Why Study In The USA?

There are many great reasons to study in the USA. Currently, around 10,000 British students enroll at U.S universities and colleges each year, and this number is gradually increasing – so why are more and more choosing to study in the USA?

1. High quality courses

The United States has one of the world’s finest university systems, with outstanding programs in virtually all fields. At the undergraduate level, excellent programs exist in traditional disciplines, as well as in professional fields.

A close relationship between research and education has brought a number of U.S. institutions to the forefront of research and technological development. At these particular universities, students usually learn under the direction of world-renowned faculty who range from Nobel Laureates to Pulitzer Prize winners.

2. Wide range of educational opportunities

The U.S is home to over 4,000 colleges and universities, offering at least ten times as many campuses as in any other country.

With such a wide range of universities and degrees on offer, you're bound to find something suited to you!

Some U.S. colleges and universities teach a broad range of educational principles; some emphasise practical, employment-related skills; and others specialise in the arts, social sciences or technical fields.

This means you can usually have a variety of options and educational opportunities if you are looking for a place to study a particular field. You will often find several schools to choose from, no matter how specific or unusual your needs may be.

3. Cutting-edge technology

Universities in the U.S. pride themselves on being at the forefront of technology, research and techniques, and in making the best possible equipment and resources available to their students.

Even if your field does not directly involve science or engineering, you will have opportunities to become skilled in using the latest technology to conduct research, as well as obtain and process information.

You will find ways to stay connected with researchers, teachers and experts in your field all over the world.

4. Opportunities for research, teaching and training

You may be able to gain valuable experience through teaching and/or research while you help to finance your education in the U.S., particularly if you are a graduate student.

International students are some of the most valued teachers and researchers in U.S. universities because they bring new skills and ideas to the classroom and library or laboratory.

This practical component of your education will prove useful in your future career, and may give you insights into your field that would not be possible through undergraduate study alone.

5. Flexibility

Although many programs are highly structured in that specific coursework requirements must be met, you will generally be able to find a wide variety of course choices to meet those requirements.

For example, liberal arts coursework for an undergraduate program will include (among others) classes in languages and mathematics, but you will often have several options from which to choose with regard to which language class you take, or which area of mathematics appeals most to your interests and skills.

At the advanced stages of a degree, or if you are pursuing a graduate degree, you will be able to tailor your coursework to fit your specific academic goals, needs and interests.

When you choose topics for independent study for a graduate thesis or dissertation, you can emphasise ideas that are important to you, your field and your country.

6. Good career prospects

Experience in an international setting is a marketable commodity.

Many employers seek the wide range of knowledge, adaptability and experience that international students acquire by studying in the USA.

Companies in the U.S. are increasingly seeking to become a strong presence in the global marketplace.

They often look to hire employees who not only have multi-cultural language skills, but those who can also help communicate, negotiate and conduct business across different cultures.

The U.S is not the only country seeking strong candidates when hiring; international students are in high demand elsewhere, as well.

In recent years, international companies have become much more proactive in recruiting from the pool of strong international student graduates.

7. Campus life experience

When you continue your studies in the U.S., you are making a choice to broaden not only your educational experience, but your cultural opportunities as well.

Whether you attend a small, private college in a small town or a university situated in the middle of a large urban area, most universities offer a variety of student clubs and organisations to match the wide variety of student interests/hobbies.

You have the opportunity to immerse yourself in American culture, meeting new people and making new friends, through different organisations and associations.

International students often find that the international student office is a good starting point for campus offerings, as well as the campus student centre.

Your time studying abroad can be enriched by taking part in the social and cultural scene surrounding you, and you will likely find that U.S. campuses provide a rich variety academic, cultural and athletic activities that add new experiences to your life.

8. Support services for international students

Studying in the United States is a rewarding experience, but navigating your way through day-to-day issues can be a challenge.

Many international students find that the college and university international student office is a great way of helping them adapt to a culturally and academically different environment.

The aim of the international student office is to assist students like you, and there is often a wide range of student services that they can provide.

An orientation program upon your arrival is just the start of the many programs and benefits of the university international student office - throughout your time in the U.S., they can help answer questions you may have regarding your visa status, financial situation, housing, employment possibilities, health concerns and more.

If you choose to complete your degree in the U.S, this office often provides resume and employment assistance as graduation nears. The international student office will be an invaluable source of information and help as you make the transition into academic and cultural life in the United States.

Further information

For more help and advice on applying to university in the U.S, please see: