International students can select from over 4,000 courses offered by US colleges. More than 200 universities in the nation are included in the QS World University Rankings 2023. For foreign students, the cost of a bachelor’s degree in the United States can range from 35,00,000 to 50,00,000 INR, particularly if they want to attend the best universities. Even while a bachelor’s degree in USA costs more as compared to most other study abroad locations, the return on investment is unmatched.
Regarding pre-arrival undergraduate degree costs in USA, bachelor’s degree tuition fees in USA, living expenditures, and answers to frequently asked concerns regarding the cost of an undergraduate degree in USA, this blog will provide you with all the background information you need to understand the full cost of an undergraduate degree in USA for Indian students.
Generally, educational institutions in USA can be grouped into two very broad categories: public universities and private universities. The explanation for each is as follows:
Public Universities: They are state-funded, hence more affordable for in-state residents. A wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs is offered. Such universities have a sizable student population and a very extensive variety of extracurricular activities. Examples of such institutions include the University of California System, the University of Michigan, and the University of Texas System.
Private Universities: They are funded from tuition fees, donations, and endowments; no state funding. They generally have higher tuition costs but often provide more financial aid. They are also known for small class sizes, personalized attention, and a strong focus on research. Some specialize in certain subjects or have unique approaches to education. Examples include Harvard University, Stanford University, and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
Community Colleges: Two-year institutions; relatively cheap higher education; they offer several undergraduate and vocational programs. They even help in the providing of entry-level jobs and pursue further studies with it. These colleges have an open enrollment policy to meet the diverse needs of the students. Existing examples: Santa Monica College, and Miami Dade College.
Ivy League Institutions: These are the prestigious private universities in the Northeast USA, known for rigorous academics, selective admissions, and rich traditions. They offer a wide range of UG, graduate, and professional programs. Their highly competitive admissions process seeks the best. Examples: Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Columbia.
Public universities are funded by the state government and therefore charge much lower fees, that is, ranging from $20,000-$35,000 per year compared to programs offered at private universities with fees ranging from $35,000-$60,000 per year.
| Business: |
| Public universities: $15,000 to $35,000 per year (in-state) |
| Private universities: $35,000 to $70,000 annually |
| Engineering: |
| Public universities: $18,000 to $40,000 per year (in-state) |
| Private universities: $40,000 to $80,000 annually |
| Computer Science: |
| Public universities: $15,000 to $35,000 per year (in-state) |
| Private universities: $35,000 to $70,000 annually |
| Social Sciences: |
| Public universities: $12,000 to $30,000 per year (in-state) |
| Private universities: $30,000 to $60,000 annually |
| Humanities: |
| Public universities: $12,000 to $30,000 per year (in-state) |
| Private universities: $30,000 to $60,000 annually |
| Natural Sciences: |
| Public universities: $15,000 to $35,000 per year (in-state) |
| Private universities: $35,000 to $70,000 annually |
Health expenses might be high in the United States, hence calling for the best health insurance. International students are often in need of health insurance. The annual premiums may fall anywhere between $500 to $2,000 for insurance companies and the coverage. Factors related to potential medical expenses:
| Expense | Amount (in USD) | Amount (in INR) |
| IELTS registration fee | $245-255 | 18,750-19,600 INR |
| TOEFL registration fee | $190 | 14,550 INR |
| SAT fee | $104 | 8,300 INR |
| ACT fee | $85 | 6,800 INR |
| Visa application fee | $160 | 12,250 INR |
| SEVIS fee | $350 | 26,800 INR |
| Airfare | $500-1000 | 35,000-70,000 INR |
| Insurance | $500-1,000 | 40,000-80,000 INR |
| Application Fees | $50-200 | 3000-16,000 INR |
Scholarships and financial aid are essential to help Indian students go for undergraduate degrees in US. These tools are vital to lower the cost of education and to ease financial stress on both students and their families. Financial pressure may simply be too much for many excellent students to bear due to high overseas study costs. Some universities do provide tuition fee waivers or scholarships specifically for international undergraduate students. These may be partial or full tuition costs, along with additional benefits like stipends for living expenses or research opportunities. Students seeking admission to the United States as undergraduates should research any such opportunity of scholarships provided by a university or an external organization, according to eligibility and application processes.
To pay for their studies overseas, Indian students can choose from several different education loan choices. Banks and other financial organisations provide these loans, which can be used to pay for living expenses, tuition, travel expenses, and other expenditures associated with pursuing an education.
SBI, HDFC Credila, Axis Bank, Punjab National Bank, Canara Bank, Avanse Financial Services, TATA Capital.
| Expenditures | Monthly Budget |
| Rent | $150-250 |
| Food | $400 US |
| Transportation | $100-300 |
| Phone/ Internet | $50-150 |
| Electricity | $100-120 |
| Personal | $300-600 |
For further specific information on the cost structure in USA and how to tackle them, contact Manya – The Princeton Review. We have our seasoned experts to help you manage your finances as per your budget and requirements efficiently.
Book your Free Counselling Session now!Students must start planning early and research thoroughly. They should develop a detailed budget, and the scope of all the available financial aid, maintain high academic performance to qualify for scholarships, consider the exchange rate fluctuations, and if needed, seek advice from financial advisors.
Sure, many universities provide part-time job opportunities on-campus for international students, including Indian students. To say the least, not all part-time jobs would be available for international students outside of campus. Students should research work regulations in the USA for international students, as they could hinder their employment eligibility.
No, under most circumstances, international students in USA may work part-time on or off-campus, amounting to 20 hours per week during the academic year, and they may be eligible to work full-time during scheduled breaks, such as the summer vacation, under certain conditions.
SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) and ACT (American College Testing) are standardized tests that most U.S. universities require Indian students to present their qualifications. Along with those, some universities may also demand that students take English language proficiency tests such as TOEFL or IELTS.
Some of the common challenges that Indian students may face while studying in USA include homesickness, adjustment to culture, academic rigor, language barriers, and financial constraints. Building a support network, keeping in touch with family and friends, seeking support from campus resources, and engaging in cultural exchange activities would be some of the solutions to these challenges.
