Studying in the U.S. is a journey towards abundant opportunities for research, innovation, and entrepreneurial endeavors. The land of the stars and stripes has proven its world-class education quality and diverse learning environment.

According to the survey data from the Institute of International Education (IIE), each year, over 1.1 million students worldwide flock to the U.S. with the desire to experience education at top educational institutions. Vietnam ranks among the top 6 countries in terms of the number of students studying in the U.S. This demonstrates the trust and preference of Vietnamese students for the American education system.

But how do you begin the journey of studying in the U.S.? What do you need to prepare? What are the suitable study programs? How much does studying abroad cost?

All of these questions and more will be thoroughly answered in this article! Don’t miss it!

Reasons to study in the U.S.?

World-class education quality

Although the U.S. doesn’t have a long history of education like the United Kingdom, it is considered one of the top countries in the world for education quality. According to the 2024 Times Higher Education World University Rankings, the U.S. has 13 universities in the top 20, including Harvard University, Stanford University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and more. Strengths of the U.S. education system include:

• Diverse and Flexible Curriculum: Students have the freedom to choose their courses and easily switch majors or institutions.
• Teaching methods applying science and technology: Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) technologies are frequently applied to help students effectively absorb knowledge.
• Opportunities for Innovation and Research: The U.S. is renowned for being a pioneer in scientific innovation and creativity with many top universities and research institutes. Students have the opportunity to study and conduct research under the guidance of leading professors and access the latest technologies and knowledge.
• Rich System of Institutions: With over 4,000 universities and colleges in the U.S., including public and private institutions, there is a diverse range of learning environments and research opportunities for students.

Up to 100% Financial Support and Scholarships

One of the main reasons international students choose the U.S. is the financial support and scholarships available. According to the Institute of International Education (IIE) statistics for the 2022-2023 academic year, over $720,000 international students received scholarships from U.S. universities, with a total value of up to $6.8 billion.

For international students seeking postgraduate programs, the number one factor in choosing a university in the U.S. is the funding available for research. The U.S. tops the list of countries supporting research costs for students, with the United Kingdom coming in second.

Exceptional Support services for international students

Most universities and colleges in the U.S. have support departments for international students, providing services to help them integrate into the new academic and cultural environment. Upon enrollment, international students will participate in a comprehensive orientation program, which helps address any questions regarding finances, visas, housing, part-time jobs, or any health-related concerns.

Wide Range of Job Opportunities

The U.S. is a country with a developed economy, providing many job opportunities for international students after graduation. International students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week on campus or participate in required internship programs. After graduation, students can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) to engage in optional internship programs for 1-3 years (depending on the field of study).

Moreover, degrees from U.S. universities are recognized worldwide. Therefore, it will be an advantage for those who intend to return to Vietnam after their study abroad experience. Many employers, especially in multinational work environments, favor candidates who have studied abroad because they have global experience, adaptability to multicultural environments, problem-solving skills, and the ability to adapt and accept risks, evidenced by their willingness to step out of their comfort zone to live, study, and work in a foreign country.

Limitations of studying in the U.S.

Alongside its advantages, studying in the U.S. still has some drawbacks. These might be the reasons why many young people hesitate about whether to study in the U.S. or not:

• The cost of tuition and living expenses in the U.S. is quite high.
• The cultural differences and lifestyle may cause initial culture shock for international students.
• Admission to prestigious schools is highly competitive and challenging.
• U.S. education values individual rights and freedom, which can inadvertently lead to excessive freedom and lack of discipline in academics.

Popular study abroad programs in the U.S.?

Which state should I study in the U.S.?

The U.S. is a vast country with 50 states, each having its unique characteristics in terms of climate, education system, job opportunities, cost of living, and more. Therefore, choosing a state to study in the U.S. is an important decision that requires careful consideration.

Here are some suggestions from E2E Education about popular states for international students:

State of Massachusetts

Massachusetts: Considered the cradle of American education with prestigious “educational brands” such as Harvard University, Boston University, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). This state attracts those who wish to pursue specialized fields such as medicine, engineering, economics, and social sciences. However, students should consider the harsh weather, with hot summers and cold winters, as well as the high cost of living and tuition fees.

New York State

Nicknamed the world’s capital with a highly developed economy, commerce, and industry, New York not only hosts many prestigious universities like Columbia University and Cornell University but is also a bustling destination with numerous entertainment, cultural, and artistic venues, creating favorable conditions for international students. The climate varies, but it is generally more temperate in the city center.

State of California

California continues to be a popular choice for Vietnamese international students due to its temperate climate, stunning natural scenery, and strong Vietnamese community. It is also home to many renowned universities such as the University of California Irvine, Stanford University, and California Institute of Technology (Caltech). Additionally, California is a technology hub with numerous career opportunities in IT and biotechnology.

State of Texas

With its vast area and the second-largest Vietnamese population after California, Texas is a noteworthy option. This state is known for its warm climate, diverse culture, and developed economy, particularly in the industrial and technological sectors. It also boasts many prestigious universities with relatively low tuition and living costs, along with part-time job opportunities for international students.

Washington State

Also known as the “Evergreen State,” Washington offers a unique learning environment with its wet climate and diverse weather. Seattle, the state’s most livable city, is home to the headquarters of many major corporations such as Microsoft, Boeing, Costco, and Starbucks. This state provides ample career opportunities in various fields including aviation, IT, telecommunications, biotechnology, and political science.

What major should I choose to study in the US? 

The U.S. education system offers programs in nearly all fields of study, but not every field has equal job prospects and growth opportunities after graduation. If you’re unsure about which school or major to choose, you can consider some of the most popular fields of study in the U.S. listed below.

STEM

The STEM fields consist of Biotechnology, Mathematics, Chemical Engineering, Computer Software Engineering, Information Processing Technology, and Artificial Intelligence. As a highly developed country in science and technology, the US consistently faces a shortage of professionals in these fields. A prominent feature of STEM fields compared to others is the extended Optional Practical Training (OPT STEM) period, up to 3 years, which enhances opportunities for permanent residency and acquiring a green card.

Some of the STEM-focused schools that attract many domestic and international students include:

• Harvard University
• Arizona State University
• Đại học Louisiana State University 
• University of Central Florida
• Auburn University. 

Business Administration

The Business Administration field is one of the most popular choices for young students studying abroad in the US. The programs in this field are highly regarded for their quality and practicality. Graduates in this major can work in various sectors such as finance, banking, marketing, management, and more.

Some of the top business schools in the US are:

• Harvard University 
• Stanford University 
• University of Pennsylvania 
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology 
• University of California, Berkeley
• University of California, Los Angeles

Visual Arts

The United States is one of the leading countries in the world for training in the Visual Arts. It has many prestigious universities with top-quality training, along with dynamic and creative learning and working environments.

Especially, Hollywood – the world’s film center – is one of the crucial factors attracting international students to the Visual Arts and Applications field in the US. Here, students have the opportunity to access major fashion, architectural, interior design companies, and many opportunities to work for famous film studios.

Some of the top schools for Visual Arts and Applications in the US are:

• University of California – Los Angeles (UCLA)
• School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC)
• Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
• California Institute of the Arts (CalArts)
• Rhode Island School of Design (RISD)

Medicine

The United States is a leading country in the field of medicine and healthcare. The field of Medicine is considered to play an extremely important role in the development of individuals and society. International students studying Medicine in the US not only learn theoretical knowledge but also intern at major hospitals. The global population is aging, and there is an increasing dependence on healthcare, thus the demand for personnel in the medical field has been rising in recent years and is forecasted to continue in the future. Therefore, job opportunities in this field are always plentiful.

Some of the top medical schools in the US are:

• Harvard University
• Stanford University
• Johns Hopkins University
• University of California
• Yale University.

Studying abroad in the US in the field of Communication

With the world’s leading economy and information technology development, the field of Communication in the US always ranks among the top choices for many international students, including those from Vietnam. Students not only become familiar with news reporting and collecting daily information but also have access to modern media. Some careers related to communication include journalism, public relations management, hosting, marketing communication experts, and more.

Some of the top schools for Communication in the US are:

• University of Illinois at Chicago
• American University
• Arizona State University
• Ohio University
• Depaul University

The requirements for studying in the US.

Typically, each school in the US will have different admission requirements. Readers can refer to the official website of the school or contact E2E Study Abroad for more details. Some points to note when studying abroad in the US:

Semester start dates in the U.S.

In the US, there are three main intake seasons: Fall, Spring, and Summer. Most academic programs are offered in both Fall and Spring semesters, with fewer programs available in the Summer semester.

Fall semester is the most popular intake period for Vietnamese international students as it aligns with Vietnam’s academic calendar and offers many scholarship opportunities. However, community colleges in Washington State operate on a quarterly system, so they have four intake periods per year.

Please note: It will typically take at least 8 months to 1 year to complete procedures such as applying for admission, scholarships, visas, etc. Therefore, you should initiate the application process as early as possible to have enough time to prepare the best application package, increasing your chances of admission, scholarships, and visa approval.

The cost of studying in the U.S.

The US is known for its lavish lifestyle and high cost of living. Therefore, how much does studying abroad in the US cost, and how should one plan financially to save costs are concerns for most parents and international students.

Tuition fees

Depending on the level of education and type of institution, tuition fees can vary. Specifically:

Note: The tuition fees above are for reference only and may change each year.

Living Expenses

Living expenses in the US are quite high, including food, rent, phone, internet, and other expenses, ranging from $10,000 to $20,000 per year, depending on the living area and personal needs. Generally, living in the city center will be more expensive than living in the suburbs.

Other Expenses

• Application fee: $45 – $200/time.
• Visa application and fingerprinting fee: $500+, including security and interview fees, non-refundable.
• Books and school supplies: $500 – $1,200/year
• Health insurance: $700 – $1,500

Scholarship programs for studying in the U.S.

The U.S. is one of the countries with the highest number of scholarships and financial aid programs for international students worth up to 100%, funded by the government, financial/nonprofit organizations, or private donors.

In addition to scholarships based on academic ability, there are also scholarships based on extracurricular performance, athletic aptitude, or for a specific field of study, especially STEM.

To increase your chances of getting a scholarship, you need to invest early in each of the following factors:

• Grade Point Average (GPA): This is the most important factor when considering scholarships. In addition, if you are applying to graduate programs, professional knowledge and work experience are also essential.
• English: This is the next important factor because English is the official language in the United States. Therefore, you need to have good English ability to be able to study at universities and colleges in the US. A high TOEFL or IELTS score is one of the most popular ways to prove an international student’s English proficiency.
• Extracurricular activities: This is an equally important factor that helps international students express themselves in a better and different way than other candidates. Therefore, participate in activities that are suitable for your interests and abilities, because it will not only help you develop comprehensively but also increase your chances of getting a scholarship.
• Awards, certifications: Awards and certifications are a testament to your efforts, so list these achievements in your scholarship application.
• Essays, letters of recommendation: Spending time researching, coming up with ideas, editing essays or preparing letters of recommendation will also help your resume be more well-groomed and impress reviewers, thereby increasing the likelihood of applying for a scholarship
• Application plan: The preparation time for admission and scholarship applications usually takes from 6 months to 1 year. Therefore, you should start preparing early and make a specific plan for each thing, including researching and selecting suitable programs and scholarships

Types of US student visas

Currently, there are 3 types of US student visas for Vietnamese students:

• F-1 visa: This is the most common type of visa, allowing international students to study full-time at universities, colleges, high schools, or accredited vocational education institutions in the United States. You will also need an F-1 visa if the program is longer than 18 hours per week.
• M-1 visa: This is a visa for international students studying non-academic vocational training programs in the United States.
• J-1 visa: This is a visa for international students studying educational exchange programs in the United States.

The consulting process for studying in the US at E2E Study Abroad.

Step 1: Choose a major and school 

This is an important step in the process of applying to study in the US, because international students will be able to orient themselves from the beginning of their study journey, making the interview for a US student visa smoother and clearer. This helps increase the chances of getting a US student visa.

With a team of highly specialized consultants, E2E Study Abroad supports choosing majors and schools in the US that suit the interests, academic abilities and career goals of international students.

Step 2: Submit your application to the school to apply for an offer letter

After determining the appropriate major, school, and budget plan, E2E will guide you to prepare the necessary documents and submit the application for an admission letter. The dossier to be prepared usually includes:

• Passport
• Transcripts/transcripts for the last 2-3 years
• IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent
• GMAT/GRE (for graduate programs)
• Certificate of merit, other certificates (if any)

Step 3: Receive Admission Approval, Payment of Deposit/Tuition Fee, and Receipt of Form I-20

Once you have submitted your application to the school, if approved, you will receive an I-20 form to apply for a U.S. student visa (Note: the processing time for an I-20 depends on the school and application) and you will usually have to pay an additional fee for shipping the I-20 form to, or ask acquaintances for help. Some schools will require a deposit fee before the I-20 form is issued.

Step 4: Pay the SEVIS fee

SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) is a U.S. information system built to maintain information about the status of all categories of visitors to the U.S. (F, M, and J) and their dependents.

The SEVIS fee is $350 for international students (F1/M1) and $220 for exchange visitors (J1)

The payment period is at least 3 days before applying for a visa. Once completed, you should print out the payment confirmation in case you are required to present it.

Step 5: Complete the application for a US student visa

After receiving the school’s offer letter, you must immediately prepare your application for a U.S. student visa. This is an important step in deciding whether you can study in the US or not.

Order of dossier preparation:

• Fill out the DS160 form (U.S. student visa application)
• Prepare personal, academic, and financial profiles. All of them are originals. When going to the interview, remember to bring the dossier to submit to the consular officer.
• Practice interviews to confidently answer the most honest and clear interview

In this step, you should carefully study the criteria for the visa application to ensure that there are no errors, then learn how to answer the interview for a student visa in the US to improve the pass rate.

Step 6: Pay the US student visa fee and make an appointment for an interview

As payment methods are subject to change, it is recommended that you carefully read the entire fee payment instructions on the official website of the embassy or consulate.

After paying the fee, make sure to save your MRV (visa fee) amount so that you may need to use it when you make an appointment for a visa interview.

Schedule an interview through the official website of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General. It is recommended to register early so that you can choose the right date and time.

Step 7: Interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General

You need to attend the interview on the date and time of the appointment in step 6 and bring all the required documents. During the interview, you will be asked about your purpose of studying, your program, finances, and your plans to return home after completing your studies.

If a visa is granted, the approval officer will collect the passport to affix the visa, and then send the passport home by post. If you are denied a visa, you will get your passport and a rejection letter back.

The strengths of E2E Study Abroad in advising on studying in the US.

With many years of experience in the field of study abroad consulting, E2E Study Abroad has helped many Vietnamese students realize their dreams of studying abroad.

The strengths of E2E Study Abroad can be summarized through the following points:

• Founder – Ms. Dieu Nguyen has over 22 years of experience and has successfully assisted thousands of study, travel, and immigration applications.
• Over 300 partner schools including high schools, colleges, and universities in Canada.
• Study path consultation tailored to students’ goals, academic abilities, and financial capacities.
• Financial aid and scholarship applications support.
• Financial documentation advice and preparation.
• Experience handling complex cases and re-applications for previously denied visas.

The study abroad consulting service for the US at E2E Study Abroad.

Studying in the US is the dream of many young Vietnamese. However, to complete this dream, you need to have thorough preparation, from choosing a major, school, preparing admission documents, visas,… One of the ways to help you save time and money is to find reputable study abroad counseling centers.

With many years of operation in the field of study abroad counseling, E2E Study Abroad Counseling Center has helped many students fulfill their dreams of studying abroad not only in the US but also in many other countries around the world such as Australia, Canada, etc. Coming to E2E Study Abroad, you will be supported with services including:

Our services include:

1. School and Program Selection:

• Advising on appropriate fields of study and institutions that match career goals, academic capabilities, and financial situation.
• Supporting the creation of a suitable study plan.
• Promptly handling registration, scholarship, and financial aid applications.
• Guiding the payment of deposits/tuition fees to schools.

2. Visa Application:

• Guiding the visa application process and document preparation.
• Providing financial documentation and suitable study plans.
• Translating documents.
• Processing study visa applications.
• Continuously tracking the application process and updating clients until results are received.

3. Post-Visa Services:

• Arranging accommodation in dormitories/homestays or finding housing.
• Advising on health insurance, flight tickets, and SIM cards.
• Accompanying and supporting students throughout their study aborad, regularly updating parents on study abroad policies.

4. Parent Visa Support

Throughout the entire process, from initial stages to obtaining the study visa, our specialists closely monitor each stage to ensure clients receive their results promptly.

Conclusion

E2E study abroad is not only a bridge between the school and students but also a companion throughout their study abroad journey. With the information shared by E2E Study Abroad above, hope it will help you have an overview of studying abroad in the US to be more proactive in the preparation for studying abroad.

For full support on the US study abroad route, don’t hestitate to contact us via hotline +849 0993 8776 or +849 0316 0440.