Student life in the USA

Culture and student life in the USA

The USA is a popular choice among international students due to its world-class academics, strong economy, and global exposure. The country is home to Silicon Valley and many other leading industries and offers abundant career opportunities to its graduates. 

With a multicultural environment, top-ranked universities, and innovative teaching methodologies that encourage free thinking, the USA ensures to maximise your overall development. 

Here are a few key insights about the USA:

Moving to a new country is a big change in many ways: geographically, culturally, and psychologically. So, if you're concerned about student life in the USA, it’s likely that you'll have concerns about various other aspects as well. No worries. Our experts have sorted it out for you in the table below. Click on the topics you’re interested in and get the much-needed information you’re looking for.

The USA has students from all over the world and offers a culturally rich environment that enhances your personal growth. University campuses provide an inclusive atmosphere where you can express yourself, connect with a diverse crowd, and reach your full potential.

Discover the culture in the USA

With a diverse population of 340 million people from over 180 countries, the USA offers rich cultural diversity that influences all aspects of life, including education and social interactions. The common language is American English, but you can also find over 350 languages spoken, including Spanish, Arabic, German, French, and Russian.

Understanding the diverse cultural landscape of the USA will help you make the most out of your student life and gain a global outlook. 

Take a look at the key insights into the culture of the USA.

Food and traditions

The USA offers a variety of cuisines from traditional American dishes to international cuisines, making it easy for international students to feel at home. Traditional American food varies by region and is known for being comforting. 

Popular choices include hamburgers and hot dogs, apple pie, and macaroni and cheese. In New England, you can try out seafood dishes, while the southern states are famous for barbecue, stews, and fried chicken.

Apart from traditional American dishes, you can explore diverse food options at numerous international restaurants and eateries. Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Thai restaurants serving noodles and authentic regional dishes are available in plenty. 

You’ll also find several Indian restaurants with vegetarian options and Latin American restaurants serving Mexican and South American food. In addition, there are several speciality stores with diverse options of Asian or Middle Eastern food products, allowing you to try new tastes and also enjoy familiar dishes from your home country. 

Important festivals

The USA hosts numerous festivals ranging from major national celebrations to lively regional ones. These festivals are vibrant with fun, food, music, parades, and social gatherings, offering international students the opportunity to experience diverse cultures and socialise. Independence Day in July, which marks the anniversary of the USA, is celebrated with fireworks, parades, and patriotic displays. Throughout the year, you can engage in powwows celebrated by Native American communities, which feature traditional dances and music. 

New Year’s Eve in Times Square is another exciting event where around 1 million people gather to celebrate. Thanksgiving, the harvest festival, takes place in November with large meals featuring turkey, pumpkin pie, and stuffing, along with public events and marching bands. Halloween is a fun-filled festival in October, where you can carve pumpkins and visit haunted attractions. 

One of the most colourful festivals is the New Orleans Mardi Gras, celebrated from January to March with colourful parades, music, and the throwing of Mardi Gras beads. 

Other popular events and festivals include Super Bowl Sunday, Sundance Film Festival, Comic-Con International, the Burning Man Festival, and more. These festivals highlight the rich cultural diversity of the USA and provide you with excellent opportunities to connect and explore.

Etiquette

An understanding of the accepted social behaviours in a region can help you manage your student life, both at the university and outside. Americans respect personal space and prefer direct communication. Maintain politeness in your interactions and use respectful language such as “please”, “thank you”, and “sorry” in conversations. When you meet a person for the first time, it’s considered polite to greet them, and if in a professional setting, a handshake. 

While you meet strangers, it’s perfectly fine to engage in casual, small talk. Remember, it’s considered rude to interrupt while another person is talking. So, during conversations, wait for a natural pause before you share your opinion. Making eye contact is important as it shows that you are involved in the conversation. 

Americans also value punctuality. Ensure that you arrive on time for your classes, meetings, or other social events. 

While eating with others, following table manners is essential. Before eating, wait for everyone else to be served. Also, remember to stay at the table till everyone has finished. When waiting in places like stores, bus stops, or events, always wait your turn in line. In addition, holding the door open if there are others behind you is considered a respectful gesture in social settings.

Travel

The USA has numerous popular tourist destinations and attracts tourists from all over the world. There are plenty of exciting places rich in culture, heritage, arts, and recreation for you to explore during your student life. The Times Square and the Statue of Liberty in New York City, the Grand Canyon in Arizona, and the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco are a few must-visit attractions. 

You can have fun at Walt Disney World in Florida and learn about the country’s culture from the monuments and museums in Washington, D.C. Other popular attractions include Hollywood, the Getty Center, Millennium Park, Space Needle, Mount Rainier, and the Country Music Hall of Fame.

International students find it easy to travel in the USA due to its excellent public transport system. They may vary across different cities, but typically include metros and subways. Buses are also common and considered a cost-effective option for travelling locally. 

You can also take streetcars and light rail. For shorter trips, facilities such as taxis and ride-sharing services are available. In addition, bike-sharing and electric scooters are available in many cities to support short-distance travel.

Healthcare

An understanding of the healthcare system in the USA will help you plan your medical expenses wisely. It does not provide universal coverage and is a mixed system with both public and private service providers. For most healthcare expenses, you’ll have to pay out of your pocket or through health insurance. Due to the rising medical costs, universities require international students to take health insurance before enrolling in the course. The insurance typically covers doctors’ fees, medicines, hospital stays, and emergency care.

The health insurance requirement varies based on your student visa. For an F-1 visa, the health insurance is enforced by the university and not by the U.S. Department of State. However, for a J-1 visa, the Department of State requires you to maintain a specified insurance coverage, which is usually a minimum medical benefit of USD 100,000. If you’re bringing your family members with you, they will also be subject to the requirements specified by the U.S. Department of State. 

You can use on-campus health centres for routine check-ups or choose affordable walk-in clinics. There are also options for remote consultations through telehealth services.

Make the most out of your student life

Universities in the USA offer multicultural campuses with a lively and inclusive environment. From arts to sports and culture, there are plenty of activities to engage in and maximise your growth. In addition, the USA has cities with diverse traditions and cultures to explore. 

Its prosperous economy also provides plenty of part-time job opportunities, which you can use to gain work experience and support your finances. During your time at the university, take advantage of various clubs and societies and also make time to explore nearby places. This will give you maximum exposure and support your growth academically, personally, and professionally.

Working while studying

International students are allowed to work while studying, subject to visa regulations. If you are on an F1 visa, you can take up part-time work on campus up to 20 hours per week. During holidays and breaks, you’re allowed to work full-time. If you wish to apply for a part-time job, consult your institution’s Designated School Official, who can provide you with the authorisation and also guide you on available vacancies. On-campus jobs may include roles in the library, bookstore, or cafeteria.

You can take up off-campus work only if you are through programmes such as Curricular Practical Training or Optional Practical Training. Working without authorisation may be considered a violation of visa guidelines.

Accommodation

International students in the USA can choose from both on-campus and off-campus accommodation options. On-campus options include residence halls and dormitories, which are usually convenient, safe, and affordable. Private housing available off-campus includes homestays, private apartments, and shared housing. You can also choose specialised student housing complexes that are student-friendly with all necessary amenities for a comfortable stay. 

Most universities support you in finding suitable accommodation through their university housing offices. You can also find secure accommodation through trusted housing platforms.

Tips to settle down faster

The USA has students from all over the world, making it easy for you to find like-minded people and make friends. Be open to the cultural diversity in the country and embrace differences. Most universities have several student groups and clubs with a range of activities happening throughout the year. Participate in campus activities as they will enhance your growth and provide you with opportunities for socialisation. 

Find time to explore the local surroundings. This will help you increase connections, develop a sense of belonging, learn more about the people and culture, and settle down easily.

Here are a few good tips to help you adapt quickly.

Final thoughts

Student life in the USA is a unique blend of academic excellence, multicultural exposure, a variety of extracurricular activities, and abundant personal and professional growth opportunities. The country’s world-class universities, vibrant campuses, and strong industry connections maximise your overall growth. If you're seriously considering the USA for your higher studies, we have a good number of partner universities where you can apply for your preferred courses.

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Frequently asked questions

How is student life in the USA?

Student life in the USA is a rewarding experience where you can explore diverse cultures, build connections, and also excel academically through the country’s world-class education system. You can also work while studying and maximise your professional growth.

Is the USA safe for foreign students?

Yes, the USA is a safe country for international students. Universities focus on student safety and have an excellent support system and resources to enhance your comfort. However, safety might also depend on the location. It’s advised to be aware of your surroundings and utilise the support system provided by your institution for a safe experience.

What is the culture like in the USA?

Culture in the USA places high emphasis on individualism, equality, and independence. With a diverse population, open communication, and informal interactions, the USA provides an environment where you can express yourself freely.