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Studying in the USA is a popular choice because of its high-quality education, diversity of institutions, research opportunities, strong job prospects, and global recognition of degrees. Students from India often prefer USA for undergraduate (UG), graduate (MS/MBA/PhD) programmes, and for specialisations in STEM, business, healthcare, etc. There are challenges—cost, visa approval, living expenses—but many find the overall return on investment quite good. 

Here are some of the most in-demand courses for Indian students in the USA

•  Computer Science & IT 
•  Engineering 
•  Data Science & Business Analytics
•  Business / MBA 
•  Healthcare & Allied Fields 
•  Economics & Finance 
•  Environmental Science & Sustainability 
•  Media, Communications, Psychology
  
  

Some of the top U.S. universities often preferred by Indian students (especially for STEM, business, data science etc.):

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Nomad Credit+2abroadedx.com+2
   
• Stanford University abroadedx.com+1
   
• University of California, Berkeley (UCB) abroadedx.com+1
   
• Carnegie Mellon University PW Live+2Collegedunia+2
   
• University of Pennsylvania PW Live+1
   
• New York University (NYU) Chegg India+1
   

These schools are highly competitive and will expect strong academic records + good test scores + sometimes extra-curricular or research experience.

Here are the common requirements to get admitted:

• High school diploma (for UG) / bachelor’s degree (for master’s) with strong grades.
   
• Standardized test scores: SAT/ACT for many undergraduate programmes; GRE or GMAT may be required for certain graduate programmes. Collegedunia+1
   
• English language proficiency: TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent. Study Overseas+2IdP+2
   
• Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (LOR) etc.
   
• Sometimes extra credentials: research experience, internships, publications, portfolio (if applicable).
   
• Proof of adequate finances/funds to cover tuition + living expenses. IdP+1

 Here’s how Indian students generally get their U.S. Student Visa (typically F-1):

•  Apply to & get accepted by a SEVP-approved US university. You will receive Form I-20 from the school.  
•  Pay the SEVIS fee (I-901) and visa application (MRV / DS-160) fees.  
•  Complete the DS-160 visa application form online.  
•  Schedule a visa interview at the U.S. Embassy / Consulate in India.  
•  Gather required documents: passport, Form I-20, proof of acceptance, transcripts, test scores, proof of funds, photo etc.  
•  Attend interview. The visa officer will assess your intent, finances, ties to home country etc.  
•  If approved, visa is stamped; if not, you may get a rejection with possible feedback. Sometimes you may have to reapply. 

Fees:

• SEVIS fee: USD 350 (approx INR ~ ₹29,000 depending on exchange rates) Study Overseas+2meridean.org+2
   
• Visa (application / MRV / DS-160) fee: ~ USD 185

 Here are estimated costs you should plan for, per year, as an international student in the USA (these will vary a lot depending on city, lifestyle, housing choice):

 Tuition & Fees:  USD 20,000 to 60,000+ (for many masters / business programmes) depending on university (public vs private).  

 Accommodation:  $10,000 – $20,000 (on-campus) per year; off-campus can vary more depending on city (e.g. more expensive in places like San Francisco, New York)  

Food & Dining:  $3,000 – $5,000 

approx.   

 Books & Supplies:  $1,000 – $2,000  

 Transportation:  $1,000 – $3,000 (local commuting, etc.)  

 Health Insurance:  $1,500 – $2,500 (many schools require)  

 Personal Expenses / Miscellaneous: $2,000 – $3,000