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Study in USA After 12th for Indian Students: Complete Guide

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Yocket Editorial Team
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Unsurprisingly, the United States of America is one of the most popular study locations for overseas students. According to data, 167,582 Indian students studied in the United States in the academic year 2020-21. Pursuing an education in USA after 12th grade gives the students a plethora of options to select from, with more than 5,300 prominent educational institutions and over 2,000 additional institutes offering bachelor's degrees in a range of disciplines.

However, it’s not just the quality of education to study in USA for Indian students that attract them to study in USA after 12th. The United States is an outstanding location for students because of its cultural richness, support system for international students, research and career opportunities, and the prospect of a bright future. So what are you waiting for? Read the article to learn more about studying in USA for Indian students after 12th. 

Table of Contents

Education System in the United States of America

There are around 4,500 authorised higher educational institutions to study in America after 12th. A full-time undergraduate degree is referred to as a Bachelor’s degree in USA. It takes around 4 years. The different types of post-secondary education systems within the US are as follows:

Type of Institution

Key Points

State College or University

  • An affordable form of study in USA after 12th from India as it is subsidised by the local or state government. 
  • Ex: University of Virginia

University of Michigan

Private College/ University

  • These are run by private groups or organisations. 

Ex: Brown University

Harvard University

Community College

  • Provides two-year associate degrees or certificate courses in USA after 12th

Ex: Green River College

Santa Monica College

Institute of Technology

  • Offers graduates and short-term programs in engineering, technology, applied sciences, and natural sciences. 

Ex: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Illinois Institute of Technology

Suggested Reading: Comparison between bachelors in USA vs Canada

Benefits of Studying in USA after 12th

There are innumerable benefits of studying in USA for Indian students after 12th. Some of the benefits to study in USA include the following:

  • US is home to some of the world's finest educational institutions. As per the QS World Rankings 2022, it is home to 33 of the top 100 colleges in the world.
  • International students pursuing higher education in the United States have numerous research and training opportunities. Universities are well-equipped with modern technology to ensure that students are prepared for the competitive world. 
  • In terms of organisation and curriculum, studying in USA after 12th is highly flexible. At the undergraduate level, one has the freedom to take a variety of courses before deciding on a major at the conclusion of the second year.
  • An international degree from USA after 12th opens up a plethora of job opportunities across the globe. 
  • US is known for its robust student culture. Campus life extends beyond academics to include non-academic activities such as hiking, skiing, museum visits, and more.

Suggested: STEM Programs in USA

One can excel in a variety of courses in the United States. The bachelors course duration in USA is usually four to five years. Following are some of the best courses in USA after 12th based on different streams for Indian students:

Top Science Courses to Pursue in USA after 12th

  • BSc Nursing (BSN)
  • Computer Science, Economics, and Data Science
  • Bachelor of Biology
  • BSc in Chemistry
  • BSc in Mechanical Engineering
  • Bachelor of Computer Applications
  • BSc in Civil Engineering
  • Bachelor of Surgery

Top Science Universities in USA

Explore this table for a better understanding. 

University 

QS Rankings 2023

Popular Courses

Harvard University

5

  • Earth and Marine sciences
  • Astrophysics
  • Computer Science

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

1

  • B.Sc Chemistry
  • Architecture
  • Aerospace Engineering

Cornell University

20

  • Agricultural Sciences
  • Biological Engineering
  • Engineering Physics

Top Commerce Courses in USA after 12th

  • Bachelor in Economics
  • Bachelor of Management
  • Bachelor of Entrepreneurship
  • BBA in Accounting
  • Bachelor of Arts in Accounting
  • BBA in Finance
  • BSc in Marketing
  • Business Administration in Global Business

Top Commerce Universities in United States 

Explore this table to get a better understanding. 

University 

QS Rankings 2023

Popular Courses

Arizona State University

219

  • Accountancy
  • Business Entrepreneurship
  • Finance

University of California, Berkeley

27

  • Business Administration
  • Global Management Program
  • Management, Entrepreneurship, & Technology Program

Texas A & M University

164

  • Accounting
  • Agribusiness
  • Applied Economics

Top Arts Courses in USA after 12th

  • Bachelor of Liberal Arts
  • Bachelor of Hospitality and Tourism Management
  • BA in English
  • BA in History
  • Bachelor of Fine Arts
  • Bachelor of Journalism and Mass Communication
  • Fashion Design
  • Hotel Management
  • Geography
  • Sociology
  • Bachelor of Social Work 

Top Arts Universities in USA

Let’s explore this table for a better understanding. 

University 

QS Rankings 2023

Popular Courses

Yale University

18

  • Graphic Designing
  • Photography
  • Filmmaking

Stanford University

3

  • Art History
  • Film and Media Studies
  • Art Practice

Dartmouth College

205

  • Music
  • Studio Art
  • Film and Media Studies

Suggested Reading: Best Courses to study in USA

Top 10 Universities to Study in USA after 12th

Following is the list of universities to study in USA for Indian Students after 12th:

University

QS Ranking 2023

Top Bachelors Courses

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

1

  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Energy Studies
  • Entrepreneurship and Innovation
  • Environment and Sustainability
  • Middle Eastern Studies, etc.

Standford University

3

  • Business
  • Earth, energy, and environmental sciences
  • Education
  • Engineering 
  • Humanities and sciences, etc. 

Harvard University

5

  • Social Sciences
  • Biology Sciences
  • Computer and information systems
  • History
  • Engineering
  • General Psychology, etc. 

California Institute of Technology

6

  • Biology and Biological Engineering
  • Chemistry and Chemical Engineering and Applied Science
  • Geology and Planetary Sciences
  • Humanities and Social Sciences, etc. 

University of Chicago

10

  • Econometrics and Quantitative Economics
  • Mathematics, General
  • Biology/Biological Sciences, General
  • Public Policy Analysis, General
  • Political Science and Government

University of Penssylvania

13

  • Business
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Social Sciences, etc. 

Princeton University 

16

  • Engineering
  • Computer and Information Sciences
  • Literature
  • Foreign Languages, etc.

Yale University

18

  • Computer Science
  • Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering, etc. 

Cornell University

20

  • Business
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Biology and Biomedical Sciences, etc. 

Columbia University

22

  • Buisness
  • Engineering
  • Computer Science
  • Medicine
  • Humanities, etc. 

Read: Best States in USA for Indian Students

Eligibility Requirements for Studying in USA after 12th

To seek admission in USA after 12th, one has to meet certain requirements. These eligibility criteria for international students are important for education. Certain eligibility requirements are as follows:

  • Applicants must have completed their 12th grade from a recognised institution with a minimum of marks as specified by the university and course. A minimum GPA of 2.50 to 3. 60 is necessary for most of the courses. 
  • The applicant must have obtained a minimum score on an English language competency exam such as the TOEFL or IELTS.
  • Students should have a good score for the standardised examinations like SAT or ACT. A minimum SAT score of 600-800 is required for admission to US universities.
  • Candidates must have a well-written Statement of Purpose and letters of recommendation from relevant authorities in order to study in USA after 12th from India.
  • The applicant must at least be 18 years of age. 
  • The student shall have received an application letter from a US university. 

Read: Spring Intake USA 2023

Documents Required for Admission Process in USA

The applicant must submit the following documents during the admission process to study in America after 12th:

  • Educational transcripts of previous qualifications
  • Valid passport
  • Letter of Recommendation
  • Statement of Purpose
  • University acceptance letter
  • English language proficiency scorecard (IELTS/ TOEFL)
  • Certificates for extra-curricular activities 
  • Bank statements 
  • Entrance Exam Scorecards - SAT/ ACT
  • Work experience letter (if applicable)

Read: Profile Building to Study in USA

What is the Duration of Courses for Studying in the USA After 12th?

After completing the 12th, international students can enroll in a variety of courses. The following table lists the duration of some of these programs to study USA after 12th:

Course

Duration

Undergraduate Degree

4 years

Associate Degree

2 years

BSc Nursing

4 years

Suggested: Cost of Undergraduate in USA

Job Opportunities after Bachelors in USA

The US universities emphasise the culture of hardwork and being self sufficient. Therefore, they encourage the Indian/international students to do 20 hours part-time jobs while studying and 40 hours during the breaks and holidays. Further, let’s check the fields in which an Indian student can work after their bachelors along with average estimated salary. 

Job Fields

Average Annual Estimated Salary (USD/ INR)

Human Resource

$41,000 - $164,000/ INR 13 lakh to 1 Cr

Accountancy

$35,000 - $93,000/ INR 27 to 74 lakhs

Marketing and Advertising

$54,500/ INR 43 lakhs

Investment Banking 

$88,566 - $97,007/ INR 70 to 77 lakhs

Management Counsultancy

$72,000/ INR 57 lakhs

Teaching

$45,951 - $70,767/ INR 36 to 56 lakhs

Public Relations

$61,160/ INR 49 lakhs

Hospitality and Travel Management

$59,000/ INR 40 lakhs

Read: Jobs for International Students USA

Next, let’s explore the cost to study in USA for Indian students. 

What is the Cost of Studying in USA after 12th?

The cost of studying in the United States is determined on the course, university, and other factors. The cost of living varies depending on the student's lifestyle. However, studying in USA after 12th with scholarships can reduce the cost. Average annual bachelor fee can range from $8,000 - $40,000/ INR 6 - 32 Lakhs. Here is a brief overview of the cost of studying in America:

  • Tuition Fees

Streams

Annual Average Fee (in USD/ INR)

English Language Studies

700-2,000 / INR 55,000 - 1,59,000

Engineering

32,000/ INR 25,56,000

Liberal Arts & Sciences

20,000/ INR 15,98,000

Business Administration

56,000/ INR 44,73,000

Read: Indian Student Safety in USA

  • Cost of Living

Expense

Average Cost Per Year (in USD/ INR)

Accommodation

21,710/ INR 17,33,000

Food

8,500/ INR 6,79,000

Books and supplies

13,800/ INR 12,00,000

Transportation

2,180/ INR 1,75,000

Other expenses

1,000/ INR 79,878

Read: 10 Most Expensive Universities USA

Scholarships for Indian Students to Study in USA after 12th

There are numerous government and university-based scholarships for Indian students to study in USA after 12th. The majority of them are awarded on the basis of merit or excellence in any extracurricular activity. Study in USA after 12th with scholarships mentioned below:

  • Clark Global Scholarship Program

It is accessible to international students with financial needs who are pursuing a bachelor's degree at Clark University, United States. A student can approximately avail between $15,000 to $25,000/ INR 12-20 Lakhs for paying their tuition fees. 

  • Rotary International Ambassadorial Scholarships

Rotary clubs provide international undergraduate students with the Rotary International Ambassadorial Scholarship. The student must be studying courses that promote peace, fight disease, provide clean water, sanitation, and hygiene, support education, and develop local economies to be eligible for the scholarship.Scholarships range in value from $12,000 to $25,000/ INR 9.58-20 Lakhs.

  • Cornell University Tata Scholarship

This is one of the most renowned scholarships for Indian students to study in USA after 12th. It provides scholarships to approximately 20 Indian students pursuing the Undergraduate program at Cornell University. The recipient's tuition and expenses are covered by this need-based award.

  • United World Colleges International Youth Scholarships

International students seeking a pre-university education or a tertiary agricultural course in a multi-cultural, values-based atmosphere are welcome to apply to UWC. The UWC scholarships provide partial or full fee waivers. 

  • American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship

The AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship is offered to international students pursuing undergraduate degrees in the USA. It is designed for students who will return to their home country to work for the welfare of under-resourced and underserved communities. It covers the tuition fee, room and board expenses of the student. 

Suggested Reading: What is Optional Practice Training (OPT)?

Studying in America after the 12th promises incredible diverse experiences. It is essential that you choose the right university and course from the pool of options available in USA after 12th. Further, our consultants can assist you with university admissions and guidance in the United States. You just have to subscribe to Yocket premium services. 

Also Read

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IELTS Accepting Universities in USA

Education Loan in USA

Exams to Study in USA

How to Settle in USA?

USA Universities with High Acceptance Rate

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Studying in USA after 12th

Which are the top courses to study in USA after 12th?

What exams are required to study in USA after 12th?

Does Fall term have better internship opportunities or spring term?

Can I work in the USA while studying?

What are some popular part-time opportunities for international students in USA?

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