Why studying abroad in the USA should be on your bucket list

Exterior shot of JMU

Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity. You will meet new people, develop valuable life skills and benefit from excellent graduate career prospects. Here are just some of the reasons why the U.S. is a popular study destination for international students.

Reasons to study abroad in the USA

Excellent graduate job prospects

Graduates have excellent job opportunities in the USA due to their highly regarded degrees and the work experience gained during their studies. 

During your studies at James Madison University, you will create a personal career development plan, ensuring that you graduate not only with a globally recognized degree but also with the right skills to secure a fantastic job in your chosen career. You will also be developing valuable transferrable skills, such as problem-solving and analytical thinking, which are sought after by employers.

Having prior work experience is invaluable when it comes to the graduate job market. Employers often seek candidates who already have some work experience. At JMU, you will have the opportunity to gain this work experience through internships and placements. JMU has dedicated resources to help international students find internships through curricular practical training (CPT). Another option is optional practical training (OPT), which you can choose to do in your own time. 

International students are also able to work in the USA while they study to gain experience or help cover expenses. To do so, you must be enrolled in a full-time program and have a F-1 student visa. You cannot work more than 20 hours a week during term time, even if you wish to work extra, unpaid hours. Outside of term time, international students can work up to 40 hours per week. It is important that you work with JMU's International Student Services when seeking employment so that you can maintain your visa status.

High-quality education

The US is home to some of the best universities in the world and is known for its high standard of education. Many US universities, such as JMU, have reputations for providing world-leading research, top-quality teaching and state-of-the-art facilities. By choosing higher education in the USA, you will be at the forefront of high-quality academia. 

Improve your English language skills

Developing your English language skills is invaluable when it comes to your graduate career prospects.

If you are enrolled in a pathway program at JMU, you will have dedicated core modules in speaking, writing and reading English. You will also naturally develop these skills through everyday tasks such as talking to native English speakers and attending campus events. If you are directly enrolled at JMU, you have access to resources to support your English as a second language skills through Multilingual Student Services.

Many businesses across the world use English, and employers are looking for applicants who are confident in speaking and writing it. 

Experience campus life: live in a multicultural environment

The US is home to many cultures and has a long history of welcoming international students to study at its universities. This offers exciting opportunities to learn new languages and meet people from a variety of backgrounds. 

On campus at JMU, you can make new friends, join one (or more) of the 450+ student clubs and organizations or take part in the many events and activities taking place. There are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in campus life, while also getting to know your fellow students. 

Benefit from international student support

At the James Madison International Study Center, you will receive support during your program to help you prepare to progress to degree-level study with the confidence to succeed. 

Our student support staff will help you grow comfortable living and studying in America, understanding different cultural practices and meeting new people. These will help you develop soft skills such as communication and teamwork, which are important for your future career. 

Once you progress from the ISC, or if you enter the university as a direct admission student, you will continue to have access to support services throughout JMU's Student Success Center. This is a 250,000-square-feet hub of resources and centers, with nearly 300 faculty and staff offices and 25 university functions to help students succeed.

Study at James Madison University

To study in the USA, choose James Madison University, the #151 best national university in the USA (U.S. News & World Report, 2023).

JMU offers the advantages of a large public university with the feel of a small, friendly community. The University is dedicated to offering an unforgettable study experience by combining the very best of American education and college life. 

International Year

The International Year at the International Study Center is your route to an undergraduate degree at JMU. 

The program gives international students dedicated academic and English language support through university-style teaching. There are multiple semester lengths to choose from depending on your current academic and English language level. 

By successfully completing the International Year, you will progress to your chosen undergraduate degree at James Madison University.

Direct Admission

If you meet the English and academic requirements, you may be eligible to enroll directly into James Madison University as an undergraduate student without attending the ISC. 

The process to enroll at JMU is fast and simple. To apply, fill out our online application form. If you don’t have everything you need right now, you can save your application and return to it later. 

Learn more about the entry requirements and fees for the International Year and Direct Admission to JMU.

FAQs

Why should I study abroad in the USA?

There are many benefits of studying abroad. The USA has a renowned higher education system that is known for its high quality. There are also opportunities to gain work experience while you study, which is invaluable when it comes to graduate job prospects.  

Which degree is best to study in the USA?

The best degree to study depends on your personal interests and career goals. By choosing a subject you are interested in, you will be motivated to learn and find studying enjoyable. 

Which jobs are in demand in the USA?

The most in-demand jobs in the U.S. are:

  • Software developer
  • Registered nurse
  • Data scientist
  • Financial manager
  • Construction manager
  • Teacher