Cost to Study in USA from Nepal: Tuition, Living & Visa
The USA is one of the most popular study destinations for students worldwide, and Nepali students are no exception. Attracted by the top education, research, and opportunities, thousands of students worldwide head to the US for higher education. If you are thinking of studying in the USA too, you must’ve definitely wondered, How much does it cost to study in the USA?
The cost of studying in the USA is an important concern, and often the deal breaker. Tuition fees, visa requirements, and daily living expenses, we have a list for you here. Explore this guide, and by the end, you’ll have a clear picture of what it really takes to study in the USA as a Nepali student.
How Much Does it Cost to Study in a US University?
Public universities in the USA are a lot cheaper than the private ones, with tuition fees around USD 15,000–30,000 per year. Private universities, on the other hand, can reach up to USD 50,000 per year. One of the biggest factors affecting your cost is the type of university you attend. This is how public and private universities in the USA compare to each other:
1. Tuition Fees in Public vs. Private US Universities
Feature | Public Universities | Private Universities |
| Tuition Fee (International Students) | USD 15,000 – 30,000 per year | USD 30,000 – 60,000 per year (can be higher at top schools) |
| Why Fees Differ | Cheaper because they are funded by the state | Not funded by the state, so they rely on tuition and donations, resulting to higher costs |
| Education Quality | Good programs in engineering, science, and social studies; quality can vary by school | Often better resources, smaller classes, strong research and reputation |
| Top Examples | University of California, University of Michigan, University of Texas | Harvard University, Stanford University, MIT, Yale University |
For Nepali students, the choice between public and private universities depends not only on budget but also on academic goals, available scholarships, and desired field of study.
Consider the program level and your field of study while researching the tuition fees for studying in the USA.
2. Tuition Fees in USA for Nepalese Students
Undergraduate programs for international students can cost around USD 20,000–40,000 annually in the USA. Postgraduate programs can be slightly more expensive, ranging from USD 25,000 to 50,000 per year.
Program | Average Tuition (per year) | Duration |
| Undergraduate (Bachelor’s Degree) | USD 20,000 – 40,000 | 4 years |
| Master’s Degree (Graduate Programs) | USD 25,000 – 45,000 | 1.5 – 2 years |
| PhD (Doctoral Programs) | USD 28,000 – 55,000 | 4 – 6 years |
3. Popular Courses & Their Tuition Fees in USA
Different programs in the USA come with different tuition ranges. Fields such as medicine or pilot training can be significantly more expensive compared to arts or business programs. Below is an overview of estimated annual tuition fees for popular courses in both public and private universities:
Course/Field of Study | Public University (per year) | Private University (per year) |
| STEM (Science, Tech, Engineering, Math) | USD 20,000 – 35,000 | USD 35,000 – 55,000 |
| Business (including Accounting, Finance, Management) | USD 18,000 – 30,000 | USD 35,000 – 50,000 |
| Arts & Humanities | USD 15,000 – 25,000 | USD 30,000 – 45,000 |
| Dentistry | USD 30,000 – 50,000 | USD 50,000 – 75,000 |
| Medicine (MBBS equivalent) | USD 35,000 – 55,000 | USD 50,000 – 80,000 |
| MBA | USD 25,000 – 40,000 | USD 45,000 – 70,000 |
| Pilot Training | USD 20,000 – 35,000 | USD 35,000 – 60,000 |
4. Fees Difference for International Students
International students usually pay more than US students because they don’t receive funds from the state. On average, tuition for international students can be 2–3 times higher than what local students pay.
For example, a US student might pay around USD 10,000 per year for a course, while an international student could pay USD 25,000 or more for the same program. However, almost all US universities and even the government provide scholarships ranging from 10% to 100%, based on your academic merits and other criteria. Keeping this in mind will help you plan your budget better.
How Much Does It Cost to Live in the USA per Month?
Your living expenses in the USA can range anywhere from USD 1500–2500, widely depending on your chosen city, housing, and lifestyle decisions. These total living costs include your rent, groceries, insurance, and commute. These will be your major day-to-day expenses:
1. Accommodation
For housing, you’ll basically have either on-campus or off-campus choices. Most Nepalese students usually prefer off-campus options like shared apartments and homestays for around USD 800-1,500 per month. Learn each option in more detail here:
On-campus Accommodation
On-campus dormitories typically cost USD 600-1,200 per month. This amount usually includes your utilities like electricity, water, and internet. Most universities require meal plans that add another USD 300-500 monthly. In the dorms, you'll share bathrooms and common areas with other students. Universities give priority to freshmen for dorm spots, so upper-year students often need backup plans.
Off-campus Accomodation
Off-campus shared apartments range from USD 800-1,500 per month, and the homestays can cost you USD 600–1,000 per month. In addition, you need to budget an extra USD 100-200 monthly for utilities. You may even have to pay security deposits of 1-2 months' rent upfront. Some places come furnished, while others do not. Consider costs for those accordingly.
The rooms in the centre may be costlier than in the outer areas. Cheaper areas, however, often mean longer commutes to campus. Research neighborhoods thoroughly for safety, grocery access, and public transport connections.
Monthly Rent in USA for International Students
Category | Typical Monthly Rent (USD) |
| On-Campus | $600 - 1,200 |
| Shared Rooms/ Apartments | $500 - 1,500+ |
| Homestay | $600 - 1,200 |
| Private Apartments | $1,000 to 2,500+ |
2. Food & Groceries
Groceries and cooking at home cost around USD 200-400 per month. Maintain a simple lifestyle. Buy generic brands and seasonal veggies, and stock the snacks with longer shelf life in sales. Opt for budget chains like Walmart, Aldi, or ethnic grocery stores. Consider wholesale clubs like Costco if you can split purchases with roommates.
Eating out can cost around USD 10–15 per meal. Limit dining out and cook at home regularly. This habit keeps you healthy and saves half of your food expenses.
3. Transportation
Public transport passes cost USD 70-120 per month. Annual passes come with a much cheaper rate. Many cities offer student discounts that can cut these costs significantly. Some universities also include transit passes in student fees. Download transit apps for real-time schedules and route planning to make the system work for you.
If you choose to own a car, there’s a different set of expenses waiting for you. Insurance runs USD 100-300 monthly, gas adds USD 100-200 depending on your driving habits, and campus parking permits cost USD 50-200 monthly. Moreover, maintenance and repairs can add around USD 100-150 monthly.
4. Health Insurance
Health insurance for international students averages USD 500–1,000 per year, depending on your university and provider. Choosing a university health insurance plan is usually the easiest choice because it covers you at the school's health center. You can only avoid this plan if you find a private insurance plan with the same level of coverage.
However, if you choose a private insurance plan, you need to do more research since it may come with additional costs and should meet visa requirements.
5. Books & Study Materials
Books and study materials typically cost USD 50-100 per month or USD 600-1,200 annually, but you can slash these costs with smart strategies. Borrow books from university public libraries, rent textbooks, or purchase international editions that have the same content at lower prices. Utilise professor-provided materials whenever possible, and opt for E-books, which are typically found at half the regular price.
6. Personal Expenses
Personal expenses cover everything else you need for daily life and typically run USD 200-400 monthly. These are the cost estimations for students’ typical necessities and entertainment:
Personal Expenses | Costs in USD |
| Phone plan | 30-60 |
| Entertainment | 50-100 |
| Clothing | 30-80 |
| Personal care | 20-40 |
| Unexpected expenses | 50-100 |
Take advantage of student discounts for movies, software, and services to stretch your budget further.
Living Expenses in the USA for International Students (Summary)
Expense Category | Average Monthly Cost (USD) | Average Monthly Cost (NPR) |
| Accommodation | 600 – 1,500 | 84,000 – 210,000 |
| Food & Groceries | 200 – 400 | 28,000 – 56,000 |
| Transportation | 70 – 120 | 9,800 – 16,800 |
| Health Insurance | 80 – 150 | 11,200 – 21,000 |
| Books & Materials | 50 – 100 | 7,000 – 14,000 |
| Personal Expenses | 200 – 400 | 28,000 – 56,000 |
(Conversion based on ~NPR 140 = 1 USD; actual rates may vary.)
Visa & Financial Requirements for Nepali Students
Studying in the USA requires more than just admission to a university. You also need to meet visa and financial requirements set by the US government. Here are the essentials:
What is the Visa Fee for the USA from Nepal?
You will need a total of USD 535 for a US Study Visa (F-1 visa). This comprises of the two main fees:
Fee Type | Cost (USD) | Cost (NPR) |
| SEVIS Fee (Form I-901) | $350 | approx. NPR 46,000 |
| Visa Application Fee (DS-160) | $185 | approx. NPR 24,000 |
The DS-160 form and SEVIS fee are non-refundable and must be paid before scheduling your visa interview.
2. How Much Bank Balance is Required for a US Student Visa from Nepal?
For a US Student Visa, you need a minimum bank balance of USD 30,000 – 50,000, which is around NPR 40–65 lakhs. This is the amount that typically covers at least the first year of your tuition and living expenses in the United States.
The US embassy requires this proof to ensure you can financially support your studies and living expenses during your stay. This is often referred to as “proof of funds”, and the exact amount can depend on your university and location.
Funds can be in the form of savings, fixed deposits, or a sponsor’s account (such as parents or close relatives). Just make sure the funds are in your account (or sponsor’s account) for at least 3–6 months before your visa interview to strengthen credibility.
Scholarships and Financial Aid in the USA
The US government and universities provide up to 100% scholarships to attract diligent international students worldwide. These partial and full scholarships in the USA can significantly cut down your overall expenses, covering tuition fees, living costs, and sometimes, even the flight fares.
The scholarships are often covered by universities themselves, by the government for highly achieving students, and by certain groups or organisations. So, research and apply accordingly. You will often be granted funds based on your academic performance, financial need, or exceptional extracurricular experience.
Popular Scholarships in USA for Nepalese Students
These are some popular scholarships in the USA availble for Nepalese students:
1. Fulbright Scholarship (Nepal)
The most prestigious US government scholarship covering full tuition, a monthly stipend, health insurance, and round-trip airfare for graduate studies.
2. Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship
Non-degree fellowship for experienced professionals with leadership potential, covering tuition, living expenses, and professional development activities.
3. Harvard University Financial Aid
Need-blind admission with full financial support for families earning under USD 75,000 annually. International students receive the same generous aid as domestic students, with packages covering tuition, room, board, and personal expenses based on demonstrated financial need.
4. MIT Need-Based Aid
Offers comprehensive financial aid covering full demonstrated need for all admitted international students. Awards include grants, work-study opportunities, and sometimes small loans.
5. Amherst College Full-Need Aid
Liberal arts college meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for all international students without loans. Known for comprehensive support covering tuition, room, board, and miscellaneous expenses.
6. Berea College Work-Study Program
Berea is a tuition-free college where all students work on campus to contribute to educational costs. International students receive tuition and room support with a modest stipend while gaining valuable work experience in various campus departments.
Budget Tips for Nepali Students in the USA
Even if studying in the USA sounds expensive, smart planning can make a big difference. Many Nepali students manage their expenses comfortably by combining scholarships, part-time work, and careful budgeting. Here are some practical tips:
1. Choose Affordable States and Cities
Choosing an affordable city may not change your tuition much, but living expenses vary drastically. For example, living in New York or California could double your costs compared to studying in Texas, Ohio, or Iowa. Look for universities in smaller or mid-sized cities where rent, food, and transport are more affordable. These cities are student-friendly, and you’ll find a lot of peers on a common journey there.
2. Share Accommodation
Housing is often the biggest expense. Sharing an apartment with 2-4 peers reduces costs significantly while you enjoy a comfortable student life. Many students find roommates through university housing boards or Nepali student associations.
3. Cook Your Own Meals
Eating out regularly can burn a hole in your pocket. Cooking at home can cut food costs by more than half. Many Nepali students take turns cooking with friends, which makes it both affordable and enjoyable.
4. Use Student Discounts
In the US, your student ID is powerful. From public transport passes to museum tickets and even phone plans, student discounts can save you hundreds of dollars per year. Always ask if there’s a student rate available.
5. Balance Part-Time Work and Studies
International students on an F-1 visa can work up to 20 hours per week on campus during the semester and full-time during holidays. While part-time work may not cover tuition, it helps with day-to-day expenses. Choose jobs that don’t interfere with your studies.
Also note that international students can work only on campus in the first year. Only from the second year of your undergraduate academic program, you are allowed to work outside the campus. This typically includes part-time jobs or course-related internships.
6. Track Your Expenses
It’s easy to overspend without realizing it. Use budgeting apps, an Excel sheet, or even a simple notebook to track where your money goes. Many students find that small changes like making coffee at home instead of buying it outside save them hundreds over a semester.
The key is not just cutting costs but balancing your lifestyle with your budget. With the right approach, you’ll enjoy your student life in the USA without unnecessary financial stress.
Conclusion
Studying in the USA is undoubtedly a significant investment, but with proper planning, it’s entirely achievable for Nepali students. Tuition fees, living costs, and visa requirements are indeed hefty, but hundreds of thousands of Nepalese students have successfully managed them, and so can you.
Scholarships and financial aid significantly cut the expenses. Part-time works assist in managing your finances too. On top of that, smart budgeting can save you hundreds of dollars.
So, are you ready to take the first step toward your US study journey? Connect with trusted consultants in Nepal, like SAS Education Consultancy. We help you with initial costs, complete budgeting, and even test preparation and visa guidance. With the right support, your dream of studying in the USA is more reachable than you think. Contact Us Today!