The USA has the world's largest international student population, with more than 1,000,000 students choosing to broaden their education and life experience at a United States college or university. Nearly 5% of all students enrolled in higher-level education in the USA are international students, and the numbers are growing.

Fast Facts on International Students in the United States

• In the 2019-2020 academic years, there were almost 1.1 million international students in the United States.
• In the 2019-2020 academic years, China was the top origin for international students, representing 35 percent of the total, followed by India (18 percent), South Korea (5 percent), and Saudi Arabia (3 percent).
• Since 2000, the enrollment of international students in colleges around the country has increased 72 percent.
• The states with the most international students are California, New York, and Texas.

USA State Guides

The United States is a complex and vast country made up of 50 states plus the city of Washington, D.C. - the nation’s capital - all of which have a distinct regional identity. If you are an international student planning to come to the US to study, our USA State Guide can help you prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.

The United States has over 310 million people and offers international students a unique experience from buzzing, highly dense cities to unpopulated open spaces and pristine natural beauty. If you are curious about what your state has to offer, learn more about all 50 states in our USA State Guide. Here we’ve done the research for you so that you can learn about the state’s economy, internship opportunities, climate, activities, and more!

College or University (Postsecondary)

These five steps explain the process an international student can follow to study in a university or college in the U.S.:

• Research your options. Postsecondary education includes six degree levels. These levels include associate, bachelor, first-professional, master, advanced intermediate, and research doctorate. The U.S. system does not offer a second or higher doctorate but does offer postdoctoral research programs.
  • Find an educational advising center in your country – Merit International  give international students advice on higher education. They can also help students find study opportunities in the United States.
  • College Navigator - Find and compare colleges by location, type of institution, programs, majors, and more.
• Finance your studies. The U.S. government does not provide loans, grants, or help with scholarships for international students. As an international student, you will have to find alternative sources of funding such as:
  • Your home country education authorities - Many countries offer foreign study funding for their own nationals. To receive funding, they must qualify for and be admitted to an approved program or institution abroad.
  • The international admissions office - Many U.S. academic institutions assist international students. Contact the international admissions office at the schools you are interested in to learn if you may be eligible for assistance.
  • Scholarships and grants- Many organizations offer scholarships and grants for study and research. These organizations include private foundations, businesses, and nonprofits. Use the U.S. government’s free online scholarship search tool to find financial aid opportunities.
• Complete your application. In the U.S, colleges and universities establish their own admission requirements. These usually include minimum scores on third-party standardized tests. Follow the application requirements set by the admissions office of the school you’re interested in.
  • Foreign diploma and credit recognition - The U.S. has no single authority that evaluates foreign credentials. Academic institutions and state licensing boards recognize these credentials based on their requirements. Academic evaluations include coursework, degrees, and professional licenses.
  • Standardized tests - Some programs require students to take one or more standardized tests. Plan to take your tests in advance so your scores are available when you submit your application. Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) - Many schools require this test to measure your English language skills.
• Apply for your visa. Before you can apply for a student visa, you must be accepted by a SEVP-certified school.
  • Student visas - Learn about the types of student visas, how to apply, fees, and required documents.
  • How to prepare for your visa appointment - You must pass an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Find out what you need to do before your appointment.
• Prepare for departure. Explore these resources while you plan your move to the U.S. How to navigate the U.S. immigration system - Find out how to get started, arrive, stay, and leave the U.S.
  • Life in the U.S. - Learn about American holidays, states, and other useful information. Working while you study in the U.S. - Find information for international students who want to work while attending school in the U.S. Training opportunities in the U.S. - International students and new graduates can attend on-the-job training in the U.S. too. This training can supplement knowledge gained in their academic studies.
  • Foreign visitors drive in the U.S. - Get quick facts for short-term visitors, students, and residents about driving in the U.S. English as a Second Language - Learn English and improve basic reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills.
  • Income taxes - Some international students may be subject to income tax.

https://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/state_guides/