Why Study in the USA?
The United States hosts more top-ranked universities than any other country in the world. For STEM graduates, the Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme allows 3 years of work authorisation after graduation — giving you time to gain US work experience and explore immigration options.
- Highest number of QS World Top 100 universities globally
- STEM OPT extension — 3 years total work authorisation after graduation
- Vast scholarship and financial aid ecosystem — many universities offer need-based and merit aid
- World-leading research facilities and industry connections — Silicon Valley, Wall Street, Houston energy corridor
- Diverse student community — Nigerian students are one of the largest African student groups in the US
- Strong alumni networks that span every major industry and country
Costs of Studying in the USA
The USA has some of the highest tuition fees globally, but also the most robust financial aid system. Many universities offer significant scholarships to international students based on academic merit.
- Bachelor's degree: US $26,290–$55,000 per year (tuition only)
- Masters degree: US $15,000–$55,000 per year depending on programme
- Living costs: US $12,000–$25,000 per year depending on city
- Health insurance: Typically US $1,500–$3,000 per year — often mandatory
- SEVIS fee: US $350 (one-time, paid before visa interview)
- F-1 visa fee: US $185 at the US Embassy in Abuja or Lagos
F-1 Student Visa — What You Need
- Acceptance letter (I-20 form) from a SEVP-certified US university
- Proof of sufficient funds — first year tuition and living costs in bank statements
- TOEFL minimum 80 iBT or IELTS 6.5 for most universities
- GRE or GMAT for graduate programmes (varies by programme)
- Strong ties to Nigeria — property, family, employment, business
- F-1 visa allows 20 hours/week on-campus work during term; full-time during breaks
Top Universities in the USA
- MIT, Stanford, Harvard — World's top research universities. Extremely competitive but offer massive financial aid to accepted international students.
- University of Texas at Austin — Strong engineering, business, and petroleum engineering programmes. Lower tuition than East/West coast peers.
- Georgia Tech — Top STEM university. Strong OPT conversion rates in tech industry.
- University of Houston — Nigeria's most popular US university destination. Strong petroleum engineering and business. Large Nigerian alumni community.
- Arizona State University — One of the most accessible top research universities. Strong scholarship packages for international students.
- University of Southern California (USC) — Offers over US $640 million in scholarships and financial aid annually.
Exams Required for US Universities
- TOEFL — Most US universities accept TOEFL iBT. Target 100+ for top programmes, 80+ for most others. Contact Romeo Express for preparation support.
- IELTS — Accepted as alternative at most US universities. Target 6.5–7.0. Get prep support →
- GRE — Required for most Masters and PhD programmes. Target 310+ composite. Get prep support →
- GMAT — Required for MBA programmes. Target 640+ for competitive schools. Get prep support →
- SAT — Required for undergraduate admissions at most US universities. Target 1200+ for strong applications. Get prep support →