Studying in the USA: From Language to Master's Degree
Studying in the USA is a dream for many students worldwide. This article explains everything you need to know, from learning English to earning a master's degree.
We cover the study stages, top destinations, costs and available scholarships, so you can base your decision on official figures.
Why Study in the USA
American universities are known for their quality of education and wide research opportunities. According to the Open Doors report, the USA hosted about 1.18 million international students in the 2024/25 academic year, which reflects the global appeal of its universities.
Studying English in the USA
One of the main advantages of studying in the USA is learning English in a native-speaking environment. Language institutes across the states offer intensive English programs that build speaking, listening, reading and writing skills.
That is why university-affiliated and commercial language institutes are an ideal way to strengthen your English before starting a bachelor's or master's degree.
Bachelor's Degrees in the USA
American universities offer many bachelor's programs in every field, such as engineering, business, computer science, health sciences and the arts. Study usually takes four years, with great flexibility in choosing your courses.
For application steps, see the guide to using Common App to apply to US universities.
Master's Degrees in the USA
A master's degree gives international students the chance to join strong research programs in technology, management or science. Master's programs usually take one to two years.
This makes them an attractive choice for students who want to develop their academic and professional skills.
Top Study Destinations
Destinations vary across the states. According to Open Doors 2024/25 figures, the states hosting the most international students were:
- California: about 139,000 international students
- New York: about 138,000
- Texas: about 97,000
- Then Massachusetts, Illinois and Pennsylvania
- Florida in seventh place: about 47,000
Choose a state based on your major, your budget and the lifestyle that suits you.
Cost of Studying in the USA
Costs vary by major, university and state, and there is no single figure that fits everyone. The figures below are official and give you an idea of tuition only, excluding housing and living costs. Full details are in the guide to the cost of university study in the USA.
| Level | University Type | Average Annual Tuition | Source and Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's | Public (in-state) | $11,950 | College Board 2025-26 |
| Bachelor's | Public (out-of-state) | $31,880 | College Board 2025-26 |
| Bachelor's | Private nonprofit | $45,000 | College Board 2025-26 |
| Master's | Public | $12,394 | National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) 2020-21 |
| Master's | Private | $28,445 | National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) 2020-21 |
Master's costs vary widely by program. Plan your finances early, and check the tuition page of each university you are interested in.
Scholarships
Several scholarships help ease the financial burden of studying in the USA, including the Fulbright Foreign Student Program, which is aimed at graduate study. Its conditions and application process differ from country to country. Many universities also have their own scholarships.
Saudi students can apply to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Scholarship Program. The Ministry of Education has issued a guide to university lists by field for 2026-2027 that includes American universities. Review the official program requirements before applying, and learn about the Imdad Track universities by field.
Consultation and Visa with Almorad Education
If you want to study in the USA, you can get an initial free professional consultation from the Almorad Education team. Almorad offers complete services, including choosing a university, preparing admission documents and following up on visa procedures.
For official visa procedures (F-1, Form I-20 and the SEVIS fee), see Study in the States, run by the US Department of Homeland Security.
Studying in the USA is an ideal choice for learning English or earning a bachelor's or master's degree, while benefiting from scholarship opportunities. Contact Almorad and submit your application now to start your journey with confidence.
Official Sources
- Open Doors — International students in the USA, 2024/25
- College Board — Average published tuition and fees, 2025-26
- Fulbright Foreign Student Program — Graduate study scholarships
- Ministry of Education — University lists guide for the scholarship program, 2026-2027
- Study in the States — International student guide and visa procedures
