Studying engineering in the USA can be a dream come true for many international students. With world-class universities and a highly developed education system, the USA is a popular destination for students who want to study abroad. However, navigating the application process, scholarships, visas, and cultural differences can be challenging. In this article, we will cover all the essential information for international students who want to study engineering in the USA.
Study Abroad Programs: The USA offers a variety of study abroad programs for international students, ranging from short-term exchange programs to full degree programs. International students can choose from a variety of engineering programs, including aerospace, civil, mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering. In addition, many universities offer interdisciplinary programs that combine engineering with other fields like business, medicine, and law.
STUDY ABROAD PROGRAMS
University Study Abroad Programs
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Global Education & Career Development
California Institute of Technology (Caltech) International Student Programs
Stanford University Bechtel International Center
University of California--Berkeley Berkeley International Office
Georgia Institute of Technology Office of International Education
University of Illinois--Urbana-Champaign International Student & Scholar Services
University of Michigan--Ann Arbor International Center
Carnegie Mellon University Office of International Education
Study Abroad Programs:
College/University Program Name Duration Total Cost (USD)
Georgia Tech BS in Mechanical Engineering 4 years 145,682
MIT BS in Electrical Engineering 4 years 235,352
and Computer Science
Stanford University BS in Computer Science 4 years 277,695
CalTech BS in Aerospace Engineering 4 years 311,288
UCB BS in Bioengineering 4 years 193,602
CMU BS in Materials Science 4 years 276,132
and Engineering
University Rankings: The USA has some of the best engineering schools in the world, and international students can benefit from studying at these institutions. According to the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2021, the following universities are ranked among the top 50 for engineering:
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Stanford University
University of California Berkley
California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
Georgia Institute of Technology
University of Illinois - Urbana Champaign
University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
Carnegie Mellon University
University of Texas Austin (Cockrell)
Purdue University
Scholarships for International Students: Engineering programs in the USA can be expensive, but international students can apply for various scholarships to reduce the financial burden. Many universities offer merit-based scholarships for international students, and some universities offer need-based scholarships. Additionally, students can search for external scholarships offered by organizations, foundations, and governments.
Scholarships for International Students
Scholarship University Eligibility Amount
Global Excellence University of Toronto International students Up to $20,000
Scholarship with exceptional
academic achievement
International Student University of California, International students Up to $5,000
Scholarship Berkeley with demonstrated
financial need
International Excellence Georgia Institute of International students Up to $15,000
Scholarship Technology with excellent
academic credentials
International Excellence Purdue University International students Up to $10,000
Scholarship with excellent
academic credentials
International Excellence University of Illinois at International students Up to $5,000
Scholarship Urbana-Champaign with excellent
academic credentials
Admission Requirements: The admission requirements for engineering programs in the USA can vary from university to university. However, most universities require international students to submit standardized test scores, such as the SAT, ACT, GRE, or GMAT. In addition, international students must submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, and essays. Some universities may also require English language proficiency tests like TOEFL or IELTS.
Visa Process for Studying Abroad: International students who want to study engineering in the USA must obtain a student visa. The visa process can be complex, and students should start the process well in advance. Students must apply for an F-1 visa, which requires a SEVIS fee payment, an interview with a U.S. embassy or consulate, and proof of financial support. Additionally, students must show that they have strong ties to their home country and plan to return after completing their studies.
VISA Type Fee Processing Time Validity
F1 Student VISA $160 1-4 weeks Duration of Study
J1 Exchange Visitor VISA $160 1-4 weeks Duration of Study
M1 Vocational Student VISA $160 1-4 weeks Duration of Study
Cost of Living for Students: The cost of living for international students in the USA can vary depending on the location, university, and lifestyle. Generally, the cost of living in major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco is higher than other cities. Students must budget for tuition fees, housing, transportation, food, books, and other expenses. According to the College Board, the average cost of tuition and fees for the 2020-2021 academic year was $37,650 at private colleges and $10,560 for in-state students at public colleges.
Cost of Living for Students
City Av Monthly Cost
New York City $2,100-$3,500
Los Angeles $1,700-$3,000
Boston $1,700-$2,900
San Francisco $2,200-$3,700
Chicago $1,400-$2,600
Washington D.C. $1,500-$3,000
Houston $1,200-$2,400
Student Life and Culture: International students can experience a vibrant and diverse culture in the USA. Students can participate in various extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations on campus, such as sports teams, music groups, and cultural clubs. Additionally, students can explore the local area, museums, parks, and tourist attractions.
Career Prospects after Graduation: International students who graduate from engineering programs in the USA can have excellent career prospects. The USA has a highly developed engineering industry and offers many job opportunities in fields like aerospace, automotive, energy, healthcare, and technology. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for engineers was $80,720 in May 2020.
Online Learning Options: In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, many universities have shifted to online learning options for students. This has opened up a whole new world of opportunities for international students who may not be able to travel to the United States for their education. Here are some top engineering schools in the US that offer online learning options: Online learning options have become increasingly popular, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic
These universities offer a range of online engineering programs at the bachelor's, master's, and even doctoral levels. While online learning may not be for everyone, it's a great option for students who want to save money on living expenses, have other commitments that prevent them from traveling, or who simply prefer the flexibility of learning from home.
Student Support Services:
When studying in a foreign country, it's important to have access to student support services. These services can help international students adjust to life in the US and ensure that they have a successful academic experience. Here are some of the most common student support services offered by top engineering schools in the US:
International student services Career services Counseling and mental health services Academic advising Tutoring and study groups Student organizations and clubs. These services are designed to help international students feel at home and succeed academically. It's important to take advantage of these services and reach out if you're struggling or need help.
In conclusion, studying engineering in the US can be a life-changing experience for international students. With top-ranked universities, numerous scholarship opportunities, and a range of support services, the US offers a unique and valuable education. Whether you're interested in traditional on-campus learning or prefer the flexibility of online learning, there's an option that's right for you.
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