Cost of Studying in the USA

Q: Q. How much money is required to study in the USA for international students?

Ans. The total cost of studying in the USA depends on factors like the type of institution, location, and living preferences. On average, tuition fees range from INR 15.5L to INR 27L (USD 18.5K to USD 32.5K) per year, while living expenses (accommodation, food, transportation, and utilities) range from INR 10L to INR 12L (USD 12K to USD 14K) annually.

Q: Q. What are the major components of the cost of studying in the USA?

Ans. The key components include tuition fees, living expenses (accommodation, food, utilities, and transportation), health insurance, and miscellaneous expenses such as books, personal spending, and cultural activities. Additionally, you may incur visa-related costs and travel expenses for trips home or around the USA. Understanding these expenses is crucial for effective budgeting and financial planning during your studies.

Q: Q. How can Indian students manage the cost of studying in the USA?

Ans. You can manage the cost of studying in the USA by exploring scholarship opportunities, applying for financial aid, working part-time (up to 20 hours a week), and choosing affordable institutions or living arrangements (e.g., shared accommodation). Budgeting effectively can also reduce personal expenses.

Q: Q. Can I get financial aid as an international student in the USA to cover the cost of studying in the USA?

Ans. While financial aid for international students is limited compared to domestic students, you can get it from some universities that offer need-based aid, scholarships, and grants for international students. It's essential to check each university’s financial aid policies as some may offer more generous packages than others.

Q: Q. What is the F-1 visa, and how does it impact my studies in the USA?

Ans. The F-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows international students to study full-time at an accredited university or college in the USA. This visa will also allow you to work part-time on campus (up to 20 hours per week) and engage in Optional Practical Training (OPT) after graduation, depending on the subject of study.

Q: Q. Can I bring my family to the USA while studying on an F-1 visa?

Ans. As an F-1 visa holder, you can bring your spouse and children (under 21) to the USA on an F-2 visa. The F-2 visa allows family members to accompany you during your studies, but they are not permitted to work. However, F-2 visa holders can enrol in part-time or full-time study, depending on the course. They should plan for the additional financial costs of supporting their family while studying abroad.

Q: Q. How can I make the most of my student visa in the USA to find opportunities to cost of studying in the USA?

Ans. To maximise the benefits of your student visa, take advantage of on-campus work opportunities, internships, and research projects. Participate in extracurricular activities, networking events, and career fairs offered by your university. These experiences will enhance your skills, help you build a professional network, and improve your job prospects post-graduation.

Q: Q. What are the major cities in the USA with the most affordable cost of studying in the USA?

Ans. Some of the most affordable cities for international students include Austin (Texas), Madison (Wisconsin), Tucson (Arizona), Columbus (Ohio), and Pittsburgh (Pennsylvania). These cities offer relatively low housing costs and a good quality of life, which helps reduce living expenses compared to cities like New York or San Francisco.

Q: Q. How can I find affordable healthcare as an international student in the USA to minimise the burden of the cost of studying in the USA?

Ans. You are required to have health insurance while studying in the USA. Many universities offer affordable health insurance plans, but you can also opt for private health insurance if it offers better coverage or is more affordable. Check if your home country's government provides insurance options for students abroad.

Q: Q. What are some common mistakes international students make when budgeting for their studies in the USA?

Ans. Common mistakes include underestimating the cost of living, not factoring in unexpected expenses like medical emergencies or travel, and not taking advantage of financial aid or scholarship opportunities. It's important to plan, track your expenses regularly, and build an emergency fund to avoid running out of money. It will help to manage your finances and the cost of studying in the USA.

Find Your Preferred University

Introduction

Understanding the total cost is essential as it goes beyond just tuition fees to include living expenses, insurance, and other incidental costs. The total expense can vary greatly based on the institution, location, and your personal lifestyle.

Despite the high costs, the USA continues to be a top destination for international students, with over 1.1 million students enrolled for the 2023/2024 academic year, reflecting a 7% growth from the previous year. This shows that the cost does not deter students, as studying in the USA is seen as a valuable investment for both education and future earnings.

Additionally, through scholarships, part-time work, and careful planning, you can reduce costs. This blog will break down the various factors involved in the cost of studying in the USA. Read on to know more!

Key Highlights

Highlight	Details
Average Annual Tuition Fees	INR 8.6L - INR 43L ($10K - $50K)
Average Monthly Cost of Living (Without Rent)	INR 86K - INR 1.2L ($1K - $1.5K)
Pre-Arrival Costs	INR 4.6K ($535)

Please note: The costs are approximate and are subject to change based on currency exchange rates.

Cost of Studying at the Top Universities in the USA

Studying at top universities in the USA offers incredible opportunities for academic and professional growth. While tuition fees and living expenses at prestigious schools can be significant, these universities provide a wealth of resources, cutting-edge programs, and networking opportunities that you will find invaluable. The investment can open doors to world-class education and long-term career success.

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

Top Universities in the USA	QS World University Rankings 2025	USA University Tuition Fees
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	#1	INR 53.3L ($62K)
Harvard University	#4	INR 48.6L ($56.5K)
Stanford University	#6	INR 74.8L ($87K)
California Institute of Technology (Caltech)	#10	INR 54.6L ($63.5K)
University of Pennsylvania	#11	INR 56.7L ($66K)
University of California, Berkeley	#12	INR 47.3L ($55K)
Cornell University	#16	INR 55.9L ($65K)
University of Chicago	#21	INR 58L ($67.5K)
Princeton University	#22	INR 53.7L ($62.5K)
Yale University	#23	INR 57.6L ($67K)

Please note: The costs are approximate and are subject to change based on currency exchange rates.

Cheapest Universities in the USA for International Students

The cost of studying in the USA can be high, but there are affordable options for international students. The cheapest universities in the USA for international students offer quality education at lower tuition rates, making higher education more accessible.

These universities offer competitive programs and financial aid options, helping you manage the cost of studying in the USA while benefiting from a world-class education.

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

Cheapest Universities in the USA for Master's	Average Annual Tuition Fees
Minot State University (North Dakota)	INR 6.6L ($7.7K)
Sonoma State University	INR 16.9L ($19.6K)
Southeast Missouri State University	INR 12.6L ($14.7K)
Alcorn State University in Mississippi	INR 6.5L ($7.6K)
California State University, San Bernardino	INR 16.7L - INR 17.6L ($19.5K - $20.5K)

Please note: The costs are approximate and are subject to change based on currency exchange rates.

Program-Wise Cost of Study in the USA

The cost of studying in the USA varies by course. Undergraduate degrees at public universities are generally more affordable than those at private institutions, and costs are significantly lower in rural areas than in urban ones.

Programs in high-demand fields like business and engineering tend to be more expensive, with specialised degrees like law and medicine costing considerably more.

Here is a program-wise overview of the cost

Course	Annual Cost Range
Undergraduate Programs	INR 17.2L - INR 43L ($20K - $50K)
Master’s Programs	INR 36.1L ($42K)
Doctoral (Ph.D.) Programs	INR 1.4Cr - INR 3.3Cr ($164K - $388K)
Medical Programs (MD)	INR 43L ($50K)
Law Programs (JD)	INR 37.8L ($44K)
Business Programs (MBA)	INR 51.6L - INR 68.8L ($60K - $80K)

Please note: The costs are approximate and are subject to change based on currency exchange rates.

To know more about the master's courses provided for Indian students, check Master's in USA, and get to know about the eligibility and admission requirements.

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

Name of the Course	Top Universities in the USA	Course Fees
Computer Science	Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	INR 26.6L ($31K)
Business Administration (MBA)	Harvard University	INR 65.8L ($76.5K)
Engineering	Stanford University	INR 44.7L ($52K)
Medicine (Pre-Med and Medical Studies)	Johns Hopkins University	INR 55.9L ($65K)
Law	Yale University	INR 63.6L ($74K)

Please note: The costs are approximate and are subject to change based on currency exchange rates.

Total Cost of Studying in the USA

The cost of studying in the USA varies greatly depending on the institution, location, and field of study, among other factors. We will now break down the major living expenses for international students. Here is how much money is required to study in the USA:

1. Breakdown of Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are the most significant portion of your cost of studying in the USA. The tuition fees for international students in the USA vary widely depending on whether you attend a public, private, or community college.

Cost of Studying Overview

Institution Type	Annual Average Tuition
Public (Out-of-state)	INR 16.3L ($19K)
Private for-profit	INR 16.3L ($19K)
Private non-profit	INR 27.9L ($32.5K)

Please note: The costs are approximate and are subject to change based on currency exchange rates.

The field of study also influences the cost of education. For example, medicine, business, and law courses have higher tuition fees, while humanities or social sciences programs may cost less.

2. Pre-Arrival Costs in the USA: Visa and Immigration Fees

Securing your F-1 student visa is essential before you begin your studies in the USA. While the process is straightforward, there are specific costs involved that every international student must consider.

Here is a breakdown of pre-arrival expenses related to visa and immigration.

F-1 Visa Application Fee: INR 15K (USD 185)
SEVIS Fee: The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee, which is typically INR 29K (USD 350), is required for all international students.
Other Visa-Related Costs: Additional legal and processing fees may arise, especially if you are applying for OPT or seeking visa extensions.

Scholarships to Reduce Cost of Studying in the USA

You can access a wide range of scholarships, though opportunities may vary depending on the university, choice of course, or the student's country of origin.

According to NAFSA's (National Association of Foreign Student Advisers) most recent analysis, international students in the U.S. contributed USD 44 billion to the economy.

Major Scholarships Overview

Scholarship Name	Approx. Award Amount
Rotary Foundation Global Grants	INR 26.3L ($30.6K)
PEO International Peace Scholarship	INR 10.7L ($12.5K)
Google Lime Scholarship for Students with Disabilities	INR 8.6L ($10K) yearly
Dell Scholars Program	INR 17.2L ($20K)
AAUW International Fellowships	INR 17.2L - INR 43L ($20K - $50K)

Please note: The costs are approximate and are subject to change based on currency exchange rates.

How to Budget and Save While Studying in the USA?

Studying abroad in the USA can be expensive, with expenses reaching INR 8L to INR 20L (USD 10K to USD 25K) yearly. However, with careful budgeting, you can manage the average cost of studying in the USA.

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.

Ready to study in the USA? Leap Scholar is here to guide you through the university selection, admission process, and even scholarships! Take the first step towards your future—Connect with our Leap Scholar consultants now!

FAQs

Q. How much money is required to study in the USA for international students?

Ans. The total cost of studying in the USA depends on factors like the type of institution, location, and living preferences. On average, tuition fees range from INR 15.5L to INR 27L (USD 18.5K to USD 32.5K) per year, while living expenses (accommodation, food, transportation, and utilities) range from INR 10L to INR 12L (USD 12K to USD 14K) annually.

Q. What are the major components of the cost of studying in the USA?

Ans. The key components include tuition fees, living expenses (accommodation, food, utilities, and transportation), health insurance, and miscellaneous expenses such as books, personal spending, and cultural activities. Additionally, you may incur visa-related costs and travel expenses for trips home or around the USA. Understanding these expenses is crucial for effective budgeting and financial planning during your studies.

Q. How can Indian students manage the cost of studying in the USA?

Ans. You can manage the cost of studying in the USA by exploring scholarship opportunities, applying for financial aid, working part-time (up to 20 hours a week), and choosing affordable institutions or living arrangements (e.g., shared accommodation). Budgeting effectively can also reduce personal expenses.

Q. Can I get financial aid as an international student in the USA to cover the cost of studying in the USA?

Ans. While financial aid for international students is limited compared to domestic students, you can get it from some universities that offer need-based aid, scholarships, and grants for international students. It's essential to check each university’s financial aid policies as some may offer more generous packages than others.

Q. What is the F-1 visa, and how does it impact my studies in the USA?

Ans. The F-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows international students to study full-time at an accredited university or college in the USA. This visa will also allow you to work part-time on campus (up to 20 hours per week) and engage in Optional Practical Training (OPT) after graduation, depending on the subject of study.

Q. Can I bring my family to the USA while studying on an F-1 visa?

Ans. As an F-1 visa holder, you can bring your spouse and children (under 21) to the USA on an F-2 visa. The F-2 visa allows family members to accompany you during your studies, but they are not permitted to work. However, F-2 visa holders can enrol in part-time or full-time study, depending on the course. They should plan for the additional financial costs of supporting their family while studying abroad.

Q. How can I make the most of my student visa in the USA to find opportunities to cost of studying in the USA?

Ans. To maximise the benefits of your student visa, take advantage of on-campus work opportunities, internships, and research projects. Participate in extracurricular activities, networking events, and career fairs offered by your university. These experiences will enhance your skills, help you build a professional network, and improve your job prospects post-graduation.

Q. What are the major cities in the USA with the most affordable cost of studying in the USA?

Ans. Some of the most affordable cities for international students include Austin (Texas), Madison (Wisconsin), Tucson (Arizona), Columbus (Ohio), and Pittsburgh (Pennsylvania). These cities offer relatively low housing costs and a good quality of life, which helps reduce living expenses compared to cities like New York or San Francisco.

Q. How can I find affordable healthcare as an international student in the USA to minimise the burden of the cost of studying in the USA?

Ans. You are required to have health insurance while studying in the USA. Many universities offer affordable health insurance plans, but you can also opt for private health insurance if it offers better coverage or is more affordable. Check if your home country's government provides insurance options for students abroad.

Q. What are some common mistakes international students make when budgeting for their studies in the USA?

Ans. Common mistakes include underestimating the cost of living, not factoring in unexpected expenses like medical emergencies or travel, and not taking advantage of financial aid or scholarship opportunities. It's important to plan, track your expenses regularly, and build an emergency fund to avoid running out of money. It will help to manage your finances and the cost of studying in the USA.

Q. What should I do if I run out of money to cover the cost of studying in the USA?

Ans. If you run out of money while studying in the USA, consider contacting the university’s financial aid office for advice or additional funding opportunities. You can also explore on-campus work opportunities, apply for emergency financial aid, or look for short-term loans. Maintaining a budget and monitoring your expenses is crucial to avoid such situations. These steps will help you save on the average cost of studying in the USA.