Student Loans
Many students, international and domestic, probably care about how you will pay for your studies in the United States. Don’t let this question ruin the plans you’ve made. With a little planning, you can stay profitable. If you are shocked by the cost, consider what an American education and degree will mean for you in the future. Education is one of the best investments in yourself. Plus, not all of the money goes towards lab costs and library fees. You’re also going to have fun, spending money on things like skiing and out-of-town nights eating sushi with your new friends!
Make an accurate estimate of the total cost of your US studies, then create an accurate budget. There will be many components in your budget that you need to take into account. Remember that many universities and colleges in the United States require international students to pay for their first year of study in a single installment. To pay this hefty amount, you and your family will likely have to start saving long in advance.
Regardless, don’t let these US university tuition costs scare you off! An education in the United States and a high level of English proficiency paves the way to safer and better paid jobs. In the end, your education here will pay off many times over.
To fund your education in the United States, you can rely on financial aid packages that include grants, scholarships, loans and work / study options. Take the time to carefully research the funding options that are available to you.
Scholarships
Very few universities and colleges in the United States are able to offer significant financial assistance to international students. Therefore, it is very important for you that your family treats all your education, personal living and food costs responsibly. Scholarships are offered in varying amounts, and this one only covers a small fraction of the total amount required for an academic year in the States.
You can write to the school of your choice and ask for a scholarship form. But, you should first check with your family, government, home institution, and other organizations to which you belong about the sources of funding for your training. You will have more opportunities and you will not have to compete with students from all over the world. Plus, if the scholarship program comes from your home country, the process may be easier for you.
Student loan
Loans can make your study in the United States as an international student possible. Loans for international students are also available. While most American students are required to obtain student loans, applying for a loan should be easy. Study all other options carefully first. Your best bet is to get as much funding as possible — money you don’t have to give — and then supplement your funds with loans if necessary. Compare interest rates and terms at different financial institutions to find the best long-term deal.
As with any investment, remember to return. You are investing in your future career and earning ability.
Work/Study option
About 75% of full-time students who study at US universities and colleges go to at least part-time jobs. If you are coming to the United States for more than a short-term program or exchange, you will most likely need to apply for an F-1 Student Visa. With this type of visa, you can go to work / study at your school. You may want to work extra hours while you are still in your home country, as US visa restrictions reduce the number of hours you can work.
If you can get a job in a work / study program, make sure you don’t burden yourself with overworking your schedule with too much work and a full study load. You come to the USA to study and you want to be able to enjoy and succeed in your studies. However, the advantage of taking a part-time job is the extra money as well as practical work experience. Find the balance that works for you.
Entrance examinations: $500
University and college entrance exams such as SAT, TOEFL, and GMAT can cost anywhere from $50 to $500. There may also be extra costs for processing, sending your points to school, etc. You may take exams more than once, so set aside funds for this. It is important to give yourself enough time to take the tests so that the school will receive your points before the admission deadline. There are extra costs for results and points to be delivered promptly.
Entrance fees: $250 – $600
An application fee to cover administrative and processing costs from $50 to $75 per application. Most applicants apply to four to ten schools.
Training cost: $2,200 – $40,980
Tuition costs vary greatly by school and location. Depending on where you choose to study, your annual tuition can cost between $2,200 and $40,980 on average. Typically, the costs for ESL schools and two-year colleges are less than for colleges and universities. Public schools funded by the local state or the US government spend less than private schools and universities. However, most public schools charge a higher “out of state” rate for international students and you should budget for annual tuition inflation, around 5%.
Accomodation and food: $8,060 – $11,890
Most students choose a hostel or dormitory to stay for at least the first academic year. Some schools require newcomers to live in dormitories in their first year of school. There are usually two or more people living in a dorm room, who are more likely to become friends, and you and your roommate can explore your American university or college together. Lodging is also available at many camps for married students and families.
Rural housing is often much cheaper than housing in large cities. In big cities and in English language institutes, students can live more economically outside of camp. US leases often include payment for the first and last month of the lease, plus a security deposit.
It doesn’t matter where you choose to live, inspect your apartment with your landlord carefully and note any damage that already exists. Make sure to get a signed contract with the terms of the lease and the deadline for the refund. If you don’t understand something about your lease, ask a friend to help you. It is important that you understand what you are signing.
Another option that students choose is to live with an American family. This is commonly referred to as “family living”. If your school has this view, it can help you coordinate your homestay. Alternatively, the school can provide you with a list of companies that can help arrange home stays. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice or help.
The family provides you with the room, as well as breakfast and lunch with the family. Living with the host family is an especially good choice for younger students who are not used to living on their own. It is also one of the best ways to improve your English and get a basic understanding of American family life.