Estimated Costs

• Public Universities: Typically range from $10,000 to $30,000 per year for international students. These institutions usually offer lower tuition fees for in-state students, but international students do not qualify for this reduced rate.

• Private Universities: Tuition fees at private universities generally range from $30,000 to $50,000 or more per year, often depending on the prestige and location of the school.

• Specialised Programs (e.g., Business, Medicine, Law): These programs can range from $40,000 to $80,000 or more annually, depending on the university and the program.

Additional Costs to Consider

In addition to tuition, international students should be prepared for other essential expenses:

• Living Costs: Depending on the city or town where you study, living expenses can range from $10,000 to $20,000 per year. Cities like New York or San Francisco tend to be more expensive, while smaller cities may offer more affordable options.

  Please note- for visa purposes (I-20), you must prove you have funds to cover the federally required minimum living cost amount, which is set annually by each university.

• Health Insurance: Health insurance is often a requirement for international students and can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $3,500 per year, depending on the university and the plan you choose.

• Travel Costs: Flights, visa application fees, and transportation costs within the U.S. should also be factored into your budget. Travel costs can vary depending on where you are from, but students often return home during the summer or holidays, which adds to the cost.

• Books and Supplies: Depending on your program, textbooks and course materials can range from $500 to $1,500 per year.

• Miscellaneous Expenses: This includes things like personal expenses, leisure activities, and phone bills. It’s a good idea to budget around $1,000–$2,000 per year for this.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

While tuition fees in the U.S. can be high, there are opportunities for financial assistance:

• Scholarships: Some universities offer merit-based scholarships for international students, which can cover partial or full tuition. These scholarships are competitive, so it’s important to research and apply early. Many private universities offer more scholarship opportunities than public ones.

• University-Specific Financial Aid: Some schools provide need-based financial aid to international students. However, this is less common, and the amount of aid offered can vary widely between institutions.

• External Scholarships: There are also external scholarships available from various organisations, including government programs (such as the Fulbright Program), private foundations, and international student organisations. These are often highly competitive, so it’s essential to start researching early and apply to as many as possible.

• On-Campus Employment: International students on F-1 visas are generally allowed to work on campus for up to 20 hours per week during term time. This can help supplement living expenses, though it’s unlikely to cover tuition costs. Additionally, after the first academic year, students may be eligible for off-campus work in certain, strict circumstances. These are almost always directly linked to their field of study and require formal authorisation- the CPT (Curricular Practical Training), for example, or the OPT (Optional Practical Training).

Payment Plans and Loans

• Payment Plans: Many U.S. universities offer instalment payment plans, allowing students and their families to pay tuition in monthly instalments rather than in a lump sum at the start of the academic year. This can ease the financial burden and help manage expenses over time.

• Student Loans: International students are typically not eligible for U.S. federal student loans. However, some private lenders may offer loans to international students if they have a U.S. co-signer. It’s important to carefully consider this option and fully understand the terms of any loan agreement.