Let’s find out why millions of international students turn to the US to pursue higher education.
With over one million international students, the United States is the most popular study abroad destination in the world. In this blog, we have compiled some of the reasons why students choose to study in the United States.
Why Students Choose the US?
The USA has some special charms that have always attracted talented students like a moth to the flame. However, every student has a different reason for choosing the US to pursue their degree and many are related to the experience while living and studying in the US.
Half of the world’s top universities are based in the US. The universities offer top-ranked academic opportunities on all levels from undergraduate or PhD. The country is home to more than 5000 higher education institutions that you can choose from. Every university is unique and has something special to offer, however, what they all have in common is high-quality education.
Another reason why the US is so popular is because of the flexibility it has around choosing your major. Students get the opportunity to explore before settling for the one they are most interested in. Also, USA universities offer general education courses that allow students to take a wide variety of courses and gain exposure to different specializations while still earning credits through electives.
The US offers unparalleled benefits for all international students in every sphere one can think of when they are considering studying abroad.
Benefits of Studying in the US
A US university degree covers outstanding academics, of course, but also personal and professional growth, too. International students in the US benefit from.
World’s Best Universities
The USA is home to the world’s best universities that also have high rankings such as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Stanford University. The programs offered by US universities are designed to equip you with the knowledge, skills and experience you need to excel in your future career.
Aside from a variety of programs, the US educational system also provides a choice in the type of educational institute. One option you may not be aware of is studying at a community college, they are cheaper, have smaller class sizes and have more personal attention. Community college is for two years where you can begin your university study and then transfer your credentials to a four-year university. It depends on your choice if you want to study at a large public university or college or if you prefer a more intimate campus and smaller communities.
Top universities in the US according to the QS World University Rankings 2023:
| Rank | University | Region |
| 1 | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | Cambridge, United States |
| 3 | Stanford University | Stanford, United States |
| 5 | Harvard University | Cambridge, United States |
| 6 | California Institute of Technology (Caltech) | Pasadena, United States |
| 10 | University of Chicago | Chicago, United States |
| 13 | University of Pennsylvania | Philadelphia, United States |
| 16 | Princeton University | Princeton, United States |
| 18 | Yale University | New Haven, United States |
| 20 | Cornell University | Ithaca, United States |
| 22 | Columbia University | New York City, United States |
Wide Variety of Subjects and Flexibility in Programs
USA universities offer the broadest range of courses to international students. It doesn’t matter what course you want to study, there will always be a university that will offer that specific course. The universities offer a plethora of different courses that you can choose to study. Moreover, one of the best features of the US education system that attracts students is the flexibility it offers. A student has the liberty to select what they wish to study as they can pursue different courses at the undergraduate level and choose their major at the end of the second year. This is a very unique approach which allows students to explore their interests.
List of Popular Subjects among international students in the US
| Field of study | % of international students pursuing |
| Engineering | 20.8 |
| Business & Management | 19.2 |
| Math & Computer Science | 13.6 |
| Social Sciences | 7.8 |
| Physical & Life Sciences | 7.2 |
| Fine & Applied Arts | 5.7 |
| Intensive English | 3.9 |
| Health & Allied Sciences | 3.3 |
| Communications/ Journalism | 2.0 |
| Education | 1.9 |
| Humanities | 1.7 |
| Legal Studies/ Law | 1.4 |
| Agriculture | 1.2 |
Some Unique Degree offers in US universities:
- MS in Digital Mapping
- MS in Foresight
- BS in Packaging Science
- Bachelor’s in Ecogastronomy
- BS in Nautical Archaeology
Diversity of People and Cultures
The land and people of the USA are incredibly varied. It doesn’t matter which state you choose to study in, you will encounter a regional culture rich in history and local traditions. The USA is a multiracial society that is still absorbing immigrants, which makes it a very dynamic and exciting place to experience.
You will be surrounded by individuals from diverse walks of life with unique customs, cuisines, lifestyles, and fashions as soon as you arrive in the country. Living and studying in the US gives you the opportunity to build a network of friends with people from all over the world because of the country’s cultural diversity. One more advantage is that you will not feel alone there as you are likely to find people from your own country or race there.
The chart below will tell you the percentage of each race in the USA.
| Race and Hispanic Origin | |
| -White alone, percent | 75.8% |
| -Black or African American alone, percent (a) | 13.6% |
| -American Indian and Alaska Native alone, percent (a) | 1.3% |
| -Asian alone, percent (a) | 6.1% |
| -Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander alone, percent (a) | 0.3% |
| -Two or More Races, percent | 2.9% |
| -Hispanic or Latino, percent (b) | 18.9% |
| -White alone, not Hispanic or Latino, percent | 59.3% |
Leading Edge in Technology and Research
The USA is a leading country in various areas of technology and research. While studying here, students will be exposed to advanced technology and research. For teachers, staff, visiting faculty, and students, universities and colleges often have cutting-edge research facilities. Additionally, some have laboratories that were especially built for use by students. Many of the professors teaching in USA universities are engaged in research in their respective fields themselves, so the student will get to flourish under the guidance of a scholar.
The country is famous for providing its students with the best resources and equipment. Students will have the chance to practise using the latest technology to conduct research and gather data.
Career Opportunities After Graduating
You will be ready to take the job market by storm after gaining skills and knowledge from the program you studied in the USA. The degree you have earned from a USA university or college and the experience you gained through your classes, internship and diverse cultural connections will help you stand out to employers.
Bachelor’s degree with Highest Salary Potential
- Petroleum Engineering
- System Engineering
- Actuarial Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Electronics & Communication Engineering
Popular Master’s Degrees in the US
- Engineering
- Business Administration Management
- Computer Science and Information Technology
- Medicine and Life Science
- Mathematics
Therefore, contact an Edvice Hub consultant if you’re ready to begin the application process for any American colleges or universities. They can assist you in a variety of ways, including helping you find top universities, understand the application procedure, and choose a major.
