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Destination GuideLast Updated: October 2026

Study & Settle in United States

The United States is the epicenter of global technology, venture innovation, and academic research, offering flexible academic curricula, campus assistantships, and extensive STEM OPT opportunities.

Study in United States
United States Study Destination

Official Policy Compliance Notice

Immigration rules, student quotas, and visa regulations are subject to statutory amendments by the respective immigration ministries. Information here is for orientation; our counsellors verify live regulations prior to submission. No agency can legally guarantee visa outcomes.

Why Study in United States?

World-leading research facilities and thousands of accredited institutions.
Up to 36 months (3 years) of post-study employment authorization through STEM OPT.
Opportunities for Graduate Assistantships (RA/TA) that subsidize tuition expenses.
Flexible curriculum allowing students to double major or tailor concentrations.

Requirements & Financial Estimates

Estimated Tuition$20,000 - $48,000 per year
Living Cost Funds$12,000 - $18,000 per year
IELTS RequirementIELTS 6.5 - 7.0 or TOEFL iBT 80 - 100
PTE AcademicPTE Academic 58 - 68
Mandatory Proof of Funds

Form I-20 financial declaration demonstrating liquid funds for at least 1 academic year

Post-Study Work Permit (PSWP)

12 months of standard Optional Practical Training (OPT) plus 24 months STEM extension for qualifying majors (total 36 months).

Recommended Language & Visa Prep for United States

Patiala Campus & Online

Prepare for your university admission, language certification, and visa interview at our Walia Enclave center (Opposite Punjabi University, Patiala):

Popular In-Demand Courses in United States

MS Computer Science & Data Systems
MBA & Technology Management
Biomedical Engineering
Finance & Fintech

Frequently Asked Questions: United States

What is Form I-20 and how do I receive it?

Form I-20 is the official Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status issued by a SEVP-certified US university after you are admitted and submit proof of liquid financial support covering one full academic year of tuition and living expenses.

How do I prepare for the US F-1 consular visa interview?

The US F-1 visa is decided primarily through an in-person consular interview under Section 214(b). AKME conducts structured mock interviews in Patiala focusing on your academic motivation, why you selected the specific US university, sponsor finances, and long-term career plans in India.

Are GRE or GMAT scores mandatory for US Master's admissions?

Many accredited US universities offer GRE/GMAT waivers for STEM and business graduate programs depending on your undergraduate GPA and work experience, while competitive research universities still recommend a strong GRE score (315+).

How does the 36-month STEM OPT work in the USA?

F-1 students graduating with a degree in a designated Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) field qualify for 12 months of standard Optional Practical Training (OPT) plus a 24-month STEM extension, providing up to 3 years of US work authorization.

What is the SEVIS I-901 fee?

The SEVIS I-901 fee (currently USD $350 for F-1 students) is a mandatory US Department of Homeland Security fee that must be paid after receiving your Form I-20 and before attending your US embassy visa interview.

Can F-1 students work part-time on campus in the USA?

Yes, F-1 students are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week on-campus (such as in libraries, research labs, or administrative offices) during active academic semesters, and up to 40 hours per week during official university vacations.

Quick & Confidential Eligibility Check

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Study in United States - Visas, Costs & Requirements | AKME Immigrations Patiala | AKME Immigrations