Cost of Studying in USA
Understand the different costs of studying in USA for international students, such as the university fees, programme-wise costs, institution-wise costs and other individual study costs in USA for international students
Plan your USA study budget with expert financial guidance
What you'll learn in this article
Did you know Harvard University’s $56.9 billion endowment for 2025 exceeds the GDP of over 120 countries? (Source: Harvard University - Endowment) For international students, studying in the USA is more than an academic pursuit; it takes a high-stakes investment in a global future. While top-tier degrees promise lucrative career paths, the financial commitment is substantial.
Navigating the cost of studying in the USA requires precision. According to the official Institute of International Education (IIE) Open Doors Report, over 1.12 million international students chose the US for their education in the most recent academic year. Whether you are targeting an Ivy League or a public state school, proper financial research is your first step to success.
Drawing on official data from Education USA, the College Board, and ETS, this guide provides a complete, verified breakdown of US education costs for the 2027 academic intake.
Plan your USA study budget with expert financial guidance
Cost of Studying in USA for International Students
The biggest determinant of any student planning to study abroad is their financial capacity to cover the costs of studying abroad. In fact, the ability to cover the costs of studying in USA and living in the country is a strict legal parameter for the F-1 visa.
The cost to study in USA will be determined based on several factors, including but not limited to the type of institution (i.e. Public or Private), level of education (i.e. Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD, Diploma, Certificate, Advanced Diploma), the academic discipline, administrative costs, insurance, accommodation and lifestyle choices.
According to the Department of Homeland Security's Study in the States, to secure an F-1 visa, you are legally required to provide evidence of liquid funds sufficient to cover your entire first year of study (tuition and living expenses) exactly as outlined on your Form I-20, rather than an arbitrary flat amount.
Cost of Studying in USA for International Students by Institution
The type of institution you choose will be the first point of distinction. Based on the official College Board - Trends in College Pricing 2025 report, here is the verified breakdown of average annual tuition and fees for international (out-of-state) students:
Undergraduate Programmes:
- Public Universities (Out-of-State): The average published tuition and fees are approximately $31,880 per year.
- Private Non-Profit Universities: The average published tuition and fees are approximately $45,000 per year, with highly selective institutions often exceeding $65,000.
Graduate Programmes:
- Public Universities (Out-of-State): Because federal data averages lag several years behind, official guidance for the 2027 intake relies on the US Department of State and current university estimates. Out-of-state graduate tuition at public universities typically ranges from US $20,000 to $45,000 per year.
- Private Universities: Graduate programmes at elite private institutions (especially MBA, Law, and Medical degrees) generally range from US $50,000 to over $75,000 per year for international students.
Do not overpay for a degree that does not align with your ROI goals. With tuition ranging from $20,000 to $75,000 per year, selecting the right university requires balancing university rankings with your post-study earning potential. Let our academic counsellors evaluate your budget and shortlist high-ROI public and private universities tailored to your specific career path.
Cost of Studying in USA for International Students by State
Another factor that often dictates the overall annual cost of studying in USA is the location of the university, i.e., the state/city and the proximity of the university to city centres. For example, cities like New York City, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Boston and many more are high-cost cities; meanwhile, certain Southern and Midwestern cities will be comparatively cheaper to live in.
It should be noted that the tuition fees for international students in USA at different locations will still be determined by the university. The city/town you live in will only affect the overall cost of living, such as accommodation and transportation, which will be significantly cheaper. For example, according to MIT's Living Wage Calculator, living expenses in major coastal hubs can easily add $20,000 to $25,000 per year to your total budget.
Your university’s zip code can add $25,000 a year to your living expenses. Studying in New York or California is exciting, but high rent and transportation costs can drain your budget instantly. Our education advisors can help you map out highly ranked universities in emerging, affordable US tech and business hubs that offer lower living costs and excellent OPT job opportunities.
Mandatory Cost of Studying in USA
From application fees to administrative fees, there are certain university charges that are associated with the costs of studying in USA for international students. These are costs that are usually not covered within the tuition fees of the universities, but students must cover them to successfully enrol in a degree programme in the USA.
Universities & College Application Fees in USA
Among the costs of studying in USA is the university application fee that individual universities charge applicants. This fee is charged uniformly to all applicants irrespective of their nationality, and all students are required to pay the student application fee in the USA at the time of submitting their application forms online.
Universities in the USA commonly charge between US $50 and $100, with a large percentage of universities charging between US $50 and $75. Meanwhile, a smaller percentage of universities charge up to US $100, or higher for some courses, as student application fees during admissions.
However, many universities in the USA also offer the Fee Waiver option, where students can appeal their application fee and be exempted from paying the fee. Students displaying a financial need will be exempted from paying the application fee by the university, provided the students follow the steps and processes as defined by the university.
For example, for certain courses, there is a “Common App” where students can find out and apply for the Fee Waiver. Meanwhile, if the app is unavailable, students can directly reach out to the university via email and request a Fee Waiver after explaining their individual circumstances.
Applying to multiple US universities can cost hundreds of dollars in hidden fees. Why pay $100 per application when fee waivers are available? Navigating Common App waivers and direct university appeals requires knowing exactly who to contact and what to say. Partner with our admissions experts to secure eligible university fee waivers and submit your applications cost-effectively.
Other Expenses to Study in USA for International Students
There are several expenses and costs that students must be capable of covering when studying in USA, which go beyond the tuition and university fees and the accommodation fees. The living expenses in the USA are inevitable, and students must be prepared to cover these costs. Moreover, it is advisable to keep a little extra as an emergency fund to cover unforeseen costs and circumstances. Outlined in the table below are some of the costs associated with studying in USA.
| Expenses | Average Yearly / Monthly Cost (in USD) |
|---|---|
| SEVIS I-901 Fee | US $350 (Source: US ICE - I-901 SEVIS) |
| MRV Visa Application Fee | US $185 (Source: US DOS - Student Visa) |
| Books and Study Material | US $900 - $1,500 per year |
| Health Insurance | University Sponsored Plans: US $2,000 - $7,000 per year Private Insurance: US $30 - $200 per month |
| Average Flight Ticket | Varies by Country |
| Standardised Test fees | SAT - US $68 + $43 (international regional fee for Asia) ACT - US $181.50 (international + no writing) GRE - US $220 (General Test) GMAT - US $275 (test centre); US $300 (online) |
| English Language Test Fee | IELTS Academic - US $215 - $310 (Varies by Country) TOEFL iBT - US $205 (prices vary by country) |
Note: These costs mentioned above are an approximation and average of the overall costs international students incur during their year of studying abroad. The cost of study abroad exams and the flight tickets are also dependent on various factors.
Do not let hidden health insurance and administrative fees blindside you. From mandatory US $350 SEVIS fees to complex university-sponsored health insurance plans costing up to $7,000 a year, unbudgeted expenses can cause severe financial stress upon arrival. Speak directly with our financial counsellors to build a transparent, all-inclusive budget before you accept your admission offer.
Scholarships in USA for International Students
After reading up on the costs of studying and living in USA as an international student, choosing the USA as your destination for higher studies may seem a little daunting. However, universities across the country offer numerous scholarships and financial aid to all students.
Universities offer both need-based and merit-based scholarships that cover a majority of the costs, thus reducing the overall cost of studying in USA. Here is a list of some of the popular scholarships in USA that you can apply for as an International student.
- Rotary Foundation Global Grants: Replacing the discontinued Ambassadorial Scholarships, these grants fund international graduate-level coursework or research in one of Rotary's specific areas of focus. (Source: Rotary Global Grants)
- Hubert Humphrey Fellowship: A fully funded, non-degree program offered by the US Department of State for experienced international professionals looking to enhance their leadership skills. (Source: Hubert Humphrey Fellowship Programme)
- Fulbright Scholars Programme: Fully funded by the US government, this program operates in over 160 countries, allowing outstanding international graduate students to study and conduct research in the US. (Source: Fulbright Foreign Students Programme)
- Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme: An excellent global scholarship providing a 50% grant and 50% loan for outstanding postgraduate students from developing countries who have no other means of financing their studies. (Source: Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme)
- AAUW International Fellowships: A prestigious fellowship specifically supporting women from around the globe pursuing full-time graduate or postdoctoral study in the United States. (Source: International Project Grants)
The USA has been a top study destination for decades, with thousands of students from around the globe choosing to study the different academic disciplines and interdisciplinary degree programmes on offer. Moreover, the US has been a top study destination as a result of its reputation for making people’s dreams come true. However, if you choose to study in USA then you must make significant financial decisions to ensure you can cover the cost of studying at one of the world’s best study destinations.
Securing your US admission and financial aid requires a flawless master plan. Global scholarships are highly competitive, and university-specific merit grants require standout application essays and early deadlines. You do not have to research funding in isolation. Partner with a dedicated AECC expert who will personally guide your entire US journey, from securing scholarships to finalising your visa, completely free of charge.
Source and Resources
- Cost of Study in the USA Overview - To get an overview of US higher education costs, multiple resources have been used, such as Education USA, College Board, and IIE Open Doors Report, to establish facts about US universities.
- Cost of Studying in USA for International Students - To provide the average cost of studying in the USA, the official portal of Study in the States has been used.
- Cost of Studying in the USA for International Students by Institution - The average cost of study in US universities, divided by undergraduate and post-graduate programmes, has been taken from Education USA-Undergraduate Studies, Education USA-Graduate Studies, and National Centre for Education Statistics (NCES) – College Navigator
- Mandatory Cost of Studying in USA - The additional charges associated with the cost of studying in USA have been taken from US Department of Education- College Scorecard.
Cost of Studying in USA FAQs
Yes. According to the College Board, out-of-state tuition at public universities averages $31,880 annually, while private institutions average $45,000. Additionally, mandatory living expenses for housing, food, and transportation can add $15,000 to $25,000 per year, depending on your location.
There is no arbitrary minimum amount like $25,000. The Department of Homeland Security strictly requires you to prove sufficient liquid funds to cover exactly one academic year of tuition and living expenses, precisely as outlined on your official Form I-20.
Under federal immigration law, you must possess liquid funds matching the total estimated cost of attendance (tuition, fees, and living expenses) for your first year. This specific financial threshold is calculated by your university and officially printed on your Form I-20.
Total costs vary by institution type. Based on official College Board estimates, international students should budget roughly $45,000 to $70,000 annually. This covers tuition, housing, health insurance, and books. Public universities offer the lower end, while elite private institutions represent the higher tier.
Yes. Before scheduling a visa interview, international students must pay two distinct government fees. You must pay a $350 SEVIS I-901 fee to the Department of Homeland Security, followed by a $185 non-refundable MRV application fee to the Department of State.
Yes, but strictly within federal limits. F-1 students can legally work on campus for up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session. Off-campus work requires specific USCIS authorisation, such as Curricular Practical Training, usually after completing one academic year.
Yes. While international students are ineligible for US federal financial aid, many universities offer institutional merit scholarships or graduate assistantships. According to EducationUSA, you must verify each university's financial aid policies early, as funding for non-residents remains highly competitive.
Trusted Expertise
About the Author
Published and reviewed by AECC counsellors who guide students through every step of their study-abroad journey.
Published by Anshul Mishra
USA Education Specialist | 11 Years Advising International Students
Anshul Mishra has spent 11 years advising students on undergraduate and postgraduate study in the United States. He has worked with students across the full range. Some are aiming for Ivy League universities. Others are building a more affordable route through community colleges before transferring to a four-year institution.
Much of his work covers the practical details that US university websites tend to gloss over. How F-1 visa interviews actually go, why spring and fall intakes carry different implications depending on the course, and how Duolingo, IELTS and TOEFL acceptance varies considerably between institution types. These are the details that matter when a student is weighing up whether a particular university is genuinely viable for them.
Anshul works frequently with first-generation study abroad students, families who have no prior experience of the US admissions process and need guidance at every stage, not just the application. That experience shapes how he writes: clearly, without assuming knowledge the reader does not yet have. He holds a Bachelor of Hospitality Administration and Management and is based at AECC's Gurgaon office.
