Study in USA
World-Class Education with Unlimited Opportunities for Pakistani Students
Looking for world-class education with excellent career prospects?
The United States offers the most prestigious higher education system globally, with cutting-edge research facilities, flexible academic programs, and unparalleled career opportunities. A US degree opens doors worldwide and provides a competitive edge in the global job market.
Why Study in USA
The United States remains the top destination for international students because:
- Home to 8 of the top 10 universities worldwide (QS Rankings 2024)
- Wide range of programs and specializations across 4,000+ institutions
- Flexible education system with interdisciplinary options
- Cutting-edge research facilities and technology
- Strong industry-academia connections
- Post-study work opportunities (OPT for 1-3 years after graduation)
- Diverse cultural experience with students from all over the world
Top Universities in USA: Rankings and Fees
The US boasts the world's best universities across all disciplines:
| Institution | QS Ranking 2024 | Annual Fees (Approx.) | Popular Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 1 | $58,000 | Engineering, Computer Science, Business |
| Harvard University | 4 | $54,000 | Law, Medicine, Business, Arts |
| Stanford University | 5 | $56,000 | Computer Science, Engineering, Business |
| University of California, Berkeley | 10 | $44,000 (out-of-state) | Engineering, Computer Science, Business |
| University of Michigan | 33 | $53,000 (out-of-state) | Engineering, Business, Medicine |
Note: Public universities charge lower fees for state residents. Many universities offer financial aid.
The Best Courses to Study in USA
USA offers excellent programs in these high-demand fields:
STEM Fields
- Computer Science & IT
- Engineering (all disciplines)
- Data Science & AI
- Biotechnology
Business & Management
- MBA & Business Analytics
- Finance & Economics
- Marketing & Entrepreneurship
- Supply Chain Management
Healthcare & Life Sciences
- Medicine & Public Health
- Pharmacy & Pharmacology
- Nursing & Healthcare Admin
- Biomedical Sciences
Intakes in the USA
Several intakes are available to international students all year long, giving them flexibility in their selection. There are three primary intakes:
January Intake
January to April
Application Deadline: September-November
April Intake
April to June
Application Deadline: January-February
September Intake
September to December
Application Deadline: June-July
Admission Requirements in USA for Pakistani Students
Requirements vary by university and program, but generally include:
- Completed secondary school certificate with good grades
- For bachelor's: HSSC with minimum 60% marks
- For master's: Relevant bachelor's degree with minimum 2.8/4.0 GPA
- Standardized test scores:
- Undergraduate: SAT or ACT
- Graduate: GRE or GMAT (for business programs)
- Proof of English proficiency:
- IELTS 6.5-7.0
- TOEFL iBT 80-100
- Some universities accept Duolingo English Test
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Letters of Recommendation (2-3)
- CV/Resume (for graduate programs)
- Passport copy
- Financial documents showing ability to pay
Cost of Studying and Living in USA
Cost of studying in USA
US education is an investment with excellent returns, though costs vary significantly:
| Study Program | Public Universities | Private Universities | Community Colleges |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's degree | $20,000 - $40,000/year | $35,000 - $60,000/year | $6,000 - $20,000/year |
| Master's degree | $15,000 - $35,000/year | $25,000 - $50,000/year | N/A |
| PhD programs | $28,000 - $40,000/year | $30,000 - $50,000/year | N/A |
Cost of living in USA
Monthly living costs for students in different US locations:
| Expenses | High-Cost Cities (NY, SF) | Mid-Range Cities | Small Towns |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $1,200-$2,500 | $700-$1,500 | $500-$1,000 |
| Food & Groceries | $500-$800 | $400-$600 | $300-$500 |
| Transportation | $100-$200 | $50-$150 | $30-$100 |
| Health Insurance | $150-$300 | $100-$250 | $80-$200 |
| Study Materials | $100-$300 | $100-$200 | $50-$150 |
| Leisure Activities | $200-$500 | $150-$300 | $100-$200 |
| Total Monthly | $2,250-$4,600 | $1,500-$3,000 | $1,000-$2,000 |
Scholarships for International Students in the UK
Many scholarship programs in the UK are designed to equip international students with the skills to make a difference in their country. Many of these scholarships are also offered for international students who want to undertake postgraduate study.
| Scholarship Name | Description | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Chevening Scholarship | Offered by the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office for master's degrees. Applicants must be citizens of qualifying countries and must agree to work in their home country for at least two years after graduation. | Full tuition + living expenses |
| Commonwealth Scholarships | Available to master's and PhD students from 62 Commonwealth countries. Covers all expenses including tuition fees, housing and transportation. | Full funding |
| GREAT Scholarships | Part of the British Council's international student funding program. Each country has a unique application process. | £10,000 minimum |
| University-specific Scholarships | Most UK universities offer their own scholarships for international students based on merit or need. | Varies (10-100% tuition) |
Student Visa Requirements for USA
Pakistani students need to obtain an F-1 student visa to study in the United States:
University Admission
Get accepted by a SEVP-approved US institution (receive I-20 form)
SEVIS Fee Payment
Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee ($350 for F-1 visa)
DS-160 Form
Complete the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application
Visa Fee Payment
Pay the MRV visa application fee ($185)
Visa Interview
Schedule and attend visa interview at US Embassy
Processing Time: 2-4 weeks after interview. F-1 students can work on-campus up to 20 hours/week and may be eligible for OPT (Optional Practical Training) after graduation.
Job Opportunities in USA
International students in USA have excellent work opportunities:
- During studies: On-campus employment up to 20 hours/week (full-time during breaks)
- CPT: Curricular Practical Training for internships during study
- After graduation: OPT (Optional Practical Training) for 1 year (STEM fields get 2-year extension)
- In-demand fields: STEM, Healthcare, Business, Data Science
- Average student job pay: $10-$20 per hour
Popular Student Jobs
Campus Jobs
- Library assistant
- Dining hall staff
- Research assistant
Internships
- Tech company internships
- Business/finance internships
- Research internships
Graduate Assistantships
- Teaching assistant
- Research assistant
- Administrative assistant
UCAS Clearing
Clearing is a service offered by the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS) to students who don't currently hold offer letters from any UK university and are looking for alternative undergraduate programs available for enrolment.
This way, international undergraduate students still have a chance to study at UK universities if they miss the opportunity to get accepted at their preferred university.
How Clearing Works
Check Available Courses
Browse the UCAS Clearing listings for courses with available places after results day in August.
Contact Universities
Call universities directly to discuss your application and potential offers.
Receive Verbal Offer
If the university is interested, they'll give you a verbal offer over the phone.
Add Clearing Choice
Add the course as your Clearing choice in your UCAS Track account.
Accept Offer
If the university confirms your place, you'll receive an official acceptance.
Student Life in USA
Studying in USA offers a vibrant campus experience:
- Campus culture: Sports events, clubs, student organizations
- Diversity: Students from all over the world
- Facilities: State-of-the-art labs, libraries, recreation centers
- Support services: International student offices, career centers
- Travel opportunities: Explore different states during breaks
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, through the OPT program:
- Standard OPT: 12 months work authorization for any degree
- STEM OPT Extension: Additional 24 months for STEM degree holders
- After OPT: May transition to H-1B work visa if employer sponsors
- Long-term: Possible path to permanent residency (green card)
Several options exist for Pakistani students:
- Fulbright Program: Highly competitive full scholarships
- University scholarships: Merit-based aid from institutions
- Private scholarships: From organizations and corporations
- Assistantships: For graduate students (tuition waiver + stipend)
- Community colleges: More affordable pathway to 4-year degrees
You must prove sufficient funds to cover at least the first year's costs:
- General requirement: Show liquid funds equal to 1 year tuition + living expenses
- Typical amount: $35,000-$70,000 depending on institution
- Acceptable sources: Personal/family funds, scholarships, sponsorships
- Documentation: Bank statements, sponsorship letters, scholarship awards
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