Are you from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, or Sri Lanka? If you’re South Asian and want to pursue higher studies in the U.S., this article is for you. Get an idea of where most students from your region are heading in the U.S.
USA from South Asian POV
The U.S. has always been a go-to spot for South Asian students looking to pursue postgraduate studies. With top universities, amazing research opportunities, and close ties to the global tech scene, it's a place where students can really grow both academically and professionally. South Asian students especially love the mix of cultures, the top-notch education system, and the job opportunities that come after graduation.
A significant percentage of international students in the U.S. come from South Asia, especially from countries like India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. According to the Institute of International Education (IIE), South Asian students make up a major portion of the international student body in the U.S., with India being the largest source of international students.
As of the latest SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) data, South Asian international students represent approximately 15% to 20% of all international students in the U.S. India is by far the largest contributor, with Indian students accounting for nearly 70% of the South Asian international student population in the U.S.
Top 10 STEM University Destinations
According to the Institute of International Education (IIE)'s Open Doors Report, approximately 70% of South Asian students in the U.S. are enrolled in STEM fields, while 30% pursue non-STEM disciplines such as business, social sciences, and humanities. Indian students are primarily pursuing degrees in fields such as mathematics/computer science (42.9%), engineering (24.5%), and business/management (11.2%).
1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
MIT is a globally recognized leader in technology and engineering, with a focus on research and innovation. Students at MIT are given unparalleled access to some of the brightest minds in the field, and the university is located in the tech hub of the world, providing numerous opportunities for networking and internships.
Scholarships/Funding
MIT provides several funding options, including MIT Fellowships (full tuition + living stipend), Research Assistantships (RAs), and Teaching Assistantships (TAs). Research Assistantships usually provide a stipend ranging from $30,000 to $40,000 per year. External scholarships like the Fulbright Program can also help cover additional costs.
See also: USA vs Canada: Which One Is Better For You?
2. Stanford University
Stanford is renowned for its innovative research in fields like computer science, AI, and engineering. It has strong connections to the Silicon Valley tech industry, providing students with direct access to one of the most dynamic job markets in the world. The university fosters a collaborative, entrepreneurial environment.
Scholarships/Funding
Stanford offers a range of funding options, including Knight-Hennessy Scholars (which covers full tuition and living costs) and other graduate fellowships. Research Assistantships and Teaching Assistantships are common and provide tuition coverage and stipends of $30,000-$35,000 per year. Additional funding can come from external scholarships like NSF Fellowships.
3. California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
Caltech is a world leader in research, particularly in the fields of engineering and physical sciences. The university is small, which leads to a more personalized education experience, but its focus on innovation makes it an ideal place for ambitious students in STEM fields.
Scholarships/Funding
Caltech offers Graduate Fellowships, which provide full tuition and a stipend. The stipend typically ranges from $30,000 to $35,000 per year. Students may also receive funding through Research Assistantships (RAs) or Teaching Assistantships (TAs). External scholarships such as NSF Graduate Research Fellowship are also available.
4. Carnegie Mellon University (CMU)
CMU is renowned for its programs in AI, robotics, and computer science. It provides an interdisciplinary environment where students can work across various fields, combining technology, business, and design.
Scholarships/Funding
CMU provides several funding opportunities, including Graduate Fellowships, Research Assistantships (RAs), and Teaching Assistantships (TAs). These typically include full tuition and stipends of $30,000-$35,000 per year. External scholarships, such as the Eli and Edythe Broad Scholarship, can also be pursued.
Check this out: Best Season to Start Your Journey as an International Student in the US
5. University of California, Berkeley
UC Berkeley is a top-ranked university known for its programs in engineering, computer science, and environmental sciences. It offers excellent research opportunities and is located in the Bay Area, providing close proximity to tech giants like Google, Apple, and Facebook.
Scholarships/Funding
UC Berkeley offers Graduate Fellowships, Research Assistantships (RAs), and Teaching Assistantships (TAs), all of which cover tuition and provide stipends of approximately $30,000-$35,000 per year. External funding opportunities like the NSF Graduate Fellowship are also available.
6. University of California, San Diego (UCSD)
UCSD is recognized for its strengths in bioengineering, computer science, and environmental sciences. It is located in San Diego, a region with a thriving biotech industry and numerous job opportunities in research and development.
Scholarships/Funding
UCSD offers Graduate Fellowships, Research Assistantships (RAs), and Teaching Assistantships (TAs). Research Assistantships usually include a stipend of $30,000-$35,000 annually. Students can also apply for external funding from organizations like the NSF and NSERC.
7. University of Washington, Seattle
The University of Washington is a leader in computer science, AI, and data science. Located in Seattle, it offers direct connections to tech giants like Microsoft and Amazon, providing students with a multitude of internship and job opportunities.
Scholarships/Funding
The University of Washington offers Graduate Fellowships, Research Assistantships (RAs), and Teaching Assistantships (TAs). The typical stipend ranges from $30,000 to $35,000 annually. Students may also apply for external scholarships such as the NSF Graduate Fellowship , and Illinois Commitment Program.
Read also: Should International Students Choose a Masters or PhD in the US?
8. University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
The University of Michigan is known for its strength in engineering, computer science, and business. It offers a collaborative research environment and is located in an area with a strong industrial base, particularly in automotive and tech industries.
Scholarships/Funding
Michigan offers Graduate Fellowships and support through Research Assistantships (RAs). External funding opportunities such as NSF Fellowships and National Merit Scholarships are also available to graduate students.
9. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC)
UIUC is known for its computer science, electrical engineering, and data science programs. It offers a collaborative and innovative environment and has strong connections to tech companies for job opportunities.
Scholarships/Funding
UIUC offers Graduate Fellowships, Research Assistantships (RAs), and Teaching Assistantships (TAs). Students can also apply for external scholarships like the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship and Illinois Commitment Program.
10. University of Texas at Austin
The University of Texas at Austin is recognized for its strong engineering, computer science, and business programs. Located in Austin, Texas, the university has direct access to a growing tech industry and partnerships with companies like Dell and IBM.
Scholarships/Funding
UT Austin offers Graduate Fellowships, Research Assistantships (RAs), and Teaching Assistantships (TAs), which cover full tuition and provide stipends. The typical stipend is around $30,000 per year. Students can also apply for external funding like the NSF Graduate Fellowship. Also, Texas Excellence Scholarships are available.
Also read: Why Study in USA for Higher Studies as an International Student?
Top 5 Non-STEM University Destinations
Among international students in non-STEM fields, business and management is the most popular area of study. It accounts for about 25% of all international students in the U.S. (IIE, 2022).
1. Harvard University
Harvard is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world, known for its programs in social sciences, law, economics, humanities, and business. Harvard offers a rich academic environment, a robust network, and opportunities for interdisciplinary research, making it an ideal destination for non-STEM students.
Scholarships/Funding
Harvard offers a wide range of funding options, including Harvard University Fellowships, Research Assistantships (RAs), and Teaching Assistantships (TAs). Many programs also offer need-based financial aid that can cover full tuition and living expenses, depending on the student's financial situation. Harvard Law School offers specific scholarships such as the Public Service Fellowship (covering up to full tuition) and the Harvard Business School Fellowships (which can also cover living expenses). External scholarships, such as the Rhodes Scholarship and Gates Cambridge, are also available.
2. University of Oxford
Oxford University is known for its historic excellence in humanities, law, social sciences, and business programs. With a long tradition of academic rigor, Oxford attracts students from across the globe, offering exceptional opportunities for intellectual growth and research.
Scholarships/Funding
Oxford offers numerous graduate scholarships, including the Rhodes Scholarship, which covers full tuition, fees, and living expenses. Other scholarships like the Clarendon Fund provide full funding for selected students. Research Assistantships (RAs) and Teaching Assistantships (TAs) are available in various departments, providing stipends in the range of £15,000 to £22,000 per year. External scholarships like the Commonwealth Scholarship can also be pursued.
3. Columbia University
Columbia is located in the heart of New York City, making it an excellent choice for students in non-STEM fields, especially those interested in economics, political science, and business. The university is known for its influential faculty and its extensive research resources.
Scholarships/Funding
Columbia provides numerous funding options for graduate students, including Columbia University Fellowships (full tuition + living stipend), Research Assistantships (RAs), and Teaching Assistantships (TAs). Some programs, such as Columbia Business School, offer merit-based scholarships that range from partial to full tuition coverage. Additionally, external scholarships like the United Nations Scholarships and the Ford Foundation Fellowship are available for graduate students.
Check this: Why Should You Consider Studying in a Western Country?
4. University of Chicago
The University of Chicago is renowned for its rigorous academic programs in economics, political science, law, and business. UChicago fosters a vibrant intellectual community and is known for encouraging innovative and interdisciplinary approaches to education.
Scholarships/Funding
The University of Chicago offers several graduate fellowships, including Chicago Fellowships (which cover full tuition and living expenses). The university also provides Research Assistantships (RAs) and Teaching Assistantships (TAs), typically covering tuition and providing stipends of $25,000-$35,000 per year. Additionally, external scholarships, such as the Schwarzman Scholars Program, offer substantial funding for international students.
5. Yale University
Yale University is famous for its graduate programs in law, humanities, social sciences, and business. The university emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and has a strong reputation for producing leaders in academia, politics, and business.
Scholarships/Funding
Yale offers generous funding through Yale Fellowships, Research Assistantships (RAs), and Teaching Assistantships (TAs). Most graduate students receive full financial aid, including coverage of tuition, fees, and a living stipend of approximately $30,000-$35,000 annually. Students at Yale Law School can apply for Public Interest Fellowships, which provide funding for public service careers. External scholarships like the Gates Cambridge Fellowship are also available.
What Should Be Considered When Picking a University
When choosing a university in the U.S. for postgraduate studies, South Asian students should consider the following factors:
- University Reputation & Field Ranking:
- Do your research: While university rankings are important, they shouldn’t be the sole factor. Check rankings specific to your field (e.g., AI, bioengineering, data science) instead of just overall rankings. Some universities may not be top-ranked overall but excel in specific areas.
- Talk to alumni or current students: Reach out to students or alumni from your country or field to get an insider’s perspective on the university’s strengths and weaknesses.
- Programs and Specializations:
- Match programs with your career goals: Look for universities that offer specialized tracks or concentrations in your area of interest. For example, if you're passionate about AI, check whether the program offers cutting-edge courses, labs, and faculty focused on AI and machine learning.
- Evaluate flexibility: Consider how flexible the program is. Some schools allow you to tailor your course load or switch between different concentrations, while others may have a rigid curriculum.
- Cost of Living & Tuition Fees:
- Be realistic about costs: Apart from tuition fees, consider living expenses in the city. Some cities (like New York, San Francisco, or Boston) are much more expensive than others (like in the Midwest or South). Factor in rent, transportation, food, health insurance, and other personal expenses.
- Look for cost-effective options: Choose schools with assistantships or teaching assistantships that can help cover tuition and provide a stipend to ease living costs.
- Location & Networking Opportunities:
- Proximity to your industry: Consider where the university is located in relation to your field. If you're in tech or engineering, being near hubs like Silicon Valley or Boston can provide better internship and job opportunities.
Universities on the East Coast (e.g., in New York, Massachusetts, and New Jersey) have a high concentration of South Asian students due to the proximity to large South Asian communities.
- Community connections: Many South Asian students find comfort in the local community. Choose a university where you can find cultural support and make connections, both professionally and personally. Check for student groups or alumni networks from your country that can help with transition and job hunting.
- Scholarships & Funding Options:
- Don’t rely only on university aid: While scholarships, assistantships, and fellowships can make a big difference, these are competitive, so apply to multiple funding sources. Many private organizations, professional associations, or even South Asian community groups offer scholarships specifically for international students.
- Graduate Assistantships: These are often available for research, teaching, or administrative work and can cover part or all of your tuition, along with providing a stipend. Reach out to professors or departments directly to inquire about available positions.
- Research Opportunities:
- Check faculty expertise: Research the faculty and their areas of interest. Find out if their research aligns with your own. Reach out to faculty members you’re interested in working with to discuss potential research opportunities.
- Research funding: A university’s research funding is critical, especially in STEM fields. Some schools have strong ties to industry, offering more opportunities for funded research projects, while others may lack sufficient resources for research.
- Job Market and Post-Graduation Opportunities:
- Consider the job market: Research the job prospects in the city or state where the university is located. Some universities have excellent ties to industry and host frequent career fairs or internship programs. Others may have a limited on-campus recruiting presence, which could affect your ability to find a job post-graduation.
- OPT and H-1B Opportunities: Understand the university’s support for OPT (Optional Practical Training) and H-1B visa sponsorship after graduation. Universities in tech hubs may have stronger ties to companies that sponsor international students for work visas.
- University Culture and Support for International Students:
- International student services: Look for universities that offer strong support systems, such as international student orientation, academic advising, counseling services, and career support. These can make a huge difference in your adjustment to life in the U.S.
- Work-life balance: Many South Asian students face the pressure of high academic expectations. Research the work-life balance at universities—some programs are more flexible and supportive, offering counseling and wellness programs.
Many South Asian students seek to remain in the U.S. after graduation, particularly in the tech industry. The OPT (Optional Practical Training) program allows international students to work for up to 12 months (with a possible extension for STEM students).
Process to Apply to US Universities for Graduate Programs
Applying for graduate programs in the US can be a complex process, but following the right steps can make it easier:
- Choose Your Program and University
Begin by researching universities and programs that match your career goals. Look into specific departments, faculty, research opportunities, and alumni networks. Consider location, campus culture, and post-graduation opportunities. Use resources like QS World University Rankings, program websites, and forums to help you narrow down your choices. - Prepare Standardized Test Scores
Most universities require standardized test scores such as GRE, GMAT, or LSAT (for law). Some universities may waive these requirements, especially for applicants with strong academic backgrounds or professional experience. Prepare well in advance and aim for high scores to make your application competitive. - Prepare Application Documents
Each university will require specific documents, but the general ones include:- Statement of Purpose (SOP): A compelling narrative explaining why you're interested in the program and how it aligns with your academic and career goals.
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Typically 2-3 letters from professors or professional mentors who can speak to your qualifications.
- Transcripts: Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions you’ve attended.
- Resume/CV: Highlight your academic, professional, and extracurricular achievements.
- Submit Your Application
Many universities use application platforms like CommonApp, ApplyTexas, or specific portals for international students. Ensure that you submit your applications by the deadlines and pay attention to additional requirements like portfolios for creative programs. - Interviews
Some programs, especially competitive ones, may require interviews. Be prepared to discuss your academic background, motivation for choosing the program, and how you plan to contribute to the university community. - Financial Aid and Scholarships
Research funding options such as graduate fellowships, research assistantships, teaching assistantships, and external scholarships (like the Fulbright or NSF Fellowships). Many universities offer financial aid based on need or merit.
Take a look: Private or Public Universities in US: What’s Best for You?
FAQs
1. Do I need work experience to apply for graduate programs in the US?
While work experience is not always required for graduate programs, it can be a significant advantage, especially for MBA programs, public policy, and other professional degrees. For STEM programs, academic research experience, internships, or projects can strengthen your application. For non-STEM fields such as economics or social sciences, relevant work or research experience is often encouraged but not mandatory.
2. Can I apply to multiple programs at different universities at the same time?
Yes, you can apply to multiple programs at different universities, and it’s common for students to apply to a range of schools to increase their chances of admission. However, each program will require separate applications and documentation, so make sure to keep track of deadlines and requirements.
3. How important are GRE and TOEFL scores for international students applying for graduate programs?
The importance of GRE and TOEFL scores varies by university and program. While some programs, especially in STEM, business, or law, may have strict GRE score requirements, others may waive or have flexible policies based on your academic background, professional experience, or research accomplishments. The TOEFL (or IELTS) score is essential for non-native English speakers to prove proficiency in English, but most universities set a minimum score requirement (usually 100 for TOEFL and 7.0 for IELTS).
4. What is the timeline for applying to graduate programs in the US?
The typical timeline for graduate admissions in the US starts about 12-18 months before you plan to start your program. Here's an approximate timeline:
- August-October: Begin researching programs and gathering application materials.
- November-January: Take GRE/TOEFL/IELTS if required.
- December-February: Submit applications.
- March-April: Receive admissions decisions.
- May-June: Accept an offer and begin visa application process.
- August-September: Start your graduate program.
5. How competitive is the admission process for South Asian students in the US?
The admission process for South Asian students is highly competitive, especially for top-tier universities. However, universities in the US value diversity, and South Asian students bring unique perspectives and experiences. To increase your chances of admission, focus on demonstrating strong academic performance, relevant experience, and a clear vision of how the program aligns with your goals. Additionally, ensure that your SOP, LORs, and application materials are well-prepared and reflect your strengths.
6. Can I work while studying for my graduate degree in the US?
Yes, international students on F-1 visas can work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during the academic year and full-time during breaks (summer). Many graduate students work as Research Assistants (RAs), Teaching Assistants (TAs), or in other on-campus roles. Additionally, OPT (Optional Practical Training) allows F-1 students to work in the US for up to 12 months after completing their degree (or up to 36 months for STEM graduates).
7. What is the cost of living for international graduate students in the US?
The cost of living in the US depends on the location of your university. Cities like New York, Boston, and San Francisco tend to have higher living costs, ranging from $1,500 to $2,500 per month (for rent, food, transportation, etc.). More affordable cities like Austin, Dallas, or Minneapolis might cost around $1,000 to $1,500 per month. Always check the specific university’s living cost estimates to budget accordingly.