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Study in USA | Complete Guide for International Students
The United States is the #1 study destination in the world, hosting more international students than any other country. With globally recognised universities, flexible education systems, cutting-edge research, and strong post-study opportunities, the USA offers unmatched academic and career outcomes.
Why Study USA?
Key Highlights
World-leading universities & colleges
On-campus + OPT work opportunities
Multicultural & inclusive society
Strong focus on innovation & research
Flexible majors & course structures
Popular Courses to Study in USA
Computer Science & IT
Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical)
Business & Management (MBA)
Health Sciences & Nursing
Data Science & AI
Biotechnology & Life Sciences
Arts, Design & Media
Universities We Work With in the USA
- University of the Pacific
- Saint Louis University
- Hofstra University
- Pace University
- Adelphi University
- Long Island University (LIU)
- California State University (select campuses via pathway partners)
- University of Central Oklahoma
- University of Dayton
- Illinois State University
- Western New England University
- Drew University
- Marshall University
- University of South Florida (Pathway options)
Colleges & Career Pathway Institutions
- Shorelight Education partner universities
- INTO partner universities (USA network)
- Study Group partner universities
- Navitas USA pathway universities
- Full Sail University
- Berkeley College
- LIM College
- Johnson & Wales University
- Fullerton College
- Santa Monica College
- Green River College
- Seattle Colleges
These are very popular with Nepal-origin students applying to the USA
English & Pathway Programs Available
- INTO USA
- Shorelight Education
- Study Group USA
- Navitas USA
- ELS Language Centers
Part-Time Work & Income (On-Campus)
International students studying in the United States of America are allowed to work legally under F-1 visa rules, with specific conditions.
Part-Time Work Rules (F-1 Visa)
During Study (On-Campus)
Up to 20 hours per week during semesters
Full-time during official breaks (summer/winter)
Off-campus work not allowed in the first year (except special cases)
Common On-Campus Jobs
Library assistant
Cafeteria / dining hall
IT helpdesk
Research assistant (basic level)
Administrative support
Part-Time Income in the USA
Hourly Wage
USD $12 – $20 per hour
(depends on state & job type)
Monthly Income Estimate
| Hours | Approx. Income |
|---|---|
| 15 hrs/week | $720 – $1,200 |
| 20 hrs/week | $960 – $1,600 |
This income usually helps cover living expenses, not full tuition.
Off-Campus Work Options (After Eligibility)
CPT – Curricular Practical Training
Paid or unpaid internships
Must be related to your course
Requires university approval
Can be part-time or full-time
OPT – Optional Practical Training
Work after course completion
Up to 12 months
STEM courses: up to 36 months
Full-time paid employment allowed
OPT Salary (Average)
$45,000 – $75,000 per year
Tech & STEM roles may earn more
Income by Study Level (Typical)
| Level | Work Type | Income Range |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | On-campus | $800 – $1,500/month |
| Master’s | On-campus / GA | $1,200 – $2,500/month |
| PhD | RA / TA (funded) | $1,500 – $3,000/month |
Many PhD students receive stipend + tuition waiver, so part-time work may not be required.
Important Rules to Remember
❌ Working more than allowed hours = visa violation
❌ Cash jobs are illegal
✅ Always follow university & immigration rules
✅ SSN required for paid work
Expert Tips for Nepali Students
First year: focus on on-campus jobs only
Choose STEM courses for longer OPT
Cities with higher wages also have higher rent
Part-time income supports living cost, not full fees
How Advice Education & Visa Services (AEVS) Helps
- Explains legal work rules clearly
- Guides on CPT & OPT eligibility
- Course selection with better work outcomes
- Pre-departure & post-arrival support
Education System in the USA
The US education system is known for flexibility and academic freedom.
Types of Institutions
Community Colleges (2-year, affordable, transfer options)
Public Universities
Private Universities
Liberal Arts Colleges
Research-Intensive Universities
Popular Qualifications
| Level | Duration |
|---|---|
| Associate Degree | 2 years |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 4 years |
| Master’s Degree | 1–2 years |
| PhD / Doctorate | 3–6 years |
Entry Requirements
Entry requirements vary depending on course and institution, but generally include:
Academic
Minimum GPA (varies by institution)
Academic transcripts
SOP / Personal Statement
Letters of Recommendation
English Language
IELTS / TOEFL / PTE / Duolingo
Waivers possible (case-by-case)
USA Student Visa (F-1 Visa)
Most international students study under the F-1 Student Visa.
Key Requirements
Offer letter from SEVP-approved institution
I-20 form
Proof of funds
English proficiency (IELTS / TOEFL / PTE / Duolingo)
Genuine study intent
Work Rights
On-campus: up to 20 hrs/week
OPT (Optional Practical Training): up to 12–36 months
CPT for internships during study
Key Visa Highlights
Visa Application Fee (DS-160) updated 2026
This is the non-immigrant visa application processing fee you pay when submitting your DS-160 form cost $185 to apply for an F-1 visa.
This fee must be paid before your visa interview and is non-refundable even if the visa is denied.
SEVIS I-901 Fee
The SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee supports the U.S. government tracking and managing international students.
Amount: USD 350 for most F-1 student visa applicants.
This fee should be paid before your visa interview, and you must include the receipt with your application.
Dependents (F-2) typically do not pay this SEVIS fee unless they change status to F-1.
Important Notes
You must pay both the SEVIS fee and the visa application fee before attending the visa interview in most cases.
✅ Keep all payment receipts — you must show them at the interview and possibly at the U.S. port of entry.
✅ Fees are non-refundable even if the visa application is denied.
Estimated Total Student Visa Cost
| Fee Type | Approx. Amount |
|---|---|
| Visa Application Fee (DS-160) | USD 185 |
| SEVIS I-901 Fee | USD 350 |
| Total ≈ | USD 535 (base cost) |
Pay & Interview Timing
You can pay the SEVIS fee after receiving your I-20 from your U.S. school and before your visa appointment.
Many students schedule the visa interview 3–6 months before the course starts to allow time for processing.
How Advice Education & Visa Services Helps
✔️ Clear explanation of total visa costs
✔️ Budget planning before application
✔️ Correct visa category selection
✔️ Financial document verification
✔️ Step-by-step visa application guidance
AEVS provides education counselling and works with registered migration agents when migration advice is required.
Cost of Study
Tuition Fees (Average per year)
| Institution Type | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Community Colleges | $8,000 – $15,000 |
| Public Universities | $20,000 – $35,000 |
| Private Universities | $35,000 – $55,000 |
Living Cost
USD $10,000 – $18,000 per year
Depends on city, housing & lifestyle
Tip: Studying in regional areas or starting at a community college can significantly reduce costs.
Tuition Fees Highlights
Undergraduate (Bachelor's Degree) Tuition Fees
Duration
4 years
Average Annual Tuition
| Institution Type | Tuition Fee (USD / year) |
|---|---|
| Community Colleges | $8,000 – $15,000 |
| Public Universities | $20,000 – $35,000 |
| Private Universities | $35,000 – $55,000+ |
Popular UG Courses
Computer Science
Engineering
Business & Management
Health Sciences
Arts & Media
Cost-saving tip: Many Nepali students start at community colleges and later transfer to universities.
Graduate (Master's Degree) Tuition Fees
Duration
1 – 2 years
Average Annual Tuition
| Program Type | Tuition Fee (USD / year) |
|---|---|
| Public Universities | $22,000 – $40,000 |
| Private Universities | $35,000 – $60,000+ |
| MBA Programs | $40,000 – $70,000+ |
Popular Master’s Programs
MS in Computer Science / IT
Data Science & AI
Engineering
MBA / Management
Public Health
STEM programs may qualify for extended OPT after graduation.
PhD (Doctorate) Tuition Fees
Duration
3 – 6 years
Tuition & Funding Reality
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fee | Often fully or partially waived |
| Stipend | $18,000 – $35,000 per year |
| Funding Type | Scholarships / Teaching Assistantship / Research Assistantship |
✅ Many PhD students do not pay tuition
✅ Monthly stipend often covers living expenses
Admission is highly competitive and based on:
Academic profile
Research proposal
Supervisor availability
Additional Costs (All Levels)
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD / year) |
|---|---|
| Living Cost | $10,000 – $18,000 |
| Health Insurance | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Books & Materials | $500 – $1,200 |
Quick Comparison Summary
| Level | Tuition Range (USD/year) | Funding Options |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | $8,000 – $55,000 | Limited scholarships |
| Master’s | $22,000 – $70,000 | Scholarships / Assistantships |
| PhD | $0 – $20,000 | Mostly funded + stipend |
How Advice Education & Visa Services (AEVS) Helps
Course & university selection
Cost-effective study pathways
Scholarship & assistantship guidance
SOP & document preparation
Visa application support
AEVS works with partnered registered migration agents where required.
Scholarships in the USA for International Students
Studying in the United States of America can be expensive, but many scholarships and funding options are available to help international students reduce tuition and living costs.
Types of Scholarships in the USA
Merit-Based Scholarships
Based on academic excellence
High GPA / strong academic records
Leadership & extracurricular achievements
Competitive but widely available
Offered by universities directly
Common for Bachelor’s & Master’s students
Need-Based Scholarships
Based on financial background
Family income & financial situation
More common at private universities
Limited but valuable for eligible students
Requires financial documents
Highly selective
University-Specific Scholarships
Most common scholarship type
Automatically considered with admission
Partial tuition reduction (10%–50%)
Some renewable every year
Available for UG & PG students
No separate application in many cases
Government-Funded Scholarships
Fulbright Program
Fully or partially funded
Mainly for Master’s & research programs
Covers tuition, living costs & insurance
Highly competitive
Strong academic & leadership profile required
Graduate Assistantships (GA / TA / RA)
Best funding option for Master’s & PhD
| Type | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Teaching Assistant (TA) | Tuition waiver + stipend |
| Research Assistant (RA) | Tuition waiver + stipend |
| Graduate Assistant (GA) | Partial/Full funding |
Stipend: USD 18,000 – 35,000 per year
Very common for STEM & research degrees
Scholarship by Study Level
Undergraduate (Bachelor's)
Merit-based scholarships
University grants
Limited full scholarships
Usually partial funding only
Graduate (Master’s)
Merit-based + assistantships
Program-specific funding
External scholarships
Funding chances are much higher than UG
PhD (Doctorate)
Mostly fully funded
Tuition waived
Monthly stipend included
💡 Many PhD students do not pay tuition
General Eligibility Criteria
Strong academic background
English proficiency (IELTS / TOEFL / PTE / Duolingo)
SOP / Personal Statement
Recommendation letters
Leadership or research profile (for higher funding)
When to Apply for Scholarships?
| Intake | Scholarship Application |
|---|---|
| Fall (Aug/Sep) | Oct – Jan |
| Spring (Jan) | Jun – Aug |
| PhD | 8–12 months earlier |
Early application = higher scholarship chance
Important Scholarship Tips
Apply early
. Choose realistic universities
. Strong SOP increases funding chances
. Avoid fake “guaranteed scholarships”
. No full scholarship for everyone – profile matters
How Advice Education & Visa Services (AEVS) Helps
Identify scholarship-friendly universities
Prepare strong SOP & documents
Guide for assistantships & funded PhD
Ethical & transparent counselling
Cost of Living (Realistic Monthly Breakdown)
USA scholarships are competitive but realistic if applied strategically.
Average Monthly Living Cost in the USA (City-Wise)
Includes accommodation, food, transport & basic utilities — excludes tuition fees)
| City | Average Monthly Cost (USD) | Cost Level |
|---|---|---|
| New York City | $1,600 – $2,300 | Very High |
| San Francisco | $1,800 – $2,500 | Very High |
| Los Angeles | $1,500 – $2,200 | High |
| Boston | $1,500 – $2,200 | High |
| Chicago | $1,200 – $1,700 | Medium |
| Dallas | $1,100 – $1,600 | Medium |
| Houston | $1,000 – $1,500 | Medium |
| Atlanta | $1,000 – $1,500 | Medium |
| Phoenix | $900 – $1,400 | Low–Medium |
| Cleveland | $800 – $1,200 | Low |
Cost Breakdown (Average)
| Expense | Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Shared Accommodation | $400 – $900 |
| Food & Groceries | $250 – $400 |
| Transport | $80 – $150 |
| Utilities & Internet | $80 – $150 |
| Miscellaneous | $100 – $200 |
Best Cities by Student Budget
| Student Priority | Recommended Cities |
|---|---|
| Lowest cost | Cleveland, Phoenix |
| Balanced cost + jobs | Dallas, Houston, Chicago |
| Top universities | Boston, New York |
| Tech & high salaries | San Francisco, Los Angeles |
Important Notes for Students
Living cost varies by lifestyle & housing type
Shared housing significantly reduces expenses
Higher-cost cities usually offer higher part-time wages
Visa officers expect realistic living cost estimation
Advice from Advice Education & Visa Services (AEVS)
We help students:
Choose budget-friendly cities & universities
Prepare accurate financial documents
Balance study cost + work opportunities
Major Cities for International Students in the USA
The United States of America is made up of 50 states, each offering diverse study environments, lifestyles, and career opportunities. International students can choose from global cities, affordable regional hubs, or research-focused college towns based on budget and career goals.
New to the USA education system? Start here:
Study in the USA
Popular Cities for Students
Cities like New York City, Los Angeles, Boston, Chicago, and Dallas attract students due to top universities, part-time work opportunities, and strong industry exposure.
Affordable & Student-Friendly States
States such as Texas, Ohio, Arizona, and Georgia are popular for lower living costs and growing job markets.
Education Hubs
States like California, Massachusetts, and New York host world-leading universities and strong research opportunities.
Choosing the Right Location
Your choice of state and city affects tuition fees, living costs, part-time work, internships, and OPT opportunities. Many students begin in affordable states and later move to major cities for career growth.
Advice from Advice Education & Visa Services (AEVS)
We help students:
Choose budget-friendly cities & universities
Prepare accurate financial documents
Balance study cost + work opportunities
New York City
New York City, officially the City of New York, is the most populous city in the United States and a global hub for finance, culture, and innovation. Located in southeastern New York State at the mouth of the Hudson River, it anchors one of the world’s largest metropolitan areas and serves as a gateway to the North American continent.
Key facts
Founded: 1624 (as New Amsterdam)
Population: ~8.8 million (2020 census)
Boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, Staten Island
Mayor (2025): Eric Adams
Area: 305 sq mi / 790 km²
Los Angeles
Los Angeles, often called L.A., is the largest city in California and the second most populous in the United States. Located on the Pacific coast of southern California, it is globally recognized for its entertainment industry, cultural diversity, and sprawling metropolitan form that extends from beaches to mountains.
Key facts
Founded: 1781; incorporated 1850
Population: ~3.9 million (city, 2020 census)
Area: 469 sq mi / 1,214 km²
Region: Southern California, seat of Los Angeles County
Nickname: “City of Angels”
Boston
Boston is the capital and most populous city of the U.S. state of Massachusetts. Founded in 1630, it is one of the oldest cities in the United States and a major center for education, culture, and innovation. Boston is renowned for its historic role in the American Revolution, world-class universities, and influential industries in technology, finance, and healthcare.
Key facts
Founded: 1630
Population: ~650,000 (city), ~4.9 million (metro area, 2023)
Nickname: “The Hub,” “Beantown”
Mayor: Michelle Wu (as of 2024)
Notable institutions: Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Boston University, Northeastern University
Chicago
Chicago is the largest city in Illinois and the third most populous in the United States. Situated on the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan, it is a major center for finance, culture, transportation, and higher education. Known for its distinctive skyline and architectural innovation, Chicago plays a central role in U.S. urban and economic life.
Key facts
Founded: 1833; incorporated as a city in 1837
Population: About 2.7 million (2023 estimate)
Nicknames: The Windy City, Chi-Town, The Second City
Area: ~234 sq mi (606 km²)
Mayor: Brandon Johnson (as of 2024)
Dallas
Dallas is a major city in the U.S. state of Texas, forming part of the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex, one of the largest metropolitan areas in the country. It is a leading hub for business, technology, transportation, and culture in the southern United States.
Key facts
Founded: 1841
Population: About 1.3 million (2023 est.)
Region: North Texas, along the Trinity River
Known for: Commerce, arts, sports, and historical significance
Metro area: Dallas–Fort Worth–Arlington (over 7.5 million residents)
Texas
Texas is a large and economically powerful state in the south-central region of the United States. Known as the “Lone Star State,” it became the 28th state in 1845 and is renowned for its vast geography, independent history, and major role in U.S. culture, energy, and industry.
Key facts
Capital: Austin
Population: ~31.3 million (2024 est.)
Area: 268,597 sq mi (695,662 km²)
Governor: Greg Abbott (as of 2025)
Nickname: The Lone Star State
Date of statehood: December 29, 1845
Ohio
Ohio is a U.S. state located in the Midwest, bordered by Lake Erie to the north and the Ohio River to the south. It serves as a key transportation and economic crossroads, linking the Great Lakes and Mid-Atlantic regions. Known for its industrial heritage, higher education centers, and political importance, Ohio often plays a pivotal role in national elections.
Key facts
Capital: Columbus, Ohio
Population: About 11.8 million (2023 estimate)
Largest cities: Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Toledo
Statehood: Admitted March 1, 1803 (17th state)
Nickname: The Buckeye State
Arizona
Arizona is a U.S. state located in the southwestern region, known for its desert climate, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural history. It is home to major natural landmarks such as the Grand Canyon and a rapidly growing metropolitan area centered around Phoenix. Arizona plays a vital role in tourism, technology, and cross-border trade.
Key facts
Capital: Phoenix
Population: About 7.4 million (2023)
Statehood: February 14, 1912 (48th state)
Major cities: Phoenix, Tucson, Mesa, Chandler, Scottsdale
Nickname: The Grand Canyon State
Georgia
Georgia is a southeastern U.S. state bordered by Florida, Alabama, Tennessee, South Carolina, and the Atlantic Ocean. Known for its diverse geography—from the Blue Ridge Mountains to coastal marshlands—it plays a major role in American politics, agriculture, and business. Atlanta, its capital, anchors a vibrant metropolitan economy and cultural scene.
Key facts
Capital: Atlanta
Population: About 10.9 million (2023 est.)
Founded: 1732 (as a British colony)
Nickname: The Peach State
Statehood: January 2, 1788 (4th U.S. state)
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should international students choose the USA for higher education?
The United States of America offers world-ranked universities, flexible education systems, strong research facilities, and excellent career opportunities, making it one of the top study destinations globally.
How much does it cost to study in the USA?
The total cost varies by institution and location. On average:
Tuition fees range from USD 8,000 to 55,000 per year
Living costs are around USD 10,000 to 18,000 per year
Community colleges and public universities are more affordable than private institutions.
Which visa is required to study in the USA?
Most international students need an F-1 student visa. To apply, students must receive an offer letter and an I-20 formfrom a SEVP-approved institution.
How much bank balance is required for a USA student visa?
Students must show enough funds to cover one year of tuition and living costs, as mentioned on the I-20 form. Typically, this ranges from USD 25,000 to 45,000, depending on the course and city.
Can international students work while studying in the USA?
Yes. F-1 students can:
Work up to 20 hours per week on campus during semesters
Work full-time during official breaks
Off-campus work is allowed later through CPT or OPT, subject to eligibility.
What are OPT and CPT?
CPT (Curricular Practical Training): Allows students to do internships related to their course during study
OPT (Optional Practical Training): Allows students to work after graduation for up to 12 months, or 36 months for STEM courses
What are the English language requirements?
Most US institutions accept:
IELTS
TOEFL
PTE Academic
Duolingo English Test
Some universities may offer English waivers or pathway programs.
Can I study in the USA without IELTS?
Yes. Many universities accept alternatives like Duolingo or TOEFL, and some may waive English requirements based on previous education.
Are scholarships available for international students?
Yes. Scholarships may include:
Merit-based scholarships
University grants
Graduate assistantships (for Master’s & PhD)
Fully or partially funded PhD opportunities
Which intakes are available in the USA?
Most universities offer:
Fall intake (August/September) – main intake
Spring intake (January)
Summer intake (May/June) – limited programs
Is community college a good option for international students?
Yes. Community colleges offer lower tuition fees and transfer pathways to universities after completing the first two years.
Which cities are popular for international students in the USA?
Popular student cities include New York City, Los Angeles, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, and Atlanta, offering strong education quality and job opportunities.
How long does a USA student visa process take?
Visa processing time depends on the country and season. Students should apply as early as possible after receiving the I-20 to secure interview appointments.
Can I stay in the USA after completing my studies?
Yes. Through OPT, eligible students can gain work experience in the USA after graduation. Long-term stay depends on future visa options and eligibility.
How can Advice Education & Visa Services help?
Advice Education & Visa Services supports students with:
Course and university selection
Scholarship guidance
Document & SOP preparation
Visa application assistance
Pre-departure and ongoing student support