Higher education in the US is structured differently from most of Europe. There is no fixed curriculum for the entire course of study. Students accumulate credits by choosing courses both within and outside their major. In the first two years, many universities require a general set of subjects — from mathematics and natural sciences to literature and philosophy. This system allows students to change direction without losing time or to add a second major. It's precisely this flexibility that attracts students who haven't yet decided on a career.
How Long It Takes
A bachelor's degree in USA takes four years. A master's degree takes one to two years, depending on the programme. For international students, this means a longer period of study than in Europe, but also more flexibility. In master's programmes, the structure is tighter: courses are tied to research work or professional practice, and there are almost no free credits.
What the American System Offers
Several layers of support are built around the student. Every student has an academic advisor who helps choose courses and monitors progress toward requirements. At master's level, a research supervisor is added. For international students, there is a separate International Student Services office: it advises on visa matters, status extensions, and employment rights. This support is built into university life rather than left to the student.
A second benefit is access to research infrastructure. American universities, even the less prestigious ones, have laboratories, libraries, and databases that most institutions in other countries lack. At many universities, undergraduate students can participate in research — the opportunity depends on the specific institution and programme. Master's and doctoral students gain access to equipment and grants, which opens the path to publications and conferences.
Unique Features
One feature that sets the US apart is Liberal Arts. This is a model in which students study a broad range of disciplines before focusing on a major. Some universities, such as Rhodes College or Skidmore College, build their entire programme around this. For international students, it means the chance to explore different fields — from economics to neuroscience — and only then choose a main direction.
A second feature is practical experience during your studies. International students on an F‑1 visa can work on campus from day one: in the library, dining hall, research laboratory, or as a teaching assistant. After the first year, access to Curricular Practical Training (CPT) becomes available — internships related to the study programme. For graduates, Optional Practical Training (OPT) applies: a year of work in the field without employer sponsorship. STEM graduates can extend this period by another 24 months — up to three years in total. These mechanisms allow you to gain professional experience before returning home or moving to a work visa.
Who This Suits
Higher education in the US is worth considering in several cases. For those who want a globally recognised degree and the ability to work after graduation. For those seeking a research career and needing access to laboratories and grants. For those who have not yet decided on a direction and want to use the first two years to choose. And for those planning to stay in the US or move to a job at an international company: an American degree and OPT experience are highly valued in the job market.
The downside is cost. A year of study at a private university can reach $60,000–$80,000 including living expenses. At public universities, prices for international students are lower but still higher than in Europe. Many universities offer scholarships for international students: from $5,000 to $40,000 per year, depending on academic performance and test scores. However, it's rarely possible to cover all expenses.
What Is Needed for Admission
Academic documents: for bachelor's programmes, a secondary school leaving certificate with transcript; for master's programmes, a bachelor's degree with grades. GPA matters — for top programmes, it's usually at least 3.0 out of 4.0; for competitive ones — 3.5 and above.
A language exam is mandatory: TOEFL iBT from 70–80 for regular programmes and from 100 for strong ones, or IELTS from 6.0 to 7.5. Some universities accept the Duolingo English Test.
For bachelor's programmes, the SAT or ACT may be required: in 2026, many leading universities reinstated mandatory testing, though some remain test‑optional. For master's programmes — the GRE or GMAT, depending on the programme; some universities have waived this requirement.
Additionally, letters of recommendation, a motivation letter, and a CV are required, and for some programmes — a portfolio or writing sample. A separate stage is the interview, which may take place online or during a campus visit.
To obtain an F‑1 visa, the family or sponsor must confirm they have funds for the first year of study, including tuition, living expenses, and insurance. Universities request bank statements or an affidavit of support before issuing the I‑20 form. After receiving the I‑20, the student completes Form DS‑160, pays the SEVIS fee, and attends an interview at the consulate. From 2026, the F‑1 visa is issued for a fixed four‑year period rather than for the entire duration of study, so renewal needs to be planned well in advance.
Admission to the US takes time: preparation takes from one to two years. This isn't a system where you can submit documents in a couple of months. But for those willing to invest in the process, it offers what's rarely found elsewhere — flexibility in choosing a path, access to research from the early years, and the opportunity to stay and work after graduation.