Cost to Study & living in the USA for Nepalese Students in 2025

Studying in the USA can be costly, so it’s important to explore all possible ways to fund your education. Nepalese students can seek guidance from the best consultancy in Nepal to explore scholarships, grants, student loans, and part-time jobs to help cover their expenses.

To make smart choices about how to pay for school, students should carefully look into all their options, considering their situation and future financial plans. It can be a lot to handle, but understanding financial planning and the various scholarships available is crucial.

Cost Of Living In the USA

Average Tuition Cost To Study In USA

University/College Tuition Fees

Tuition By Type of Institution

Tuition fees in the USA vary by type of institution. Public universities generally charge lower fees for domestic students but much higher, out-of-state rates for international students. 

Private colleges, on the other hand, have higher fees that are the same for both domestic and international students. Community colleges offer a more affordable option, especially for the first two years before transferring to a four-year university.

• Public Universities: International students typically pay between $20,000 and $50,000 per year.
• Private Universities: Tuition ranges from $20,000 to over $60,000 per year.
• Community Colleges: Fees for international students range from $6,000 to $25,000 per year.

Before deciding on a specific field of study, it’s important to consider the financial aspects of the chosen academic path.

Tuition By Type of Course

Science & Engineering Programs:

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs are known for their high earning potential and strong career growth opportunities. However, they also tend to be some of the most expensive programs due to the need for laboratory fees, specialized equipment, and materials. For international students, the average tuition for these programs can range between $20,000 and $50,000 per year. On top of that, students should plan to set aside additional funds to cover the cost of lab supplies and other necessary equipment.

Business and Management Programs:

Degrees in business and management, particularly MBAs, are extremely popular among students. The cost of tuition for these programs can vary significantly. At some schools, tuition can be as low as $30,000 per year, while at top-tier institutions, it can exceed $60,000 annually. In addition to tuition, students may need to budget for other expenses, such as books, case studies, and attendance at networking events, which are often crucial for building connections in the business world.

Arts and Humanities Programs:

Programs in the arts and humanities are typically less expensive, often benefiting from subsidies. Tuition for these programs usually falls between $20,000 and $40,000 per year. However, students in these fields might need to account for additional costs, such as studio fees, art supplies, and field trips, which can add to the overall expense.

Medical and Health-Related Programs:

The cost of education in medical and health-related fields varies widely depending on the program. Pre-medicine, nursing, and public health programs may have costs similar to other undergraduate degrees. However, once you move on to medical school, the expenses increase dramatically, with tuition often exceeding $50,000 per year. In addition to tuition, students must also consider the costs of diagnostic lab tools, medical devices, and insurance.

Overall, the cost of education can vary greatly depending on the field of study, so it’s crucial to understand all the potential expenses associated with your chosen program before making a decision.

Visa Costs 

When applying for a U.S. student visa (F-1), you’ll need to cover several expenses. The visa application itself costs $185, and there’s an additional SEVIS fee of $350. Travel costs can vary depending on your location and other factors.

SEVIS Fees:

SEVIS stands for Student and Exchange Visitor Information System. Once you’re accepted into a university, they will give you a SEVIS number, which will be on your I-20 form. Before you can apply for a U.S. visa, you must pay the SEVIS fee, which is $350. This fee is necessary for your participation in the SEVIS system, and it helps keep track of your status as a student in the U.S.

Visa Application Fees:

To apply for an F-1 student visa, you’ll need to pay a $185 application fee. After your visa is approved, there is also a visa issuance fee that you’ll need to pay. This fee varies depending on your country of origin and is required before you receive your visa.

Overall, the process involves multiple steps and fees, so it’s essential to be aware of all the costs involved when planning to Study in USA from Nepal

Additional Cost of Living In USA

Housing and Living expenses

Housing and living expenses vary depending on where you choose to live.

• On-Campus: Housing costs typically range from $8,000 to $12,000 per year.
• Off-Campus: Rent generally falls between $500 and $1,500 per month, depending on the location and type of housing.

Choosing between on-campus and off-campus housing can impact your overall budget. On-campus living often includes utilities, while off-campus rentals may have additional costs.

Food, Transportation, and Utilities

• Food: Monthly expenses for food typically range from $250 to $500.
• Transportation: Costs vary by location, with monthly public transportation tickets usually costing between $50 and $100.
• Utilities: For those living in off-campus apartments, utility bills generally range from $100 to $200 per month.

Managing these costs carefully can help you stay within your budget. Keep in mind that expenses might fluctuate based on your lifestyle and the city you live in.

Extra Costs of Study

Books and Academic Materials:
On average, students spend between $1,000 and $1,500 each year on textbooks and supplies, though this can vary based on your major.

Health Insurance and Medical Bills:
International students in the USA usually need health insurance, with annual premiums ranging from $500 to over $1,000 depending on the coverage.

Having health insurance is crucial for covering unexpected medical costs and ensuring access to necessary care.

Financial Planning For Students

For Nepali students with big dreams, studying in the USA offers incredible opportunities like cutting-edge research, innovation, and cultural experiences. However, it can be expensive. Costs vary based on your school, major, and location:

• Tuition Fees: These depend on whether you attend a public or private institution and where the school is located.

• Living Expenses: Includes housing (dorms, apartments), food (groceries, dining out), personal transportation (public transport, driving), utilities (electricity, water, internet), and other personal costs. Big cities like New York or Los Angeles tend to be more expensive than smaller towns.

• Additional Costs: Covers books, learning materials, health insurance, visa fees, and moving expenses.
  

Importance Of Financial Planning

Financial planning helps students prepare for tuition, housing, and personal expenses, ensuring they have enough funds for extra activities. It’s crucial for making the most of your education and investing your time and money wisely. Here’s why financial planning is key for Nepali students:

• Effective Budgeting: Helps create a clear budget by tracking income and expenses, distinguishing between needs and wants, and allocating resources properly.
• Maximize Financial Aid: By reviewing your finances and searching for scholarships, you can reduce the financial burden of studying in the USA.
• Wise Resource Management: Allows you to cut unnecessary costs, use your resources effectively, and ensure you have enough money for essential needs.
• Peace of Mind: A good financial plan provides confidence that you have a clear path to succeed academically in a new environment.

With a solid financial plan, you can handle the costs of studying in the USA with confidence and enjoy a successful educational experience.

 Key Factors Affecting Access to Education

Public Ivy League and Leading Public Universities:

Public Ivy League schools and other top public universities offer high-quality education at a more affordable price. Tuition fees for international students at these institutions typically range from $20,000 to $40,000 per year. Although financial aid might be limited initially, these schools still provide considerable resources to help students manage their expenses.

Ivy League and Elite Universities:

Top-ranked universities, including Ivy League schools, often charge tuition fees exceeding $50,000 per year. However, many students at these schools receive substantial financial aid, usually in the form of large student loans or scholarships, which can significantly reduce their net cost. This financial support makes these prestigious institutions more accessible to students who need financial assistance.

Estimating Total Cost of Attendance

• Tuition and Fees: Start by calculating the base tuition cost for your program and include any additional mandatory fees.
• Housing and Meals: Consider the cost of your chosen housing option and either a meal plan or the estimated expense of groceries if you plan to cook.
• Books and Supplies: Add in the cost of textbooks and other academic materials you’ll need for your courses.
• Health Insurance: Include the premiums for health insurance in your budget.
• Personal Expenses: Set aside money for personal needs such as transportation, clothing, and entertainment.
• Travel: Factor in the cost of travel to and from the U.S., as well as any trips you may take while studying abroad.

Scholarships and Grants:

Scholarships and grants are highly sought after because, unlike loans, they do not need to be repaid.

University Scholarships:

• Availability: Many U.S. universities offer scholarships for international students, which can cover a significant portion of tuition costs.
• Criteria: Scholarships can be awarded based on various criteria, including academic merit, financial need, leadership qualities, field of study, or even the student’s country of origin.

Other Scholarships & Fellowships:

• Resources: Websites like EducationUSA, Fastweb, and the Institute of International Education (IIE) provide extensive lists of scholarships and fellowships available to international students.
• Diversity: These scholarships come from a wide range of sources, including private foundations, non-profit organizations, and corporations.

Government Grants and International Scholarships:

• Examples: Scholarships funded by governments, such as those from Nepal, the Fulbright Commission, and the United Nations, are designed to help students cover their expenses while studying abroad.
• Coverage: These scholarships often cover tuition fees, living expenses, and sometimes even travel costs.

Student Loans:

While student loans can be a useful way to finance your education, it’s important to carefully consider the repayment obligations.

US-Based Student Loans for International Students:

• Requirements: International students may qualify for U.S.-based student loans, though these usually require a U.S.-based co-signer.
• Considerations: While loans can cover tuition and living expenses, they come with interest rates that will increase the total amount you’ll need to repay over time.

Student Loans from Nepali Banks:

• Options: Some banks in Nepal offer educational loans for studying abroad, typically requiring collateral.
• Advice: It’s important to compare interest rates and repayment terms from different banks to find the best option.

Part-Time Work and Internships:

Another way to help finance your education and gain practical experience is by working part-time.

On-Campus Employment:

• Regulations: Students with F-1 visas are allowed to work on campus for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year, and full-time during school breaks.
• Benefits: On-campus jobs are convenient, as they are located within the university, and work hours are typically flexible to accommodate your class schedule.
  

Overall, there are various financial resources and opportunities available to help you manage the costs of studying abroad. By understanding and planning for these expenses, you can make informed decisions and better prepare for your academic journey.