Lana Oconnell
International students contribute billions of dollars annually to the US economy, and they make up about 6% of all university enrolments. However, international students in the US face higher tuition fees and additional costs, such as health insurance and visa processing fees, which can make studying in the US challenging for those without financial support from their families or other sources.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of international students in the US | More than 1 million |
| Percentage of total university enrollment | 6% |
| Annual contribution to the US economy | $40 billion |
| Undergraduate fees at public universities | $25,000-$35,000 |
| Undergraduate fees at private colleges | $30,000-$45,000 |
| Undergraduate fees at community colleges | $2,500-$3,000 |
| Postgraduate fees at public colleges | $20,000-$35,000 |
| Postgraduate fees at private colleges | $35,000-$50,000 |
| On-campus accommodation | $5,000-$8,000 |
| Student visa fees | $510 ($350 SEVP fee + $160 visa application fee) |
| Health insurance | $30-$140 per month |
| Financial aid | Grants, scholarships, assistantships, and loans |
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What You'll Learn
International students pay more for college in America
International students pay more to attend college in America than American students. The cost of tuition fees for international students at a public university in the US ranges from $20,000 to $35,000 per year, while private colleges charge between $30,000 and $55,000 per year. The cost of a master's degree for international students depends on the subject. An MBA, for example, is more expensive than a master's in another discipline. The cost of a college education in the US varies between institutions, with some colleges and universities charging more than others for similar programs. The cost of living is also a significant factor, with certain cities being more expensive to live in than others.
International students must also pay for health insurance, which can cost between $30 and $140 per month, depending on the college and the insurance package. They may also have to pay additional fees for things like visa processing and English language exams. Obtaining a student visa involves navigating the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), which requires a non-refundable $350 SEVP fee and a $160 visa application fee.
The high fees paid by international students help US universities balance their books, contributing $40 billion to the economy annually. While some international students receive financial support from their families or scholarships, others take out loans or work part-time to cover their expenses. It is important to note that international students on student visas may have restrictions on their work authorization, and working illegally can have serious consequences.
There are various options available to help international students fund their college education in the US. Some colleges offer financial aid and need-based grants, while private colleges may provide scholarships. International students can also apply for international student loans, which may or may not require a cosigner. Additionally, federal programs like Pell Grants and TRIO offer financial aid for college students.
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International students pay for health insurance
International students typically pay more for college in America than students who are residents of the state in which the college is located. The fees depend on the degree program and the courses chosen. For instance, a master's degree will usually be more expensive than an undergraduate degree. International students pay $25,000–$35,000 per year at a public university and $30,000–$45,000 at a private college on average. The cost can be as high as $50,000–$55,000 per year for some private colleges.
International students also have to pay for health insurance, which can be confusing to navigate. Most US universities and colleges require international students to have proof of health insurance before they can be admitted. Without health insurance, international students cannot apply for US colleges. The cost of health insurance for international students in the US can start from $1,500 to $2,500 annually and increase depending on the desired features of the plan. For instance, sports cover for athletes may cost more. International students under the age of 25 can expect to pay $30–$140 per month for health insurance, depending on the college and the health insurance package.
There are several options for international students looking to purchase health insurance:
- Check if your university has a plan that covers your needs. Some universities offer a group plan to students. Ask them if the cost is covered by your tuition payments or whether there is an additional charge.
- Search for companies that offer health insurance for international students in the US. Several companies, such as IMG Global, offer health insurance plans specifically designed for international students.
- Check with health insurance brokers who may be able to get you a good deal.
- Compare the plans on offer with what you need from your health cover.
- Select the most suitable plan and pay.
It is important to note that the cost of health insurance can vary depending on your current health status, finances, and tolerance for risk. International students often opt for lower-premium plans, assuming that they will not need many health services during their time in the US. However, if you can afford higher premiums, a plan with a lower deductible and lower coinsurance may be preferable. It is also important to be mindful of the absolute minimum level of coverage and to ensure that your plan covers routine and preventative care, as well as potential hospitalizations and emergency care.
Additionally, it is worth considering that while international student health insurance can prevent financial emergencies, the cost of coverage can be significant. It is better to handle modest premiums or co-pays than to face high medical bills after an emergency. Once you have selected a plan, you can build the premiums into your budget. If you choose a plan with lower premiums but higher deductibles, consider setting aside additional funds each month in case you need to pay higher-than-expected co-pays in the future.
Overall, while the cost of college and health insurance for international students in the US can be high, there are options available to help navigate and manage these costs.
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International students pay visa fees
International students in the United States typically pay more for college than American students. They also incur additional costs, such as visa fees, health insurance, and English language exams.
International students in the US are required to obtain a student visa, which entails costs such as processing and application fees. The visa application process involves navigating the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) and paying associated fees. The SEVP fee is currently set at US$350, while the visa application fee is US$160. These fees are non-refundable and mandatory for obtaining a student visa.
In addition to the standard visa fees, there may be other costs associated with the visa process. For example, students may need to pay for passport photos, travel to and from embassies or consulates for interviews, and potentially a visa issuance fee if applicable to their nationality. Obtaining the necessary documents, such as the Form I-20 and Certificate of Eligibility, can also incur costs.
The cost of student visas can vary by country and is subject to change over time. For example, in Australia, the student visa fee increased significantly from AUD 710 to AUD 1,600 in 2024. Similarly, the refusal rate for study permits in Canada increased to 52% in 2024, impacting prospective international students.
Other Costs for International Students
International students in the US also face other financial obligations beyond tuition and visa fees. Health insurance is mandatory for admission to most US colleges and universities, and the cost can range from US$30 to US$140 per month. Additionally, international students are required to prove their financial capability upfront, demonstrating that they can cover the costs of their tuition and living expenses.
While some international students receive financial aid or scholarships, many rely on personal or family funds, loans, or on-campus employment to finance their education. The challenge of affording US college fees is further exacerbated by the restriction on off-campus employment for international students, limiting their income opportunities.
In conclusion, international students in the US incur various costs, including visa fees, health insurance, and living expenses. The mandatory visa fees, in particular, represent a significant financial burden, with potential increases and refusals impacting the accessibility of US higher education for international students.
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International students pay for English language exams
International students typically pay more for college in America than American students. The fees vary depending on the college, course, and degree program. International students pay $25,000–$35,000 per year at a public university and $30,000–$45,000 at private colleges on average. The cost can be as high as $50,000–$55,000 per year for some private colleges.
In addition to tuition fees, international students may have to pay for English language exams, visa processing, health insurance, and on-campus accommodation. English language proficiency is a requirement for international students at most colleges and universities in America. The specific English language exam required varies depending on the university and program. For example, NYU accepts the TOEFL iBT, IELTS Academic, PTE Academic, C1 Advanced, C2 Proficiency, and Duolingo English Test. The University of California (UC) system requires IELTS/DET/TOEFL exam scores unless the student has completed certain English composition courses. John Cabot University (JCU) in Rome offers an Intensive English Language Program for students who want to earn a degree at an English-speaking university.
International students can demonstrate English proficiency in other ways besides taking an exam. For instance, NYU may waive the English language exam requirement if the student has been in an English-language curriculum since the equivalent of 9th grade. Similarly, the UC system does not require English proficiency exam scores for students who have completed certain English composition courses with a grade of "C" or higher.
The cost of English language exams is just one of the many expenses that international students have to consider when applying to colleges in America. To offset the high cost of tuition, international students can seek financial aid in the form of grants, scholarships, and assistantships. They can also take out loans from reputable financial institutions, although they should be cautious to avoid scams.
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International students receive financial aid
International students in the US typically pay more than domestic students for their college education. The cost of attendance can be daunting, but international students can receive financial aid to help fund their studies.
Scholarships
Scholarships are the main way to fund studies in the US for international students. They are offered by universities, private institutions, and governments. While they are highly competitive, students with impressive achievements and a good application have a good chance of receiving one.
Grants
Grants are another form of financial aid that does not require recipients to repay awards. Federal programs like Pell Grants offer financial aid to college students.
Assistantships
Research and teaching assistantships help fund international master's and doctoral students. Assistantships typically include a tuition waiver, a stipend, and health insurance, but some only provide partial aid.
Loans
International students are not eligible for US federal loans, but they can receive private international student loans from US lenders. These loans usually require a creditworthy co-signer who is a US citizen or permanent resident.
Work-Study Programmes
Work-study programmes are another option for financial aid. However, international students are forbidden from working off-campus jobs, and on-campus employment is usually limited to fewer than 20 hours per week.
Health Insurance
Student health insurance provides financial support in the case of injury or illness. International students are required to have health insurance to gain admission to most US universities and colleges.
Visa Fees
International students must pay a non-refundable fee as part of the student visa application process. This includes a $350 SEVP fee and a $160 visa application fee.
While funding opportunities for international students in the US are limited, there are several ways to receive financial aid to help cover the cost of attendance.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, international students almost always pay more than American students for university fees. The fees vary depending on the college, course, and degree program. International students pay $25,000–$35,000 per year at a public university and $30,000–$45,000 at a private college on average.
International students can afford college in the US through family help, grants, scholarships, international student loans, and work income. While studying in the US on a student visa, international students may be permitted to work to help cover the cost of living, depending on their visa status.
International students in the US will need health insurance as medical care is expensive. They may also pay special fees for things like visa processing and English language exams. The cost of accommodation will depend on location, with some cities being more expensive to live in than others.
