There is an array of universities and other educational institutions in the USA. Therefore, there is no shortage of academic courses for international students in the USA. Now, which of these are the best course options for you? To help you narrow down your options, here is a list of the most Popular Courses to Study in the USA for Singaporean students:

• Business: Explore programs in Business Administration, Finance, Marketing, and Entrepreneurship.
• Engineering: Pursue degrees in Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, and Aerospace Engineering.
• Computer Science: Embark on a journey in Computer Programming, Software Development, and Cybersecurity.
• Healthcare: Specialise in Nursing, Medicine, Public Health, and Biomedical Sciences.
• Social Sciences: Study Psychology, Sociology, Political Science, and International Relations.
• Creative Arts: Unleash creativity with programs in Film, Music, Fine Arts, and Performing Arts.

For further assistance in choosing the right program, contact a counsellor at AECC. Our team of counsellors always makes themselves available to you so that you can make the right choices and better navigate your study abroad journey.

Studying in the USA demands fulfilling specific requirements based on the chosen level of education. Let us explore the requirements to Study in the USA for Singaporean students at each level:

Graduate Diploma

• Bachelor's degree from a recognised institution
• Transcripts showing satisfactory academic performance
• English language proficiency test scores (IELTS/TOEFL)
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) outlining career goals
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs) from academic mentors

Bachelor's Degree

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Standardised test scores (SAT/GRE)
• Proof of English language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS)
• Transcripts and certificates demonstrating academic achievements
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) highlighting academic interests

Master’s Degree

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
• Official transcripts reflecting academic excellence
• Standardised test scores (GRE/GMAT)
• English language proficiency test results
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) outlining research interests

Doctorate

• Master's degree in a relevant field
• Transcripts from previous academic qualifications
• Research proposal showcasing doctoral research plans
• Strong Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
• GRE/GMAT scores (if required)
• English language proficiency test scores

Exams Required to Study at US Universities for Singaporean Students

For international students from Singapore, various exams are necessary for admission to US universities. Read further for some of the criteria to study in the USA for international students.

English Language Proficiency Tests: (Undergraduate and Graduate)

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
• IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

Undergraduate Admission Requirements:

• SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) for most universities
• GRE (Graduate Record Examination) for specific courses
• High school GPA and transcripts

Graduate Admission Requirements

• GRE (Graduate Record Examination) for most graduate programs
• GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) for business-related courses
• Undergraduate GPA and transcripts

Please remember that entry criteria vary between American universities. If you want to join a specific university in the USA, speak to one of our counsellors about how to get into it or for more specific information.

Documents Required to Study in the USA for Singaporean Students

To apply for universities in the USA, international students from Singapore must submit a number of documents. Some of the documentation requirements for admission may vary from one university to another. However, some documents remain the same, such as the following:

• Passport with at least six months validity after graduation.
• Academic transcripts and certificates (translated if not in English).
• English language proficiency test scores (TOEFL/IELTS).
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) detailing academic and career goals.
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs) from teachers or professors.

It is important to note that proof of financial capability is also necessary to be eligible for a visa that allows you to study in the USA. Be sure to satisfy all the documentation criteria to stand the best chance of admission to an American university.

To Study in the USA, Singaporean students need an F1 visa (Student Visa). There are certain criteria for international students to be eligible for the visa. Here are the essential requirements:

• Valid Passport: Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the USA.
• Proof of Acceptance: You need an acceptance letter from a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school.
• DS-160 Form: Complete the DS-160 form online and obtain the confirmation page.
• SEVIS I-20 Form: You will receive this form from the school's Designated School Official (DSO) after acceptance.
• Financial Proof: Show proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses in the USA.
• Visa Application Fee: Pay the non-refundable visa application fee.
• Passport-sized Photograph: Submit a passport-sized photograph meeting specific requirements.
• Birth Certificate: Present your original birth certificate as proof of identity.
• Proof of Address: Provide a document showing your address in Singapore.
• Visa Interview: Attend an interview at the US Embassy or Consulate

The USA has two main intakes for international students: Fall (August) and Spring (January). However, there is also a summer intake in the USA. Each university intake has its own benefits and relative disadvantages. Before discussing the pros and cons of each intake, let us look at the last dates to apply to a university. It is essential to be aware of the deadlines and apply well in advance to secure a spot at a US university.

The fall intake makes more courses and scholarships available to applicants. You can participate in the whole academic year if you enter a US university in the fall season. However, there is usually high competition for university spots at this time of the year. As for the spring intake, there is less competition but also a smaller number of programs and scholarships. Summer classes in the USA are more relaxed and collaborative, but the summer intake only offers a limited number of courses.

If you are wondering when and how to apply to study in the USA, contact an AECC counsellor. Our counselling expert will aid you in determining the right intake option for your academic pursuits, preferences, and circumstances, as well as apply before the deadline.

While studying in the USA is undoubtedly rewarding, it is essential to consider how much it costs. The cost of studying in the USA for Singaporean students varies depending on the level of education and university. Tuition fees account for a large portion of your cost of education in the United States, but there are other factors to consider as well. Consider the following as only general information regarding the cost of studying in the USA for international students.

For Singaporean students dreaming of studying in the USA, scholarships offer vital financial support. Scholarships often cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other educational costs. Here are some options to help reduce the cost of studying in the USA for international students:

It is essential to explore a scholarship to study in the USA and meet its application deadlines for a chance to secure financial assistance. The last dates to apply for scholarships can vary between universities, so be sure to keep up with the information. It is also a good idea to apply for multiple scholarships.

While estimating the cost of studying in the USA for international students, considering living expenses is crucial. Housing type, way of living, mode of transportation, and many other factors contribute to living expenses in any country. The same applies to you when you look to study in the USA. With this in mind, here is an approximate breakdown of monthly living expenses for international students:

Studying in the USA presents exciting work opportunities for Singaporean students. After completing an eligible degree, you have the option to pursue Optional Practical Training (OPT) or another work visa. For an F-1 visa holder with a relevant degree, it is possible to stay in the USA for one to three years under the so-called OPT program. The exact duration of your stay depends on your specific US qualification. If you hold a degree in a STEM field, the OPT program allows you to extend your stay in the USA for three years after graduation. For non-STEM degree holders, the OPT visa extension is only one year.

Post-study work rights are among the benefits of studying in the USA as an F-1 visa holder. That said, you will want to learn about the highest-paying jobs in the country. Some promising fields and their approximate annual salaries are as follows: