The United States stands as one of the first choices for most international students, offering not just quality education but also a pathway to a prosperous future. As a dream study abroad destination, the US beckons with top universities, diverse courses and advanced research facilities— practically a haven for STEM students. Furthermore, programs such as Optional Practical Training (OPT), Startup Visas and H-1B Visas open doors to real-world experience, presenting a unique opportunity for those aiming not just to study but to establish a long-term career in the US.
Let’s explore why the US should be one of your preferred destinations for studying abroad in 2024.
Education in the US and post-study opportunities with STEM
The allure of studying in the US has never been higher as renowned institutions offer academic excellence and cutting-edge research courses. The diversity of programs caters to every passion—be it data science, business or art history. Beyond academics, the US is also a melting pot of cultures, fostering lifelong communities and expanding worldviews.
For those venturing into STEM fields, the US provides a treasure trove of post-study opportunities. Programs like OPT, Startup Visas and H-1B Visas align with the country’s commitment to nurturing international talent and ensuring a robust workforce. The US also offers flexible financing options, with numerous scholarships, financial aid options and prestigious fellowships like Fulbright or Stanford Reliance. These opportunities make studying in the US not just a dream but an attainable reality.
The EB-5 Visa Program
As international students aspire to turn their American dream into reality, the EB-5 Visa program provides a strategic financial advantage. While the traditional route to US citizenship can be lengthy, the EB-5 program, officially the Employment-Based Fifth Preference Visa Program, stands as a streamlined, fast and efficient route. With an average processing time of 48 months, students applying at the start of their degree may achieve conditional permanent residency by graduation, providing a seamless transition from education to a potential career in the US.
International students studying in the U.S. may often expect their yearly tuition to cost between $25,000 – $70,000. Public universities provide cost-effective options, with an average tuition of $10,740 for in-state students and $27,560 for out-of-state students in the 2021-2022 academic year, reflecting a 2.2% decrease compared to the previous year, according to CollegeBoard data. While private schools may cost $38,070, their tuition expenses are the lowest since 2017-2018.
As international students consider the financial implications of studying in the U.S., the EB-5 Visa program emerges to alleviate the costs. The EB-5 visa presents a significant benefit for international students by removing the challenges linked with securing a work visa and finding employment post-graduation.
The program emphasises tangible advantages such as reduced tuition fees, permanent residency or Green Cards for family members, freedom in residence and employment locations and the potential for a US passport. This also allows access to resident funding, making education more affordable for U.S. residents. Children may also benefit from reduced tuition fees, and the entire family gains the possibility of obtaining a US passport.
Holistic approach to education and residency
In essence, the US offers more than just education; it provides a launchpad for personal and professional growth. The combination of top-tier education and strategic programs like the EB-5 Visa opens doors for international students, ensuring a holistic and enriching experience in the land of opportunity. The EB-5 Visa program isn’t just a financial strategy; it’s a ticket to realising educational dreams and securing a brighter future for international students.
So, whether you’re aiming for academic excellence or seeking a permanent foothold, the US stands ready to welcome varying career options.
To know more about the exciting opportunities available for international students at GSP’s partner institutions, please reach out to our North American team at gspna@globalstudypartners.com.
