Best Diploma Courses in USA for International Students

Have you ever considered heading to the land of opportunities - the USA - not for an advanced degree but for acquiring skills tailored to thrive in the job market? Pursuing a college diploma program in America can launch your career faster than you thought!

Unlike typical 4-year university degrees, diplomas serve up industry-relevant education in a short, concentrated format. We are talking about specialized training in top-of-line professional skills valued by employers worldwide. From saving lives as an Emergency Medic to creating jaw-dropping visual effects as a 3D Animator - America prepares you for these coveted careers in just 1 to 2 years!

So, if you aspire to fast-track your career goals through highly practical education, then stellar diploma courses in the USA for international students promise rewarding experiences!

Why Study Diploma Courses in the USA?

There are many reasons to study in the USA, especially diploma courses but some of the key benefits of pursuing a diploma course in the USA include:

1. Specialized job-oriented curriculum with a focus on practical skills

2. Option to work part-time during studies and gain work experience

3. Opportunity to stay back up to one year after studies for work training

4. Learn cutting-edge technologies and innovations used in the industry

5. Enjoy a culturally diverse environment on college campuses

6. Diplomas take less time and money to complete than degrees

Top 10 Diploma Courses in the USA for International Students

With excellent career prospects and high salaries, diploma programs in fields like information technology, healthcare, business, and design top the charts among international students in the USA. Below are some top diploma courses in the USA for international students:

1. Diploma in Computer and Information Systems Security

2. Diploma in Mobile Application Development

3. Diploma in Network Administration

4. Diploma in Computer Game Design & Animation

5. Diploma in Business Administration

6. PG Diploma in Big Data Technologies

7. Diploma in Cyber Forensics and Information Security

8. Diploma in Computer Programming

9. PG Diploma in Marketing Management

10. Diploma in Medical Assisting

Eligibility Criteria to Study Diploma Courses in the USA

Many different types of diploma courses in the USA have specific eligibility criteria to be followed. Below are some of the criteria to be taken into consideration while applying for diploma courses in the USA.

1. Academic Eligibility

a. Completion of 10+2 or equivalent secondary/high school level education

b. Minimum percentage criteria may apply, e.g. 60% or Grade B in relevant subjects

c. Some programs have higher cut-offs for math & science subjects

2. English Language Proficiency

a. Taking standardized tests like TOEFL or IELTS to prove English fluency is mandatory

b. Accepted test scores - TOEFL score of 60-78 or IELTS band of 5.5 - 6.5

3. Prior Experience/Portfolios

a. Diplomas in fields like animation, arts, and design may require relevant experience

b. Graphic design diploma applicants are expected to submit creative portfolios

c. IT diplomas can prefer demonstration of programming knowledge

4. Standardized Test Scores

a. Few colleges accept SAT, ACT or ACCUPLACER scores for admission consideration

b. Applicants have to ensure they meet college-specific score requirements

5. Letters of Recommendation

a. LORs from professors, employers or mentors are preferred

b. Demonstrates the applicant’s talents, strengths and abilities

6. Statement of Purpose

a. Essay explaining goals interests in the chosen diploma program

b. Assesses writing skills and serious of career ambitions

Top 10 Universities for Diploma Courses in USA for International Students

There are wide range of universities in USA but below is a list of top universities for diploma courses in USA for international students:

1. New York University

Location: New York City

QS World Ranking: 38

Top Diploma Courses Available: Digital Media, Business Analytics, Hotel Management

2. Dallas Community College

Location: Dallas, Texas

QS World Ranking: NA

Top Diploma Courses Available: Information Technology, Health Information Technology, Cybersecurity

3. Manhattan College

Location: New York City

QS World Ranking: NA

Top Diploma Courses Available: Cybersecurity, Business Management, Engineering Technology

4. Northeastern University

Location: Boston, Massachusetts

QS World Ranking: 375

Top Diploma Courses Available: Paramedical Science, Cybersecurity, Technology Management

5. Ashworth College

Location: Georgia

QS World Ranking: NA

Top Diploma Courses Available: Marketing, Finance, Human Resources, Education

6. Cornell University

Location: Ithaca, New York

QS World Ranking: 13

Top Diploma Courses Available: Computer Programming, Business Administration, Hospitality Operations

7. DeVry University

Location: Chicago, Illinois

QS World Ranking: NA

Top Diploma Courses Available: Electronics & Computer Technology, Technical Management, Accounting

8. University of Pennsylvania

Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

QS World Ranking: 12

Top Diploma Courses Available: Technology, Paralegal, Dental Hygiene, Real Estate Management

9. The University of Minnesota - Twin Cities

Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota

QS World Ranking: 195

Top Diploma Courses Available: Game Design, Business Management, Engineering Technology

10. Santa Monica College

Location: Santa Monica, California

QS World Ranking: NA

Top Diploma Courses Available: Graphic Design, Fashion Merchandising, Nursing Assistant, Cosmetology

How to Apply for Diploma Courses in the USA for International Students?

Securing admission to a diploma program at a U.S. university or college requires adhering to the right steps. Below is a step-by-step guide for diploma courses in the USA for international students.

Step 1: Research Programs & Shortlist Colleges

a. Decide your specialization and research well-ranked colleges

b. Compare program curriculum, fees, scholarships, placements etc.

c. Shortlist 5-6 colleges offering your chosen diploma

Step 2: Prepare Application Documents

a. Academic transcripts - 10th, 12th mark sheets

b. English proficiency test scores - IELTS/TOEFL

c. Resume highlighting extracurricular achievements

d. Statement of Purpose customized for each college

e. Letters of recommendation (optional but recommended)

f. Updated passport-size photographs

g. Portfolio (for creative courses)

Step 3: Submit Online Applications

a. Visit college websites and submit the application form online

b. Provide personal, academic and contact details

c. Upload necessary documents

d. Pay the application fee online or demand a draft

Step 4: Follow-up Post Application

a. Check email regularly for communication

b. Respond to interview calls or additional document requests

c. Inquire about application status if awaited beyond the standard timeline

Step 5: Apply for Student Visa

a. Once admission is confirmed, apply for an F1 visa

b. Provide financial and university admission documents

c. Attend visa interview to demonstrate ties to the homeland

Read our comprehensive guide to know more about USA student visas.

Cost of Studying Diploma Courses in USA

Opting for a diploma program at a U.S. university is a significant choice, entailing various financial aspects. From entrance exam fees to tuition and living expenses, costs accumulate swiftly. Here's a detailed list of universities based on the cost of studying for diploma courses in the USA.

Cost of Living in USA

While pursuing diploma courses in the USA can be costly, numerous student funding options exist to ease the financial burden. Implementing smart money-saving strategies allows you to make the most of your study abroad experience. Here are some tips for effectively managing your finances during your time in America.

1. Accommodation - $800 to $1,500 per month for student housing near campus

2. Utilities - $150 to $250 per month for electricity, internet, cell phone bills

3. Groceries - $300 to $450 per month by smart shopping

4. Transportation - Public transport fees plus rental costs if having a car

5. Gasoline - $100 to $200 per month based on vehicle efficiency and usage

6. Healthcare Insurance - $100 to $300 per month, depending on plan coverage

7. Eating Out - $200 to $400 per month, occasionally enjoying campus cafes

8. Entertainment - $150 to $350 per month for occasional movies, events etc.

9. Travel - $100 to $200 for domestic travel to nearby states

By choosing affordable locations, budgeting wisely, availing subsidies and part-time earnings, the cost of living in the USA for diploma students can be managed between $1,500 to $2,000 per month.

Scholarships to Study Diploma Courses in USA for International Students

To make your studying diploma courses in the USA more affordable, we have listed some of the top scholarships in the USA that will help you reduce your financial burden for studying overseas.

1. Huawei Technologies USA ICT Competition Scholarship

Amount: $25,000

Eligibility: It requires strong academic background international students

2. Google Lime Scholarship

Amount: $10,000

Eligibility: Female, minority background students

3. Society of Women Engineers Scholarship

Amount: $8,000

Eligibility: Women diploma students with 3.5+ GPA

4. PEO International Peace Scholarship

Amount: $10,000

Eligibility: Female diploma students showing leadership skills

5. Laurel Hummel Scholarship for International Students 

Amount: $1650 every quarter

Eligibility: F-1 visa, international students, at least 3.0 GPA, and completed 12 units in the diploma course

6. Ingrid Skulstad Williams Scholarship for Women

Amount: NA

Eligibility: For women only and pursuing PG education 

Job Opportunities after Diploma Courses in USA

With a diploma from the American continent, abundant job prospects await. These shorter-duration courses yield a substantial return on investment with the annual salaries. Below are some potential job options and their approximate salary range over a year.

With coveted credentials from American institutions at your disposal in just 1-2 years, your global career potential knows no bounds! These specialized training programs deliver the exact skills employers desire - be it fluency in the latest technologies like AI or human-centered capabilities like elder care.

So, while your peers enroll in lengthier university degrees of unsure outcomes, you get to plunge into lucrative IT and healthcare jobs with $60K+ salaries right after diploma completion. And that too with lesser investments of time and money compared to degrees. The only demands are your appetite to apply learning and a vision to impact communities practically. When opportunities for fast-track success come calling, grab them! So, if you hear diplomas in the USA whispering your name, it’s time to apply!