Eligibility Requirements to Study in USA

Almost all the Indian students dream to study in the USA. But only a few of them will be able to achieve it. If you want to be one among them, here is your checklist for eligibility to Study in the USA.

Eligibility Criteria to Study Bachelors in the USA

The eligibility criteria change for each institution. Here is our general eligibility to study for a bachelor's in the USA.

The candidate must have completed 12 years of education or in a simpler way;/must complete their 10+2 education from any recognized board of education.
Good Grades from the 12^th standard or minimum score in GPA (Grade Point Average) in the last academic study are required for admission to the selected degree.
A minimum of 2.50 GPA is required for studying under graduation in the USA.
English Language proficiency score plays a vital role in the admission process for the USA. A minimum score required to study in the USA is IELTS – Band 6.5 and TOEFL 61-89.

[Read More: Detailed Guide to Crack IELTS Test]

Eligibility Criteria to Study Masters in the USA

The candidates who are planning to study Master's in the USA need to fulfill the below eligibility criteria.

The candidate must have completed 16 years of education or in a simpler way; he/she must complete their 10+2+4 years of degree education from any recognized institution.
A minimum score of 3-3.25 in GPA (Grade Point Average) in the last academic study is required for admission to the selected degree.
English Language proficiency score plays a vital role in the admission process for the USA Universities. A minimum score required to study in the USA is IELTS – Band 6.5 and TOEFL 78 to 100.
The candidate must meet the university cut-off of GMAT or GRE. That means candidates must take GRE or GMAT depending on university and course requirements.

Top FAQs Asked by Students Travelling to USA

Here is the list of tests required to be given to study for bachelors in the US.

English Proficiency Tests

IELTS
TOEFL
PTE Academic
Duolingo English Test

Admission Tests

SAT Test
ACT
LSAT

Here is the list of tests required to be given to study for a Master's in the US.

English Proficiency Tests

IELTS
TOEFL
PTE Academic
Duolingo English Test

Admission Tests

GRE
GMAT

It will be tough to secure a position at USA universities with the IELTS band 5. The minimum required score will be 6 – 6.5. If you score IELTS band 5, it is better to retake the test. This time consider taking the IELTS training from experts and follow their tips to score better.

Another option is to wait till waivers. Some universities allow students to apply without IELTS only during Waivers. But it is better to retake and improve score as it will help in securing scholarships as well.

Yes, you can study in the USA without IELTS or TOEFL. But for that, you must have completed your secondary education in English medium and score at least 70% in the English language in the last academics. Or you can also study in the USA without IELTS if you have a history of studying in an English-speaking country for a certain period.

No, only if you have studied in any English-speaking country earlier for a certain period. Else, it is mandatory to submit proof for English Language proficiency while applying for a USA student visa.