Cost to Study in USA: Tuition Fees, Living Expenses & More

The cost to study in USA ranges between $20,875- $56,621, depending on the university, program and individual expenses. However, the entire cost of studying in the USA includes university tuition fees, living expenses, health insurance and other related costs. 

The USA is one of the best study abroad destinations in the world due to its world-class education system. A degree from the USA is highly valued in the job market as its education system is recognised worldwide. However, as an international student, you may always be worried about the cost of studying in USA. 

In this blog, we will discuss the overall cost of studying in USA for international students. So, if you want to apply to a US university this year, this article will help you a lot.

What are the Tuition Fees in the USA?

There are two types of US universities such as public universities and private universities. Public universities generally cost less than private ones. The amount you spend on tuition depends on the type of degree and the university you choose. On average, tuition fees can range from around $20,875- $56,621 (USD) per year.

Typically, courses in humanities, arts, and education are less expensive, while subjects like medicine and engineering usually cost more. 

If you’re looking to study at the postgraduate level, tuition fees are usually higher, and the cost depends on the program. Like in many other countries, MBA programs in the USA are often the most expensive, with an average cost of about $35,000 per year.

How Much Are the Living Expenses in the USA?

The cost to study in the USA ranges from $20,875- $56,621 for international students, depending on the university, location and other facilities. This cost can be calculated by the university fees, living expenses, visa application fees, health insurance and the financial statement for the USA student visa. Let’s discuss the cost of studying in the USA for international students.

Tuition Fees in the USA

Universities in the US are mainly divided into two types: public/state and private. Public/state universities generally cost less than private ones. The amount you spend on tuition depends on the type of degree and the university you choose. On average, tuition fees can range from around $20,875- $56,621 (USD) per year.

Typically, courses in humanities, arts, and education are less expensive, while subjects like medicine and engineering usually cost more. If you’re looking to study at the postgraduate level, tuition fees are usually higher, and the cost depends on the program. Like in many other countries, MBA programs in the USA are often the most expensive, with an average cost of about $35,000 per year.

Living Expenses in the USA

As a student living abroad, it’s important to set aside some money for groceries, social activities, and emergencies. Keeping track of your spending will help you avoid overspending. In the US, the cost of living for a student usually ranges from $10,000 to $25,000 per academic year, depending on the city you live in. When planning your budget, make sure to include these common expenses:

Expenses	Average yearly cost
Books and Stationery	$500- $1000
Travelling	$500- $1200
Food	$2500
Clothes and footwear	$500
Miscellaneous expenses	$2000

What are the Student Visa Application Fees in the USA?

According to the travel.state.gov, the student visa application fee in the USA is $185. You need to pay the non-refundable visa application fee before your interview. If your visa is approved, you might also need to pay a visa issuance fee, depending on your nationality.

Student Visa Application Fees in USA

The student visa application fee in the USA is $185. You need to pay the non-refundable visa application fee before your interview. If your visa is approved, you might also need to pay a visa issuance fee, depending on your nationality.

What is the Financial Statement for a USA Student Visa?

There’s no fixed rule about how much money you need in the bank when applying for an F-1 visa for the USA. However, it’s generally advised to have between USD 18,000 to USD 24,000 in your account, and you should show bank statements from the last 6-9 months. This amount doesn’t include the SEVIS fee of USD 350 and the DS-160 form fee of USD 185, which are required for F-1 visa applicants. The exact amount you need to show can depend on:

• The school and program you choose
• The cost of living in the state where you’ll study
• Your situation

The recommended balance is to prove you have enough money to support yourself during your first year in the USA.

How to Calculate the Cost of Studying in the USA?

In recent years, it has become easier for students to estimate the cost of studying in the US. All US universities are now required to have a fees and financial aid calculator on their websites. This helps students get an idea of how much their course will cost and what financial aid they might qualify for. These “net price calculators” are also available on the government’s College Affordability and Transparency Center website, which shows the US universities with the highest and lowest tuition fees and overall costs.

How to Reduce the Cost of Studying in the USA? 

To reduce the cost of studying in the USA, students can explore scholarships, pursue part-time work, utilise student discounts, and choose affordable accommodation options. Additionally, you can also opt for a public community, prepare a perfect meal plan, use public transportation and live in university accommodation or shared flats. Let’s explore some tips to reduce the cost of studying in the USA. 

• Explore Scholarships and Financial Aid
• Utilise Student Discounts
• Find Part-time Jobs
• Choose Affordable Accommodation
• Buy Used Textbooks
• Utilise Public Transportation, etc.

Final Words

International students are always curious to know about the cost of studying in the USA as the cost is the main factor when considering higher education in any country abroad. In this article, we have mentioned the approximate cost to study in USA for international students. We are directly partnered with the top-ranked universities in the USA, so, if you want to study in USA for the next intake, you can always contact AIMS Education. 

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