America is one of the world's most popular places for international students all the good reasons. With over 1 million foreign students pursuing courses at American universities, the country has academic excellence, innovative research opportunities, global experience, and doors open to transnational professional careers. For Nepalese students, the USA is an experience that makes life better by providing quality education with personal development and professional advancement. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through all that you must know about studying in the USA from Nepal: minimum educational requirements, overall expenses, scholarships, the visa process, job prospects, and more.
1. Why Study in the USA?
It is not merely a question of gaining a degree — it is receiving the chance to be part of one of the globe's best education systems. Here are the reasons why Nepalese students continue to choose America:
• Global Acceptance: Degrees from America are highly accepted worldwide.
• Choice of Courses: Thousands of courses in every field.
• Flexible Education System: Postpone your decision on major, transfer credits, and double majors.
• Cutting-Edge Research: Opportunity to conduct research even at the undergraduate level.
• Career & Internship Opportunities: Excellent employability through OPT and CPT.
• Multicultural Exposure: Learn and live with students from all over the world.
• Strong Nepali Community: It's not hard to ask for help and feel at ease.
2. Minimum Academic Requirements
2.1 Undergraduate (Bachelor's Degree)
•GPA: At least 2.5 – 3.0 out of 4.0
•English Proficiency:
o TOEFL iBT: 70–80+
o IELTS: 6.0 – 6.5
o Duolingo: 100+ (accepted by most universities after the pandemic)
• Standardized Tests:
o SAT (not required in most universities)
o No entrance exams are needed in most cases
• Documents Required: Passport, transcripts, LORs (Letters of Recommendation), SOP (Statement of Purpose)
2.2 Graduate (Master's Degree)
• GPA: At least 2.75 – 3.0 out of 4.0
• English Proficiency:
o TOEFL: 80+
o IELTS: 6.5 – 7.0
• GRE/GMAT: Course and university-specific
o GRE: Required for STEM or research-oriented programs
o GMAT: Required for MBA and a couple of business programs
• Work Experience: Recommended for MBA, Public Health, etc.
• Additional Documents: Resume/CV, academic transcript, LORs, SOP, passport
3. USA Intakes
1. Fall Intake (Aug/Sep): Most sought-after, highest course availability
2. Spring Intake (Jan): Low number of courses but reasonable options
3. Summer Intake (May): Limited number of courses, mostly language or short-term. Apply 6–12 months in advance to avoid deadlines and secure funding/scholarships.
4. Studying in the USA Costs – Tuition and Living
4.1 Tuition Fees (Yearly)
|
Type of Institution |
Tuition Range (USD) |
|
Community Colleges |
$6,000 – $10,000 |
|
Public Universities (State) |
$15,000 – $25,000 |
|
Private Universities |
$25,000 – $50+ |
Tip: STEM and health-based courses are more costly.
4.2 Living Expenses (Monthly Averages)
|
Expense Category |
Average Monthly Cost (USD) |
|
Rent (Shared) |
$300 – $700 |
|
Food & Groceries |
$150 – $300 |
|
Transportation |
$50 – $150 |
|
Utilities & Internet |
$80 – $150 |
|
Miscellaneous |
$100 – $200 |
|
Total (Monthly) |
$800 – $1,500 |
4.3 Total Estimated Cost Per Year
|
Expense |
Estimated Annual Cost (USD) |
|
Tuition |
$15,000 – $40,000 |
|
Living Expenses |
$10,000 – $18,000 |
|
Health Insurance |
$800 – $1,500 |
|
Books & Materials |
$1,000 – $1,500 |
|
Flight Tickets |
$1,000 – $1,500 (round trip) |
|
Visa & SEVIS Fees |
$510+ |
|
Total Cost |
$28,000 – $60,000+ |
5. Scholarships & Financial Aid
Most U.S. universities offer scholarships to international students:
Types of Scholarships
• Merit-Based Scholarships: Academic or SAT/GRE scores-based
• Need-Based Aid: Offered by some universities
• Athletic Scholarships: For sports students
• External Scholarships:
o Fulbright Program o Education USA Opportunity Funds
o Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (UGRAD)
Tip: Apply early and research universities that offer in-state tuition, assistantships, or tuition waivers.
6. USA Student Visa (F-1 Visa)
Step-by-Step Process:
1. Get an Admission (I-20 Form) from a SEVP-approved institution
2. Pay SEVIS Fee ($350)
3. Fill DS-160 Form online
4. Pay Visa Fee ($185)
5. Schedule a Visa Interview at the U.S. Embassy, Kathmandu
6. Attend the Interview with all required documents
Required Documents:
• Valid Passport
• I-20 Form
• DS-160 Confirmation
• SEVIS Fee Receipt
• Bank Statement (evidence of funds)
• Academic Documents
• Visa Interview Letter
• Passport-size Photos
Visa Success Tips:
• Be confident and honest
• Show strong ties to Nepal (career plans, family)
• Show sufficient funds for 1 year
• Be aware of your course and university details
7. Job Opportunities in the USA (For Students)
On-Campus Jobs
• Maximum 20 hours/week during classes, full-time during breaks
• Jobs: Library assistant, lab assistant, cafeteria, tech support
• Pay: $8 – $15 per hour
CPT (Curricular Practical Training)
• Internship while studying, associated with the curriculum
• Can be completed after 1 year of study
OPT (Optional Practical Training)
• Post-graduation employment for 1 year (up to 3 years for STEM)
• Counts towards your industry experience
Important: Off-campus employment without CPT/OPT approval is against the law and can put your visa at risk.
8. Accommodation in the USA
Types of Housing:
• On-Campus Dorms: Safe, convenient, but more expensive
• Off-Campus Apartments: Budget-friendly, usually shared with friends
• Homestay: Live with a local host family, ideal for cultural immersion
Average Monthly Rent:
• Small towns: $300 – $500 (shared)
• Big cities: $600 – $1,000+
9. Lifestyle & Culture
• Diverse and embracing campus cultures
• Respect for all cultures, races, and genders
• Independent academic system and self-directed learning
• Participation in student clubs and networking enhances the experience
• Access to world-class libraries, laboratories, and facilities
10. Nepali Student Experience in the USA
Nepali students bond over:
• NSA (Nepalese Student Associations) in universities
• Local Nepali community and temples
• Facebook groups & Viber networks for city-wise support
11. Top Cities & Universities for Nepali Students
Affordable Cities:
• Dallas, Houston (Texas)
• Atlanta (Georgia)
• Phoenix (Arizona)
• Tampa (Florida)
• Minneapolis (Minnesota)
Top Universities:
• University of Texas System
• Minnesota State University
• Kent State University
• Arkansas State University
• California State Universities (CSUs)
• University of South Florida
Tip: Choose universities based on tuition, OPT/CPT options, job market, and weather preference.
12. Final Checklist Before You Apply
1. Research universities and shortlist
2. Prepare for IELTS/TOEFL
3. Collect transcripts and documents
4. Apply for scholarships early
5. Organize finances and sponsorship
6. Start your visa process beforehand
7. Attend pre-departure sessions & buy travel insurance
13. Struggling? Let Us Guide You
We help with:
• Shortlisting Universities
• Application Guidance
• SOP & Visa Counsel
• Scholarship Search
• Mock Interview Preparation
• Flight & Accommodation Assistance
Reach out to our team today and begin your step into your American education!