Study in the USA
Why Choose the USA for Your Higher Education?
The United States is the world’s most preferred study destination, offering top-ranked universities, innovation, research excellence, cultural diversity, and promising career opportunities. A U.S. degree is globally recognized and helps build a strong international career.
Top-Ranked Global Universities
Study at leading institutions like Harvard, MIT, and Stanford recognized worldwide for academic excellence.
Research & Innovation Hub
Access modern laboratories, research funding, and innovation centers across STEM and other fields.
OPT & CPT Work Opportunities
Gain up to 3 years of work experience through OPT and CPT, especially for STEM graduates.
Scholarship & Funding Options
Explore merit-based scholarships, assistantships, and financial aid to support your education.
Multicultural Environment
Experience a welcoming, diverse, and safe environment with international student support services.
Global Career Growth
Build a strong international profile with internships, networking, and global employment options.
In-Demand Study Fields for Pakistani Students
Pakistani students are choosing globally recognized and career-focused programs that offer high job demand, strong earning potential, and international employment opportunities. Here are the most popular study field:
Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence
Leading programs in AI, Software Engineering, Machine Learning & IT Management.
Health Sciences, Nursing & Pharmacy
High-demand medical programs with excellent clinical and research opportunities.
Mechanical, Electrical, Civil & Petroleum Engineering
Top engineering disciplines with global career and industry exposure.
Business Administration, MBA & Finance
Popular programs in business leadership, finance, HR, marketing & entrepreneurship.
Data Science, Cybersecurity & Cloud Computing
Fast-growing digital technology fields with global job opportunities.
Law, Journalism & International Relations
Ideal for careers in diplomacy, media, law, public policy & global affairs.
Aviation, Aerospace & Applied Sciences
Advanced programs in aircraft engineering, flight operations & space technology.
Study Pathways for Pakistani Students
Multiple academic routes are available for Pakistani students based on education level, English proficiency, and career goals.
USA Intake Schedule
The USA offers three major intakes every year. Fall is the most popular with maximum scholarship opportunities, while Spring and Summer intakes offer flexible and quicker admissions.
Fall 2026
August – September
Major intake with highest number of programs, scholarships, and acceptance rates.
Spring 2026
January
Limited scholarships, moderate course availability, and faster visa processing.
Summer 2026
May – June
Ideal for language programs, short courses, and skill-based certifications.
Updated F-1 Visa Guide
Follow these updated steps to successfully apply for your F-1 Student Visa in 2026. Make sure to stay organized and prepare all documents in advance to avoid delays.
Receive Form I-20
Get your Form I-20 from your U.S. university after receiving official admission.
Pay SEVIS Fee ($350)
Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee to activate your student record in the U.S. education system.
Complete DS-160 Form
Fill out the DS-160 online visa application form accurately at the U.S. consular website.
Pay MRV Fee ($185)
Submit the U.S. visa application fee to confirm your visa interview eligibility.
Schedule Embassy Interview
Book your visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Islamabad, Karachi, or Lahore.
Prepare All Required Documents
Collect I-20, transcripts, bank statements, passport, IELTS/TOEFL, DS-160 & SEVIS confirmation.
Attend Visa Interview
Be confident, show genuine study intent, and prove financial & academic readiness.
Post-Study Work (OPT & H-1B Pathway)
International students in the USA can stay and work after graduation under the OPT & H-1B pathways. STEM graduates receive extended work authorization.
| Program | Stay Duration |
|---|---|
| Standard OPT | 12 months |
| STEM OPT Extension | +24 months |
| Total Stay (STEM) | Up to 3 years |
Updated Cost of Living
The cost of living in the USA varies based on location, lifestyle, and accommodation type. Below is the estimated average living cost for international students in 2026.
| Expense | Monthly Average |
|---|---|
| Shared Accommodation | $650 – $1,200 |
| Food & Groceries | $300 – $450 |
| Transportation | $80 – $150 |
| Health Insurance | $90 – $120 |
| Personal Expenses | $150 – $250 |
| Total Monthly Estimate | $1,300 – $2,200 |
Student Life & Support Services
Universities in the USA offer excellent support services to help international students settle, succeed academically, and build strong careers. Here's what Pakistani students benefit from:
On-Campus Jobs
Work up to 20 hours per week to support your living expenses and gain real-world experience.
Orientation Programs
Includes airport pickup, housing guidance, campus tour, and academic support sessions.
Pakistani Student Societies
Connect with Pakistani communities, cultural groups, and student support networks.
Career Support & Job Fairs
Access internships, job fairs, resume-building workshops, and networking sessions.
Health & Safety
24/7 medical facilities, mental health counseling, and emergency support services.
FAQs
Here are the most common questions Pakistani students ask before applying to study in the USA:
Yes, some universities accept Duolingo or offer conditional admission through pathway and English language programs.
Yes, by using community college pathways, scholarships, and tuition waivers, your total cost can be reduced by 40–60%.
Yes, F-1 visa allows international students to work up to 20 hours per week on-campus during their studies.
Why Choose iae GLOBAL Pakistan?
We guide Pakistani students every step of the way — from choosing the right university to visa success and pre-departure support. Here's why thousands of students trust iae GLOBAL Pakistan:
