Popular courses in the USA for international students

The most popular courses in the USA for international students are computer science, data science, business analytics, information systems, engineering and cybersecurity. Biotechnology, public health and MBA programs are also common choices, especially for students from India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Pakistan and the Philippines. Many students choose STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) courses because a STEM degree can give up to 36 months of work in the USA after graduation.

This page explains the popular fields, which ones usually qualify for STEM OPT as at November 2026, and how to choose a course for the right reasons.

Popular fields of study in the USA

The table shows popular fields, the usual degrees, and whether the field usually sits on the official STEM list. The list is the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List, last updated on 22 July 2024. We checked it in November 2026. The final answer always depends on the exact program code, not the course name.

For an explanation of degree levels, credits and GPA, see our guide to the US education system.

Computer science, data and cybersecurity

A master's degree (MS) in computer science, data science or business analytics is one of the most common choices for graduates from South Asia. Many expect a bachelor's degree in a related field and a GPA of about 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Some ask for programming or maths subjects, so check the prerequisites before you apply.

Engineering

Electrical, mechanical, civil, industrial and computer engineering are popular at both bachelor's and master's level. Because engineering is one of the four core STEM areas, all engineering programs are on the list. Many programs no longer require the GRE, but some still do, so check each one.

Business and STEM MBA programs

Business is still popular, but a general MBA does not qualify for STEM OPT. Some universities offer a STEM-designated MBA or master's in management that uses a listed code such as management science. These programs have more quantitative content, such as analytics and statistics. Choose one only if you want that content, not only for the code.

Health and life sciences

Biotechnology, bioinformatics and public health attract many science graduates. Nursing, pharmacy and medicine are different. These jobs need a US state licence, and the routes for international graduates are long. US medical degrees (MD) are rarely open to international students.

What STEM designation means for work after study

As at November 2026, an F-1 student can get up to 12 months of OPT for each higher degree level. OPT is work that relates directly to your major. If your degree is on the STEM list, you can apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, giving up to 36 months in total. A later, higher STEM degree can give a second extension.

For STEM OPT, your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify, and you and your employer must sign a Form I-983 training plan. You have up to 90 days of unemployment during OPT and 150 days in total across OPT and STEM OPT. Our F-1 student visa page explains OPT applications, fees and timing.

How to check if a course is STEM-designated

Do not rely on the course name. Two programs called "Information Systems" can have different codes, and only one may qualify. Follow these steps before you accept an offer.

1. Ask for the CIP code Every program has a 6-digit Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code. Ask the university's admissions or international student office, or look on the program web page.
2. Compare it with the official list Search for the code on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List on the Study in the States website.
3. Check your Form I-20 The I-20 shows the program's CIP code. Make sure it matches the code the university told you.
4. Read the program rules Check the length, credits, internship rules and whether classes are on campus. Only one online class (3 credits) a term counts towards an undergraduate full course load.

Choose a course for genuine study

The F-1 is a temporary student visa. At the interview, the consular officer decides whether you are a genuine student with a clear study plan and ties to your home country. The officer may ask why you chose this course, this university and this level of study.

• Choose a course that builds on your earlier study or work, and be ready to explain the link.
• Check that the university is accredited and certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
• Make sure you can pay for the full program, not only the first year.
• Be careful with programs promoted mainly for "Day 1 CPT" (Curricular Practical Training from the first term). US guidance from August 2026 narrows CPT, so these programs carry high risk.
• Do not choose a course only because it is STEM-designated. OPT and STEM OPT need a job related to your major, and no one can promise you a job or a work visa.

Entry requirements and costs

Each university sets its own entry rules. Graduate programs often expect a GPA of 3.0 or above. Many master's programs now waive the GRE or GMAT, and many colleges are test-optional for the SAT or ACT. Most universities accept TOEFL iBT, IELTS Academic or the Duolingo English Test, and many accept PTE Academic. Our English test coaching can help you prepare.

For 2026-27, average published tuition and fees are USD 32,730 a year at public 4-year universities for out-of-state students and USD 46,350 at private nonprofit universities (College Board). Graduate STEM programs vary widely, so use each university's official cost estimate on its I-20 cost sheet. See the cost of studying and living in the USA and our page on scholarships.

How Immi Solution helps

Our education counsellors help you compare US universities and programs, check the CIP code and STEM status with the university, and prepare your admission application. We also help you plan funding documents for the I-20 and prepare for your F-1 interview. We explain any professional fees and give you a written estimate before paid work starts. We are not US attorneys, so we refer legal questions to a licensed US immigration attorney.