For study and work opportunities, the USA is a popular choice, with its esteemed universities and a stable economy. Every year, four million IELTS tests are booked worldwide by people with dreams of succeeding abroad.

If you’re planning to apply for an opportunity in the USA, there are a few things to consider like where to stay and what kind of opportunities to expect. Read more below and don’t forget to book your IELTS test!

Location is key

For students

The city you will study in depends on the course you are choosing. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Boston is world renowned for scientific and technology training, while Yale School of Medicine in Connecticut is among the best in the world.

Post-graduate opportunities relevant to your degree should also be considered. Living in a big city might make it easier to find business and technology internships and work experience, while more remote areas can offer research and agriculture related opportunities.

To apply to study in the USA, you will need to take an IELTS Academic test, which is accepted by universities across the country. Find out from the institution you plan to apply to what the IELTS band score requirement is for your course.

For professionals  

There are opportunities for international professionals across the USA, from healthcare to education, marketing and more. You can read more about which industries are hiring here. Also consider things like the cost of living and getting around between work and home while living abroad.

While states like New York offer incredible work opportunities, living in the big city is much more expensive than Denver or Austin. Public transport costs differ across cities and while taking the subway in some areas is the sensible option, bicycles in small neighbourhoods and a car in some cases may be worth investing in, depending on how long you plan to stay.

IELTS is accepted by 12500 organisations across the world, making it the ideal English test to take if you’re planning to find work experience in the USA. Click here to book your IELTS test with the British Council.

American culture

For students

While movies might present an exaggerated idea of American student life, you are still in for an unforgettable experience! Students across the country are enthusiastically involved in sports and cultural activities, making it easy to get into the spirit of varsity. Join a club and you’re bound to immerse yourself in American culture in no time.

Your IELTS test will require preparation for English Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening. Our IELTS preparation material offers a great way to boost your confidence as well as your IELTS band score.

For professionals

While big cities come alive at night and smaller towns have beautiful natural sights to take in, the USA has something to offer everyone. Each city has their own signature dish, from the famous deep-dish pizzas of Chicago to Florida’s Key Lime Pie. Team spirit is also alive across the USA and sports like baseball, basketball and American football are incredibly popular.

The USA is among the top destinations for international professionals, making it likely you will meet people from all over the world during your time there. Preparing for IELTS is a great way to improve your communication skills before you move to a multicultural city.

Opportunities in the USA

For students

Use your time abroad to gain global work experience while you study. After your first year of study, your student visa allows you to gain work experience related to your course, off campus with certain limitations. Read more on the US Citizenship and Immigration Services website here.

Your IELTS test will also form part of your visa application requirements for studying abroad. Book your IELTS test with us in just four calendar days.

For professionals

Whether you’re looking for a few years of work experience or planning to settle down abroad with your family, the USA offers so much to see and do. Cities like Los Angeles and Houston can be inspiring with their magnificent sights and rich cultural history – imagine starting your career where some of the world’s greatest have?

With IELTS, a career in the USA or any English-speaking country of your choice becomes possible. Make your move with the co-owners of IELTS and register here.