Deciding on a city is an essential step in preparation for doing an undergraduate degree abroad. For Indian students, it is also important to select a country where the cost of living and tuition fees are low. Thus students intending to study bachelor in USA must consider the university and city together.
There is no single city that can be deemed the best city ever. A great destination depends on your study choice, budget range, lifestyle and aspirations! Here are some options that can fit into your career plan.
Boston
One of the most famed student cities in the US — Boston. The region is home to a considerable number of universities, research institutes, healthcare organisations and businesses, a robust academic environment and exposure to students from diverse disciplines.
This city is especially appealing for tech, business, health & research students.
That said, the cost of living is on the expensive side, so accommodation and transport are something students should think carefully about.
New York City
New York is an experience of a lifetime. International students seeking to enter fields traditionally dominated by London, such as business, finance, media, fashion and communications arts and entrepreneurship may find the ecosystem of professionals around this town appealing.
The purchasing power it gives students and its extensive public transportation network make it very helpful for people living away from campus.
The major challenge is the cost. International students should therefore do effective financial budgeting as accommodation and day-to-day expenses can contribute to significant cost.
California
There are also several major California universities and technology ecosystems.The booming sectors of the city could attract students interested in computer science, engineering, entrepreneurship, biotechnology, entertainment and business.
Nevertheless, the costs can differ drastically from city to city and university location to another. Instead of treating California as one big market area, students should look to compare their actual cost of living in the neighborhoods around their campuses.
Chicago
Chicago has a big city feel, industry access in finance, consulting, technology, healthcare, manufacturing and more. It can be an attractive option for students seeking the environment of a large American city, but also exposure to a number of industries.
Also, the city has a very good public transport system which means students will not necessarily have to drive their own cars.
Austin
Austin has drawn more students looking to study bachelor in USA in the fields of technology, entrepreneurship, engineering and business.
You may have opportunities for internships, networking and exposure to established companies and startups through its growing technology ecosystem. Austin is worth exploring for students who want a somewhat laid back city living compared to larger metropolitan centres.
How to choose a city
While planning to study bachelor in USA, you should always start looking at the course rather than the city.
Ask yourself:
- Does the college have my ideal major?
- What is the total cost?
- What scholarships are available?
- Campus Life After Which College Is Your Campus?
- How much does accommodation cost?
- Is public transport available?
- What internship opportunities exist?
- What industries excel in the region?
- What types of assistance is provided for students coming from overseas?
When deciding on a U.S. institution, EducationUSA advises to keep in mind your academic, financial and personal priorities.
Price has to be a part of the spreadsheet. Tuition is just part of the total cost of studying abroad.
Students should also account for:
- Housing
- Food
- Health insurance
- Transportation
- Books
- Personal expenses
- Travel
- Other university charges
A university with higher tuition might have lower total cost if it’s in a cheaper area.
The services offered by Overseas Study Consultants
Students may utilize Overseas Study Consultants to assist in comparing universities, preferences for applications and personal statement writing tips. However, it is suggested that students conduct their own independent research to learn more about each of these universities. The offer of courses, scholarships, timings, accommodation, admission criteria vary quite a lot.
Especially for undergraduate applicants, commencing early in the process is vital as students may require extra time developing academic documents, tests, essays, recommendations and financial plans.
Final thoughts
When it comes to study bachelor in USA, there are plenty of cities with a diverse range of university environments for students. Boston can offer only those students looking for an elite academic ecosystem, New York to the kids who want a global business hub, California to tech and creative-industry students, Chicago to anyone wanting a big-city feel plus world class academics; Austin can cater to tech and entrepreneurial seeking students.
But city popularity is not the only factor determining the best option. Prioritize what matters the most for you, be it your program or university or budget, future career goals or lifestyle — and then see if whatever fits in.
An intelligent city and university choice at the undergrad level can significantly lower your costs, enhance your personal experience, and improve whether that degree appears valuable professionally.
Ready to conquer your dreams? Get in touch with Imperial’s expert study abroad counselors and kick-start your journey towards studying abroad today! You will have support during university admission, scholarship application, visa preparation and many more!
