In recent years, the trend of pursuing undergraduate studies in the United States after completing the 12th grade has gained significant popularity among international students. Approximately 40% of international students are now opting for bachelor’s degrees in the USA directly after high school. This shift in approach opens up a world of opportunities and benefits for students willing to embark on their educational journey abroad early. If you’re in the 12th grade or about to complete high school, this guide aims to provide valuable insights into the opportunities and processes of studying in the USA after the 12th grade.
Why Study in the USA After 12th:
Studying in the USA after the 12th grade has become a prevalent choice, with a substantial number of international students choosing this path. The diverse range of undergraduate programs, coupled with the availability of scholarships, makes the USA an attractive destination for higher education. This guide will assist you in making informed decisions and address queries related to pursuing education in the USA after the 12th grade.
Key Steps to Study in the USA After 12th:
- English Language Proficiency:
- Clearing English language proficiency exams like IELTS and TOEFL is a crucial first step.
- The required band scores generally range from 6.5 to 7.0, depending on the chosen courses.
- SAT Scores:
- Many universities in the USA consider SAT scores along with academic and extracurricular performance.
- A competitive SAT score falls between 600-800.
- Age and Financial Requirements:
- Some courses may have a minimum age requirement, and sufficient funds must be proven for the duration of the program.
- Acceptance Letter and Visa Application:
- Upon receiving an acceptance letter, candidates must apply for a student visa in the USA.
Popular Courses After 12th in the USA:
1. Science Stream:
- Pure Sciences:
- Options include Biology at California Institute of Technology, Physics at Stanford University, Biological Chemistry at the University of Chicago, Chemistry at Johns Hopkins University, and Applied Physics at Columbia University.
Engineering:
- Top engineering universities such as Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Stanford University, California Institute of Technology, Harvard University, and Princeton University offer various engineering programs.
2. Medical Stream:
- The MD or Doctor of Medicine designation is equivalent to MBBS in the USA.
- Courses include Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery, requiring SAT exams and application to 4-year undergraduate medicine courses.
3. Commerce Stream:
- Economics and Finance:
- Top universities like Harvard, MIT, Stanford, UC Berkeley, and Princeton offer programs in Economics and Econometrics.
Accounting:
- Programs include Accountancy at the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, Accounting at Adelphi University, Accounting at American University, and more.
Management:
- Various business and management programs are available for students interested in pursuing a career in business.
4. Arts Stream:
- Courses range from Architecture and Fine Arts to Arts and Humanities, Hospitality and Tourism Management, and Bachelor’s Degrees in English, Philosophy, and History.
Cost of Studying in the USA After 12th:
The cost varies by state, with public universities generally having lower tuition fees than private institutions. Here is an overview of average tuition fees per year in different states.
- California: Public – $10,814, Private – $24,989
- Florida: Public – $13,524, Private – $17,976
- Massachusetts: Public – $15,524, Private – $34,369
- New York: Public – $13,198, Private – $23,868
- Texas: Public – $11,173, Private – $18,468
Conclusion:
Studying in the USA after the 12th grade offers a plethora of opportunities across diverse fields. Whether you’re inclined towards sciences, engineering, medicine, commerce, or arts, the USA provides a conducive environment for academic and personal growth. Understanding the application processes, requirements, and costs is crucial for making info