Explore multiple subjects in your first two years before declaring a major—take psychology, economics, art, and coding all together—discovering your true passion while building a well-rounded education that employers value.
Study Bachelor's in USA
The USA is home to some of the world's most prestigious universities, making it an ideal destination for international students seeking undergraduate education. Universities in the USA provide 4-year bachelor's degree programs across liberal arts, engineering, business, computer science, health sciences, and social sciences with flexible curriculum allowing students to explore multiple subjects before declaring majors. The cost of undergraduate study in the USA ranges from $25,000–$55,000 per year for tuition, with additional living expenses of $15,000–25,000 annually. Institutions such as Harvard, MIT, Stanford, Princeton, and Yale offer world-class education, generous financial aid packages for international students, and access to Optional Practical Training (OPT) for up to 3 years of post-graduation work (STEM fields).
Council for Global Education, trusted since 1991, provides expert guidance for students pursuing undergraduate degrees in the USA. From university shortlisting and application strategy to SAT/ACT preparation, essay writing, scholarship guidance, and visa assistance, our counselors help students navigate the competitive admissions process and secure placements at leading US universities with confidence.
Reasons to Study Undergraduate in USA
Experience the iconic American college experience with Division I sports, Greek life, state-of-the-art recreation centers, 100+ student clubs, and a residential campus community that becomes your second home.
Switch your major freely—even multiple times—without losing credits or time. Start in biology, discover you love computer science, and graduate on time. This flexibility doesn't exist in most countries.
Top universities offer need-blind admissions and meet 100% demonstrated financial need for international students, with aid packages covering $40,000-70,000+ annually, making elite education surprisingly affordable.
Access to CPT allows internships at companies like Google, Tesla, Goldman Sachs, or NASA during your studies, plus 3-year OPT for STEM majors post-graduation—unmatched work authorization globally.
Form deep bonds with classmates who become future CEOs, innovators, and leaders across industries. American university alumni networks are the world's most powerful, opening doors throughout your career globally.
Top courses to study in USA
Computer Science & Software Engineering
Business & Management
Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical)
Top Universities
- MIT
- Stanford
- Carnegie Mellon
- UC Berkeley
- Harvard
- Princeton
Job Prospects
- Software engineering
- AI/ML
- Cybersecurity; salaries $80,000-120,000+ starting
Top Universities
- UPenn (Wharton)
- MIT (Sloan)
- UC Berkeley (Haas)
- NYU (Stern)
- Michigan (Ross)
Job Prospects
- Consulting
- Investment Banking
- Marketing
- Management; salaries $70,000-100,000+ starting
Top Universities
- MIT
- Stanford
- Caltech
- UC Berkeley
- Georgia Tech
- Michigan
Job Prospects
- Aerospace
- Automotive
- Tech Hardware
- Energy; salaries $70,000-90,000+ starting
Finance & Economics
Data Science & Analytics
Health Sciences & Pre-Medicine
Top Universities
- UPenn (Wharton)
- Princeton
- Harvard
- Columbia
- NYU
- Chicago
Job Prospects
- Investment banking
- Financial analysis
- Consulting; salaries $75,000-110,000+ starting
Top Universities
- MIT
- Stanford
- Carnegie Mellon
- UC Berkeley
- Harvard
- Cornell
Job Prospects
- Data scientist
- Analytics consultant
- AI engineer; salaries $75,000-110,000+ starting
Top Universities
- Johns Hopkins
- Duke
- Stanford
- Harvard
- UPenn
- Northwestern
Job Prospects
- Medical school pathway
- Research
- Healthcare consulting; doctors earn $200,000+ eventually
Biomedical Engineering
Psychology & Neuroscience
Political Science & International Relations
Top Universities
- Johns Hopkins
- MIT
- Stanford
- Duke
- Georgia Tech
- UC San Diego
Job Prospects
- Medical devices
- Pharmaceuticals
- Research; salaries $65,000-85,000+ starting
Top Universities
- Stanford
- Harvard
- Yale
- Princeton
- UCLA
- Columbia
Job Prospects
- Clinical psychology
- Research
- HR
- Counseling; salaries $50,000-70,000+ (higher with grad degrees)
Top Universities
- Harvard
- Princeton
- Georgetown
- Columbia
- Yale
- Stanford
Job Prospects
- Government
- Diplomacy
- Consulting, law school pathway; salaries $50,000-80,000+ starting
Environmental Science & Sustainability
Communication & Media Studies
Architecture
Top Universities
- Stanford
- MIT
- Yale
- UC Berkeley
- Duke
- Cornell
Job Prospects
- Environmental consulting
- Renewable energy
- Policy; salaries $50,000-75,000+ starting
Top Universities
- Northwestern
- USC
- NYU
- UPenn
- Stanford
- UCLA
Job Prospects
- Marketing
- Public relations
- Media
- Journalism; salaries $45,000-70,000+ starting
Top Universities
- Cornell
- MIT
- UC Berkeley
- Columbia
- Rice
- Virginia Tech
Job Prospects
- Architectural firms
- Urban planning
- Design; salaries $50,000-70,000+ starting
Undergrad in USA – Eligibility
Completion of high school (till grade 12) is a requirement.
Non-native English speakers are required to demonstrate English-language proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS.
Standardised tests e.g., SAT for undergraduates is required by most colleges as part of your Undergrad in USA application.
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.
Study Undergrad in USA with CGE - Road map
Profile Assessment
Understanding you is crucial before start your study abroad journey. Our comprehensive assessment including psychometric tests and in –depth profile assessment by our expert counsellors helps identify what makes you stand out and areas that need strengthening for successful admission.
At Council for Global Education (CGE), we analyze key aspects of your candidacy—from academic credentials and co-curricular involvement to relevant work background—creating a personalized strategy that maximizes your chances in your dream institutions in Singapore.
University & Country Shortlist
Every student has unique preferences for their study destination and institution. Students approach us with initial options in mind.
At Council for Global Education (CGE), we evaluate your goals, explain specific university criteria, and provide honest insights about your admission prospects at your dream institutions.
Test Preparation
Achieving high scores in IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, and GMAT is crucial for university admissions for international students. Many students struggle with these standardized tests and require expert coaching to meet score requirements.
At Council for Global Education , we provide specialized test preparation courses for major countries across the globe with our experienced instructors, proven test strategies, and personalized study plans designed to help you achieve competitive scores for top universities in the world.
Admission Counselling
This is the most defining stage of your study abroad journey, where your achievements and purpose are transformed into a powerful application. Essays, SOPs and LORs become your voice — and must reflect who you truly are.
At Council for Global Education , we work one-to-one with every student to craft applications that are authentic, cohesive and impossible to overlook. From shaping narratives to refining documents and managing submissions with precision, we ensure each profile stands out in a competitive pool. When admission decisions arrive, we guide you in selecting the offer that best supports your long-term academic and career goals.
Scholarship & Financial Guidance
At Council For Global Education, we believe education should be accessible to everyone. That’s why we offer comprehensive scholarship support—from helping you discover.
Visa Application
Once admits arrive, thoughtful decision-making and transition planning shape the next phase of your global journey.
At Council for Global Education (CGE), we help you confidently choose the institution that aligns best with your long-term academic and career goals. We then support your complete visa process along with accommodation assistance, health insurance guidance and a premium pre-departure briefing that prepares you for academics, culture, lifestyle, etiquette and professional development in your destination country.
Value added Services
Pre-departure briefings, accommodation, etc
Cost to study undergraduate in USA
| Category | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | $25,000 - $55,000 |
| Living Expenses (accommodation, food, transport, personal) | $15,000 - $25,000 |
| Other Fees (health insurance, books, supplies) | $3,000 - $5,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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How much does it cost to study undergraduate in USA for international students?
Undergraduate costs in USA range from $43,000 to $85,000 per year, including tuition ($25,000-55,000), living expenses ($15,000-25,000), and other fees ($3,000-5,000). Total 4-year degree cost is approximately $172,000-340,000. However, many top universities offer substantial financial aid to international students, which can reduce costs significantly.
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Is SAT required for undergraduate admission in USA?
Many universities have adopted test-optional or test-flexible policies, meaning SAT/ACT scores are optional for admission. However, competitive universities and merit scholarship consideration often still benefit from strong SAT scores (1400-1600). Requirements vary by institution—some remain test-optional while others have reinstated testing requirements.
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Can international students get scholarships for undergraduate in USA?
Yes! Many US universities offer merit-based scholarships and need-based financial aid to international students. Top schools like Harvard, MIT, Princeton, Yale, and Amherst offer need-blind admissions and meet 100% demonstrated financial need. Merit scholarships range from $5,000 to full tuition coverage depending on academic excellence.
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Can I work while studying undergraduate in USA?
Yes, F-1 visa students can work on-campus up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during breaks. After completing one academic year, students can apply for CPT (Curricular Practical Training) for internships and off-campus work related to their major during summer breaks.
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How long can I stay in USA after undergraduate degree?
International students can stay for OPT (Optional Practical Training)—12 months for all majors and up to 36 months (3 years) for STEM degree holders. This allows you to work without employer sponsorship immediately after graduation, gaining valuable US work experience before potentially transitioning to H-1B visa sponsorship.