Study in the USA | IDP Vietnam

To be able to study in the United States, you need to meet some basic conditions in terms of English proficiency, academic ability, finances, and age. Depending on the level of study and the school of application, the specific requirements may vary, but generally include the following:

2.1. English language requirements when studying in the US

English proficiency is a must when studying in the United States. Each level of study will have different requirements:

High School (Level 3):

• IELTS 5.0 or higher

• Or SLEP from 45 points

• Or pass the school's English entrance exam

Diploma Level:

• IELTS around 5.5

• Or TOEFL iBT from 61

Undergraduate:

• IELTS minimum 6.0 (many schools require 6.5+)

• Or TOEFL iBT from 68

Master's – Doctoral level:

• IELTS 6.5 or higher

• Or TOEFL iBT about 79

If you do not meet the English language requirements, international students can still apply:

• English for Academic Purposes (ESL) Courses

• Or the Pathway/Preparatory program before entering the main course.

However, good English preparation right from Vietnam will help you save costs, ease of integration and increase the pass rate of US student visas.

Learn about the conditions to study in the US to realize your dream of studying abroad

2.2. Academic Requirements

To be eligible to study in the United States, international students need to meet the minimum academic ability requirements for each level of study. Typically, schools in the U.S. require a grade point average (GPA) of 6.5 or higher. However, due to the high level of competition when studying in the US, especially at schools with good rankings, you should achieve a GPA of 7.5 or higher to increase your chances of being accepted and considered for scholarships.

Specifically, in addition to GPA, many U.S. study abroad programs may require:

• SAT: Applied to the undergraduate level to assess general academic ability

• GRE: For Master's and Doctoral programs not in business

• GMAT: Required for many Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs

2026 update note: Currently, many schools in the US have flexible or exempt the SAT/GRE/GMAT requirement, especially for international students with good academic records or relevant practical experience. Therefore, you should check the official entry requirements on the school's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

2.3. Financial conditions

The United States is one of the countries with a high standard of living, so the financial conditions when studying in the United States are often more stringent than many other countries. To complete the procedure for applying for a US student visa, students need to provide proof of finances, in order to ensure that their families can afford tuition and living expenses during their studies in the US.

Generally, you will need to prove that your bank account balance is at least equal to or higher than the total tuition and living expenses of the first year of study, as shown on the Form I-20 issued by the school in the United States.

The cost of studying in the U.S. will vary depending on the level of study, major, and region of residence (state, city, or city). Therefore, you should carefully research the conditions for studying in the US and the specific costs of the school you plan to study at to have a more appropriate and proactive financial plan.

2.4 Age to study in the U.S.

How old is it to study in the USA? In fact, there is no hard limit on the age of studying in the United States, students can enroll at many different levels, from Elementary, Secondary, Undergraduate to Postgraduate, as long as they fully meet the school's entrance requirements and visa requirements.

However, for the undergraduate level, most schools in the US require applicants to be at least 17 years old and have completed high school or equivalent. For high school students studying in the United States, the common age is usually 14–18 years old, depending on the class and admissions policy of each school.

Notes when considering a US student visa: In addition to the age, the Consulate will evaluate whether the study path is reasonable or not (e.g. gap year, change of level, clear learning goals). Therefore, you should build an age-appropriate study plan to increase your chances of passing the visa.

2.4 Offer letter & I-20 form

To be eligible to study in the United States, students are required to have an offer letter and an I-20 form issued by a school in the United States. The I-20 is a confirmation that you have been accepted to the school and are eligible for a U.S. student visa (F-1). The information on the I-20 will be used to prove finances, schedule interviews, and enter the United States.

2.5 Conditions for applying for a U.S. student visa (F-1)

In addition to meeting academic and financial requirements, students need to meet the conditions for applying for a U.S. student visa (F-1). The U.S. Consulate will evaluate applications based on clear academic goals, a reasonable study plan, transparent financial ability and a commitment to return to Vietnam after graduation.

The U.S. education system is highly regarded for its flexibility, diversity of levels, and ability to personalize learning pathways for international students. Learners can choose a level of study that suits their age, learning capacity and future career orientation, and easily adjust their study plan if their goals change.

The U.S. education system is divided into the following main levels:

3.1 Elementary School

Primary school in the United States is the stage of foundation education, for students from about 5 to 11 years old. During this period, students are equipped with basic learning skills through core subjects such as:

• Reading – Writing (English Language Arts)

• Mathematics

• Science

• Fine Arts and Creative Activities

The curriculum focuses on developing thinking, communication and learning habits from the first years of life. For international students, primary education is usually offered at private or boarding schools with small class sizes and a friendly learning environment.

3.2 Middle School / Junior High School

Middle school education in the United States usually lasts from grade 6 to grade 8, which corresponds to ages 11 to 14. At this stage, the curriculum began to expand with subjects such as:

• Mathematics

• Science

• History and Social Sciences

• Literature

• Foreign Languages

The goal of this degree is to help students develop critical thinking, independent study skills, and teamwork. Some international students choose to start studying in the U.S. from high school to soon adapt to the international learning environment.

3.3 High School

High school in the U.S. lasts from grades 9 to 12 and plays an important role in preparing for college.

Unlike many countries, students in the US can flexibly choose subjects that suit their abilities and career orientation, instead of studying according to a fixed curriculum framework. In addition to the required coursework, students can also enroll in advanced coursework such as Advanced Placement (AP) to earn college credit.

Besides academics, students also participate in a variety of extracurricular activities such as clubs, sports, and community projects. These activities help build an outstanding academic profile when applying to college in the U.S.

3.4 Community College

Community Collegeis a popular choice for international students when studying in the United States. Community Colleges offer a 2-year training program that focuses on foundational knowledge and practical skills.

Upon completion of this program, students can progress to Year 3 at universities to complete their Bachelor's degree. The 2-year study pathway at a community college and 2 years at a university (2+2) helps students significantly save the cost of studying in the U.S. while still receiving a degree equivalent to students studying the entire program at the University.

3.5 Bachelor's Degree

Undergraduate programs in the U.S. usually last about 4 years. During this time, students are trained in both professional knowledge and research, analysis, and problem-solving skills.

Students can choose a major and even a minor to expand their knowledge. A peculiarity of the American education system is that students can change majors in the early years if their career orientation changes.

This flexibility gives students more opportunities to explore and find a field that suits them.

3.6 Graduate Studies

Graduate education in the U.S. includes Master's and PhD programs, taught at many of the world's leading universities and research institutes.

These programs focus on in-depth research, academic and professional development in each field. This is a popular choice for students who want to further their professional qualifications or pursue a career in international research after completing their study abroad program in the United States.

The education system in the United States is famous for its flexibility and diversity of learning pathways. Depending on their age, academic goals, and budget, international students can choose from a variety of programs, from high school to college, university, or short-term courses.

Here are popular U.S. study abroad programs for international students.

4.1 High School Study Program in the US (Level 3)

Studying in the U.S. at the high school level is increasingly interested by parents and students thanks to the modern learning environment, comprehensive educational methods, and opportunities to prepare well for college.

International students can choose to study at:

• Public school (up to 1 year under F-1 visa regulations)

• Private Schools

• Boarding school

Reference cost

• Tuition fee: about 20,000 – 50,000 USD/year

• Living expenses: about 10,000 – 20,000 USD/year

Studying abroad from high school helps students:

• Improve English proficiency

• Develop independent learning skills

• Participate in a variety of extracurricular activities

In particular, high school graduates in the US often have an advantage when applying to universities here thanks to their familiarity with the international education system and academic environment.

4.2 Community College Program

Community colleges are a popular choice for many international students due to their affordable cost and flexible study pathways. The program typically lasts 2 years, focusing on foundational knowledge and academic skills.

Reference cost

• Tuition fee: about 9,000 – 12,000 USD/year, about 40-60% lower than a 4-year university.

Upon completion of the program, students can transfer to the 3rd year at American universities to complete a Bachelor's degree. Many community colleges have transfer agreements with major universities, making it easier for students to continue their studies.

4.3 Undergraduate programs in the U.S.

Bachelor's programs in the U.S. typically last 4 years. In which:

• The first 2 years: study general subjects and explore many different fields

• 2 years later: Intensive study according to the chosen discipline

Reference cost

• Tuition fee: about 17,000 – 50,000 USD/year

• Living expenses: about 12,000 – 18,000 USD/year

International students can choose from a variety of pathways to American universities such as:

• Apply directly to the 4-year Bachelor's program

• Transition from Community College

• Study a pathway before entering the first year

In addition, students have the opportunity to participate in a paid internship (CPT) and work after graduation through the OPT program.

4.4 Postgraduate programs

Graduate programs in the U.S. include Master's and Doctoral degrees. These programs are designed to help students develop deep professional knowledge, improve their research skills, and expand their career opportunities in an international environment.

Master's programs in the U.S. typically last about 1 to 2 years, depending on the field of study and program structure of each school. Meanwhile, the PhD program usually lasts 4-6 years, in 1-2 years the doctoral student will complete advanced subjects and academic competency assessment exams, and the following years will complete the thesis course.

4.5 American vocational training program

Vocational study abroad in the United States focuses on practical skills training, suitable for those who want to quickly enter the labor market. The duration of study is short, ranging from 6 months to 2 years, after which students can receive a certificate or vocational degree.

4.6 American Summer Study Abroad Program

Summer Study in the USA is a short-term program lasting from 2 to 6 weeks, for students from 14 to 18 years old. This is an opportunity for students to improve their English and experience the learning, culture and life environment in the United States.

During the participation period, students will learn intensive English, participate in extracurricular activities, visit prestigious universities and interact with international friends.

Reference cost: about 5,000 – 7,000 USD, depending on the duration and content of the program.

The education system in the United States is known for its flexibility, allowing international students to choose from a variety of study pathways depending on academic ability, English proficiency, and budget. Here are two popular routes to study in the US that many students choose.

5.1 Pathway from community college to bachelor's degree

This is a fairly popular learning path for international students when studying in the United States. Students will begin their studies at Community Colleges for about 2 years, then transfer to 4-year universities to complete their Bachelor's degree.

During their time at Community College, students will complete general subjects and some foundational subjects of the discipline. After meeting all the requirements, students can transfer to Year 3 at partner universities.

Advantages of this route:

• Cost savings: tuition at a Community College is typically around 40–60% lower than at a 4-year university

• Easy to transfer: many schools have transfer agreements with major universities

• Flexible entry requirements: suitable for students who do not have too high academic records

5.2 Pathway/Foundation Pathway

The Pathway or Foundation program is designed for students who do not yet fully meet the entry requirements of an undergraduate program, such as English language or academic requirements.

In this program, students will study the following subjects:

• Academic English

• Study skills in a university environment

• Some of the foundational subjects of the discipline

Upon completion of the Pathway or Foundation program and meeting the requirements of the school, students can transfer to the first or second year of a Bachelor's degree program at an affiliated university.

This pathway gives international students time to get acquainted with the U.S. study method, improve their English proficiency, and better prepare for a formal university program.

Preparing your U.S. student visa application is easy if you plan early

The procedure for applying for a US student visa will become simpler if you prepare complete documents and plan early. The most common visa for international students is the F-1 visa, which allows full-time study at accredited schools in the United States.

6.1. Papers and dossiers to be prepared

To apply for a U.S. student visa (F-1), you need to prepare all the required documents and some supporting documents for the interview.

Required Documents

• Electronic Nonimmigrant Visa Application Form (Form DS-160) completed online

• Passport valid for at least 6 months from the expected date of entry into the U.S.

• 5x5 cm (2x2 inch) card photo, white background, taken within the last 6 months

• Non-refundable visa application fee receipt: 160 USD

• Form I-20 issued by a U.S. school and signed

• SEVIS I-901 (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee payment receipt

Note: If you do not have a Form I-20 or have not paid the SEVIS fee, you will not be able to schedule a visa interview.

Interview Supporting Documents

In addition to the required documents, you should prepare the following documents to increase your chances of getting a visa:

• Proof of binding documents in Vietnam

• Financial proof documents (savings book, family income documents, etc.)

• Documents proving the financial sponso (if any)

• Academic records: transcripts, transcripts, degrees, foreign language certificates such as IELTS or TOEFL

• Study plan or documents related to learning objectives

Preparing a complete application will help you be more confident when participating in the visa interview.

6.2. The process of applying for a US student visa

Although the procedure for applying for a US student visa is considered to be quite strict, the actual process is quite clear and usually consists of 4 basic steps.

Step 1: Receive the I-20 form and complete the DS-160 form

First, you need to be accepted by a school in the U.S. and issued an I-20 form. This is a mandatory document to apply for a student visa.

After receiving your I-20, you will fill out the DS-160 form online and save the confirmation page to use when scheduling your interview.

Step 2: Pay the visa fee and SEVIS fee

After completing the DS-160, you will need to pay the following fees:

• F-1 visa application fee: $160

• SEVIS I-901 Fee: $350

These fees are paid at the Vietnamese currency exchange rate at the time of submission and are non-refundable in any case.

Step 3: Make an appointment for a visa interview

After completing the application and paying the fee, you proceed to make an appointment for an interview through the official US visa application system.

You need to choose:

• Interview location (Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City) Ho Chi Minh City)

• Suitable interview date and time

Step 4: Attend an interview at the U.S. Consulate or Embassy

You need to come to the interview on the right day, on time as scheduled, and bring all the documents you have prepared.

During the interview, the consular officer will focus on evaluating factors such as:

• Goals and plans to study in the USA

• Financial ability to pay for the learning process

• Intention to return to Vietnam after completing the study program

Usually, the visa outcome will be decided immediately after the interview. If a visa is issued, your passport will usually be returned within 3–7 working days.

6.3 Secrets to a successful US student visa interview

The visa interview is an important step in the U.S. student visa application process. During the interview, the consular officer will assess your academic goals, financial capabilities, and plans after completing your studies. Careful preparation and demonstrating confidence will help increase the chances of getting a visa.

Prepare a clear study plan

You should know information about the school, the field of study, and the reasons for choosing a program in the US. Clearly stating your academic goals and career orientation after graduation will help the consular officer understand your plans.

Proof of financial transparency

Financial ability is an important factor when considering a US student visa. You need to prepare sufficient documents proving financial resources such as a passbook, sponsor's income documents, or related assets to ensure that you can afford your studies and living expenses while studying in the United States.

Answer the interview briefly and honestly

The duration of a visa interview is usually quite short, so you should answer the question clearly, get to the point, and always be honest. Keeping a calm, confident, and polite attitude will help to make a good impression on the consular officer.

Prepare Frequently Asked Questions in Advance

Some common questions in a U.S. student visa interview often revolve around the reason for choosing a school, study plans, financial resources, and plans after graduation. Preparing your answers in advance will help you be more confident and proactive during the interview

7. Application to study in the US

Preparing your application to study in the U.S. is an important step to be considered for admission by universities. Depending on the level of study and requirements of each school, the application may vary, but international students often need to prepare basic and additional documents later.

7.1 What do you need to study in the U.S.

To complete your application to study in the United States, you need to prepare all academic documents, certificates, and personal documents as required by the school.

Basic Documents

• An application form issued by the school.

• A copy of a valid passport.

• Transcripts/transcripts studied, translated into English.

• Valid English language certificate (IELTS,...).

• Confirm international standardized tests if required by the school (SAT, ACT,...).

Additional Documents

Personal Statement:

Personal Statement:

Note: Carefully research the requirements of each school before applying to increase your chances of admission.

7.2 Deadline for Applying to Study in the USA

Universities in the United States often apply many different forms of admission with their own application deadlines and announcement of results. Here are the common forms:

1. Early Decision (ED)

This is an early application form for students who have clearly identified the school they want to attend. If you are accepted, you need to commit to attending that school and withdraw your application at other schools.

Deadline for submission:

• ED I: around November

• ED II: around 1 month

Time to receive results:

• ED I: December

• ED II: February

2. Early Action (EA)

This allows students to apply early but is not binding, meaning you can still apply to many other schools.

• Application deadline: 10 – 11 months

• Receive results: December – January

3. Regular Decision (RD)

This is the most common form of admission at American universities. Students can apply to multiple schools and have more time to prepare essays, letters of recommendation, and necessary documents.

4. Rolling Admissions (RA)

Some schools apply flexible admissions, accepting applications continuously until the quota is met.

• The dossier shall be considered immediately after submission

• Results are usually available after a few weeks

However, to increase your chances of being admitted to the desired school as well as have more time to prepare for the US student visa process, you should prepare your application and submit it early

On average, the total cost of studying abroad in the US ranges from 40,000 to 80,000 USD per year (equivalent to about 1 – 2 billion VND/year), including tuition fees and living expenses. The specific cost will depend on the student's level of study, type of school, region of residence and spending style.

Here are the main expenses you need to prepare for when studying in the U.S.

8.1. Tuition fees to study in the USA

The United States has issued general standards for tuition fees, so the tuition fee depends on the regulations of each school. Tuition fees will vary based on many factors such as the location of the school, the school's ranking, the field you study,.... The tuition fees to be paid are expected as follows:

Vietcom exchange rate on 07/01/2026: 1 USD = 26,378 VND

The above fee is only for reference because it depends a lot on different factors.

8.2. Living expenses

In addition to tuition, you will have to pay for living expenses, in the US, living expenses are also relatively expensive, estimated as follows:

The above expenses are not fixed but depend on personal needs and purposes. However, the cost of living in the US is quite expensive compared to other countries such as New Zealand, Canada, etc

To find out more detailed information about the fees that you need to pay during the process of studying in the US, you can refer to How much does it cost to study in the USA?

Paying tuition fees and living expenses for international students sometimes faces many difficulties. Don't worry, IDP will support you to transfer money internationally safely and quickly right below!

9. What should I study in the US?

The U.S. program is highly regarded for its diversity of disciplines and top-notch teaching quality, meeting most of the learning needs of international students. However, not all majors are trained at all schools, so choosing the right major from the beginning is a very important factor.

If you are wondering what major to study in the US, here are the top 5 highly rated majors in the US based on the quality of training, job opportunities, and income level after graduation:

Computer Science

This is the most developed major in the US, especially suitable for those who are passionate about IT and technology. Computer Science graduates often have a high starting salary and many job opportunities at large technology corporations. However, the conditions for studying in the US are quite competitive, requiring a good academic background and logical thinking.

Communication

The Communication industry is a prominent trend in the American education system, opening up many career opportunities in fields such as business, advertising, marketing, journalism, and event organization. This is a suitable choice for students who want to study in the U.S. in a creative and dynamic way.

Political Science

Although it is still quite new to many American students, Political Science is a highly academic and applied discipline. Students can pursue careers such as lawyers, journalists, policy specialists, diplomats, especially suitable for those who love research and social analysis.

Business Administration

Business is one of the most chosen majors when studying in the US thanks to its wide development potential. Graduates can work at large enterprises, multinational corporations or start their own businesses with a stable income and high promotion opportunities.

Economics

The Department of Economics focuses on training macro knowledge, helping students understand the laws of production, exchange and consumption of goods. This is the right platform for those who are oriented to work in fields such as finance, data analytics, banking or policymaking.

In addition, you can learn more about the top popular majors when studying in the US to have a more comprehensive view of the conditions for studying in the US, job opportunities, tuition fees to study in the US as well as choosing a major that suits your abilities and future career goals.

Currently, the U.S. government and universities in the U.S. offer a wide range of scholarships to study in the U.S. and support policies for international students, significantly reducing the cost of studying and living.

Every year, the US attracts hundreds of thousands of international students to study and work. Therefore, many high schools, colleges and universities in the US have implemented valuable scholarship programs to encourage and support international students.

10.1 Government Scholarships

The U.S. government offers a variety of scholarship programs to assist international students in studying at U.S. universities. These scholarships are usually highly valuable and highly competitively evaluated.

One of the outstanding programs is the Fulbright Program – a prestigious scholarship for international students to study at the graduate level in the United States. The program usually funds all or most of the cost of study, including tuition fees, living expenses, and airfare.

10.2 Scholarships from American school

In addition to government scholarship programs, many universities in the U.S. also offer scholarships for international students to attract applicants with good academic records and growth potential. Below is a list of IDP partner scholarships with a wide range of levels from high school to university

Above are the types of scholarships to study in the US that you can refer to, but for each type of scholarship there will be its own requirements, so you need to research carefully to apply.

With a network of partners with many prestigious schools in the US, IDP Education will assist you in finding the right study program, advise on scholarship opportunities and guide you in preparing your application to increase your chances of receiving a scholarship to study in the US.

10.3 How to increase your chances of getting a scholarship

Scholarships to study in the USA are usually highly competitive. To increase the likelihood of being selected, students should prepare outstanding academic records and personal activities.

High GPA and academic achievement Grade point average (GPA) is an important factor when considering scholarships. Many universities in the United States often prioritize applicants with excellent academic records and good standardized test results.

Participate in extracurricular activities American universities value students who have a balance between academics and social activities. Participating in extracurricular activities such as clubs, community projects, scientific research, or leadership activities will help your resume stand out.

Prepare quality essays and letters of recommendation Personal statements and letters of recommendation are an opportunity for you to demonstrate your academic goals, career direction, and personal values. A clear, persuasive essay can significantly increase your chances of receiving a scholarship.

Washington – Center for Technology and Innovation

Washington state is one of America's major technology hubs. It is home to major corporations such as Amazon and Microsoft.

As a result, students studying in the U.S. in Information Technology, Engineering, or Data Science can access many internship and job opportunities after graduation. The state is also home to many prestigious universities such as the University of Washington, Washington State University, and Seattle University.

Texas – Balancing Cost and Career Opportunities

The state of Texas stands out for its development strengths in the fields of Energy, Technology, Engineering, and Business. Many American students choose this state thanks to its dynamic learning environment and relatively reasonable cost of studying in the United States and living.

Texas is also home to many major research universities such as the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University and Rice University.

Massachusetts – America's leading education center

The state of Massachusetts has long been considered one of the leading educational centers in the United States. The Boston and Cambridge areas are home to many prestigious universities such as Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Boston University.

The state's dynamic academic environment makes it an ideal destination for international students who want to study in the U.S . or pursue intensive research programs.

New York – International and Multicultural Learning Environment

New York State is one of the largest economic and financial centers in the world. New York City offers a multicultural learning environment, making it easy for international students to expand their international career network.

The state is also home to many well-known universities such as Columbia University, New York University, and Cornell University.

The U.S. government has its own regulations and policies for international students to ensure that students focus on their studies while still having the opportunity to gain practical experience while studying in the U.S.

Regulations on overtime work

• U.S. students on F-1 visas are not allowed to work part-time as in some other countries.

• During the main course, students can only work on-campus for a maximum of 20 hours/week.

• During official holidays (summer vacation, winter vacation), students can work up to 40 hours/week if the work is valid.

Popular Part-Time Jobs on Campus

When studying abroad in the U.S., students can look for many part-time jobs right on campus. This is also a way to help students both earn more income and accumulate practical experience studying in the US in an academic environment.

Some common jobs include:

• Library supervision and supervision

• Teaching Assistant (TA)

• Research Assistant (RA)

• Faculty Office Assistant

• Student support, new student guidance

Average salary: about $8 – $20 per hour, depending on location, school and state.

Off-campus overtime (CPT & OPT) policy

In addition to working on campus, U.S. students can work off-campus if they are eligible:

• CPT (Curricular Practical Training): Work directly related to the major being studied, usually applied during the study period.

• OPT (Optional Practical Training): Allows students to work after graduation (or during their studies if eligible), for a maximum of 12 months, and for STEM majors alone, it can be extended up to 36 months.

13. Career opportunities after studying in the U.S.

After studying in the United States, international students have many opportunities to develop their careers in a global working environment. Degrees from universities in the United States are widely recognized and appreciated by employers around the world. This is an advantage that helps American students easily access job opportunities in the US or in other international labor markets.

During their studies, students are not only equipped with professional knowledge but also have the opportunity to participate in internships, research projects, and extracurricular activities. These experiences help students gain real-world experience, develop career skills, and build industry networks.

In particular, after graduation, international students can also participate in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, which allows them to work in the U.S. in a field related to their field of study for a certain period of time. This is considered an important stepping stone to help students accumulate international work experience and improve their competitiveness in the labor market.

Thanks to practical study and work opportunities, many American students have built successful careers in fields such as technology, finance, engineering, and business, both in the U.S. and when they return to Vietnam.

Studying in the US is the dream of many Vietnamese students, although many of them are worried because of the expensive cost of studying in the US and living. However, your dream of studying in the U.S. can completely become a reality if you plan your finances and information. Here are some suggestions to help you study in the U.S. more economically:

Part-time work

Although the policy of part-time study in the U.S. is somewhat stricter than in many other countries, international students can still find on-campus job opportunities to gain experience while covering living expenses. Some common positions that American students can do include:

• Library supervisor: about $13.75/hour

• Teaching assistant for introductory classes: $12 – $16 per hour

• Faculty office assistant: from $15 to $16.5 per hour

• Research assistant: about $15-16 per hour

In addition, according to the policies for international students, international students can apply for permission to work off-campus through programs such as OPT (Optional Practical Training) or CPT (Curricular Practical Training). These programs help students gain real-world work experience related to their discipline.

Choosing a low-cost school

Choosing a school also affects your total cost of studying in the U.S. Public universities or medium-sized schools in the state of California not only ensure the quality of training but also have affordable tuition fees. Here are some schools with reasonable tuition fees that you can refer to:

• California State University, Long Beach

• San Francisco State University

• California State University, Fresno

• Humboldt State University

These schools all have tuition fees ranging from 17,000 to 23,000 USD/year, significantly lower than well-known private universities.

Choosing the right program

An effective way to reduce the cost of studying in the U.S. is to choose the right study path from the beginning. Instead of applying directly to a 4-year university program, many international students choose to start at community colleges.

Tuition fees at community colleges are usually only about 9,000 – 12,000 USD/year. After completing the first 2 years of study, you can transfer to year 3 at prestigious universities. This route not only helps to significantly save tuition fees but also alleviates academic pressure in the early stages of adaptation.

To be able to study in the US, you can refer to the experiences of former students advised by IDP as follows:

• Experience in finding and choosing a school: It is recommended to make a table to compare schools, first of all, it is necessary to see the location of the school you want to study, you need to answer the question of what major you want to study? You should take personality tests to find out your strengths and choose your favorite major.

• U.S. student visa interview experience: You can refer to and outline frequently asked questions when going to the interview, which can be found here. You should answer briefly, accurately, and correctly on the application, you will feel more trusted by the Consulate. In addition, you should prepare a detailed study plan to convince the interviewer. And especially you should prepare yourself to be as comfortable and confident as possible.

• Experience in hunting for American scholarships: You should learn about scholarships to study in the US through official scholarship websites and apply for scholarship positions that are really suitable for you. In addition, you can look for centers to find the most appropriate scholarship and the path to getting a scholarship is also shorter when there is a direct guide.

In addition to the above sharing, you can refer to 8 experiences of studying in the US from international students to be able to have a more objective view of the reality of life in the US from those who came before you.

How long is a US student visa valid for?

Normally, international students studying in the U.S . will use an F-1 Visa. This type of U.S. student visa usually has a duration corresponding to the program of study in the United States. For example, a Bachelor's program typically lasts about 4 years, while a Master's program can last 1–2 years. After graduation, students can also stay and work through the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Is it hard to study in the USA?

Studying in the US is not too difficult if you fully meet the conditions to study in the US and prepare your application early. Generally, students need the right academic ability, satisfactory English proficiency, a clear study plan, and the ability to demonstrate financial support to pay for the cost of studying in the United States. In addition, if supported by a reputable US study abroad counseling center such as IDP Study Abroad, the process of preparing documents and applying for a US student visa will become more convenient.

How much IELTS do you need to study in the USA?

Depending on the level of study and school, IELTS requirements will vary. Usually:

• College or foundation programme: around

  IELTS 5.5 – 6.0

• Bachelor's program: around

  IELTS 6.0 – 6.5

• Master's program: around

  IELTS 6.5 – 7.0

Some schools still allow students to study in the U.S. without IELTS by taking a preparatory English course before entering the official program.

How much does it cost to study in the USA?

The total cost of studying in the U.S. will depend on the school, major, and region of residence. On average, each year students need to prepare:

• Tuition fee: about 20,000 – 50,000 USD/year

• Living expenses: about 10,000 – 20,000 USD/year

Thus, the total cost of studying abroad in the US usually ranges from 30,000 to 70,000 USD/year. However, students can reduce their costs by finding scholarships to study in the U.S., choosing a school with reasonable tuition fees, or working part-time jobs on campus.

What should I study in the US?

When studying at university in the US, students have a wide range of major options. Some of the majors that are in high demand for human resources and chosen by many American students include:

• Information Technology (IT)

• Data Science and Artificial Intelligence

• Engineering

• Finance & Business

• Marketing and Communications

• Healthcare and Biomedicine

The choice of major should be based on personal interests, academic capacity, and long-term career orientation. If you are not sure what you need to study in the US or how to study in the US, you should learn more about the experience of studying in the US or consult with IDP Vietnam study abroad consultants to build a suitable route.

With more than 57 years of experience in the field of international education consulting, IDP Education accompanies you to build a pathway to study in the US in accordance with your capacity and career goals. IDP's team of experts will provide comprehensive support from consulting to study in the US, choosing a school – choosing a major, submitting admission documents, to guiding the procedures for studying in the US and applying for a US student visa.

In addition, you are also supported to register for the IELTS test, prepare scholarship documents and fully equip yourself with the necessary skills before studying in the United States. In addition, students can participate in study abroad events and festivals to meet directly with school representatives, review on-site applications and search for high-value scholarships to study in the United States.

Contact IDP today for a free study abroad consultation in the U.S. and start your study abroad journey in the U.S. smoothly and efficiently.