Education in the USA is the dream of millions of students across the globe. Flexibility is what the US higher education system offers through the enormous and diverse institution types it incorporates.
This diversity leads you to options to specialize in a range of academic disciplines and enter the employment market more competently. Some educational institutions emphasize broad educational principles, while some focus on practical skills required in the employment market.
Thus, US universities collectively provide both thesis-based and skill-based education to their students.
The US educational calendar usually begins in August-September and continues through May or June. The academic year in most institutions is composed of a ‘semester’, while some even practice a ‘trimester’ or ‘quarter system’ of four terms that includes an optional summer session.
Thousands of colleges and universities throughout the country provide quality education, and therefore, there is always something for everyone.
The USA has some of the best Universities in the world: Princeton University, Harvard University, Columbia University, University of California, etc. However, the most important thing for you is the course and fee structure of the degree you aim to pursue.
Colleges are more minor than universities that generally provide undergraduate degrees. Community colleges, also known as a junior college, has a significant role in the US educational system. They have affordable study options for two-year associate degrees, after which you can continue studying in universities for an undergraduate degree. Universities offer research-based master's, doctoral and post-doctoral degrees.
| Associate degree | 2 years |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s degree | 3-4 years |
| Master’s degree (professional) | 1-3 years |
| Master’s degree (Academic) | 2 years |
| Doctorate or PhD | 5-8 years |
Public universities, also known as State universities, are funded by the government of a particular state so you can expect a cheaper tuition fee structure.
Private universities, on the other hand, are supported by tuition fees and donations. Both universities offer various courses and impart almost similar quality of education. As an international student, you may wish to do the calculations to comprehend the extent you can stretch financially based on the type of qualification and university or college you choose.
If you opt for medicine or engineering, they are likely to be more expensive, unlike some countries having expensive MBA courses. The annual fee may range from $10,000 to $55,000.
Additionally, the US educational system requires you to meet a certain standard of English proficiency. Most US colleges and universities require an IELTS score of approximately 6.0 and a TOEFL score range of 70-90. However, it depends on the institution’s set requirements.
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