What is the cost of studying in the US for Indian students?

Thousands of students arrive in the US from India each year to study in some of the best Universities in the United States. While the country remains the top choice for study abroad, the costs for studying in USA for Indian students can appear to be quite daunting.

What makes the matter worse for some is that they are not prepared for the (actual) expenses, resulting in their focus eventually shifting towards work in US to cover the cost. This blog talks about the cost for Indian students, course fees, top Universities in the USA, etc. Keep reading.

How much does it cost for an Indian student to study in USA?

There are many costs involved for an Indian to study overseas in the US as an international student. Generally, the costs will be - 

Overall cost of studying in the US for Indian students

* an Average

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What is the tuition fee in US universities in 2024?

Generally, government-funded institutions have a much lower tuition fee when compared to private institutions.

Course-wise Highest and Lowest Tuition Fee in US in 2024

Source: US Department of Education

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What are the living expenses for study abroad in the US?

The yearly living expenses include - 

• Books and study materials: From INR 68,445.
• Accommodation: From INR 3,80,250. 
• Room, if living off-campus: Around INR 38,025 in a month. 
• Food: Variable 
• Traveling within the US: Up to INR 53,235.
• Weather-appropriate clothing: Variable. 
• Entertainment expenses: Variable.

The costs that you will end up paying will depend on many factors, such as - if you find on-campus boarding, location of university, and the US state that you will be studying in.

Are there scholarships available for study abroad in the US?

While the costs for studying in the US might appear to be quite high, many US universities offer scholarships and financial aid to international students. The best US scholarships for Indians include, among others - 

• Microsoft Tuition Scholarship, 
• Fulbright-Nehru Fellowships, 
• K.C. Mahindra Scholarship for Post-Graduate Studies Abroad, 
• Golden Key Graduate Scholar Award,
• Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholarship 2024,
• Western Union Foundation - Global Scholarship Program 
• #youarewelcomehere scholarships, and 
• AAUW: American Association of University Women. 

Can I get an education loan for US study abroad?

Yes. You can get education loans to fund your study abroad in the US. Loans without collateral or security are also available. Students applying from India can claim tax benefit under Section 80E of the Income Tax Act that provides tax deductions on educational loans.

Other FAQs

Which country has the largest number of international students?

The US has the largest number of international students.

How many students from India study abroad in US?

According to Statista, a leading provider of market and consumer data, there were 167,582 International students from India in the US in 2020/2021.

Why study abroad in the US?

 Top 3 reasons for study abroad in the US are -

1. Academic excellence: High academic standards and cutting edge technology make the US synonymous with quality education. QS World University Rankings 2024 features nine US universities in the Top 20 global universities in 2024.
2. Uniqueness of the curriculum: The US follows a flexible education system. An international student can select from many different study courses available.
3. Support for international students: Workshops and orientation programs are held on a regular basis.

What are the top universities in the US in 2024?

As per the QS World University Rankings, the Top 20 US universities in 2024 are -

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
2. Stanford University
3. Harvard University
4. California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
5. University of Chicago
6. University of Pennsylvania
7. Yale University
8. Columbia University
9. Princeton University
10. Cornell University
11. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
12. Johns Hopkins University
13. Northwestern University
14. University of California, Berkeley (UCB)
15. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
16. New York University (NYU)
17. University of California, San Diego (UCSD)
18. Duke University
19. Carnegie Mellon University
20.  Brown University

Is it worth studying in US for Indian students?

Yes. It is definitely worth studying in US for Indian students. The US remains the top study abroad destinations for MBA and STEM students.

How much bank balance for US student visa?

Depends upon the course applying for as well as the US university that you will be attending. The financial requirements will be clearly mentioned in your Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status. 

What is the age limit to apply for US student visa?

There is no upper age limit for study abroad in the USA. You must have been accepted by a US university as an international student before you can apply for US student visa.

What is SEVIS?

SEVIS stands for the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). For you to be able to apply for a US student visa, you must first secure admission into a SEVP-approved US school. SEVP is the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) of America.

I want to study in US. Which visa do I apply to?

‘F’ category US visa is to attend a university or college in the US as an international academic student. Vocational education will need a ‘M’ visa instead.

How to apply for US study visa?

STEP 1: Secure admission in a SEVP-approved school, pay SEVIS I-90 fees.

STEP 2: Fill up Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status. To be given to you by your US university. 

STEP 3: Apply for US study visa, by filling up Form DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form.

STEP 4: Give your biometrics at the Visa Application Center (VAC).

STEP 5: Appear for the US student visa interview.

What are the Top 5 reasons to study abroad?

In addition to being exposed to top-notch education, you can also increase your future global employability quotient in the process. The Top 5 reasons for study abroad are –

1. The experience: Studying abroad can expose you to a completely new way of teaching. As you learn differently, your mind adjusts and adapts to a new teaching environment.
2. Understanding of diverse cultures: As an international student you come into close contact with many other students from different cultures, countries, and backgrounds.
3. Thinking globally: You gain a global perspective as you study abroad.
4. Add weight to your CV: Generally, international employers tend to prioritize applicants that have lived globally, showing that they possess a high level of adaptability and the ability to deal with people from different cultures. 
5. Route to permanent residency: Many countries let you stay back for a certain time in the country after completing your education. You can utilize your stay to work or look for work. The post-study work experience gained by you might make you eligible for various immigration streams. 

How can I know my cost of study abroad in US?

Each of the US universities are required to include a fees and financial aid calculator on their website. Log on to the US Department of Education’s College Affordability and Transparency Center.

How much will a Bachelor’s degree cost in the US?

On an average, studying at the undergraduate level in the US will cost you anywhere from INR 15,21,000 to INR 30,42,000 annually. 

What is the cost of Master of Science (MS) in the US?

Pursuing Master of Science (MS) in a US university will cost you from INR 17,00,000 to INR 34,22,250 in a year.

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