How many universities should I apply to?

Apply to 5-8 universities: 2 Dream (reach), 3-4 Target (good fit), 2 Safe (high admission chance). This strategy maximizes your chances while managing application fees. EEC helps you create this balanced list.

What is Dream, Reach, and Safe university strategy?

Dream: Top universities where your profile is below average admits. Reach: Good universities where you have 50-70% chance. Safe: Universities where you exceed average admits (90%+ chance). Apply to all three types.

How long does the entire USA admission process take?

Total timeline: 6-12 months. Test prep: 2-3 months. Applications: 1-2 months. Admission decision: 4-8 weeks. Visa process: 2-3 months. Start early for best results.

Do I need a consultant to study in USA?

Not mandatory, but highly recommended. A good consultant helps with: university selection, application review, SOP writing, visa preparation, and scholarship guidance. EEC offers FREE counseling with 27+ years experience.

What makes EEC different for USA admission?

EEC offers: 27+ years experience, 50,000+ students helped, FREE counseling, 26 centers across Gujarat, AI-powered visa prep tool, pay tuition AFTER visa approval, and high visa success rate for well-prepared students.

Is GRE mandatory for MS in USA 2026?

No! Many universities are now "GRE Optional" or "GRE Waived". However, submitting a good GRE score (310+) increases scholarship chances and strengthens your application. Check specific university requirements.

Is GMAT mandatory for MBA in USA?

Not always. Many MBA programs accept GRE instead of GMAT, and some are test-optional. Top programs like Harvard, Stanford prefer GMAT 700+. Mid-tier programs may waive GMAT for candidates with 5+ years work experience.

Is SAT mandatory for Bachelors in USA?

No! Post-COVID, 1,800+ universities are "Test Optional" for SAT/ACT. However, submitting SAT 1200+ improves admission and scholarship chances. Check specific university policies.

Can I study in USA without GRE?

Yes! 500+ universities offer MS programs without GRE requirement. Focus on: strong academic record, relevant work experience, good SOP, and strong recommendations. EEC has a list of GRE-waiver universities.

Can I study in USA without IELTS?

Yes, but you need an alternative: TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo, or MOI (Medium of Instruction) letter. Some universities waive English test if you studied in English medium. Check specific requirements.

Can I study in USA without TOEFL?

Yes! You can submit IELTS (6.5+), PTE (58+), or Duolingo (105+) instead. Many universities accept Duolingo which is cheaper ($59) and can be taken at home.

What GRE score is required for USA universities?

Top universities (MIT, Stanford): 325+. Good universities (Top 50): 315-325. Average universities (Top 100): 305-315. Many universities accept 300+ for MS programs.

What TOEFL score is required for USA universities?

Top universities: 100+ (each section 25+). Good universities: 90-100. Average universities: 80-90. Minimum for most: 79-80. Some accept 61+ for conditional admission.

What IELTS score is required for USA universities?

Top universities: 7.5+ (no band below 7.0). Good universities: 7.0 (no band below 6.5). Average universities: 6.5 (no band below 6.0). Minimum for most: 6.0-6.5.

Is Duolingo accepted in USA universities?

Yes! 4,000+ USA universities accept Duolingo English Test. Score requirement: 105-130 depending on university. Benefits: Cheaper ($59), faster results (48 hours), can be taken at home.

Which is easier: TOEFL or IELTS for USA?

Depends on your strengths. TOEFL: Computer-based, American accent, integrated tasks. IELTS: Paper + computer options, British accent, face-to-face speaking. Most Indian students find IELTS slightly easier.

Can I take GRE at home?

Yes! GRE Home Edition is available. Requirements: Quiet room, computer with camera/mic, reliable internet, ProctorU software. Same format and scoring as test center GRE.

What if my GRE score is low?

Options: 1) Apply to GRE-optional universities, 2) Retake GRE (can take 5 times/year), 3) Strengthen other parts of application (SOP, experience, recommendations), 4) Consider universities with lower GRE requirements.

How many times can I take GRE?

You can take GRE up to 5 times in a 12-month period, with at least 21 days between attempts. Universities see all scores unless you use ScoreSelect to send only your best scores.

What is GRE waiver and how to get it?

GRE waiver means university does not require GRE. Ways to get: 1) Apply to GRE-optional programs, 2) Have 3+ years relevant work experience, 3) Strong academic record (3.5+ GPA), 4) Request waiver with justification.

How much does it cost to study in USA from India?

Total cost per year: ₹25-55 Lakhs. Breakdown: Tuition (₹15-40 Lakhs) + Living (₹10-15 Lakhs). Public universities are cheaper. 2-year MS total: ₹50-100 Lakhs. Scholarships can reduce this significantly.

What is the tuition fee for MS in USA?

MS tuition per year: Public university (in-state): $15,000-25,000 (₹12-20 Lakhs). Public (out-of-state): $25,000-40,000 (₹20-33 Lakhs). Private: $40,000-60,000 (₹33-50 Lakhs). Total for 2 years: ₹24-100 Lakhs.

What is the tuition fee for MBA in USA?

MBA tuition total (1-2 years): Top schools (Harvard, Wharton): $150,000-200,000 (₹1.25-1.65 Crore). Mid-tier: $60,000-100,000 (₹50-83 Lakhs). Affordable: $30,000-50,000 (₹25-42 Lakhs).

What is the living cost in USA for students?

Monthly living cost: Big cities (NYC, SF, LA): $2,500-3,500 (₹2-2.9 Lakhs). Medium cities: $1,500-2,000 (₹1.25-1.65 Lakhs). Small cities/towns: $1,000-1,500 (₹83,000-1.25 Lakhs). Includes rent, food, transport, utilities.

Do I need to pay tuition before visa?

NO! This is the BEST part of USA. You pay tuition AFTER visa approval, when you reach university (1st semester fee). Before visa, you only pay: Application fees (if any), Visa fee ($185 MRV + $250 Integrity Fee = $435), SEVIS fee ($350). Total before visa: ₹1,00,000 - 1,25,000.

What is the total budget for USA study?

Total budget for 2-year MS: Affordable option: ₹40-50 Lakhs. Mid-range: ₹60-80 Lakhs. Premium: ₹80-100+ Lakhs. This includes tuition, living, visa, travel, and initial settlement costs.

How to get scholarship in USA?

Scholarship types: Merit-based (high GPA, test scores), Need-based (financial need), Research assistantship (for MS/PhD), Teaching assistantship, Sports/talent scholarships. Apply early, write strong essays, and highlight achievements.

What is fully funded scholarship?

Fully funded = Tuition + Living expenses covered. Usually for PhD students (stipend $20,000-35,000/year). Some MS programs offer full funding for exceptional students. Highly competitive but possible with strong profile.

How to get education loan for USA?

Steps: 1) Get admission letter, 2) Apply to banks (SBI, HDFC Credila, Axis, Avanse), 3) Submit documents (I-20, admission letter, co-borrower docs), 4) Get sanction letter (use for visa). Loan covers tuition + living.

Which bank is best for USA education loan?

Public banks: SBI (8.5%), Bank of Baroda (8.65%) - lower interest but slower. Private/NBFCs: HDFC Credila, Axis Bank (10-12%), Avanse, InCred (11-13%) - faster processing but higher interest. Compare based on your needs.

Can I get loan without collateral?

Yes! Up to ₹7.5 Lakhs without collateral from public banks. NBFCs like Prodigy Finance, MPOWER offer collateral-free loans up to ₹50 Lakhs based on university ranking and future earning potential.

What is the interest rate for education loan?

Interest rates: Public banks: 8.5-10% (SBI, BOB). Private banks: 10-12% (Axis, ICICI). NBFCs: 11-13.5% (HDFC Credila, Avanse). International: 7-12% (Prodigy, MPOWER - USD loans).

How much bank balance is required for F1 visa?

Show funds for 1 year: Tuition (as per I-20) + Living ($15,000-25,000). Total: Usually $40,000-70,000 (₹33-58 Lakhs). Can be combination of: Bank balance, FD, loan sanction letter, sponsor funds.

Can middle class afford USA education?

Yes! Options: 1) Choose affordable public universities ($15,000-25,000/year), 2) Get education loan (covers 80-100% cost), 3) Work part-time (20 hrs/week = $800-1,200/month), 4) Apply for scholarships/assistantships.

How to reduce cost of studying in USA?

Tips: 1) Choose public universities, 2) Study in smaller cities (lower living cost), 3) Apply for scholarships/assistantships, 4) Work on-campus, 5) Share accommodation, 6) Cook at home, 7) Use student discounts.

F1 visa is the US student visa for academic studies. It allows you to study full-time at SEVP-certified universities. Valid for duration of your program + 60 days grace period. 363,019 Indian students got F1 visa in 2024-25.

What documents are required for F1 visa?

Required: Passport, I-20 form, SEVIS fee receipt, DS-160 confirmation, Visa fee receipt, Admission letter, Financial documents, Academic transcripts, Test scores, Photographs. EEC provides complete checklist.

What is I-20 form and how to get it?

I-20 is your admission document from the university, required for F1 visa. It shows: Program details, start date, estimated costs, SEVIS ID. You get it after paying deposit to university. Takes 1-4 weeks after deposit.

What is SEVIS fee and when to pay?

SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee is $350 for F1 visa. Pay online at fmjfee.com at least 3 days before visa interview. Keep the receipt - required at interview.

DS-160 is the online visa application form. Fill at ceac.state.gov. Includes: Personal info, education, work history, travel history, social media handles. Takes 1-2 hours. Save confirmation page for interview.

How to book F1 visa appointment?

Steps: 1) Create account at ustraveldocs.com, 2) Pay visa fee ($185 MRV + $250 Integrity Fee), 3) Fill DS-160, 4) Schedule appointment at US Consulate (Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad). Book early - slots fill fast during peak season.

Back to All Countries

#1 Study Destination

Study in USA.

Pay Tuition After Visa.
3-Year STEM OPT. H-1B Pathway.
Admission Possible without GRE/GMAT.

Visa Costs

F1 Visa

Visa Fee$435*

SEVIS Fee$350

Tuition PaymentAfter Visa

*MRV $185 + Integrity Fee $250 = ₹36,100 INR

Study in the USA with EEC — access 4,000+ universities including all 8 Ivy League institutions. The US offers the world's most diverse higher education system, OPT/CPT work opportunities, and the highest ROI for STEM graduates. EEC provides complete US admission support including GRE/TOEFL coaching, university shortlisting, I-20 guidance, and F-1 visa interview preparation.

#1 Study Destination for South Asian Students

Why 400,000+ South Asian
Students Choose USA

USA remains the #1 destination for students from India, Nepal, Sri Lanka & Bangladesh. Here's why thousands choose the American Dream every year.

India

Students in USA (2024-25)

+10% growth

NepalFASTEST GROWING

Students in USA (2024-25)

+48.7% growth

Sri Lanka

Students in USA (2024-25)

+10% growth

Bangladesh

Students in USA (2024-25)

+15% growth

36 Months

3-Year Work Permit

STEM OPT gives you 36 months to work in USA after graduation. More time for H1B lottery attempts.

$85K-$150K

Highest Salaries

MS graduates earn $85,000-$150,000 starting salary. ROI within 2-3 years of graduation.

4,000+ Unis

World's Best Universities

Home to MIT, Stanford, Harvard, and 4,000+ universities. Global recognition for your degree.

5M+ South Asians

Strong Communities

4.4M Indians, 200K+ Nepalis, 200K+ Bangladeshis, 100K+ Sri Lankans in USA. Never feel alone abroad.

Top Companies

Career Growth

Tech giants like Google, Amazon, Microsoft actively hire international students on OPT.

Global Reach

Global Opportunities

US degree opens doors worldwide. Work in USA, return home, or go anywhere globally.

International Students

Total in USA (2024-25)

In STEM Fields

Science, Tech, Engineering, Math

0 Years

STEM OPT Duration

Work permit after graduation

Universities

Options for every budget

Start Your USA Journey - Free Counseling

Personalized Guidance

Choose Your USA Pathway

Select your profile type to get personalized guidance, timeline, and step-by-step roadmap for your USA journey.

Not sure which pathway is right for you?

Talk to an Expert - It's Free

2-Minute Quiz

Check Your USA Eligibility

Answer 7 quick questions to see your chances of studying in USA

Question 1 of 714% complete

What is your highest education level?

Time-Sensitive

USA Intake Deadlines

Don't miss your chance! Track application deadlines and plan your USA journey.

Fall 2026

Most popular intake with maximum university options

Classes Start

August-September 2026

Application DeadlineURGENT

Days

Hours

Mins

Secs

Visa Application Deadline

136

Days

Hours

Mins

Secs

Student Popularity80% of students choose this

Your Action Timeline

Finalize university shortlist

Now

Take required tests (TOEFL/GRE)

2-3 months before deadline

Prepare documents & SOP

1-2 months before deadline

Submit applications

Before deadline

Receive admits & pay deposit

2-4 weeks after submission

Apply for F1 visa

3-4 months before classes

Don't Wait Until Last Minute!

Early applications have 40% higher acceptance rates. Start your journey today with free expert guidance.

Start Now - Free Consultation

High

Visa Success Rate

EEC Students

500+

Partner Universities

Across USA

27+

Years of Excellence

Since 1997

50,000+

Students Placed

In USA

Step 1: Test & Intakes

Decide your exams and timeline.

Test Requirements

Test	Target Score	Minimum / Waiver
IELTS	6.5 (6)	Without IELTS possible*
TOEFL	80 (20)	Without TOEFL possible*
PTE	60 (58)	Without PTE possible*
Duolingo	125	Without Duolingo possible*
SAT	1000	Without SAT possible
GRE	300+	Without GRE possible
GMAT	550+	Without GMAT possible

Step 2: Intakes

August (Fall)

App Period

Dec - May

January (Spring)

App Period

June - Oct

May (Summer)

App Period

Jan - March

Step 3: Selection

Applicants should apply to 4-6 Universities. Select based on:
1) Academic % & Backlogs
2) GRE/GMAT/SAT Scores
3) Budget & Location

The 16-Step Roadmap

From Application to Visa Stamping.

Application

Submit Docs via EEC Centralized Unit. Pay App Fees (Credit Card required).

Conditional Letter

Receive Acceptance in 6-8 weeks.

Deposit

Pay $200-$2000 (Refundable if visa refused). Part of tuition.

Financial Docs

Show 1 Year Funds: Edu Loan Letter OR Bank Balance + Affidavit of Support.

I-20 Form

Final Admission Document needed for Visa.

Visa Fees

Pay $185 MRV + $250 Integrity Fee = $435 (Approx ₹36,100) to Axis Bank / Online. Receipt active in 24 hrs.

Visa Date

Book 1 day Biometric + 1 day Consular Interview.

Digital Footprint Check

CRITICAL: Clean Social Media (FB/Insta/X). Visa officers check digital identity.

Social Media Clean-Up Checklist:

[ ] List handles on DS-160 (Mandatory)
[ ] No political hate speech/violence
[ ] LinkedIn must match CV exactly
[ ] Set personal life to "Friends Only"

DS-160 Form

Fill form with Passport, Education details, and Social Media handles.

Interview Prep

AI-Powered Mocks + One-to-one Tutoring by EEC Experts.

SEVIS Fee

Pay $350 (Approx ₹31,500) 15 days before interview.

Biometric & Interview

Visit VFS Center (Mumbai/Delhi/Hyd/Chennai/Kolkata).

Visa Stamping

Passport stamped and returned in 1 week.

Documents Checklist

Required for Step 4 (Application).

Passport

Grade 10 Marksheet

Grade 12 Marksheet

Diploma/Bachelors/Masters Marksheet

Diploma/Bachelors/Masters Transcript

Provisional or Degree Certificate

IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/Duolingo Score

GRE/GMAT/SAT (Optional)

Job Offer / Experience Letter (Optional)

No Backlog Certificate (Optional)

Bonafide Certificate (If study ongoing)

Statement of Purpose (EEC will prepare)

3 Letters of Recommendation (EEC will prepare)

CV or Resume (EEC will prepare)

Note: Application fees must be paid in USD via Credit Card.

Interactive Tool

USA Study Cost Calculator

Calculate your total cost to study in USA based on your preferences. Get estimates in INR, NPR, LKR, or BDT.

Your Preferences

Your Country

Program Type

University Type

City Size

Expected Scholarship: 0%

0%25%50%75%100%

Estimated Cost (INR)

Tuition (2 years)

$22,500/year₹37.35 L

Living Expenses (2 years)

Rent: $1200/moFood: $450/moTransport: $150/moOther: $300/mo

$2,100/month₹41.83 L

One-time Costs

Visa: $535Flight: $1200Insurance: $4000Books: $2000

Total one-time₹6.42 L

TOTAL ESTIMATED COST

₹85.60 L

≈ $103,135 USD for 2 years

* Estimates based on 2025-26 data. Actual costs may vary. Contact EEC for personalized guidance.

Get Personalized Cost Estimate

Total Budget

Expenses Before & After Visa.

Before Visa (Risk Amount)

Application FeeFree (+ if any paid app)

Visa Fee (MRV $185 + Integrity Fee $250)$435 (₹36,100 approx)

SEVIS Fee$350 (₹31,500 approx)

Total Estimate₹75,000 - ₹1,00,000

After Visa Approval

Tuition Fees (1 Sem)₹7 - 15 Lakhs

Air Ticket₹75,000 - ₹1 Lakh

Shopping₹1 Lakh

Apply 3-4 months before visa interview

Keep property documents ready for collateral

Compare interest rates across banks

Check for government interest subsidy eligibility

Ensure loan sanction letter mentions university name

Need Help With Loan Application?

Our counselors have helped 50,000+ students secure education loans. Get free guidance on documentation, bank selection, and loan processing.

Get Free Loan Counseling Calculate Your Loan Amount

US Credit System

US degrees are measured in "Credits".
1 Credit ≈ 1 hour of classroom learning per week.

Bachelor's Degree

120–128 Credits (4 Years)

Master's Degree

30–36 Credits (1.5–2 Years)

Advantage: Take more credits per semester to graduate earlier and save costs!

Work & H-1B

Phase	CPT	OPT
During Study (CPT)	12 Months	Internship / Co-op
After Study (OPT)	12 Months	Work Permit
STEM Extension	+ 24 Months	Extra for Science/Tech
Total Duration	3 Years	Work Opportunity

H-1B Myth Buster

Employers DO NOT need to pay $100,000 to sponsor you. Sponsorship is achievable with proper skills.

Green Card Pathways

Employment-Based

F1 -> OPT -> H1B -> EB-2/EB-3 Green Card.

O-1 Visa

Extraordinary Ability (PhD/Researchers). Skips H1B quota.

EB-5 Investment

Investment based Green Card for high net-worth families.

Family-Sponsored

Marriage to US Citizen or sponsorship by relative.

Spouse & Family

• Spouse/Child (F2): Can accompany. NOT eligible to work.
• Parents (B1/B2): Can apply for Visitor Visa (10 Years).

Popular States

CaliforniaNew YorkTexasNew JerseyIllinoisMassachusettsFloridaWashington DCPennsylvaniaArizonaOregonOhioGeorgiaConnecticutDelawareMaryland

Urban Living: $1000/moSuburban: $500/mo

F1 Visa Mastery

F1 Visa Interview Preparation

Master your F1 visa interview with country-specific tips and real questions asked at US Embassies.

🇮🇳 Embassy Information

Embassy Locations

US Embassy New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad

Current Wait Time

30-60 days (varies by location)

Visa Fee

$185 MRV + $250 Integrity Fee + SEVIS $350 = $785 (₹65,155)

Booking Tip

Book 3-4 months in advance for peak season

🇮🇳 Tips for India Students

Mumbai and Hyderabad usually have shorter wait times
Early morning slots (7-8 AM) are less crowded
Carry all original documents, not just copies
Dress formally - business casual is best
Answer in English confidently, even if officer speaks Hindi

High

EEC Visa Success Rate

For students from India

Most Asked Questions

Get Mock Interview Practice

Free visa interview preparation included with EEC counseling

F1 Visa Interview Prep

Crack the Visa Interview with AI.

The F1 Interview is the hardest hurdle.
Use our exclusive AI tool to practice your answers for "Why USA?", "Why this Uni?", and "Financials".

https://ai.eecglobal.com/usavisaprep

ROI Calculator

Salary After USA Graduation

See real salary data for different fields. Understand your ROI before investing in USA education.

Get Career Counseling

* Salary data based on 2024-25 industry reports. Actual salaries vary by location, company, and experience.

Student Life Guide

Life in USA for Students

Everything you need to know about living in USA as an Indian, Nepali, Sri Lankan, or Bangladeshi student. From housing to food to community.

You're Never Alone in USA 🇮🇳 🇳🇵 🇱🇰 🇧🇩

With 363,019 Indian students, 24,890 Nepali students, 10,000+ Bangladeshi students, and thousands of Sri Lankan students, you'll find a welcoming South Asian community at every major university.

🛕 Hindu Temples in Every City

🍛 Indian Restaurants Everywhere

🏏 Cricket Leagues & Clubs

Get Pre-Departure Guidance

Success Stories

Students Who Made It to USA

Real stories from students across India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh who achieved their USA dream with EEC.

Priya Patel

Arizona State University

MS Computer Science • 2024

🇮🇳

EEC helped me get 50% scholarship. Their guidance was invaluable from application to visa.

I was confused about which universities to apply to. EEC counselors analyzed my profile and suggested ASU which was perfect for my budget and career goals. They helped me with SOP, LORs, and visa prep. Got my visa in first attempt!

From Ahmedabad50% Tuition Waiver

50,000+

Students Placed

500+

Universities

High

Visa Success

4.9/5

Student Rating

Trusted by 50,000+ Students

Why EEC?

Gujarat's most trusted study abroad consultancy with 27+ years of excellence in sending students to USA.

Years Experience

Since 1997

Students Placed

In USA Universities

Centers in Gujarat

Nearest to You

Visa Success Rate

Industry Leading

Partner Universities

Across USA

Free Counseling

No Hidden Charges

Certifications & Partnerships

AIRC Certified

ICEF Agency

British Council Partner

IDP Authorized

Education USA Advisor

Our Guarantees

Free counseling - No consultation fees ever
Transparent process - No hidden charges
Genuine university tie-ups only
Complete visa interview preparation
Post-landing support in USA

"EEC helped me get into Arizona State University with 50% scholarship. Their guidance was invaluable from application to visa."

Priya Patel • MS Computer Science • ASU 2024

Start Your USA Journey Today

Join 50,000+ successful students who trusted EEC

Find Courses in USA

Explore thousands of programs at US Universities.

https://courses.eecglobal.com/united-states

📝

Need a Test Score for USA?

Most universities in USA require an English proficiency test. Start your prep with EEC — online from anywhere in India.

IELTS CoachingTarget: Band 7+PTE Coaching79+ score prep TOEFL Preparation100+ target GRE Preparation320+ score

View all test prep courses →

Available for students across India

Get USA Counseling From Anywhere in India

Not in Gujarat? No problem. Get the same expert USA study abroad counseling via video call — from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Pune, Kolkata, or any city in India. Free 30-minute session with a USA specialist.

🎥

Video Counseling

1-on-1 with expert

📋

University Shortlisting

AI-powered matching

📄

SOP & Visa Help

Complete documentation

Book Free Virtual Session WhatsApp a USA Expert

Need TOEFL for USA? Join our online coaching from anywhere — ₹7,500, books delivered pan-India.

Start TOEFL Coaching Online →

Quick FAQs

Common questions about USA.

The idea that employers must pay $100,000 to sponsor H-1B is a MYTH. In reality, thousands of US companies sponsor visas. With proper skills and STEM OPT (3 Years), H-1B sponsorship is achievable.

NO. This is the best part of the USA process. You usually pay tuition fees ONLY after visa approval, upon reaching the university (1st Semester fee). You only pay Application, Visa & SEVIS fees upfront.

Yes. Many universities are 'Test Optional'. However, submitting a score (GRE 300+ / SAT 1000+) significantly increases your scholarship chances and visa approval odds.

Before your visa interview, you must review your Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts. Visa officers use social media vetting. Ensure no controversial posts, hate speech, or illegal content. You must list handles on the DS-160 form.

US degrees are measured in 'Credits'. 1 Credit ≈ 1 hour of classroom learning per week. Bachelor's requires 120-128 credits. Master's requires 30-36 credits. You can take more credits to graduate early!

175+ Questions Answered

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about studying in USA from India, Nepal, Sri Lanka & Bangladesh

The first step is to decide your program (Bachelors, Masters, MBA, or PhD) and take the required English test (TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo). Then research universities based on your budget, location preference, and career goals. EEC provides FREE counseling to help you start.

Was this helpful?

Start 12-18 months before your intended intake. For Fall 2026 (August), start by January 2025. For Spring 2027 (January), start by June 2025. This gives time for test prep, applications, and visa processing.

Was this helpful?

Apply 8-10 months before your intake. Fall intake (August): Apply December-March. Spring intake (January): Apply June-September. Summer intake (May): Apply January-March. Early applications get better scholarship chances.

Was this helpful?

Yes! You can pursue Bachelors degree (4 years) in USA after 12th. Requirements: 12th pass with good percentage (60%+), SAT score (optional for many universities), and English test (TOEFL 80+ or IELTS 6.5+). Many universities accept without SAT.

Was this helpful?

Yes! After Bachelors, you can pursue Masters (MS/MA - 2 years), MBA (1-2 years), or PhD (4-6 years) in USA. Requirements: Bachelors degree, GRE/GMAT (optional for many), and English test. 363,019 Indian students chose USA in 2024-25.

Was this helpful?

No, it is NOT difficult if you apply strategically. USA has 4,000+ universities with varying admission requirements. With proper guidance, even students with 55-60% can get admission. EEC helps you select Dream, Reach, and Safe universities.

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For top universities: 75%+ (3.5+ GPA). For good universities: 65-75% (3.0-3.5 GPA). For average universities: 55-65% (2.5-3.0 GPA). Many universities accept students with 55%+ if other factors are strong.

Was this helpful?

Yes! Many USA universities accept students with 55-60%. Focus on: strong SOP explaining low grades, good GRE/GMAT score, relevant work experience, and strong recommendation letters. EEC specializes in such cases.

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There is NO official age limit for F1 student visa. Students of any age can apply. However, visa officers may question older applicants (35+) about their intent to return. Strong ties to home country help in such cases.

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Yes! USA universities accept gap years if you can explain them well. Gap for work, family reasons, health, or skill development is acceptable. Prepare a strong explanation for your SOP and visa interview.

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Still Have Questions?

Our expert counselors are ready to help you with personalized guidance for your USA study journey.

Book Free Counseling WhatsApp Us

STEM courses in USA offer $80K-$150K salaries and 3-year OPT. Complete ranking of best courses by salary, demand, and OPT eligibility for Indian students.

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OPT, STEM OPT & H-1B Visa After Studying in USA 2026: Complete Work & Stay Guide

Every F-1 student gets 12 months OPT. STEM students get 3 years total. Complete guide to OPT, STEM OPT, H-1B lottery, and green card pathways.

Read Article

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New TOEFL Format — January 2026

TOEFL for USA — New Format Mastery

The TOEFL changed everything in January 2026 — shorter test, no essay, new 1-6 bands. These expert guides cover score requirements for every tier of US university, the new format, and proven strategies.

Jan 2026

New Format Live

~2 hrs

Shorter Test

1-6 Bands

New Scoring

GRE Test Preparation

Master the GRE — Your Gateway to Top US Universities

Expert guides on GRE scores, preparation strategies, university requirements, and the new shorter format — crafted by EEC's test prep specialists.

325+

Target for Top 10

1h 58m

New Shorter Format

₹7,500

EEC GRE Coaching

Digital SAT: Your Child’s Gateway to US Universities & Scholarships

The SAT costs just ₹3,612 but can unlock scholarships worth ₹50 Lakhs to ₹2.7 Crore. EEC’s online coaching at ₹7,500 includes $400 worth of AI practice software. Read our expert guides below.

₹3,612

SAT Test Fee

$400

AI Software (Free)

₹50L+

Duolingo English Test — The Smartest Path to US Universities

Over 4,000 US universities accept DET — take it from home for just $70, get results in 48 hours, and send scores to unlimited universities for free. EEC’s DET coaching at ₹7,500 helps you score 120+ for your dream US university.

$70

DET Test Fee

48hrs

Results Speed

4,000+

US Universities