Find out more about studying in Canada.
IELTS guide to studying in the USA
The USA has several top-ranked universities and world-leading industries, making it a popular choice for international students. Discover this exciting destination with our IELTS for the USA guide.
Why study in the USA?
You’ll find thousands of courses in most industry sectors to choose from in the USA. With over 50 States and strong post-study work opportunities, the USA offers great student pathways.
Academic excellence
As well as world-famous institutions like the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Stanford, Harvard and Yale, there are thousands of top-ranked public and private colleges and universities in the USA. Many universities are well known for having excellent facilities, so you can expect to have high-tech labs, well-equipped libraries and cutting-edge creative studios on hand.
Wide choice of programmes
The USA has more than 4,000 universities that welcome international students. If you choose to study for an undergraduate degree, you'll spend the first 1-2 years taking courses across disciplines, before choosing a ‘major’. This approach offers you more flexibility in your course design, so you can explore different interests and choose from a wide range of programmes.
Networking opportunities
Universities in the USA stand out for giving students the chance to join clubs, sports teams and cultural societies. Many universities also host events to help you network with professionals, alumni and peers. North Americans are known for their entrepreneurial spirit, so you’ll find workshops, conferences, meetups and seminars where you can meet people working in your field.
Download our Brief Guide to Studying in the USA
Get your copy of our Guide to Studying in the USA to get an in-depth look at life in the USA. Find out more about universities, campuses and how IELTS can help to prepare you for academic life.
Which are the best American universities by industry?
The USA stands out as a study destination for many industry sectors. You can choose from some of the world’s top universities to develop your career in the following fields:
Business and Finance
The USA is home to several highly ranked business schools, including Harvard Business School, Stanford University and the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. With links to major financial hubs, you can connect with employers in banking, consulting and technology.
Pharmaceuticals and Life Sciences
Johns Hopkins University and MIT are well respected for biomedical research, as is the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), on the West Coast of the USA. All three institutions have close links with major pharma employers.
Engineering, Manufacturing and Technology
The USA is a world leader in tech and engineering, and institutions like MIT, Stanford and the University of California, Berkeley, regularly top lists of the world’s best. All are known for advanced manufacturing, robotics and industrial innovation and have strong industry links.
Aerospace and Aeronautical Engineering
The USA is a global leader in aerospace education, with universities like MIT, Caltech, and Stanford offering access to NASA and other major aerospace companies. Students on these courses can participate in cutting-edge research on aircraft and spacecraft design.
What visa do I need to study in the USA?
Most international students apply for an F-1 Student visa to study in the USA. The first step towards getting an F-1 visa is to apply to an approved Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (opens in a new tab) (SEVIS) institution and pay the SEVIS fee.
Once you receive your university admission letter and I-20 form, you can apply for your visa at a US Embassy or Consulate. You will need to schedule a visa interview, where you’ll be asked about your study plans, your finances and your English level.
You can find out more on the US Department of State’s website (opens in a new tab).
IELTS for USA study: what score do I need?
Most universities in the USA accept IELTS scores somewhere between 6.0 and 7.0. Before you apply for a course, it’s important to check the minimum score you need.
IELTS scores for USA universities
F1 visa students usually need a minimum IELTS score of 6.5, but courses for careers that are language-intensive – such as healthcare, law or journalism – may ask for 7.0-7.5. You can also expect top-tier universities, such as those in the Ivy League, and postgraduate courses to ask for a higher score of 7.0-7.5.
Component scores matter
Some universities set minimum requirements for component scores, as well as your overall band score. For example, an institution may ask for a 7.0 score overall, with no less than 6.5 in any component. Make sure you check the requirements of your chosen institution before you take the test.
How much does it cost to study in the USA?
Tuition fees in the USA vary, and top-ranked universities tend to charge higher fees. With no cap on fees for international students, a degree from an American university can cost anything from USD$9,000 to over USD$70,000.
Undergraduate tuition fees
In the USA, there is a big difference between public (state) universities and private universities. The average annual cost at a public university is around USD$10,000, whereas private universities average USD$40,000 per year. For top-tier Ivy League universities, you can expect to pay around USD$70,000 annually.
Postgraduate tuition fees
Master’s degrees in the USA typically cost between USD$20,000 and USD$45,000 per year, depending on the school, your major and the length of your programme. Doctoral degrees are more expensive, ranging from USD$28,000 to USD$55,000 annually. However, a two-year MBA from Harvard Business School will cost you around USD$161,000.
How much does it cost to live in the USA as a student?
In the USA, you can expect to spend between USD$1,500 and USD$2,500 monthly on living costs, depending on location. To find out more about the cost of living in the USA, check out our essential guide.
Accommodation
Average room and board costs range from USD$10,000 to USD$13,000 per year
Groceries
Meal plans (mandatory with campus accommodation) are about USD$250 monthly
Travel
Costs vary by city and lifestyle, but expect to pay around USD$150 monthly
Are scholarships available to study in the USA?
As an international student in the USA, you may be eligible for a scholarship or financial aid. Funding may be linked to merit, need or programme of study.
Merit-based scholarships
Some programmes reward good grades, talent or achievements. For example, the Stamps Scholarship helps exceptional students at partner universities across the USA develop leadership skills. The Jefferson Scholars Program at the University of Virginia also supports outstanding undergraduate students to pursue their passions and develop their talents.
Needs-based scholarships
Needs-based scholarships exist to cover tuition or living costs. Examples include Cornell University’s financial aid programme for international students. Also, Harvard’s Griffin Financial Aid Office offers the opportunity to study at this Ivy League university regardless of ability to pay.
Intense competition for scholarships
Scholarships in the USA are in high demand, with thousands of applicants for each one. You will need to research your field and destination to find out what’s available and what you are eligible for. Make sure you also have a realistic financial plan, in case you can’t get a scholarship. It is also worth researching scholarship opportunities from the government in your home country.
Can I work in the USA while I study?
Working while you study can be a great way to earn money, get some work experience, and meet new people.
Get a part-time job
If you are a student on an F-1 visa, you may be able to work on campus in your first academic year. After that, you can apply to work off-campus if you meet certain conditions. F-1 visa holders from low-income households can apply for an exception so they can work during their first year.
Postgraduate pathways
F-1 students can also legally work in the USA for up to one year after graduation through the Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme. STEM majors can apply to work for an additional two years.
Study in the USA with IELTS
Want to study in the USA? Book IELTS now with the British Council and get ready to start your study abroad adventure. Don’t forget you get free access to our IELTS Ready preparation platform too.
Related pages
Find out more about studying in the UK.
Get the lowdown on studying in Australia
Find out more about studying in Europe