Academic and Financial Requirements to Study in USA

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The United States is a top destination for international students seeking quality education opportunities. But what does it actually take to turn this dream into reality? What are the admission requirements to study in USA?

In this article, Thao & Co. shares essential information to help you unlock the path to one of the world’s best education systems.

What are the requirements to study in USA?

Below, you’ll find detailed information regarding age requirements, academic qualifications, financial consideration and more to help you prepare the best application for studying in the US.

How old do you need to be to study in the US?

The American education system stands out for its flexibility and diversity. The age requirements differ, depending on the educational program and level of study. The four standard levels are:

  1. Elementary school: ages 6 to 11
  2. Middle or junior high school to high school: ages 11 to 18
  3. Undergraduate program: ages 18 to 22
  4. Postgraduate program: ages 22 and above

If you’re under 18, parental consent is required, along with a designated guardian living in America. Additionally, students must meet the admission requirements of their chosen school.

Check out Thao & Co.’s Guide to Apply for a US Student Visa on Your Own

How much money is required to study in USA?

The United States is known for its high cost of living, and the tuition fees reflect that. Below is an estimate of what you might need for one academic year, including tuition and living expenses:

The estimated total cost for the first year may vary from $30,000 to $90,000. In particular:

  1. Community colleges: $3,500 to $12,000 per year
  2. Undergraduate programs: $10,000 to $50,000 per year
  3. Master’s programs: $28,375 to $38,665 per year
  4. PhD programs: $32,966 to $46,029 per year

Additionally, you need to provide proof of your finances for the US student visa application. Find out now!

What academic qualifications are required to study in America?

Each level of study has different requirements for degrees and certifications:

  1. High school: GPA above 3.3, middle school diploma, and academic transcripts
  2. Undergraduate and postgraduate programs: High school diploma, Bachelor’s degree, academic transcripts, and additional certificates such as GRE General Test, GRE Subject Test, SAT I, SAT II, or GMAT
  3. • English proficiency certificate (varies by institution)

What English exams are required to study in USA?

English proficiency is a must to keep up with the academic programs and adjust to daily life in America.

As such, schools typically require:

  1. • For high school admission: SLEP certificate with a minimum score of 4.5.
  2. • For Undergraduate and postgraduate programs:
    • ▶️ TOEFL iBT: 61 to 90
    • ▶️ IELTS: 5.5 to 7.5

If you don’t have an English proficiency certificate, you can take preparatory English courses in the US before officially starting your academic program.

Concerned about the visa interview? Check out 20 common US student visa interview questions and answers.

Requirements to Study in USA - Thao & Co.

What to bring when studying in the United States?

Here is a checklist of important documents and essentials to pack for your journey to the US:

Important documents

  1. • Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status)
  2. • Passport with at least 6-month validity
  3. • US student visa
  4. • ID card
  5. Birth certificate
  6. • Academic records such as transcripts, degrees, diplomas, and English proficiency certificates
  7. • Proof of tuition payment

Personal essentials and finances

  1. • Cash and credit or debit cards
  2. • Clothes
  3. • Stationery and study materials
  4. • Laptop
  5. • Medication

Frequently Asked Questions about Studying in the US

Thao & Co. answers the most common questions international students ask to help you navigate your study abroad journey in America.

What IELTS band score do I need to study in the USA?

The required IELTS score varies by level of study:

  1. For high school: IELTS is not required but students must take the SLEP test and score at least 4.5.
  2. Vocational schools, colleges, and pathway programs: 4.5 to 5.5.
  3. Undergraduate programs: 6.0 to 7.0.
  4. Postgraduate programs: 7.0 to 8.0.

Additionally, some schools may have different score requirements for individual skills.

What is the minimum GPA required to study in the USA?

GPA, short for Grade Point Average, reflects the overall academic performance of a student in a course or a level. While some countries use a 10-point scale, the US typically uses a 4.0 scale.

Most colleges and universities in America require a minimum GPA of 3.3, which is equivalent to a 7.6 or higher on a 10-point scale.

Is a medical examination required for studying in the US?

Yes, most US schools require students to submit a health certificate and proof of vaccinations as part of their enrollment application. Each institution may have its own heath requirements, so be sure to check with your school for specific guidelines.

What are the requirements for a Master’s degree in the US?

To pursue a Master’s degree in the US, typically, you’ll need to meet the following criteria:

  1. • Be 22 years old or older
  2. • Maintain a GPA of 3.2 or higher
  3. • Hold a bachelor’s degree from a 3 to 4-year university program in the US
  4. • Submit proof of English proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL)
  5. • Pass an admission test, GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) or GRE (Graduate Record Examination)
  6. • Prepare at least $40,000-$50,000 a year to cover tuition and living expenses

Professional translation services for your US student visa application

All documents submitted for a US student visa must be translated into English and include a certificate of translation accuracy guaranteeing that the translations are performed by qualified translators.

To ensure accuracy and compliance, it’s best to seek professional translation services. Contact Thao & Co. for high-quality certified translations.

Translation Services - Thao & Co.

Over the years, we’ve assisted thousands of students with US visa applications and school admissions. Our certified translations meet USCIS standards, significantly boosting the chances of approval.

Our Certified Translation Services are backed by:

  1. • Expert team: Our translators hold English degrees from prestigious universities.
  2. • Extensive expertise: Over 8 years of experience handling countless study-abroad applications.
  3. • Comprehensive range of services: Translations available in over 50 languages, including Vietnamese, Spanish, Korean, and Chinese.
  4. Free Thao & Co.’s Certificate of Translation Accuracy
  5. • Notarization and consular legalization services for a small additional fee.
  6. • Confidentiality and security: Seamless and secure progress tracking and file exchange via our proprietary platform.

Contact us today for a free consultation and quote!

Key considerations

What are the requirements to study in USA? In short, thorough preparation of academic qualifications, financial proof, and essentials ensures peace of mind before your arrival in the USA.

Need professional certified translation services? We’ve got you covered!

To experience Thao & Co.’s exceptional translation quality, simply leave your details on our Get a Quote form. Our specialists will promptly reach out to assist you!

Source: Thao & Company
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