money than expected (e.g because of large currency devaluations or loss of your parent's job).

2. Curricular practical training
If your academic department grants credit for internships, you may be allowed to complete an off-campus internship. Contact your academic advisor for help applying.

3. Internship with an international organization
You must be a full-time student while you do your internship. You may work full-time or part-time for one year. You will need a written offer from an international organization.

Working without following the regulatory guidelines is a serious status violation. Students terminated for unauthorized employment are not eligible for reinstatement and must leave the United States immediately.

Read more about work experience while at university.

Do you offer job placements?
International students with an F1 student visa are expected to return to their countries once they have finished their education in the United States. However, you can extend your stay with paid work experience through an Optional Practical Training (OPT) placement in the US. OPT is a temporary employment authorization that gives F1 students an opportunity to use valuable skills gained during their degree studies in a practical work setting. Currently there are more than 70,000 international students taking advantage of this scheme, and getting a head start in the job market.
What type of degree should I have for Optional Practical Training?
OPT is available to students with both Bachelor's and Master's level degrees.
How long can I work on an OPT placement?
The standard period allowed is 12 months. However, students studying science, technology, engineering or mathematics can extend their program for an additional 17 months making a total of 29 months.

Contacting us

I have a question that is not answered here. How can I ask a question?
If your question is not answered in our FAQ, contact our Student Enrollment Advisors. They will be happy to help you. They are experts in US university admission and entry requirements for international students.
Who will answer my questions?
Our team of expert Student Enrollment Advisors will assist you with any questions you have, and will help and support you through the application process, until you arrive at the University.

Do not worry if your English is not very good - we are experienced in communicating with non-native English speakers, and we will do our best to understand you. Our advisors speak 12 languages between them, including English, Spanish, Hindi, French and Danish.
I am trying to use your inquiry form but it does not work.

Apologies! We try to avoid errors on our enquiry form but sometimes they can occur. You may wish to contact us by email, phone or fax instead:

Our working hours are 09:00-17:30 PST (Pacific Standard Time).

How can I contact students at universities in the USA?
You can contact students at most of the universities we work with through Facebook. There are also opportunities for contacting students through blogs, email and messaging services. Details are on our Connect with students page.
How do I find out more about Universities in the USA?
Universities in the USA is run by Study Group, a leading international education specialist. Find about more about us.