Bachelor's degree in USA

Undergrad in USA: Learn about Universities, Application Requirements, Cost, Jobs

Study in USA
MBA in USA
MS/PHD in USA
Anvi Dalal

Anvi Dalal

University of Pennsylvania

"I don't think I would've made it to an Ivy if it weren't for Jamboree. With Jamboree's application guidance I could apply to colleges like Penn, NYU, Georgia Tech, etc. and finally made it to Penn, my dream college and program."

Keya Gupta

Keya Gupta

SAT score: 1540
Yale University

"Jamboree has a very dedicated team of counsellors, they helped me present a crisp and unique image of myself through my applications."

Why Study Undergrad in USA? Top Undergrad Colleges in USA Undergrad in USA Eligibility Undergrad in USA Application Requirements Undergrad in USA Roadmap Study Costs & Living Expenses Undergrad in USA Scholarships Top Jobs After Undergrad in USA Undergrad in USA: FAQs

Pursuing an undergraduate degree in the United States offers international students a unique opportunity to experience a diverse educational environment and immerse themselves in a rich cultural landscape. American universities are known for their rigorous academic standards, innovative teaching methods, and state-of-the-art facilities. Students can choose from a wide range of programs across various fields, allowing them to tailor their education to their interests and career goals. Additionally, many institutions emphasise extracurricular activities, encouraging students to engage in clubs, sports, and community service, which helps foster a well-rounded university experience.

International students also benefit from the global network and support systems established by US universities. Many institutions have dedicated international student offices that provide resources for academic advising, visa support, and cultural integration. This support is crucial for helping students navigate life in a new country, including understanding academic expectations and adapting to social norms. Moreover, studying in the US enhances students' language skills and cultural competencies, making them more competitive in the global job market upon graduation. An undergrad in US can be a transformative experience that opens doors to numerous opportunities.

Why Undergrad in US

Global Exposure: Home to 5 out of the top 10 universities in the QS World University Rankings, undergraduate studies in the USA are known for their unmatched academic excellence and holistic student experience.

Academic Flexibility: Undergraduate programs in the US are known for the flexibility they offer, as students are free to create their own roadmap towards a valuable degree. Students who wish to enrol in an undergraduate program but haven’t settled on a major, find UG in USA extremely fruitful, since in most programs you only declare your choice of major at the beginning of your third year. 

Research Excellence: Undergraduate courses in USA are a mix of liberal arts and sciences, allowing students to explore a range of other subjects in addition to their major field of study. The USA is also recognized for offering an extended post-study work visa to STEM graduates. 

Exciting Work Opportunities: UG courses in USA come with plenty of internship options, on-campus jobs, and research opportunities. International students can work on-campus jobs during their degree and opt for Optional Practical Training (OPT) after graduating, which allows them to work in USA for up to 12 months in their chosen field. STEM graduates can avail a visa extension up to a total of 36 months under OPT. 

Funding Support: Finally, while studying in the USA can be a costly affair for many international students, American universities offer generous amounts of scholarships that eventually bring down the education fees in USA. Students can apply for different types of scholarships, ranging from tuition fee waivers to living expenses coverage.

A lot goes into pursuing your bachelor's abroad, and the process can sometimes become overwhelming but once you are there, all is worth it!

Don't worry about a thing–Jamboree is here to help you foolproof your applications for undergraduate study in the USA. Get in touch with our expert counsellors and get help with everything – from college applications to the visa process.

Top Undergraduate Colleges in US

Choosing the right undergraduate college is a pivotal decision for many students, influencing their academic, personal, and professional futures. The United States is home to a diverse range of institutions that excel in various fields, providing students with unique opportunities for growth and development. Here’s a look at some of the top undergraduate colleges in the US, known for their rigorous academics, vibrant campus life, and strong alumni networks.

1. Harvard University  

2. Stanford University  

3. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)  

4. California Institute of Technology (Caltech)  

5. Princeton University  

6. Yale University  

7. University of Chicago

8. Columbia University 

9. University of Pennsylvania 

10. Duke University

These institutions not only provide excellent academic programs but also foster environments where students can grow personally and professionally. When considering your options, think about what kind of community, resources, and experiences will best support your goals.

Top Courses to Study Undergrad in USA

The best courses or programs for undergrad in USA can vary depending on what you're interested in, but many top-tier universities offer a broad range of highly regarded and competitive programs. Here’s a breakdown of some of the top courses or fields of study in different areas:

Computer Science

Top Universities

  • MIT
  • Stanford
  • UC Berkeley
  • Carnegie Mellon
  • Harvard

Why It’s Top

Computer Science continues to be one of the most sought-after fields due to the growing demand for tech professionals. Key areas include Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning, Software Engineering, Data Science, Cybersecurity, and Blockchain.

Business Administration / Management

Top Universities

  • University of Pennsylvania (Wharton)
  • Stanford
  • Harvard
  • MIT Sloan
  • UC Berkeley (Haas)

Why It’s Top

Business programs at top schools prepare students for leadership positions. With a strong foundation in finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship, graduates can enter diverse industries, from finance to tech and consulting.

Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, Chemical, Biomedical)

Top Universities

  • Stanford
  • MIT
  • UC Berkeley
  • California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
  • University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Why It’s Top

Engineering is a broad field that offers specialised tracks. Biomedical Engineering, for example, is rapidly growing and is a great choice for students interested in health and technology.

Economics

Top Universities

  • Harvard
  • Princeton
  • MIT
  • Stanford
  • UC Berkeley

Why It’s Top

Economics programs are highly analytical and prepare students for a wide range of careers in government, finance, consulting, and international development. There are many concentrations within economics, such as behavioural economics, environmental economics, or econometrics

Medicine/Pre-Med

Top Universities

  • Johns Hopkins University
  • Stanford
  • Harvard
  • University of California
  • San Francisco (UCSF)
  • Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine

Why It’s Top

Although medical school is pursued after completing an undergraduate degree, pre-med tracks are common at top institutions, providing students with a rigorous foundation in biology, chemistry, and physics to prepare for med school.

Law (Pre-Law)

Top Universities

  • Yale
  • Harvard
  • Stanford
  • Columbia
  • University of Chicago

Why It’s Top

While law school is a separate step after an undergraduate degree, many top universities offer pre-law tracks or law-related programs like political science or public policy. Law remains a prestigious career path for those interested in justice, policy, or advocacy.

Psychology

Top Universities

  • Stanford
  • Harvard
  • Yale
  • University of California
  • Los Angeles (UCLA)
  • University of Michigan

Why It’s Top

Psychology is a versatile field, with career opportunities in therapy, research, human resources, marketing, and mental health. Neuroscience and clinical psychology are subfields with high demand.

Political Science / International Relations

Top Universities

  • Harvard
  • Stanford
  • Princeton
  • Yale
  • Georgetown

Why It’s Top

Political Science offers great preparation for careers in government, diplomacy, law, or advocacy. International Relations is a related field that focuses more on global diplomacy, international organisations, and global security.

Education

Top Universities

  • Stanford
  • Harvard
  • University of California
  • Berkeley
  • University of Michigan

Why It’s Top

Top education programs prepare students for careers in teaching, school administration, and education policy. Programs often focus on leadership, pedagogy, and curriculum development.

Environmental Science / Sustainability

Top Universities

  • Stanford
  • UC Berkeley
  • MIT
  • University of California
  • Santa Barbara (UCSB)
  • Yale

Why It’s Top

Environmental science programs are growing as the world focuses on sustainability, climate change, and renewable energy. Graduates may work in research, policy, or conservation efforts.

Art and Design (Fine Arts, Graphic Design, Industrial Design, etc.)

Top Universities

  • Rhode Island School of Design (RISD)
  • California Institute of the Arts (CalArts)
  • Parsons School of Design
  • School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC)
  • Pratt Institute

Why It’s Top

These schools provide top-notch programs for students pursuing careers in visual arts, graphic design, architecture, and fashion design, blending creativity with technical skills.

Humanities (History, English, Philosophy, etc.)

Top Universities

  • Harvard
  • Yale
  • Princeton
  • University of Chicago
  • University of Oxford (while not in the US, it's a top option for humanities)

Why It’s Top

These subjects provide a deep understanding of human culture, history, and society. They offer diverse career opportunities in writing, publishing, law, and non-profit sectors.

Media and Communications

Top Universities

  • University of Southern California (USC)
  • New York University (NYU)
  • Northwestern University
  • University of California
  • Berkeley
  • Syracuse University

Why It’s Top

With the rise of digital media, communications programs are highly relevant for those interested in journalism, public relations, digital marketing, or media production.

Architecture

Top Universities

  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
  • Harvard University
  • Yale University
  • Columbia University
  • University of California
  • Berkeley

Why It’s Top

Architecture programs at top universities provide both creative and technical education, preparing students for work in design, urban planning, and construction management.

Undergrad in USA Eligibility

The eligibility requirements for an undergrad in USA can vary by university, but generally include:

Academic Qualifications
Academic Qualifications

Completion of high school (till grade 12) is a requirement.

Language Proficiency
Language Proficiency

Non-native English speakers are required to demonstrate English-language proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS.

Standardized Tests
Standardized Tests

Standardised tests (e.g., SAT, ACT for undergraduates are required by most colleges as part of your Undergrad in USA application.

Visa Requirements
Visa Requirements

F1 or J1 visa is required of full-time and exchange students respectively. In order to obtain the visa, students aspiring to study undergrad in USA are required to provide proof of acceptance into a US university, and demonstrate sufficient financial support and proof of funds.

Undergrad in US Application Requirements

Eligibility criteria for pursuing an undergrad in US can vary by institution, but here are some common requirements:

High School Diploma or Equivalent
High School Diploma or Equivalent

You typically need to have completed high school or obtained a GED.

Deadlines
Deadlines

Be aware of application deadlines, which can vary significantly between colleges.

Academic Records
Academic Records

Most colleges require transcripts that reflect your high school coursework and grades. A strong GPA can enhance your application.

Standardised Tests
Standardised Tests

Some colleges require SAT or ACT scores, though many have become test-optional. Check individual college policies.

Language Proficiency
Language Proficiency

If English is not your first language, you may need to demonstrate proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS.

Application Forms
Application Forms

You’ll need to complete the college’s application, which may include personal information, essays, and lists of extracurricular activities.

Letters of Recommendation
Letters of Recommendation

Many colleges ask for one or more letters from teachers, counsellors, or others who can speak to your abilities and character.

Application Fee
Application Fee

Most institutions require a non-refundable application fee.Most colleges require an application fee, though some offer waivers for eligible students.

Interviews
Interviews

Some colleges may require or recommend an interview as part of the application process.

Extracurricular Activities
Extracurricular Activities

Involvement in clubs, sports, or community service can strengthen your application.

It's always best to check the specific requirements of each college you’re interested in, as they can differ widely!

Undergrad in US: The Roadmap

With Jamboree

Profile Assessment & Goal Setting

Our expert counselors and mentors will help you evaluate your profile, build a plan for your study abroad aspirations and develop a customized timeline that fits your needs and goals.

Test Prep: SAT

Jamboree’s renowned test prep team will help you get SAT-ready and maximise your chances for admission to your dream university.

Planning Your Finances

At Jamboree, we believe that a US education must be accessible for all. We provide extensive scholarship support: from listing opportunities, to profile development and one-on-one mentoring to build a winning scholarship application.

College Shortlists

With guidance from our expert counselors and mentors, you will shape your college list based on the strength of your profile and your post-degree plans such as work opportunities and cultural immersion.

Application Support

At Jamboree, you will receive one-on-one mentoring and feedback for your Common App Essay, Statements of Purpose, Letters of Recommendation, and other college-specific application essays. Our goal is simple: we help you share your story with clarity, creativity and impact. Our goal is simple: We help you share your story with clarity, creativity and impact.

Visa Application

Once you’re admitted, Jamboree continues to stay by your side with guidance on documentation and visa services. Join the ranks – Jamboree has a very high visa application success rate!

Cost of Studying Undergrad in US

The cost of pursuing undergrad in US can vary widely based on several factors, including the type of institution (public vs. private), location, and personal lifestyle choices. Here’s a general breakdown:

Expense Category

Estimated Cost (USD)

Estimated Cost (INR)

Tuition Fees

Public Universities: $20,000 - $60,000

₹16,60,000 - ₹49,80,000

 

Private Universities: $40,000 - $80,000+

₹33,20,000 - ₹67,00,000+

Accommodation

On-Campus: $10,000 - $20,000

₹8,30,000 - ₹16,60,000

 

Off-Campus (shared): $600 - $1,500/month

₹6,00,000 - ₹15,00,000

Food

Groceries: $200 - $500/month

₹2,00,000 - ₹5,00,000

 

Eating Out: $100 - $300/month

₹1,00,000 - ₹3,00,000

Transportation

Public Transport: $50 - $150/month

₹50,000 - ₹150,000

 

Car Expenses: Vary widely

Vary widely

Health Insurance

$1,000 - $4,000

₹83,000 - ₹3,32,000

Utilities

$100 - $300/month

₹1,00,000 - ₹3,00,000

Other Expenses

Books and Supplies: $1,000 - $2,000

₹83,000 - ₹1,66,000

 

Personal Expenses: $1,000 - $3,000

₹83,000 - ₹2,49,000

Total Estimated Cost

Low-End: $40,000 - $50,000

₹33,20,000 - ₹41,50,000

 

High-End: $80,000 - $120,000+

₹66,40,000 - ₹1,00,00,000+

NOTE: The costs mentioned above vary from state to state within the US and depend upon several factors including the area, type of accommodation, lifestyle etc.

Undergrad in USA: Fees at Top Universities

University

Tuition

Tuition (in INR)

Harvard University

52,659 USD

41,93,300 INR

Stanford University

57,693 USD

45,94,000 INR

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

57,590 USD

45,85,900 INR

University of Chicago

61,179 USD

48,71,700 INR

Columbia University

65,524 USD

52,17,700 INR

Princeton University

57,410 USD

45,71,560 INR

University of Pennsylvania

56,212 USD

44,76,160 INR

Cornell University

56,550 USD

45,03,000 INR

Yale University

62,250 USD

49,57,000 INR

California Institute of Technology

58,479 USD

46,56,700 INR

Northwestern University

58,460 USD

46,55,170 INR

John Hopkins University

57,010 USD

45,39,710 INR

University of California, Berkeley

47,768 USD

37,79,900 INR

New York University

56,500 USD

44,99,100 INR

Undergrad in USA Scholarships

A host scholarship opportunities are available to students aspiring to study undergrad in USA. These scholarships can be specific to the university being applied to, or external. Here’s a guide with undergraduate scholarships offered by some US universities, for the benefit of those looking to pursue an undergrad in USA:

Name of Scholarship

Institutions

Scholarship Amount/Benefits

Stanford University Scholarship

Stanford University

Full tuition + other expenses

Yale University Scholarship

Yale University

$50,000 per year (average) / INR 42,00,000

Boston University Presidential Scholarship

Boston University

$25,000 per year / INR 21,00,000

Onsi Sawiris Scholarship Program

Harvard University; the University of Pennsylvania; Stanford University; the University of Chicago

Full tuition + travel & health insurance + living allowance 

#YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarship

A list of participating US universities can be found.

At least 50% tuition

Clark Global Scholars Program

Clark University

$15,000 - $25,000 per year / INR 12,00,000 - 21,00,000

Top Jobs After Undergrad in US

Here are some top jobs often pursued after completing an undergrad in US, along with a brief description of each:

Job Title

Description

Average Salary

Software Developer

Design, develop, and maintain software applications.

$100,000 - $120,000/year

Data Analyst

Analyse data to help organisations make informed decisions.

$70,000 - $90,000/year

Marketing Specialist

Develop and implement marketing strategies.

$60,000 - $80,000/year

Financial Analyst

Evaluate financial data and prepare reports.

$75,000 - $95,000/year

Human Resources Specialist

Manage recruitment and employee relations.

$60,000 - $80,000/year

Sales Representative

Sell products or services and maintain client relationships.

$50,000 - $80,000/year (plus commission)

Healthcare Administrator

Oversee healthcare facilities and ensure efficiency.

$80,000 - $100,000/year

Civil Engineer

Design and supervise construction projects.

$70,000 - $90,000/year

Teacher (K-12)

Educate students and manage classroom dynamics.

$50,000 - $60,000/year

Accountant

Prepare and examine financial records.

$60,000 - $80,000/year

These roles vary significantly in terms of responsibilities and required skills, so it’s important to align your career choice with your interests and strengths. Additionally, internships and networking can greatly enhance job prospects in any field.

Start your USA Undergraduate Applications with Jamboree

Why Choose Jamboree?

Study Overseas Consultancy
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200,000+

Successful Students

Expert Team

300+

Faculty, Counsellors, & Mentors

verified

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Years of Experience

Undergraduate Colleges in USA

*This data is based on Information from Year 2021-2022. Please contact a Jamboree counsellor for accurate information.

Stanford University

Stanford University

Stanford,United States

Total Fees

$221,892

Harvard University

Harvard University

Cambridge,United States

Total Fees

$198,612

Arizona State university

Arizona State university

Arizona

Total Fees

$124,800

Northeastern University

Northeastern University

Massachusetts

Total Fees

$211,920

University of Houston

University of Houston

Texas

Total Fees

$116,000

The University of Alabama

The University of Alabama

Alabama

Total Fees

$180,000

University of Central Missouri

University of Central Missouri

Missouri

Total Fees

$140,000

University of Central Oklahoma

University of Central Oklahoma

Oklahoma

Total Fees

$144,000

University of Cincinnati

University of Cincinnati

Cincinnati

Total Fees

$112,000

University of Dayton

University of Dayton

Ohio

Total Fees

$63000

University of Dayton

University of Dayton

Ohio

Total Fees

$184,680

Yale University

Yale University

New Haven,United States

Total Fees

$239,800

Columbia University

Columbia University

New York City,United States

Total Fees

$242,056

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Cambridge,United States

Total Fees

$221,800

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor,United States

Total Fees

$212,928

Duke University

Duke University

Durham,United States

Total Fees

$242,376

Georgia Institute of Technology

Georgia Institute of Technology

Atlanta,United States

Total Fees

$135,856

Vanderbilt University

Vanderbilt University

Nashville,United States

Total Fees

$211,120

Princeton University

Princeton University

Princeton,United States

Total Fees

$207,480

Dartmouth College

Dartmouth College

Hanover,United States

Total Fees

$305,448

Purdue University

Purdue University

West Lafayette,United States

Total Fees

$155,296

Rice University

Rice University

Houston,United States

Total Fees

$208,280

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

Los Angeles,United States

Total Fees

$172,048

University of Pennsylvania

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia,United States

Total Fees

$212,664

University of California, San Diego (UCSD)

University of California, San Diego (UCSD)

San Diego,United States

Total Fees

$177,732

University of Chicago

University of Chicago

Chicago,United States

Total Fees

$230,568

University of Washington

University of Washington

Seattle,United States

Total Fees

$159,624

Brown University

Brown University

Providence,United States

Total Fees

$243,776

California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

Pasadena,United States

Total Fees

$218,280

Browse UNDERGRAD Colleges in other countries

Undergrad in the USA: FAQs

Scholarships, fellowships, and loans are some of the funding options available to Indian students who want to study in the United States. Scholarships are awarded to meritorious students and may partly or fully cover tuition. The applicant's level of study, course chosen, and institution applied to affect the amount granted in scholarships. Scholarships for study abroad may be divided into four categories, namely:

  1. Government-funded scholarships
  2. Program-specific scholarships
  3. Subject-specific scholarships
  4. Organisation Provided scholarships

As an overseas student, you should anticipate finishing your studies in 4 or 5 years in order to graduate. A four-year degree program is most common. However, you may be able to finish your degree in as little as two years. The length of time it takes to complete a degree depends on the program, institution, and location. A bachelor's degree at a public institution in the United States takes around four years to accomplish.

The following are some of the prerequisites that students must satisfy in order to be eligible:

  • Students must have completed their 10+2 having met the minimum score requirement of the educational institution to which they wish to apply.
  • English language proficiency test scores such as the IELTS or TOEFL.
  • Standardised test scores such as the SAT or ACT.
  • Essays, SOPs, LORs, and other extracurricular activities that contribute to a student's profile are important parts of the application material.

A bachelor's degree holder can work in a wide range of fields depending on the course they have chosen. You will have various career options due to the vast number of employment opportunities available. With so many job prospects, it's no surprise that the unemployment rate for recent college graduates is low, at just 4%.

In America, switching institutions after two years of study while completing undergraduate courses in the same faculty is extremely common. For the same course, most institutions accept transfer credits from other universities. As a result, you are not required to finish all four years of your education at the same college in order to graduate. Because of this flexibility, you can transfer your credits to an institution with a higher academic ranking based on your academic excellence.

The average undergraduate cost at a public university in the US is over $12,000 per annum (for two-year colleges) and over $37,000 (for four-year colleges). For private four-year colleges, the cost can go beyond $48,000 per annum. These numbers are inclusive of room and board charges. Numerous scholarships, grants, and fellowships are available to provide financial support to students.

Here's a list of the best universities for UG in the USA:

  1. Harvard University
  2. California Institute of Technology
  3. Stanford University
  4. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
  5. Princeton University
  6. University of California-Berkeley
  7. Yale University
  8. University of Chicago
  9. Columbia University
  10. University of Pennsylvania

While there are hundreds of majors you can pick from while studying in the US, some of the most popular academic pathways for Indian students are:

  1. Business and Management
  2. Engineering
  3. Computer Science and Mathematics
  4. Social Sciences
  5. Physical and Life Sciences

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