USACapital: Washington D.C.
Britain's American colonies broke with the mother country in 1776 and were recognized as the new nation of the United States of America following the Treaty of Paris in 1783. During the 19th and 20th centuries, 37 new states were added to the original 13 as the nation expanded across the North American continent and acquired a number of overseas possessions. The two most traumatic experiences in the nation's history were the Civil War (1861-65) and the Great Depression of the 1930s. Buoyed by victories in World Wars I and II and the end of the Cold War in 1991, the US remains the world's most powerful nation state. The economy is marked by steady growth, low unemployment and inflation, and rapid advances in technology.
Higher Education: The United States has approximately 4,670 colleges and universities. 17 of the top 20 scientific research universities in the world are in the United States (source: Shanghai Jiao Tong University's Academic Ranking of World Universities), and 8 out of the top 11 universities in the world are in the United States (source: Times Higher Education Supplement's world university rankings).
US universities, US colleges and US schools constantly rank very high in world rankings, just one of the reasons to study in the US. Schools such as Harvard University, Stanford University, MIT, Julliard, Berklee School of Music, West Point, are all world famous and welcome international students. The US offers international students the most exciting, rewarding and comprehensive array of study options in the world. International students who choose to study in the US have almost unlimited study choices. Furthermore, international students who successfully complete their US study are highly sought-after by employers worldwide.
US universities, US colleges and US schools constantly rank very high in world rankings, just one of the reasons to study in the US. Schools such as Harvard University, Stanford University, MIT, Julliard, Berklee School of Music, West Point, are all world famous and welcome international students. The US offers international students the most exciting, rewarding and comprehensive array of study options in the world. International students who choose to study in the US have almost unlimited study choices. Furthermore, international students who successfully complete their US study are highly sought-after by employers worldwide.
There are more than 4,000 public and private colleges, universities, and community colleges in the United States, including over 600 public four-year colleges and universities and over 1,650 private four-year colleges and universities. These traditional institutions enrol nearly 15 million students. In addition, more than 6,250 other non-collegiate postsecondary institutions offer specialised vocational and technical training. You will find a size that fits you best, whether it is a small private institution with an enrolment of only several hundred students or a large state college or university system with tens of thousands of students.
Any student can find an appropriate program within the rich and diverse higher education system. This is true whether you are seeking career-oriented vocational and technical training from a community college, a liberal arts education from a small private college, an undergraduate science degree from a prestigious research institution, or one of a variety of programs offered by a multipurpose university. High quality educational programs are offered in all types of institutions at prices that vary as much as the programs and institutions themselves.
At graduate level, US colleges and universities offer both research and professional degrees. Foreign students are engaged in both types of program, studying a wide variety of subjects. Engineering, business and management, physical and life sciences, and mathematics and computer science are the most popular fields of study at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.
'Research programs' are offered in most academic fields, including engineering, mathematics and computer science, physical and life sciences, and the humanities. These programs lead to either a master's degree or a doctorate, and also can include postdoctoral study and research. 'Professional programs' lead to a master's (MBA or MPA) or other degree, such as the JD or MD, which allows students to work in fields such as law, medicine, social work, or business.
A number of other factors cause foreign students to choose study in the US. Most American faculty members are tenured and employed full-time by their institutions. While not as diverse as the student population, some 13% of US college and university faculty are members of minority groups. There is also a low student/faculty ratio of 15 students for every two instructors.
Why do foreign students pay the price to enrol in US institutions of higher education? We believe it is because they view the cost as an investment. They have determined that the necessary skills and experience they will gain by studying in the United States will reap a high return for their money, and a better paying job when they return home.
In addition, the vast majority of foreign students will return home as fluent English speakers. English proficiency is a tremendous asset and indeed, in some cases, a necessary skill if one is to work successfully in places such as Luxembourg, Tokyo, Pretoria, Abu Dhabi, or Ontario. The English proficiency can be gained as a result of US study, and that is one reason that American higher education is a wise investment.
In summary, studying in the US is an opportunity well worth pursuing. As Secretary of Education, I would like to heartily encourage foreign students to further investigate the possibility of an American education.
Directory of Universities & Colleges in the United States
- St. Louis University
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American Intercontinental University
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Clarkson University
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Waldorf College
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Salem State College
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Troy State University
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University of Arkansas
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High Point University
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Mercer University
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Pacific Union College
Understanding U.S. Education
Before you begin your research, make sure you understand the American education system. Find out why studying in the USA offers you the best opportunities ever!
Choosing a Degree or English Program Study in the USA profiles hundreds of quality programs for all levels of education. We can help you choose the right program for your goals.
Testing & Applying for Admission Study in the USA can help you make sense of the testing and application process. Here is the information you need to prepare for this important task!
Financing Your Education Studying in the USA is an investment in your future. Start here to learn about what your US education will cost and how to pay for it.
Beyond the Basics Looking for a specialized program or a degree leading to a cutting-edge career? The US offers a wide variety of educational opportunities for everyone. Getting a Visa For accurate information about visa regulations contact the U.S. Embassy in your country.
What Students are Saying Hear from international students studying at programs throughout the USA and start preparing for your own adventure!
Study in the USA
The USA has the world’s largest international student population, with nearly 600,000 students choosing to broaden their education and life experience in the United States. Nearly 4% of all students enrolled in higher-level education are international students, and the numbers are growing. From the mid-1950’s, when international student enrollment was only just reaching 35,000, international education in the USA has come a long way.
We look forward to helping students who, like you, are considering continuing your education in the United States. You will find all of the tools you need to compile your necessary research in deciding if the United States is the best place for you - we have gathered valuable information on educational, social, cultural and economic aspects of studying in the U.S. For those of you who have already made the choice to study in the United States, you are now faced with the task of matching your goals and needs with the right program. Answers to your research questions can be found here, from the information we’ve collected from educators to real-life stories from other non-U.S. students like you. Many schools and programs offer international students great opportunities for learning and enrichment in the United States, and we know that choosing one can be an extensive and exhausting process. Find out what program is right for you and make the right choice. Choosing the USA
There are many reasons that students like to come to the USA to study at the undergraduate and graduate level - learn more about what the USA has to offer an international student. You will find all of the resources and information you need in order to make the right decision on where to study. How will you choose your program? Where in the USA is best for you?
Application Process
The application process can be extensive and confusing. We have created an easy-to-follow timeline and breakdown of everything you will need to apply to your program of choice.
Financial Aid for the USA
You will need to carefully plan your finances while studying abroad. From scholarship information to financial aid to managing your budget, we can help you manage your finances effectively while studying in the USA.
Preparation for your stay
Do you have your student visa? Insurance? Travel itinerary and documents? Visit here and make sure you are fully prepared before you leave for the USA.
The USA "Way of Life"
What will life be like for you while you are studying in the U.S.? Are you thinking of working while you study abroad? Here you can learn more about the diverse cultural, social and economic aspects of living, studying and working in the United States.
Graduation
You have many choices to make after you graduate—look for a job? Continue on with your education? We can help focus your research on the next step for you to take on your journey.
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