Cost of Studying in the USA 2025–26 for Indian Students : Fees, Living & Financial Aid

Is a U.S. education worth the USD 85,000 annual cost ? For Indian students, planning ahead is essential. Before leaving, students must budget for pre-departure expenses such as GRE/GMAT exams, IELTS/TOEFL, coaching, consultancy services, university application fees, and visa/SEVIS charges, which can total around USD 2,300 (₹2,04,000). 

After arriving in the USA, students face additional expenses, including tuition, housing, food, transport, health insurance, and personal spending. For 2025–26, the total annual cost generally ranges from USD 37,000 to USD 85,000 (₹3,267,000 – ₹7,529,000), depending on the university, program, and city.Understanding both pre-arrival and on-campus costs helps students plan their finances effectively, compare universities, and make informed decisions about their studies.

Key Highlights

Average annual costs of studying in the USA for international students in 2025–26 include tuition, living expenses, health insurance, visa, and other costs. Actual amounts vary by university, program, and city.

Expense Category	Average Cost
Tuition (UG & PG)	$25,000 – $55,000 (₹2,217,500 – ₹4,878,500)
Living Expenses	$10,000 – $25,000 (₹887,000 – ₹2,217,500)
Health Insurance	$2,000 – $3,000 (₹177,400 – ₹266,100)
Visa & Miscellaneous	$1,000 – $2,000 (₹88,700 – ₹177,400)
Total Annual Cost	$37,000 – $85,000 (₹3,281,900 – ₹7,529,500)

Tuition and living costs form the largest part of your budget, but insurance, visa, and personal expenses also contribute significantly. Careful planning helps manage the cost of studying in the USA effectively.

Cost of Studying in USA for International Students

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Tuition varies widely depending on whether you choose a public or private university and the level of study. Undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) programs have different fee structures, and international students usually pay higher rates at public universities due to out-of-state tuition. Understanding these differences helps in budgeting and comparing universities effectively.

Tuition at Public Universities

Note: Even public universities can be expensive for international students due to out-of-state tuition. STEM and professional programs often cost more.

Tuition at Private Universities

Note: Private universities charge high tuition for all students, but they provide strong facilities, smaller classes, and robust alumni networks.

Cost of Studying at Top Universities in the USA

Top universities in the USA, including MIT, Stanford, Harvard, Caltech, and the University of Chicago, charge high tuition and living costs. They provide advanced programs, research facilities, and industry connections.

Source: QS World University Rankings 2026

Note: Master's programs can vary in length and cost. Some programs may offer part-time or online options that can reduce overall expenses.

Cost of Studying an Undergraduate Degree for International Students in the USA

Annual expenses for Indian students typically range from $76,000 to $116,500 (₹6,744,500 – ₹10,404,250), including tuition, housing, food, books, personal expenses, and health insurance.

Note: These figures are averages for top U.S. universities. Actual costs may differ based on program, location, and individual lifestyle.

Cost of Studying Master’s Degree for International Students in the USA

Master’s programs for Indian students can cost between $53,000 and $181,000 (₹4,700,900 – ₹16,054,300) per year, including tuition, housing, food, books, personal expenses, and health insurance.

Indian students can manage expenses by choosing universities in regions like the Midwest or South, where housing and living costs are lower. Apply for merit-based scholarships and assistantships to reduce tuition fees. Budget carefully for room, board, health insurance, and books, and consider part-time on-campus work to offset personal expenses without affecting studies.

Cheapest Universities in the USA for International Students

Some U.S. universities offer quality education at lower tuition rates for international students. “Affordable” mainly refers to tuition, though housing, food, and insurance also affect total costs.

Here’s an overview of the cheapest universities in the USA.

These universities vary in tuition, location, and facilities. For example, University of the People is tuition-free but fully online, offering flexibility but limited campus experience. South Texas College and Northern State University have low tuition and small class sizes, but fewer research opportunities. California State University, Long Beach offers better infrastructure and programs but higher tuition. Midwest schools like University of Wyoming and Delta State University combine low living costs with in-person campus life, while Southern universities like University of Arkansas provide affordable tuition and moderate living costs but may have fewer specialized programs.

Course-Wise Cost in the USA for International Students

The cost of studying in the USA can vary depending on the course and university. Popular courses such as Computer Science, Business Administration, and Engineering are in high demand among international students. 

Understanding the average cost of studying in the USA for these fields will help you make informed decisions about your education and financial planning.

Here is an overview of some of the most popular courses in the USA.

Note: These figures represent annual tuition fees. Additional costs such as room and board, books, health insurance, and personal expenses are not included and can vary significantly.

Program-Wise Cost of Study in the USA

The cost of studying in the USA varies by program, institution type, and location. Public universities generally offer more affordable options compared to private institutions, and costs can be significantly lower in rural areas than in urban centers. Programs in high-demand fields like business and engineering tend to be more expensive, with specialized degrees such as law and medicine costing considerably more.

Note: These figures represent annual tuition fees. Additional costs such as room and board, books, health insurance, and personal expenses are not included and can vary significantly.

Total Cost of Studying in the USA

The total cost of studying in the USA depends on the type of university, program, and location. Major expenses include tuition, living costs, pre-arrival fees, and health insurance.

Here is how much money is required to study in the USA.

1. Tuition Fees

For master’s students, top-tier universities can cost up to ~₹60 lakh for the entire program, while mid-range universities may range from ₹30–40 lakh.

• Public Universities (Out-of-State): $45,700 – $50,000 (₹4,060,000 – ₹4,435,000)
  
• Private Non-Profit Universities: $58,500 – $87,000 (₹5,186,000 – ₹7,722,900)
  
• Private For-Profit Universities: $16,000 – $19,000 (₹1,419,000 – ₹1,685,000)
  

2. Pre-Arrival Costs (Visa & Immigration Fees)

Indian students should plan for several expenses before leaving for the USA. These typically include exam fees, coaching, consultancy, and visa costs:

• GRE Exam: $170 (₹15,080)
  
• IELTS/TOEFL Exam: $170 (₹15,080)
  
• GRE/IELTS Coaching: $280 (₹24,836)
  
• Consultancy Fee for Applications: $113 (₹10,013)
  
• University Application Fees (10 universities): $1,130 (₹100,331)
  
• Visa & SEVIS Fees: $417 (₹36,960)
  
• Total Pre-Arrival Cost: ~$2,280 (₹201,308)
  

3. Living Expenses

• Average living costs including housing, food, transport, and personal expenses: $14,400 – $30,000 per year (₹1,275,000 – ₹2,660,000).
• For a two-year master’s program: $28,800 – $60,000 (₹2,550,000 – ₹5,322,000)
  
• Urban areas (New York, Boston, San Francisco) are more expensive; smaller towns are more affordable.
  

4. Health Insurance

• Annual health insurance: $1,000 – $7,000 (₹88,700 – ₹621,000), depending on coverage and university. Some universities include insurance in tuition; others require a separate plan
  

5. Total Estimated Annual Cost

• Top Universities: $960,000 – $1,010,000 (₹85,152,000 – ₹89,487,000)
  
• Mid-Tier Universities: $680,000 – $750,000 (₹60,316,000 – ₹66,525,000)
  

• Public Universities: $60,000 – $85,000 (₹5,320,000 – ₹7,520,000)
  
• Private Non-Profit Universities: $75,000 – $100,000 (₹6,650,000 – ₹8,870,000)
  
• Private For-Profit Universities: $20,000 – $25,000 (₹1,774,000 – ₹2,220,000)
  

Advice for Indian Students:

• Opt for public universities in less urbanized areas to save on tuition and living expenses.
  
• Consider scholarships and assistantships to reduce costs.
  
• Factor in all expenses, including pre-arrival fees and health insurancebefore choosing a program.

Cost of Living in the USA

The cost of living in the USA varies depending on the location and lifestyle. Understanding the cost of living in different regions can help you budget better and make informed decisions about where to study and live in the USA. On average, you can expect the following annual living expenses.

1. Food & Accommodation Costs

The annual accommodation and food costs will vary greatly depending on whether you live on-campus or off-campus and the city you study in. Many universities offer dormitory-style accommodation. 

If you rent an apartment off-campus, prices vary dramatically depending on location. Rent can be higher in major cities like New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles than in smaller towns or rural areas.

Cost of Living in the  USA

The cost of living in the USA varies depending on the location and lifestyle. Understanding the cost of living in different regions can help you budget better and make informed decisions about where to study and live in the USA. On average, you can expect the following annual living expenses.

1. Food & Accommodation Costs

The annual accommodation and food costs will vary greatly depending on whether you live on-campus or off-campus and the city you study in. Many universities offer dormitory-style accommodation. 

If you rent an apartment off-campus, prices vary dramatically depending on location. Rent can be higher in major cities like New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles than in smaller towns or rural areas.

Accommodation and Food Expense Overview

2. Transportation

• Public transport: $40 – $150 per month (₹3,548 – ₹13,305)
• Owning a car increases costs due to fuel, insurance, and parking.

3. Utilities and Personal Expenses

• Monthly utilities (electricity, water, internet): $120 – $350 (₹10,644 – ₹31,045)
• Personal expenses such as clothing, entertainment, and groceries vary by lifestyle.

4. Health Insurance

• Monthly premiums: $400 – $550 (₹35,480 – ₹48,785)

Health insurance is mandatory for international students.

5. Miscellaneous Costs

You may incur additional expenses in addition to the essential costs mentioned above. Here is a general overview of miscellaneous expenses.

6. Highest & Lowest Living Expenses Cities

The cost of living in the USA differs significantly by city. According to Forbes, New York and Los Angeles are among the top 20 most expensive cities for students. 

Note: Choosing affordable cities and managing lifestyle costs can significantly reduce the overall cost of living in the USA for international students.

State-wise Living Costs in the USA for International Students

Living costs in the USA vary significantly depending on the region. For Indian students, choosing universities in states with lower accommodation and food costs can help reduce overall expenses. Generally, the Midwest and South are more affordable than the East and West Coasts due to lower housing, transportation, and food costs.

Why Midwest and South are cheaper:
Housing and rental rates are lower in these regions. Food, utilities, and transportation costs are generally more affordable, making it easier for international students to manage their budget while maintaining a good quality of life.

Scholarships to Reduce Cost of Studying in USA

Scholarships are one of the most effective ways to lower the cost of studying in the USA. They can be offered by the government, universities, or private organizations. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Government-Funded Scholarships

• Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships
  
  • Amount: $50,000–$60,000 per year (₹4,435,000–₹5,322,000)
    
  • Eligibility: Indian citizens with 3+ years of work experience for master’s programs
    
  • Deadline: Usually in September annually
    
• USAID Scholarships
  
  • Amount: $20,000–$35,000 per year (₹1,774,000–₹3,104,500)
    
  • Eligibility: Indian students in select STEM and social impact programs
    

2. University-Based Scholarships

• Stanford University Knight-Hennessy Scholars
  
  • Amount: Full tuition + stipend (~$80,000/year, ₹7,096,000)
    
  • Eligibility: All graduate programs; merit-based selection
    
• MIT Presidential Fellowships
  
  • Amount: $60,000–$70,000/year (₹5,322,000–₹6,209,000)
    
  • Eligibility: Exceptional graduate applicants in science and engineering
    

3. Private Scholarships

• Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship
  
  • Amount: Up to $100,000 total (₹8,870,000)
    
  • Eligibility: Indian citizens under 30; for full-time graduate programs abroad
    
• Rotary Foundation Global Grant
  
  • Amount: $30,000–$50,000 (₹2,661,000–₹4,435,000)
    
  • Eligibility: Students pursuing a master’s or a PhD in approved fields
    

Top High-Paying Jobs in the USA for International Students

The USA offers lucrative career opportunities for international students, especially in STEM and technology fields. With a master's degree, the employment rate is approximately 90%.

USA Highest-Paying Jobs Overview

Note: Salary figures are averages and can vary based on experience, location, and company.

 OPT and STEM OPT Extension

• OPT (Optional Practical Training): Allows international students to work in the USA for up to 12 months in a field related to their major.
  
• STEM OPT Extension: Students with degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) can apply for a 24-month extension, totaling 36 months of work authorization.
  

Why STEM Degrees Offer Better ROI:

• Higher Salaries: STEM professionals often command higher starting salaries, as shown in the table above.
  
• Extended Work Authorization: The 24-month STEM OPT extension provides additional time to gain practical experience and potentially transition to H-1B status.
  
• Strong Job Market: There's a consistent demand for STEM graduates in the USA, leading to better job security and career advancement opportunities.

Also Read: Best State to Live in USA in 2024: Jobs, Income, Safety & Quality of Life

Note: Most scholarships in USA  are competitive and merit-based. Applying early and meeting deadlines improves chances. Combining scholarships with assistantships or part-time work can significantly reduce your total cost of studying in the USA.

How to Budget and Save While Studying in the USA?

Studying abroad in the USA can be expensive, with expenses ranging from INR 8.87L to INR 22.18L ($10K to $25K) per year. Careful budgeting can help manage the average cost of studying in the USA. Understanding tuition fees, living costs, and other expenses is essential, and applying practical saving strategies can make your study abroad experience more affordable.

While understanding the high tuition fees and living costs is crucial, implementing innovative budgeting strategies can significantly affect how easily you can manage these expenses. Here are a few tips to budget and save while studying in the USA.

1. Choose More Affordable Institutions

Public universities and community colleges are often more affordable than private institutions. While private universities may offer prestigious programs, public institutions can provide an excellent education at a fraction of the cost. Consider attending a university in a state with a lower cost of living.

2. Work Part-Time

International students such as yourself on an F-1 visa can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during breaks. On-campus jobs, such as working in university cafeterias, libraries, or student centres, can help offset living expenses.

3. Live Economically

Living off-campus in shared housing can significantly reduce your living expenses. Additionally, adopting a frugal lifestyle by cooking meals at home, using public transportation, and avoiding unnecessary spending can help you save money.

4. Apply for Scholarships and Financial Aid for International Students in the USA

Scholarships, financial aid, and assistantships are some of the best ways to manage the cost of studying in the USA. Many universities offer teaching assistantships (TAs) or research assistantships (RAs), so you can get a stipend and help with tuition fees.

Conclusion

Managing the cost of studying in the USA is achievable with the right strategies. Indian students can target affordable cities, apply for scholarships or assistantships, and explore part-time work to reduce expenses. Choosing programs in STEM fields can enhance career prospects and provide additional benefits like the STEM OPT extension.

Starting your preparation early is crucial: plan budgets carefully, research universities thoroughly, and identify scholarship opportunities in advance. Leap Scholar can guide you through understanding costs, shortlisting suitable universities, and maximizing financial support to make your U.S. study journey more affordable and rewarding.

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