Study in the USA for Pakistani Students: Eligibility Criteria, Requirements, Scholarships and Top Universities

Hundreds of students opt for the USA when it comes to leading study abroad destinations. And there are plenty of good reasons for that!

The country attracts students from all around the world due to its diverse cultural environment, career prospects, world-class faculty and top-notch education system. In addition, the USA provides high-end research facilities and many other unparalleled opportunities.

A Complete Guide to Admission, Top Universities and Career Opportunities

Pakistani students aspiring to study in the USA must follow a proper process that includes various steps, including university selection, choosing the right program, visa processing, financial planning and admission requirements. Let us guide you through a detailed roadmap covering top USA universities and career opportunities.

Top Universities in the USA 

Choosing the right university and understanding the admission process in the USA can be overwhelming for many students. The lack of awareness about top-ranked universities, admission criteria, and the differences between public and private institutions often makes the journey challenging. To help you navigate this process smoothly, here’s a comprehensive guide covering everything you need to know.

IVY League Schools 

The Ivy League consists of eight private universities, famous for their strict admission criteria, top-notch education system and impressive alumni of several Nobel Prize Winners. Here is the list of the universities that fall under the Ivy League Schools: 

Public vs Private Universities in the USA 

The only difference between public and private universities is the way they are funded. Public universities are funded by the state and federal governments. These universities offer affordable tuition fees for students.  

On the other hand, private universities are privately funded in the form of private donations, endowments, innovations and research facilities.

University Rankings 

Application Process for USA Universities 

Applying to universities in the USA requires thorough planning and preparation. Pakistani students must meet academic and language proficiency requirements, submit standardised test scores, and follow the application deadlines. Understanding each step of the admission process ensures a smooth transition to studying in the USA. Take notes!  Application Requirements 

• Academic transcripts and certificates 

• English proficiency test scores  

• Standardised test scores (SAT, ACT for undergraduate; GRE, GMAT for graduate programs) 

• Letters of recommendation 

• Statement of Purpose (SOP)  

 Test Requirements UCAT: Required for most medical universities. BMAT: For selective universities. GAMSAT: For graduate-entry programs. English Proficiency Test: TOEFL/IELTS as per the requirement.  IELTS is mandatory other tests are conditional  *Feel free to reach out to your IDP counsellor for the exact entry requirements of your chosen USA university.  Application Deadlines 

Below is an overview of the available intakes for both graduate and undergraduate programs.  

Spring Intake: February – June (Application deadlines: October–December of the previous year). 

Fall Intake: July – November (Application deadlines: March-May of the same year). 

USA Student Visa Process 

To apply for a US student visa, you must first apply and be accepted by an institution in the USA that is certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). 

USA study visa requirements may vary since every visa type has certain eligibility criteria to meet.  

Once accepted, you will receive a Form I-20 from the institution's international student office, which is a paper record of your information in the database called the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). 

Types of Student Visa 

F-1 Visa: For academic students enrolled in a full-time degree program. 

J-1 Visa: For exchange students participating in study-abroad programs. 

M-1 Visa: For students enrolled in vocational and technical programs. 

 Cost of Studying in the USA  

Tuition Fees (Range) 

Public Universities: $14000 USD - 28,000 USD per year. 

Private Universities: $28000 onwards per year. 

It is important to note that the exact costs of studying in the USA can vary significantly among universities and depend on the specific program of interest.  

Living Expenses 

The  cost of living in the United States varies significantly depending on the specific city and region, with major urban areas generally demanding higher expenses than smaller towns. 

Scholarships 

The concept of free education is not actually available for international students in the USA. And this is where scholarships come in!  

Several scholarships are available for Pakistani students at various US universities. To apply for these scholarships, you need to submit the required documents, including academic transcripts, SOP and a letter of recommendation. These scholarships are open for a limited time and students are often advised to gather their documents in advance to avoid any further inconvenience.  

Following are some of the scholarships offered for Pakistani students to start their studies in the USA. Students can check and then apply for these scholarships after meeting the eligibility criteria.  

Types of Scholarships 

Merit-based Scholarships: Awarded based on academic excellence. 

Need-based Scholarships: Provided to students with financial constraints. 

University-Specific Scholarships: Offered by institutions to international students. 

Government-funded scholarships: Such as the Fulbright Program for Pakistani students. 

Life as a Pakistani Student in the USA 

Moving to a new country is such an exciting adventure, though it can feel a bit overwhelming too! For many students, it’s their first time away from home and their parents, so juggling studies and everything else can be a challenge. But don't worry! Along the way, you'll get to enjoy a lively lifestyle, immerse yourself in different cultures, explore great career opportunities, and learn to manage your finances. It's all part of the amazing journey ahead!  

When it comes to accommodation, there are several options to avail; on-campus accommodation, off-campus apartments, or shared living. Every type of accommodation has its own perks that you can compare based on your preferences and personality. 

The USA offers not only academic excellence but a chance to gain personal and professional growth as well. If you are considering studying in the USA, take the first step today and schedule a free counselling session to embark on a journey that will shape your future!