Cost of Studying in the USA: A Complete Guide for 2024

Imagine yourself not just in a classroom but on a global stage, exchanging ideas with brilliant minds worldwide. The USA hosts more than 1 million international students, with Indian students making up the second-largest group! The allure of the USA isn’t just about its prestigious universities like Harvard, MIT, and Stanford; it’s also about the cultural melting pot that enriches your educational experience.

However, like any grand adventure, it requires careful planning. This guide, designed specifically for Indian students in 2024, will be your cheatbook for understanding the cost of studying in the USA.

Let’s talk numbers. On average, international students can expect annual tuition fees ranging from:

• INR 8.72L to 22.3L (USD 10,560 to 27,020) at public universities
• INR 31L (USD 37,650) at private universities

These figures might seem daunting, but don’t worry – there are numerous scholarships and financial aid opportunities to explore. In fact, Leap Finance itself offers education loans to Indian students applying for master’s courses in the USA. And the best part is that we cover 100% of your cost of studying in the USA. Get a loan offer in 10 minutes!

In fact, many institutions offer scholarships specifically for Indian students, some of which cover up to 100% of tuition fees!

Living expenses are another critical aspect to consider. Costs can vary widely depending on where you live. For instance, cities like New York and San Francisco are more expensive, with monthly expenses averaging INR 1.65L to 2L (USD 2,000 to 2,500). 

Living in a city like Austin or Pittsburgh might cost around INR 83,000 to 1.24L (USD 1,000 to 1,500) monthly. This includes accommodation, groceries, transportation, and other essentials.

But don’t just think of the cost of studying in the USA as an expense; it’s actually an investment. Graduates from US universities often earn significantly higher salaries. For example, software engineers can expect to earn between INR 82L to 1.23Cr (USD 100,000 to 150,000) annually! And this number only increases as you gain more exposure.

So, pack your intellectual curiosity and get ready to understand the ins and outs of the cost of studying for an MS from the US like never before. Dive in.  

Key Highlights

Here’s a table summarising the essential points about the cost of studying in the USA, which you will explore in detail in this blog post.

Topic	Key Highlights
Annual Tuition Fees	Harvard Universities: INR 44.6L (USD 54K) Stanford University: INR 46.4L (USD 56K)
Living Expenses	INR 66K to 1.32L (USD 800 to 1.5K) per month for accommodation, food, transportation, and other essentials.
High Paying Jobs	Software Engineer: INR 82L (USD 1L) Investment Banker: INR 1.23 (USD 1.5L) Data Scientist: INR 98L (USD 1.2L)
Top Universities in the USA with Low Tuition Fees	University of the People: INR 0.99L (USD 1,200)  California State University: INR 6.84L (USD 8,300) Long Beach South Texas College: INR 3.46L (USD 4,200)

Why Study in the USA?

The American education system is renowned worldwide for its quality and prestige. According to the 2025 QS World University Rankings, the USA boasts five of the top ten universities globally: 

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) ranked 1st
• Stanford University ranked 2nd
• Harvard University ranked 4th
• University of California
• Berkeley ranked 7th
• The University of Chicago ranked 10th

This reputation attracts students from over 200 countries, with nearly one million international students enrolling annually, making the USA a prime destination for higher education. That’s not all.

The USA also offers a wide range of academic institutions.

The country houses over 4,000 degree-granting institutions, including public universities, private colleges, community colleges, and technical institutes. Each institution offers unique programmes and opportunities, catering to various academic and career goals.

• Public Universities: Funded by state governments, these institutions offer various programmes. For instance, the University of California system, with campuses like UCLA and UC Berkeley, serves over 2,85,000 students.

• Private Colleges: Known for their smaller class sizes and personalised education, private colleges like Amherst College and Williams College often have higher tuition fees but provide substantial financial aid. Amherst, for example, meets 100% of demonstrated financial need without loans.

• Community Colleges: Offering two-year associate degrees and certificate programmes, community colleges are an affordable option. The Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD) is the largest in the nation, serving over 2,30,000 students.

• Technical Institutes: Focused on specific trades or technical skills, these schools, such as the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), provide specialised training and certifications, often linked directly to industry needs.

Are you convinced that studying in the US can ensure you get your hands on nothing but the best? If yes, I hope on to the matter of the hour – what is the cost of studying in the USA? Read on for details.

Also read Study In USA After 12th: Top Courses, Universities, and Eligibility Criteria.

Cost of Studying in the USA: Based on the University

The cost of studying in the USA for Indian students can vary widely, influenced by factors such as the type of institution and programme of study and location influences the cost of studying in the USA. This helps make it crucial for you to plan your finances wisely.

How do private and public institutions differ, and what should you choose?

Public universities are funded primarily by state governments, which often results in lower tuition fees for in-state students than for out-of-state and international students. 

Private universities, on the other hand, rely on private funding sources such as tuition fees, donations, and endowments. 

On average, tuition and fees for public universities range from approximately INR 8L (USD 10K) per year, while private universities can cost INR 33L (USD 35K) annually. 

International students often consider several factors when choosing between public and private universities. Public universities seek lower tuition costs and a broader range of academic programmes. Private universities, while more expensive, but with specific disciplines, smaller class sizes, and a potentially stronger emphasis on career preparation and networking opportunities.

According to the NCES, approximately 38.2% of undergraduate students are enrolled in private institutions. This translates to roughly 5.8 million students out of the total undergraduate enrollment of 15.2 million in the U.S. 

Other factors, like the Programme of study and location, also affect the overall cost. Programmes in fields like engineering, business, and medicine are often more expensive due to the higher demand for resources and faculty expertise — the length of the programme, whether undergraduate or graduate, also affects the total cost.

Are you excited to know about such Ivy League universities? Keep on reading to find out more.

5 Top-rated Universities with Their Average Annual Fees

Are you dreaming of Ivy League walls and world-class education? Ivy Leagues refers to 8 private institutions in the northeast United States. A recent study found that graduates from these universities earn an average of 30% more over their lifetimes than their non-elite counterparts!

But before you break out of the piggy bank, consider this: the cost of attending these prestigious institutions can catch you off guard. Here’s the thing: alongside the hefty price tag comes access to research facilities, unparalleled faculty expertise, and a global alumni network that can open doors you never knew existed.

Here is a breakdown of the top 5 universities and the cost of studying in the USA.

University	Annual Cost of studying in the USA
Harvard University	INR 44.6L (USD 54,002)
Stanford University	INR 46.4L (USD 56,169)
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	INR 44.4L (USD 53,790)
California Institute of Technology (Caltech)	INR 45.2L (USD 54,600)
University of Chicago	INR 47.6L (USD 57,642)

Top 5 Cheapest Universities in the USA

The cost of higher education in the USA has been steadily increasing over the years, making affordability a crucial factor for many students. According to the College Board, the average annual tuition and fees for public four-year out-of-state students were approximately $27,020 (INR 22.3L) for the 2023-2024 academic year. However, some universities offer quality education at a fraction of the cost, providing a more accessible option for those on a tight budget. 

Here’s a compiled list of the universities in the USA with low tuition fees, complete with their annual cost of studying in the USA for Indian students.

University	Annual Cost of studying in the USA
University of the People	INR 0.99L (USD 1,200)
California State University, Long Beach	INR 6.84L (USD 8,300)
South Texas College	INR 3.46L (USD 4,200)
Minot State University	INR 5.82L (USD 7,064)
Alcorn State University	INR 6L (USD 7,290)

Cost of Studying in the USA – Based on Degree

According to the Institute of International Education, international students spend an average of INR 20L to 24L (USD 25,000 to 30,000) per year on tuition and fees.

Undergraduate courses and the cost of studying in the USA.

Undergraduate Courses	Annual Cost of Studying in the USA
Business Administration	INR 12.3L (USD 15,000)
Computer Science	INR 16.4L (USD 20,000)
Mechanical Engineering	INR 20.5L (USD 25,000)
Nursing	INR 14.8L (USD 18,000)

Here is a table detailing the different popular master’s courses and their cost of studying in the USA.

Master’s Courses	Annual MS Fees in the USA for Indian Students
MBA	INR 28.7L (USD 35,000)
Data Science	INR 24.6L (USD 30,000)
Electrical Engineering	INR 23L (USD 28,000)
Public Health	INR 18L (USD 22,000)

Here is a table listing the different popular PhD courses and their cost of studying in the USA.

PhD Courses	Annual PhD Fees in the USA
Physics	INR 32.8L (USD 40,000)
Biotechnology	INR 31.2L (USD 38,000)
Clinical Psychology	INR 28.7L (USD 35,000)
Environmental Science	INR 24.6L (USD 30,000)

With world-renowned universities, exceptional career opportunities, and vibrant cultural experiences, the USA remains a premier choice for students in 2024! Interested in studying in the US? Join the more than 2,00,000 students who have trusted LeapScholar with their study abroad journey. Book a free consultation with our experts today to get all your questions answered.

Living Expenses in the USA

When planning to study in the USA, it’s important to factor in living expenses, which can significantly impact your overall budget. The cost of living in the USA for Indian students varies widely based on location and lifestyle.

For instance, living in a bustling city like New York or San Francisco can be much more expensive than in smaller towns or suburban areas. On average, students should budget between INR 66,000 to 1.32L (USD 800 to 1,600) per month for accommodation, food, transportation, and other essentials.

This section will break down these expenses, providing a detailed overview to ensure you’re well-prepared for your educational journey in the USA.

The cost of living in the USA varies greatly depending on the location and lifestyle of the student. Key components of living expenses include:

• Accommodation: Rent or dormitory fees, utilities, and internet.
• Food: Groceries, dining out, and meal plans.
• Travel: Public transportation, car maintenance, and fuel.
• Utilities: Electricity, water, heating, cooling, garbage, internet, and phone bills.

Here are the several accommodation options, each with its cost structure.

Accommodation Type	Cost
On-Campus Housing(Dormitories or residence halls)	INR 5L to 10L per year (USD 6,000 to 12,0000)
Off-Campus Housing(Renting apartments or houses)	INR 41,000 to 83,000 per month (USD 500 to 1,000)
Homestays(Living with a local family, including meals)	INR 25,000 to 50,000 per month (USD 300 to 600)

Average Monthly Expenses by City in the USA for International Students

The USA offers diverse experiences, from the bustling streets of New York City to the tech hubs of San Francisco.

Each city has its own unique attractions and living costs. For instance, while you might visit iconic student spots like Central Park in New York or the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, the living expenses in these cities can be higher compared to places like Austin or Pittsburgh.

Here is the breakdown of the average monthly expenses in various cities in the USA.

City	Average Monthly Expenses
New York City	INR 1.65L to 2L (USD 2,000 to 2,500)
San Francisco	INR 1.65L to 2L (USD 2,000 to 2,500)
Boston	INR 1.24L to 1.65L (USD 1,500 to 2,000)
Chicago	INR 1 L to 1.24L (USD 1,200 to 1,500)
Austin	INR 83,000 to 1.24L (USD 1,000 to 1,500)
Pittsburgh	INR 50,000 to 83,000 (USD 600 to 1,000)

Grocery and Food Costs

Understanding grocery and food costs is essential for managing your budget as an international student in the USA. The cost of groceries and dining out can vary significantly depending on where you live and your eating habits. 

Students spend between INR 20,000 to 33,000 (USD 250 to 400) per month on groceries and dining out. While cooking at home is often the most economical option, exploring affordable dining spots can also help manage your expenses.

Here are five student-friendly, affordable eating places you might want to check out:

• Chipotle: Known for its customisable burritos and bowls, offering healthy and affordable options.
• Panda Express: A popular chain for quick and tasty Chinese food at reasonable prices.
• Panera Bread: Offers a variety of soups, salads, and sandwiches, with many budget-friendly meal deals.
• Five Guys: Famous for its delicious and hearty burgers and fries, providing good value for money.
• Subway: Known for its customisable subs and salads, it often runs promotions and student discounts.

Here is a detailed breakdown of typical grocery and food costs for international students in the USA.

Item	Average Monthly Cost
Groceries (basic items)	INR 20,000 to 33,000 (USD 250 to 400)
Dining Out (occasional)	INR 8,300 to 16,500 (USD 100 to 200)
Meal Plan (university)	INR 33,000 to 66,000 (USD 400 to 800)

Here is the breakdown of the typical monthly grocery items that have to be managed alongside the cost of studying in the USA.

Item	Average Cost (INR)
Milk (1 gallon)	INR 330 to 415 (USD 4 to 5)
Bread (1 loaf)	INR 165 to 330 (USD 2 to 4)
Eggs (1 dozen)	INR 165 to 250 (USD 2 to 3)
Chicken (1 kg)	INR 580 to 750 (USD 7 to 9)
Rice (1 kg)	INR 82 to 165 (USD 1 to 2)
Apples (1 kg)	INR 250 to 330 (USD 3 to 4)
Potatoes (1 kg)	INR 82 to 125 (USD 1 to 1.5)

Utilities and Other Monthly Costs

As an international student, managing your budget extends beyond your cost of studying in the USA and rent. Utilities and other monthly expenses like electricity, water, internet, and phone bills can add up quickly. On average, students should budget between INR 16,500 to 33,000 (USD 200 to 400) per month for utilities and related costs.

To help you stay connected without overspending, here are five affordable phone and internet companies popular among students:

• Mint Mobile: Offers budget-friendly prepaid plans with a variety of data options.
• Visible: Provides unlimited data plans with no contracts, which is ideal for students.
• T-Mobile: Known for its affordable student plans and extensive network coverage.
• Google Fi: Flexible plans that adjust based on data usage, perfect for cost-conscious students.
• Xfinity: Offers a variety of internet packages, often with student discounts and no long-term contracts.

Utility costs vary based on the apartment size and usage but typically include electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage, internet, and phone bills. Here’s an average breakdown.

Utility Type	Average Monthly Cost
Electricity	INR 4,150 to 6,600 (USD 50 to 80)
Heating and Cooling	INR 2,480 to 4,150 (USD 30 to 50)
Water and Garbage	INR 1,650 to 3,300 (USD 20 to 40)
Internet	INR 3,300 to 6,600 (USD 40 to 80)
Phone Bill	INR 2,480 to 4,150 (USD 30 to 50)

Other Essential Cost of Studying in the USA

Beyond tuition and living expenses, students should also consider additional costs such as study materials, supplies, and insurance.

• Study Materials and Supplies: Textbooks, software, lab fees, and other educational materials can be substantial costs. For example, a new textbook for a specialised course can cost between INR 8,300 to 16,500 (USD 100 to 200).
• Health Insurance is mandatory for most international students. It covers medical expenses and emergencies. Plans can vary widely in coverage and cost.

Examples of Health Insurance Plans

• ISO Student Health Insurance: This comprehensive plan for international students costs approximately INR 1.24L (USD 1,500) per year and covers doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency services.
• Compass Student Insurance is another popular option. Plans cost around INR 1.32L (USD 1,600) per year and cover a wide range of medical services, including prescription medications and mental health care.
• International Student Insurance (ISI): Offers flexible plans starting from INR 1.10L (USD 1,350) per year, including coverage for medical evacuation and repatriation.

Here is a brief snapshot of the essential book supply expenses and health insurance you need to consider while calculating your cost of studying in the USA.

Expense Type	Average Yearly Cost
Books and Supplies	INR 83,000 to 1 L (USD 1,000 to 1,200)
Health Insurance	INR 1.24L to 1.65L (USD 1,500 to 2,000)

Transportation Costs

Transportation costs are crucial to managing the cost of studying in the USA as an international student. Whether you are commuting to campus, exploring your new city, or travelling during breaks, understanding the different transportation options and their costs is essential. On average, students should budget between INR 4,100 and 8,300 (USD 50 to 100) per month for transportation.

The cost of transportation varies depending on the city and the mode of transport you choose. Public transportation, such as buses, subways, and trains, is often the most economical and convenient for students. Additionally, many cities offer student discounts on public transport passes; biking or using ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft can be viable alternatives for those who prefer more flexibility.

• Monthly Public Transportation Pass: Most cities offer student discounts. For example, the MBTA in Boston provides a student monthly pass for INR 4,950 (USD 60).

• Ride-sharing services: Uber and Lyft are popular in urban areas. A typical 10-mile ride costs about INR 1,240 to 1,650 (USD 15 to 20).

• Car Sharing Programs: Zipcar offers a student membership at INR 2,480 (USD 30) per year, plus hourly rates starting from INR 580 (USD 7).

• Bicycles: A bicycle can cost between INR 16,500 and 33,000 (USD 200 to 400), with minimal ongoing expenses for maintenance and gear.

Here is a breakdown of Public Transportation Monthly Pass Costs in different cities. These passes help you manage the cost of studying in the USA.

City	Cost
New York City	INR 8,300 (USD 100)
San Francisco	INR 8,300 (USD 100)
Boston	INR 6,600 (USD 80)
Chicago	INR 6,600 (USD 80)
Austin	INR 4,100 (USD 50)
Pittsburgh	INR 4,100 (USD 50)

Make your dream of studying abroad a reality with Leap Finance! We offer collateral-free loans for US education at competitive interest rates starting at just 8.5%. In just 10 minutes, you can secure funding for your tuition fees, transportation, and personal expenses — up to 100% coverage. Ready to get started? Click here to begin your loan application process now.

Cost of Studying in the USA – Pre-arrival Costs

Embarking on your educational journey in the USA involves several pre-arrival costs you must plan for. These include expenses for entrance exams, application fees, visa application, and travel. Proper preparation can help you manage these costs effectively and ensure a smooth transition.

Here is a detailed list of the most common entrance exams and the associated fees.

Exam	Fee
TOEFL	INR 14,000 (USD 175)
IELTS	INR 15,500 (USD 195)
GRE	INR 18,600 (USD 230)
GMAT	INR 20,500 (USD 255)
SAT	INR 7,400 (USD 93)

Also read: Study in USA Without IELTS: Top 13 Universities!

Here is a detailed list of the money you can expect to spend during your visa application, paying the associated SEVIS fee, and booking your flight tickets to America!

Expense Type	Cost
Application Fees	INR 4k to INR 12k
Flight Tickets	INR 58k to INR 1.2L
Visa Application Fee	INR 14k
SEVIS Fee	INR 27k

Scholarships for Indian Students

Pursuing higher education in the USA can be financially challenging, but numerous scholarships are available to help Indian students achieve their academic dreams. Securing these scholarships requires careful preparation and meeting specific eligibility criteria. 

According to the Economic Times, over 58% of Indian students received some form of financial aid, including scholarships, to support their studies abroad. This high percentage underscores the importance of scholarships in making international education more accessible for you.

Read this table below to understand the different types of scholarships available to you and how much money each will reward you!

Scholarship Name	Amount Awarded
Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships	Fully funded
Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships	Up to INR 82L (USD 100,000)
JN Tata Endowment for Higher Education	INR 6.5L to 8.2L (USD 8,000 to 10,000)
Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship	Covers tuition and fees
AAUW International Fellowships	INR 14.7L to 24.5L (USD 18,000 to 30,000)
Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholarships	INR 24.5L (USD 30,000)
Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation Scholarships	Up to INR 20L
Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Programme	Fully funded
Tata Scholarship for Cornell University	Varies, covers full need

Also read: Knight Hennessy Scholarship Program 2024 in the USA

Top 5 High Paying Jobs After US Education

Earning a prestigious US university degree can open the door to high-paying job opportunities. The USA is home to some of the world’s top employers actively recruiting talented graduates. Here are the top five high-paying jobs you can secure after your US education, along with leading recruiters in these fields:

Top Recruiters in the USA

Find the table below for top recruiters in the USA and their popular job positions.

Companies	Popularly Recruits
Google	Computer ScienceData ScienceEngineering
Goldman Sachs	FinanceInvestment BankingAsset Management
Apple	Software Engineering Hardware DevelopmentProduct Management
Mckinsey & Company	ConsultingBusiness Analysis and Strategy
Pfizer	Biomedical SciencesHealthcareResearch

Did you know? You can easily break even with your investment by working in such amazing companies! Break Even Time refers to the period it takes to recover the total costs of your education through the increased earnings attributed to obtaining that education. 

Here is a breakdown of the high-paying jobs you can land in the USA after securing your degree and how soon you could break even the investment of your cost of studying in the USA.

Job Title	Average Annual Salary	Break Even Time After Education Costs
Software Engineer	INR 82L to 1.23Cr (USD 100,000 to 150,000)	2-3 years
Investment Banker	INR 1.23Cr to 1.64Cr (USD 150,000 to 200,000)	2-4 years
Physician	INR 1.64Cr to 2.05Cr (USD 200,000 to 250,000)	3-5 years
Data Scientist	INR 98L to 1.23Cr (USD 120,000 to 150,000)	2-3 years
Corporate Lawyer	INR 1.23Cr to 1.64Cr (USD 150,000 to 200,000)	2-4 years

Also read: Best Medical Universities in USA for Indian Students: Fees & Rankings

To Conclude

Managing study expenses is a crucial aspect of planning to study in the USA. Proper planning and thorough research can significantly reduce financial stress and help students make informed decisions. Understanding the various costs involved, from pre-arrival expenses like entrance exams and application fees to post-arrival costs such as tuition, accommodation, and living expenses, is essential. By budgeting carefully and exploring all possible funding options, students can ensure a smoother and more financially stable academic journey.

Many US universities offer financial aid calculators on their websites to help prospective students estimate their costs and financial aid eligibility. These calculators provide personalised estimates based on the student’s economic situation and the specific costs of the institution. By using these tools, students can get a clearer picture of their potential expenses and aid packages, allowing them to plan their finances more effectively.

Leap Finance offers an easy way to finance your education in the US with collateral-free loans and interest rates as low as 8.5%. Get up to 100% coverage for your tuition, transportation, and personal expenses within 10 minutes. Ready to take the next step? Click here to start your loan application process now.

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