How to choose where to study in the United States

The United States continues to top the list of destinations for international students and for good reason. With over a third of the world’s top 100 universities and a higher education system with the largest selection of degree programs & career paths available, the US offers international students exceptional opportunities.

But beyond rankings and course offerings, there’s one major decision every prospective student faces: where exactly in the US should you study?

From bustling metropolises to cozy college towns, the options are diverse and the right choice depends on more than just academics.

To make your decision easier, consider the Three Cs: Community Size, Culture, and Climate.

Community size: Big cities or college towns?

The US is a vast and varied country, offering everything from global cities like New York and Los Angeles to mid-sized college towns like Ann Arbor or Boulder.

Larger cities offer expansive cultural experiences, global cuisines, and access to professional networks and internships. You’re more likely to find religious and cultural communities from your home country, which can help ease homesickness and build support networks. However, big cities occasionally come with a higher cost of living.
On the other hand, smaller cities and towns, especially those centered around universities can be more affordable and just as vibrant. Many international students thrive in these “college towns,” where everything revolves around campus life, where the community is welcoming and student-focused.

It’s worth researching the cost of living in different locations, as a low population size does not always directly correlate to lower costs. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average monthly budget for a single person in 2024 was just under US$5,000 but this varies widely. For instance, in a small city located in Loudoun County, Virginia near Washington DC, the monthly cost of living can exceed US$9,000. Meanwhile, in the vibrant city of Houston, Texas, home to high-demand, excellent public and private universities, with strong career opportunities, the average monthly cost of living remains under US $3,000.

Culture: What kind of student experience do you want?

College is about more than academics, it’s about how you’ll spend the next few years of your life. Ask yourself:

• Do you want to live on-campus or off-campus?
• Are you into music festivals, professional sports, or outdoor adventures?
• Will you need access to specific food or places of worship?
• Do you plan to work part-time while studying?

Your answers can help guide your decision. For example, students who thrive in intimate classroom settings may prefer a liberal arts college with smaller class sizes and more interactive learning. If you’re excited about big sporting events, look into universities in the Big Ten Conference, which balance academic and athletic life with spirited campus traditions.

Don’t forget to check out virtual tours and student fairs. These events can give you a sense of campus culture and let you ask real students about life on and off campus.

Climate: Be prepared for the weather

The US spans multiple climate zones from sunny deserts to snowy winters. Knowing what kind of weather to expect can help you prepare for your time abroad and pack wisely!

• West Coast (e.g., California, Washington): California offers sunny beaches in the south and foggy, cooler weather in San Francisco. In Washington and Oregon, the coast is rainy, while the eastern parts are much drier.
• Southwest (e.g., Arizona): Expect hot, dry days, Phoenix sees around 300 days of sunshine a year. But higher-altitude cities like Flagstaff can get chilly and even snowy.
• Southeast (e.g., Georgia, Florida): Hot and humid summers define the South. Cities like Atlanta have become academic hubs, especially for business and tech students. Make sure your housing has reliable air conditioning!
• Midwest (e.g., Michigan, Illinois): Classic “four-season” states where you’ll experience everything from leafy autumns to snowy winters. If you love seasonal variety, the Midwest is for you.
• Northeast (e.g., New York, Massachusetts, Maryland): Winters can be intense, especially further inland, but summers are warm and vibrant. Expect a mix of urban energy and historic charm.

Choosing where to study isn’t just about academics and preparing for your future career, it’s about lifestyle, community, and feeling at home in a new country. By focusing on the Three Cs, Community size, Culture, and Climate you can find a university that’s not only a great academic fit but also a place where you’ll thrive personally.

Take the time to explore your options, talk to current students, and visualize what kind of experience you want. With the right planning, studying in the United States is a life-changing journey.


(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this column are that of the writer. The facts and opinions expressed here do not reflect the views of www.economictimes.com)