Fees & Costs
Visa Fees
To study at an American boarding school, international students must obtain an F-1 student visa, which allows them to enrol in full-time academic programmes in the United States.
The F-1 visa is the most common type for international students and is specifically designed for long-term study. The application process begins once the student receives a Form I-20 from their chosen school, which confirms their acceptance and enrolment.
As of 2025, the SEVIS fee (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) is $350, and the visa application fee is $185. On October 1st 2025, the US introduced the Visa Integrity Fee for non-immigrant visa applicants. This fee applies to international students and is set at $250, taking overall visa costs to $785. As with many things, visa regulations move quickly, so it is vital for families to stay up-to-date.
It's important for families to plan ahead for these fees and ensure all documentation is submitted accurately and on time. Having the correct visa in place is essential not only for legal entry into the USA, but also for maintaining a smooth and uninterrupted boarding school experience.
Tuition
Tuition and boarding fees vary widely based on school prestige, location, and facilities. On average:
Annual tuition and boarding fees range from $40,000 to $70,000, though some elite schools may charge upwards of $80,000 per year.
Additional costs include uniforms, textbooks, travel expenses, extracurricular fees, and personal items.
Financial aid, scholarships, and payment plans may be available but are competitive and vary by school.
Families should budget carefully and inquire early about financial assistance options.
Health Insurance
Health insurance for international students is a vital consideration when enrolling at American boarding schools. International pupils studying in the USA must have appropriate medical cover to ensure access to healthcare throughout their time abroad.
Without reliable health insurance, the cost of medical treatment in the United States can be extremely high, placing unnecessary financial strain on students and their families.
A comprehensive student health insurance plan typically covers routine doctor visits, emergency care, prescriptions and specialist treatment, offering peace of mind and practical protection.
Most international students can expect to pay between $1,200 and $2,400 per year for health insurance, depending on the provider and the extent of the cover.
Securing the right health insurance policy is not just a requirement for study in the USA, but a key part of safeguarding a student's wellbeing during their boarding school experience.
Top Tips
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- Visa costs and requirements can be subject to sudden changes. Please check before applying.
- Account for currency exchange: Keep an eye on exchange rates, or consider opening a USD account to avoid surprises in payment amounts.
- Some schools offer termly or monthly payment plans. These can help ease the financial burden.
More About Studying at US Boarding Schools
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