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Go to the United States

Get there with the TOEFL iBT® Test.

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Study in US

Why go to the United States?

The United States is home to more than 4,000 accredited colleges and universities as well as thousands of professional licensure and certification bodies across healthcare, law, education, and other regulated fields.  Whether you are pursuing academic study, professional licensure, career advancement, or immigration pathways, U.S. institutions and organizations rely on trusted English‑language assessments like the TOEFL iBT to ensure readiness for complex, real‑world communication.

ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHTS

  • World‑leading universities and research opportunities 
  • Flexible academic pathways (major, minor, elective systems) 
  • Access to internships, co‑ops, and Optional Practical Training (OPT) 
  • Diverse learning environments and campus cultures 
  • Strong globally recognized credentials and employer recognition

PROFESSIONAL HIGHLIGHTS

  • Professional licensure and certification pathways (healthcare, law, education, engineering, and more) 
  • English requirements for regulated professions and government agencies 
  • Career mobility and workforce readiness in English‑medium environments 
  • Acceptance by universities, credentialing bodies, and employers 
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Study in the US

REGION
North America
LANGUAGE
English
CURRENCY
USD ($)
TIME ZONES
UTC−5 to UTC−10
CLIMATE
Temperate to tropical

Life in the U.S.: What to Expect

In the United States, international learners and professionals are immersed in dynamic English‑language environments. Academic programs emphasize discussion, collaboration, and hands‑on learning, supported by services such as tutoring and advising, while professionals apply English skills in real‑world contexts including workplace, clinical, and legal settings.

Outside of the workplace and classroom, life in the United States is vibrant and community‑oriented. Many people engage in clubs, sports, cultural events, and leadership activities, making it easy to build connections and feel a sense of belonging. For students, universities often offer on‑campus housing and dining options that provide both convenience and a strong sense of community.

Everyday life in the United States is shaped by practical considerations such as safety, transportation, and cost of living. Universities and organizations often provide dedicated safety resources, while transportation options vary by city or region. Planning for living expenses—including housing, food, and transportation—can help both students and professionals prepare for daily life and feel more settled as they adjust to their new environment.

Life in US

Work Experience Opportunities

While students may pursue on‑campus employment or training opportunities, professionals may also be required to demonstrate English proficiency for workplace authorization, licensure, or employer verification.  

International students can often gain valuable work experience:

On‑Campus Employment

Available to F‑1 students up to 20 hours per week.

Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

Allows students to participate in internships or practical experiences connected to their degree.

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Up to 12 months of work authorization after graduation; STEM students may qualify for a 24‑month extension.

Group of people discussing

Understanding U.S. Immigration & Entry Pathways

Individuals come to the U.S. for a variety of purposes, including academic study, professional licensure, training, exchange programs, and employment. Requirements vary by pathway and organization, but English proficiency is often a shared prerequisite.

 

Because processes differ by purpose and visa type, these resources provide authoritative guidance on studying, working, or participating in exchange programs in the U.S.:

STUDY IN THE STATES (DHS)

Visa and immigration information for students and exchange visitors

U.S. BUREAU OF CONSULAR AFFAIRS

Visa categories and the U.S. visa application process

EDUCATION USA (U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE)

Guidance on academic programs and study options in the United States

STUDY IN THE USA / INTERNATIONAL STUDENT USA

Overviews of programs, pathways, and life in the U.S.

English is the Bridge to Every Destination.

We measure the real academic skills universities expect — listening, speaking, reading and writing, in the way they’re actually used in classrooms, lectures and coursework. Built on decades of research and trusted worldwide, TOEFL iBT® scores gives students the confidence to pursue opportunities anywhere.

 

One voice. Many accents. One global standard.

How TOEFL® Supports You

Wherever you are in your academic or professional journey, the TOEFL iBT test helps open doors to organizations and U.S. universities.

Explore test prep, score requirements, and more — and take the next step toward your future in the United States.”

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Frequently Asked Questions

 

FAQ

With thousands of institutions in the U.S., it helps to start by identifying what matters most to you—such as academic programs, location, campus size, cost, and career outcomes. Many students use online college search tools and speak with advisors, ELL teachers, or agents for guidance. You should also confirm that any school you’re considering is properly accredited.

In the U.S., the terms are often used interchangeably. Generally, colleges focus on undergraduate education, while universities offer both undergraduate and graduate (master’s and doctoral) programs.

Undergraduate programs are the first level of university study after high school and lead to an associate or bachelor’s degree. Graduate programs follow a bachelor’s degree and lead to advanced qualifications such as a master’s or doctorate.

  • Associate degree: Typically a two‑year program, often offered by community colleges, that can prepare students for specific careers or further study.
  • Bachelor’s degree: A four- to five‑year program that combines in‑depth study in a major field with coursework across multiple disciplines.

  • Master’s degree: An advanced degree that usually takes one to two years and allows students to specialize in a particular subject.
  • Doctoral degree: A highly specialized program that typically takes several years and focuses on original research or professional expertise.

The academic year usually runs from late summer (August or September) through May, with breaks for holidays. Institutions may follow a semester system (two main terms), a quarter system (three terms per year), or a trimester system.

Most U.S. colleges and universities require students to have completed secondary education (high school or equivalent). While there is no strict upper age limit, students are typically at least 17 years old at the time they begin their studies.

For more information about living or studying in the United States, visit:

EDUCATION USA

U.S. Department of State network

STUDY IN THE USA

University search & guides

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT USA

Community & resources