Home to some of the world’s most prestigious institutions and cutting-edge research, the United States (US) has an excellent reputation as a study destination. In fact, the US attracted nearly 1.2 million international students during the 2024/25 academic year! From the country’s education system and student visa information to a high-level look at its food and culture, read on to learn what international students need to know about studying in the US.
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What is the US Like?
The US is a country made up of 50 states spread across the North American continent. The country is located between Canada and Mexico, and its capital city, Washington, D.C., is located along the country’s eastern coast.
As of mid-2026, the US had a total population of over 342 million people. It is also culturally diverse: Americans speak over 500 languages, although English is the only official language. The country is governed by a democratic government, meaning laws are exercised by citizens through elected representatives.
Why Study in the US?
The US continues to be the most popular destination for international students. And, as the most represented country in Times Higher Education’s (THE) 2026 World University rankings, its universities are some of the best on the planet.
A Globally Recognized Education
Did you know that American institutions claimed the top three spots in the world in the U.S. News and World Report’s 2026–2027 Best Global Universities list? From Big Ten universities known for their world-class academics and athletics to small liberal arts colleges which nurture future creatives, the American academic world is as diverse and innovative as the country itself.
American institutions offer students a wide range of programs and fields of study. Campuses also offer students state-of-the-art learning, arts, and sports facilities as well as resources for research opportunities.
Exploring American Cultures
The US is often referred to as a ‘melting pot,’ meaning that people from diverse cultures and ethnicities form a unified community. American culture has been influenced by many different groups of people, with each one contributing unique customs, traditions, and perspectives across different regions within the US.
Building a Global Career
Studying in the US is a great way for international students to prepare for their careers. A degree from an American college or university is often highly regarded by employers. Plus, many US-based institutions offer international students internship opportunities where they can develop practical skills.
How Does the American Education System Work?
The American education system is grouped into a few different stages: early childhood education, primary education, secondary education, and post-secondary education. Post-secondary education includes undergraduate and postgraduate studies.
Types of Schools
Early, primary, and secondary education are provided through public, private, charter, boarding, and religious schools across the US.
Most students attend public schools, which are free and funded by the U.S. Department of Education. Public schools generally serve US residents, although foreign national children living in the US with an eligible immigration status may be eligible to enrol in classes at the high school level. Conversely, international students may enrol in private school at any grade level, provided the school is certified by the U.S. Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
Early, Primary, and Secondary Education
Children in early education attend preschool or kindergarten between the ages of three and five.
They then progress to primary education at an elementary school. Primary education lasts from grades one to five, or grades one to six, depending on the school district.
Secondary education is divided into two stages. Middle school (also called junior high) includes grades six to eight, or seven to eight, depending on the school district. High school starts at grade 9 and ends at grade 12. After graduating from high school, students can move on to the workforce, vocational training, or post-secondary studies at a college or university.
Post-Secondary Education
Post-secondary education in the US includes both college and university education. Public and private academic institutions offer a range of programs from associate degrees to doctoral degrees.
Students can choose to attend a community college, college, or university. Community colleges typically offer two-year associate degrees and postsecondary certificates. Colleges and universities offer undergraduate (bachelor’s), graduate (master’s), and doctoral degree programs focused on specific fields of study, as well as some certificate and diploma programs.
Thinking of studying in the US? Check out these five top-ranked American universities.
Do International Students Need a Visa to Study in the US?
To pursue academic studies, international students typically need an F-1 visa to study in the US. To obtain an F-1 visa, students must first apply and be accepted by a SEVP-approved academic institution.
In 2026, the US government made some important changes to how F-1 visas work, ranging from how long the visas last to how students may transfer between different study areas or academic institutions. Read more about these updates on our blog.
What is the Average Cost of Living in the US?
The average cost of living varies across the US, and will also differ based on individual lifestyle. Many coastal states like New York or California can be more expensive, while inland states such as Missouri, the Dakotas, and Iowa tend to be more affordable.
Tuition
The cost of studying in the US varies by institution, study level, and program type. STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and professional degrees like law or medicine are generally more expensive than humanities or liberal arts programs.
In general, international students pay out-of-state tuition rates at public institutions. They may also have to pay additional international fees. Meanwhile, international and domestic students usually pay the same tuition at private colleges. Over the 2025/26 academic year, the average yearly tuition for out-of-state students at a public college was US$25,400, and the average private tuition was just under US$45,000.
Housing
Accommodation costs vary based on the type of housing. Many students live on-campus during their first year to ease their transition. Campus housing options include dormitories with shared cooking and bathroom facilities and apartments with private bedrooms and shared or private kitchens.
On-campus housing costs averaged between US$5,300 and US$8,100 per year in 2025, but vary further across each institution depending on the housing style. Nation-wide, off-campus housing costs ranged from US$500 to over US$3,500 per month, with higher costs in coastal cities and in the northeastern states. When living off-campus, students should also budget for utilities like power and water, as these costs may not be included in rent.
Living Expenses
All international students must include housing, food, transportation, and daily expenses in their budget. It’s also important to budget for utilities (if living off-campus), a phone, textbooks and course materials, laundry, and recreational activities. Below are some averages and ranges for common expenses:
- Food and Groceries: US$300 to US$685 per month
- Public Transportation: US$35 to US$140 per month (sometimes included with tuition)
- Utilities (including Internet): US$200 to US$500 per month
- Phone: US$61 (national average)
- Academic Supplies: US$930 to US$1,500 per academic year
What’s it Like to Live in the US?
Adjusting to life in the US may require adapting to some of its unique customs and practices.
Culture
While certain things bring many Americans together, particularly watching or participating in sports, or attending cultural events like festivals and theatre, students are likely to find others who share their diverse interests. Campus clubs, whether for badminton, breakdancing, or backcountry hiking, can be a great way to make new friends and get to know their new home.
Food
Food in the US reflects the country’s cultural diversity. Some popular choices for international students include burgers, pizza, tacos, and regional specialties like Southern barbecue and New England clam chowder. In student towns and larger communities, international grocery stores carry familiar foods, allowing students to prepare favourite dishes at home.
Weather
The US is geographically vast. It is home to many climates, from the icy winters of the Northeast states to the sunny beaches of southern California and the humid summers of the Southeast. It’s important to research the climate of your chosen location so you can pack the right clothing.
Health Care
All international students are required to purchase health insurance. As of 2026, estimated costs for health insurance ranged from US$1,200 to US$4,000 per year.
Health insurance can be provided either through a private company or the student’s college or university. It ensures students can access necessary medical care, including visits to a doctor and emergency services.
Transportation
While public transportation options vary, major metropolitan areas have large networks of buses, subways, bike shares, and commuter trains. Most also have a nearby airport for longer trips. Smaller cities and student towns have city buses and access to intercity travel by bus, train (Amtrak), and airplane. Across the US, cars remain a popular but more expensive mode of transportation which offer flexible travel within and between cities.
Studying in the US is a unique experience for many international students. Whether you’re exploring vibrant cities or embracing campus traditions, studying in the US can allow you to grow academically and set yourself up for a global career.
Get started today. Find a US institution and start your student journey by using the ApplyBoard platform!
