Study in the USA: the ultimate guide for a PhD in 2023
United States

The Ultimate Guide to Studying in United States in 2023

Browse all PhD programmes in United States

  • Aug-Jun Academic Year
  • 155 Listed Institutes
  • 957,000 Int. Students
  • 18,757,000 Students
  • 331,900,000 Population

Study in United States

A young experiment with democracy and a shared national love for fried food, the United States has a long, unique history, especially with producing some of our favorite films and television shows. Add in an enthusiastic love for baseball and (American) football, and you’d come close to arriving at the image of American culture.

The U.S. is a massive place, with each state containing its own history; and when you’re going from one side to another, it feels as if you’re going from planet to planet.

International students from all over the world look to study in the U.S.A., and travelers and explorers are often looking to find out whether Americans are as loud and silly as they are on television (spoiler: they are). Being a student, though, brings you in contact with the top-ranked and largest universities in the world, and they are ready to welcome students like you every year.

Why study in the US?

1. American universities are second to none

When you think about universities in the US, Harvard, Stanford, Yale or MIT might come to mind. But these are only the tip of the iceberg, the crème de la crème. There are over 150 American universities and colleges that earn their place in the international rankings created by Times Higher Education, TopUniversities, and others.

For those interested in academic excellency, studying in the US should be at the top of the preference list. There's something for everybody and you can enrol in any specialisation (or major) you can think of.

2. Tuition fees for anyone's budget

The higher education system in the US is notorious for high tuition fees and an even higher national student debt. Still, you'd make a mistake by thinking studying at an American university is always expensive.

With a simple search on our portals, you'll discover thousands of affordable courses, with annual tuition fees of 5,000 USD or less. At the opposite end, you can find study programmes at Ivy League universities that easily jump over 50,000 USD/year.

3. Academic flexibility

The flexibility students enjoy in America isn't common in many other countries. In most cases, you don't need to declare a major until the second year of study; keep in mind numerous undergraduate degrees (Bachelors) take 4 years to complete.

What does it mean? It means you can try out various subjects and classes, see what interests you, learn what you don't want to focus on, and only then make a decision.

4. Unique student life and on-campus experiences

Although most Hollywood movies exaggerate things to make us laugh, don't think there isn't some truth behind the on-campus student life, which can be described anywhere from vibrant to wild or even over-the-top.

If parties aren't your thing, don't worry. You can always take up sports, enrol in clubs (e.g. drama, music) or volunteer and support a cause that's meaningful to you.

5. Travel and explore amazing sights and tourist attractions

While living and studying in the US, you'll be presented with the opportunity to see some of the most impressive and beautiful natural and man-made attractions in the world.

From the Yellowstone National Park to the Grand Canyon, from the Statue of Liberty to the Golden Gate Bridge, from the Mount Rushmore National Memorial to Alcatraz Island — these and many other unique sights and structures are ready to leave you speechless.

Which universities to attend in the U.S.?

Although the Ivy League universities, plus Stanford and M.I.T., are all major, world-renowned universities to pick from, there are literally hundreds of universities all over the country. Below we’ll list some of our recommendations:

What is it like to study in the U.S.?

The American university system is known for being quite casual, and students at the university level are given quite a level of flexibility with regard to attendance, course requirements, and assignments.

However, students still have to abide by the classroom rules set by their individual instructors, and understand what the expectations are for each course.

Generally, courses are discussion-based, seminar style classes, where it’s a smaller group of students debating or questioning different topics. You’ll also find the normal lecture-style classes, especially for topics that have a lot of students (Computer Science, Medicine, Business, etc.). The way courses are structured really depend upon the content or the subject being taught.

What to study in the United States?

All over the U.S., universities offer a lot of topics and degree programmes that you can choose from. Some of the biggest names, at the biggest Ivy League schools, teach programmes in the subject you’re most interested in. Here are some of the subjects you can consider:

Where to study in the U.S.?

In every major city in the U.S., you’ll find a large, diverse community of people that live nearby the university of your dreams. Take a look at some of the big cities to choose from:

How to apply

Each university in the U.S. has its own system on their website that allows future students to apply for and enrol in their degree programmes. So, once you select the university of your choice, you can go through their application and submit your materials there.

Here are some of the basic requirements you’ll need for every application:

  • A scan of your diploma (high school or Bachelor’s degree)
  • A transcript/record of your previous courses
  • A scan of your passport
  • Your CV
  • Testing scores
  • Evidence of scholarship or funding
  • Letters of recommendation (between 2-3)
  • Portfolio and/or writing samples

How to qualify for an American university?

Take Preparation Courses

These kinds of courses enable degree-seeking students to get an extra educational boost just before they start their Master’s degree or other post-graduate degree programmes.

Try a pre-M.B.A., pre-Law, or pre-Medicine programme, as well as any other foundation or preparation courses that will allow you to study in the degree programme of your choice.

Improve your English through an English-language prep course

If you’re attending a degree programme in the U.S., you will need to prove that your language skills are good enough to participate in the classes and understand the lectures. These courses will also prepare you for any of the English-language tests that universities require.

English-language tests

To apply to study in the U.S., you’ll need to provide proof you have a diploma for your English proficiency.

The certificates generally accepted by the universities in India are:

Still, you should always check on your university’s website, just to be sure what the exact requirements are.

Living in United States

While the United States is one of the most popular study destinations, it also comes with high tuition fees and living costs. You shouldn't worry, though, as there are many forms of financial aid available (e.g. grants, scholarships, student loans). With that in mind, let's take a closer look at the average tuition and living expenses in the U.S.

Tuition fees at universities in the U.S.

In the U.S., tuition fees vary based on the state, the university funding model, and the student’s country of origin. So, listing an average is a rather difficult task. However, thanks to the folks at College Board, they’ve rendered an estimate of last year’s average tuition costs, which will roughly reflect the next few years.

  • Public four-year university for out-of-state/foreign students: 39,890 USD per year
  • Private four-year university: 49,320 USD per year

Cost of living in the U.S.

As with the tuition fees, living cost in the U.S. can vary dramatically based on your location. In a smaller city, you can get by with 800 USD per month. In a bigger city, you will need about 1,500 USD per month. But this largely depends on the type of accommodation and your spending habits.

Here is a breakdown of prices you’ll find in the U.S.:

  • 3-course meal for 2 at a mid-range restaurant: 55 USD
  • Milk: 0.85 USD
  • Loaf of bread: 2.73 USD
  • Monthly transportation pass (bus, metro): 72 USD
  • Taxi: 1.68 USD per km
  • Rent (private single or shared apartment): 1,000–2,100 USD per month
  • Utilities: 200–250 USD per month
  • Cappuccino: 4.25 USD
  • Beer: 5 USD

About United States

Interesting facts about the U.S.

The USA has a law that allows citizens to occupy any unclaimed island in the world, as long as there is seabird or bat poop on it. And yes, every American dreams of claiming an island on the basis of discovering bat poop. No wonder Americans feel so drawn to Batman!

  • Russia and USA are only 3.8km apart at the nearest point. So, practically neighbours.
  • The original name of the city of Atlanta was “Terminus“.
  • Montana has three times as many cows as it does people.
  • 100 acres of pizza are served in the U.S. every single day.
  • The Library of Congress keeps an archive of every single tweet ever tweeted.

 

Universities, colleges and schools in United States

Albany

Albuquerque

Athens

Auburn

Baltimore

Baton Rouge

Binghamton

Bridgeport

Bryan

Burlington

Carrollton

Claremont

Cleveland Heights

College Station

Denver

Detroit

Evanston

Fairfax

Flagstaff

Fort Collins

Fort Worth

Gainesville

Grand Forks

Hanover

Harrisonburg

Honolulu

Indianapolis

Iowa City

Ithaca

Kirksville

Laramie

Lawrenceville

Lexington-Fayette

Lynchburg

Malibu Beach

Manhattan

Manhattan

Medford

Memphis

Miami

Minneapolis

Montgomeryville

Morgantown

Newton

Norman

Oxford

Phoenix

Pittsburg

Pleasantville

Portland

Poughkeepsie

Princeton

Providence

Rochester

Salt Lake City

San Marcos

Santa Barbara

Stanford

Starkville

Stillwater

Stockton

Tallahassee

Tiffin

Tucson

Tuscaloosa

Utica

Valparaiso

Virginia Beach

Winston-Salem

Worcester

Interesting programmes for you

Find PhDs Degrees in United States

Recent international policies promote international university cooperation and student exchange between countries worldwide. High-quality study and PhD degrees are made more available to students in order to create a global educational network, achievable through student and staff mobility. Career and research oriented programmes support international student development.

University cooperation enables students study worldwide, for instance in Australia, Asia, Europe and the United States and provides ways of recognizing previous degrees. Different study options offer appropriate alternatives to students, depending on their preferred mode of study.

Many study programmes in Australia, Asia, Europe and North America are English-taught. The most popular international student destinations include the following countries: Australia, Belgium, China, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom, the United States, and more. However, these are not the only countries offering English-taught education. The rest of the world is full of endless study choices, from highly ranked to smaller, more specialized, universities.

PhD (postgraduate) Degrees

If you want further education beyond the undergraduate level or if you want more personal development or a career in academia, you could obtain a PhD degree. PhD degrees are postgraduate programmes that usually follow a Master's, MPhil or MRes, but there might be additional requirements depending on the university. Students are required to do their own research in a chosen topic. With the help of a supervisor, you develop knowledge and analytical skills in a specific or multidisciplinary field and you carry out independent research. The duration of a PhD degree differs per country and institution. Sometimes your own research is accompanied by work for the department such as giving seminars or small group teaching.

PhD students are required to study on campus under close supervision, but there are universities that accept students enrolled into a part-time distance education PhD degree. Studying on campus can also be full-time as well as part-time, in which case the part-time variant is normally twice as long as the full-time study.

Discover other countries

Netherlands
Netherlands
The Netherlands is a very popular study destination. Internationals choose this beautiful country because Dutch universities are some of the best in Europe, the living standards are high, foreigners are always welcome, and you get to live in one of the happiest and safest countries in the world. The Netherlands is also renowned for innovative technologies and engineering solutions, which is reflected in the wide range of Engineering degrees offered by universities. English is spoken by around 90% of Dutch citizens, so forget about language barriers. Also, bike lanes and the “cycling culture” will help you to stay fit and healthy, and there are diverse job opportunities and internships for international students.
Finland
Finland
Finland is an excellent choice for all internationals and especially for EU/EEA students who can study at local public universities for free. The beautiful Nordic country has one of the best education systems in the world and ranks among the safest and happiest nations in the world. You can also choose from over 400 English-taught programmes. In your spare time, you can explore the breathtaking Finnish nature and landscapes, as well as the numerous lakes that give the country the nickname ‘The Land of a Thousand Lakes.’ From here, you can easily travel to neighbouring countries like Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Russia, or Estonia.
Ireland
Ireland
Ireland is among the top countries in the world in terms of quality of life, peace, safety, and development. It represents an appealing blend of beautiful landscapes, English-speaking environments, and a strong, welcoming, and rich culture — of which the Irish people are very proud. International students also enjoy the full support of Irish universities, which hire and train staff that are able to help with accommodation, studies, visa details, or any other challenge.
Norway
Norway
Norway is a paradise for anyone who wants to study abroad for free. Public universities don’t charge any tuition fees. This policy applies to all international students, regardless of their nationality. The academic standard is very high, and professors are easy to approach, always willing to go the extra mile for their students. Additionally, classes are organised in small groups, which further improves learning and cooperation. You can choose from a wide range of English-taught programmes, and you don’t need to worry about language barriers outside of classes either, because most Norwegians speak English as a second language. Internationals should find it easy to adapt to Norway’s society, which is based on equality and fair opportunities — reflected both in the legal system and in people’s behaviour.
Greece
Greece
Greece is the cradle of European civilization and the birthplace of philosophy. Greek universities and colleges have a long history in academics, attracting international students from all over the world. Classes are not typically formal, so you can expect open discussions between students and professors, in line with the classical philosophical debate tradition. EU/EEA students don’t pay any tuition at public universities, while non-EU/EEA citizens pay low fees. In Greece, you’ll also enjoy the well-known local hospitality and the wonderful Mediterranean climate. There are many landmarks and monuments waiting to be explored, including the Acropolis, Delphi, the Parthenon, and many others.
Sweden
Sweden
Sweden is a very ambitious, eco-friendly, and visionary country. For example, by 2040, it aims to produce all its energy from renewable sources. Universities play an important role in achieving development goals, thanks to their world-class research facilities. If you’re from the EU/EEA, you can study at public universities for free. As a student, you will discover and easily adopt the three main values of Swedish society: freedom, equality, and sustainability. These values are reflected in every aspect of the local society, and you’ll quickly learn to appreciate them. Language barriers are also almost non-existent since around 80% of Swedes speak English.
Switzerland
Switzerland
Switzerland has one of the most advanced free-market economies, which is reflected in the high living standards and the satisfaction of people living here. In terms of higher education, Swiss universities are constantly ranked among the best in Europe, and they shine in areas like Business, Tourism, Culinary Arts, and Engineering. When compared to Western universities, tuition fees in Switzerland are affordable, and all studies — especially PhD programmes — are world-class. You’ll have the opportunity to develop in a multilingual environment and try learning international languages like German, French, or Italian. If you settle down here, the unemployment rates are low, and salaries are well above the European average.
United Kingdom
United Kingdom
Universities in the UK are some of the most highly regarded in the world, and for good reasons. Some of the world's most highly regarded research takes place in British universities, which are regularly featured in international rankings. While studying in the UK, you will be able to develop in a highly multicultural environment with high chances of pursuing lucrative careers after graduation. The teaching in the UK is designed to encourage new idea generation, encouraging individual research and group cooperation, through class discussions and creative assignments.
Canada
Canada
Canada is one of the most popular study destinations in the world due to its high focus on the quality of its universities and its emphasis on attracting international students who can later immigrate. Canadians are very welcoming to international students and they invest a lot into making sure students are safe, treated fairly, and enjoy their stay in the country. Study in one of the strongest economies in the world while enjoying a high living standard and a flexible study environment. Classes have smaller student groups ensuring everyone gets the attention they need, and encouraging group assignments and debates.
United States
United States
The United States is home to some of the most prestigious universities and colleges in the world. With over 150 universities featured in international rankings, the U.S. has some of the best business schools, medical schools, and engineering schools. Universities and colleges in the U.S. are well known for academic flexibility and ways to customize your study experience with optional studies and extracurricular activities. Depending on where you will be studying, you will be able to visit iconic places like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Goldengate Bridge, The Grand Canyon, Mount Rushmore, Disney's Magic Kingdom Park, and much more.
Israel
Israel
Israel attracts international students through high standards of education and a wide range of English-taught degrees. Local universities shine in areas like Technology, Sciences, Business, and Entrepreneurship. In fact, Israel is a renowned land of innovation, having earned itself the nickname ‘Start-Up Nation’. While living and studying here, you will discover a wonderful culture developed throughout 4,000 years of history; different cultural influences are noticeable everywhere, especially in Israeli food, art, and history. In major cities, English is widely spoken, so communication shouldn’t be a problem. In your spare time, you can visit one of the over 400 nature reserves and 80 national parks.
Australia
Australia
By studying in Australia you will take advantage of the great student environment both inside and outside classrooms. In addition to some of the best business and engineering schools in the world, you will be able to explore a greatly developed country that still retains its wild side with its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and the Great Outback, with over 500 national parks. Many Australian universities provide internships and work placements, preparing students early on for the job market.

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