St. Thomas Aquinas College

Why St. Thomas Aquinas College is Popular Among Indian Students

St. Thomas Aquinas College (STAC), nestled in the scenic Hudson Valley just 30 minutes from New York City, has become a top choice for Indian students aspiring to study in the USA. With its affordable tuition, personalized education, and strong focus on career readiness, STAC offers a welcoming environment tailored for international scholars. For Indian students targeting the next intake in Fall 2024 or Spring 2025, STAC stands out for its diverse programs in high-demand fields like business, technology, and healthcare—perfect for building a global career. Whether you're from Mumbai, Delhi, or Bangalore, STAC's supportive community and proximity to NYC's opportunities make it an ideal launchpad for your American dream.

Popular Academic Programs for Indian Students

STAC's curriculum emphasizes practical skills and interdisciplinary learning, aligning well with the aspirations of Indian students who seek STEM-designated programs for OPT extensions and employability in the US job market. The college offers over 70 majors and minors, with small class sizes (average 15-20 students) ensuring individualized attention from faculty. Here's a breakdown of the most sought-after programs:

• Business Administration (B.S. in Management): Ideal for Indian commerce graduates. This AACSB-accredited program covers finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship, with real-world projects and internships in NYC firms. Many Indian alumni secure roles at companies like Deloitte or JPMorgan, leveraging STAC's 95% placement rate within six months of graduation.
• Computer Science and Information Technology: A STEM program perfect for tech-savvy students from IITs or engineering backgrounds in India. Focus on cybersecurity, software development, and data analytics prepares you for H-1B visas. STAC's partnerships with tech hubs in NYC provide hands-on coding bootcamps and co-op opportunities.
• Nursing and Health Sciences (B.S.N.): In high demand due to US healthcare shortages. Indian students with science backgrounds appreciate the clinical rotations at top hospitals like Mount Sinai. The program boasts a 100% NCLEX pass rate, opening doors to green card pathways via EB-3 visas.
• Education (B.S. in Childhood Education): For those passionate about teaching, this program offers certification for US K-12 schools. With India's growing education sector ties, STAC grads often return as global educators or pursue advanced degrees.
• Liberal Arts with Concentrations in Media and Communications: Great for creative minds from India's film and digital industries. Courses in digital journalism and graphic design include portfolio-building, with access to NYC's media scene for internships at outlets like CNN or BuzzFeed.

Graduate options like the M.B.A. and M.S. in Education are also popular, with flexible online/hybrid formats suiting working professionals. For the next intake, apply early to secure spots in these competitive programs—STAC's acceptance rate is around 80%, making it accessible yet selective.

Scholarships and Financial Aid Tailored for Indian Students

Affordability is a key draw for Indian families. STAC's total cost (tuition + living) is about $45,000 annually—lower than many US peers—plus generous aid packages. International students, including Indians, can access:

Over 90% of international students receive aid. For the upcoming intake, submit your financial documents early via the Common App or STAC portal to maximize funding—many Indians reduce costs to under $20,000 net.

Support Services for a Smooth Transition

STAC's Office of International Programs is dedicated to helping Indian students navigate US life. From airport pickups at JFK to orientation sessions on cultural adjustment, they cover it all. Key supports include:

1. Visa Guidance: Free I-20 issuance and F-1 visa interview prep, with a 95% success rate for Indian applicants. Tips on SEVIS fees and DS-160 forms are provided via webinars targeted at Indian time zones.
2. Academic Advising: Bridge programs for those adapting from Indian curricula, including English language support if needed (TOEFL/IELTS waivers for high scorers).
3. Cultural Integration: Indian Student Association hosts Diwali celebrations, Holi events, and Bollywood nights. With 10% international enrollment (many from India), you'll find a home away from home.
4. Career Services: Resume workshops for US formats, mock interviews, and job fairs with 200+ employers. STAC's alumni network includes 500+ Indians in tech and finance roles across the US.

The college's 95-acre campus features modern dorms, a fitness center, and diverse dining (including vegetarian/Indian options), fostering a safe, inclusive vibe ranked highly by Niche.com for student satisfaction.

Location Advantages and Career Prospects

Located in Sparkill, NY, STAC offers the best of suburban peace with urban access. Commute to NYC via train for internships at Google, Amazon, or Wall Street—essential for Indian students eyeing OPT/CPT. The Hudson Valley's growing tech corridor (e.g., IBM nearby) provides local opportunities too. Post-graduation, STAC's career outcomes shine: average starting salary of $50,000, with 85% of internationals extending stays via work visas.

Real Stories from Indian Alumni: Rahul from Hyderabad (B.S. Computer Science '22) now works at Microsoft in NYC, crediting STAC's internships. Priya from Chennai (M.B.A. '23) launched her startup with NYC connections, thanks to STAC's entrepreneurship center.

For Indian students gearing up for the next US intake, St. Thomas Aquinas College combines quality education, financial support, and vibrant opportunities. Don't miss deadlines—apply by June 1 for Fall 2024 to join this thriving community and kickstart your success in America!