Lori Meadows
International students contribute billions of dollars to the US economy each year, with over 1 million international students enrolled in US universities in the 2023/2024 academic year. However, the cost of studying in the US can be prohibitively high for many prospective international students. While the US government generally does not provide funding for international students, there are various ways they can afford to study in the US, including personal or family funds, scholarships, assistantships, internships, on-campus jobs, and financial aid.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of international students in the US | 1.1 million |
| International students as a percentage of total higher education students | 5.6% |
| Annual contribution of international students to the US economy | $40 billion to $43.8 billion |
| Jobs created by international students | 378,175 |
| Average cost of attendance excluding tuition | $18,864 at UC Berkeley |
| Cost of living in expensive cities | $28,000 or higher |
| Types of financial aid | Need-based and merit-based awards |
| Universities offering equal financial aid to foreign students | Harvard University |
| Universities waiving tuition fees for students from low-income families | Harvard University |
| Percentage of international undergraduate students receiving financial aid | Less than 20% |
| Sources of funding for international students | Personal or family funds, scholarships, internships, on-campus jobs |
| Online learning | Opportunity to earn a US degree without leaving home |
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What You'll Learn
Scholarships and financial aid
International students can access scholarships and financial aid to help them afford to study in the USA. US universities are among the world's most expensive, and many international students need to turn to aid to fund their studies. There are two primary types of financial aid available to international students: need-based and merit-based awards. Need-based aid is distributed according to financial need, while merit-based aid is awarded based on academic or extracurricular achievement.
Many colleges, especially private ones, aim to distribute aid as equitably as possible. For example, Harvard University’s Financial Aid Office states that foreign students have equal access to financial aid funding as US citizens. Additionally, Harvard students whose parents make less than $65,000 a year do not have to pay tuition. Students will need to fill in their cost of living, parental income, and expected support in forms such as the International Student Financial Aid Application (IFSA) and CSS Profile (College Scholarship Service).
International students can also access scholarships to help fund their studies. Some universities offer full scholarships to international students, as was the case with a student from Karachi, Pakistan, who received a full scholarship for her master's in journalism at a university in the Midwest. Graduate school also comes with a significantly higher likelihood of scholarships or assistantships being offered. Additionally, online learning can be a more affordable option for international students to obtain a US degree without having to leave home.
It is important to note that the application process for scholarships and financial aid can be complex and confusing. International students often rely on personal or family funds and may be unaware of the different types of aid available to them. For example, fewer than 20% of international undergraduate students receive financial aid, partly due to the challenging application process. Prospective international students should start preparing months in advance and stay organized and informed throughout the process.
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On-campus jobs and internships
On-campus jobs are a great way for international students to earn some extra money while studying in the USA. These jobs are usually part-time and offer a maximum of 20 working hours per week when classes are in session and up to 40 hours per week when classes are not in session. They are also customized to adhere to all visa guidelines.
There are many on-campus jobs available for international students, including:
- Barista at a campus cafe.
- Catering assistant or food runner in university cafeterias and restaurants.
- Sales assistant at the campus grocery store, bookstore, or clothing store.
To find on-campus jobs, international students can take advantage of various resources, such as:
- Student unions, which can provide information about upcoming vacancies and the application process.
- Career services offices at universities, which can offer guidance on finding part-time jobs and understanding visa regulations.
- University departments, which often have temporary job opportunities.
Internships are another option for international students to gain work experience and support their finances while studying in the USA. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), internships can increase the likelihood of securing a job by 20%.
There are several types of visas that international students can apply for to be able to intern in the USA:
- F-1 Visa: Full-time students on an F-1 visa can work up to 20 hours per week in paid or unpaid internships without any additional paperwork.
- J-1 Visa: Students who are not enrolled full-time in an academic program can apply for this visa to work as trainees in the USA. J-1 visa holders can work for up to 18 months in academic training.
- CPT (Curricular Practical Training): This option is for students who have completed their first year of college, and their internships must be connected to their degree program.
- OPT (Optional Practical Training): OPT allows international students to work full-time in the USA.
To find internships, international students can utilize their university's career services office, which can provide guidance on understanding visa regulations and preparing for the application process. It is also important to only pursue internships from reputable organizations with experience in US visa procedures and to ensure that all visa requirements are met, such as being registered as a student, having English language proficiency, and maintaining a valid passport. Networking with classmates, professors, and professionals can also increase the chances of securing internships.
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Online learning
International students looking to study in the USA often need to turn to financial aid to help fund their studies. The application process for US colleges and universities can be extensive and confusing, with many international students unaware that they are eligible for aid.
For F-1 students, only one online or distance learning class can count toward a full course of study each term or semester. No online or distance learning classes may count toward an M-1 or ESL student's full course of study requirement.
Students who are unable to travel to the USA can still benefit from the flexibility and accessibility of online learning. They can access the same quality education and resources as on-campus students, without the need to relocate. This can include interactive lectures, virtual tutorials, and access to digital libraries and other online tools.
However, online learning may not be suitable for all students. Some students may prefer the traditional classroom setting and the opportunity to interact with lecturers and peers face-to-face. Additionally, online learning requires a high level of self-motivation and time management skills to succeed.
Overall, online learning can be a cost-effective and accessible option for international students who wish to obtain a US degree without incurring the additional costs of relocating.
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Visa and travel costs
International students must consider the costs of visa applications and travel when budgeting for their studies in the USA. The cost of an international student visa in the US depends on the visa type. The application fee is $160, and the visa fee varies. For instance, an F student visa, which allows international students to study full-time at a US post-secondary institution, costs $510.
Students must also consider the costs of travelling to and from the US. The cost of flights will depend on the student's country of origin and the time of year. Students should also budget for travel within the US, as they may wish to travel home during the school year or summer break, or in an emergency.
In addition to visa and travel costs, international students should consider the cost of living in the US. The cost of living varies depending on location, with cities such as New York having a higher cost of living. Students should also consider the cost of health insurance, which is mandatory for those entering the US on a J visa. While health insurance is not required by law for students entering the US on an F or M visa, it is still recommended. Many universities and colleges offer health insurance to their students, with an average cost of $700 to $1,000 per school year. Private insurers charge an average of $30 to $140 per month.
International students may be permitted to work during their studies in the US, depending on their visa status. Students with the right visa status may work up to 20 hours per week during the school year and full-time during the summer. Students should plan and budget accordingly, as there may be foreseen costs during their studies.
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Cost of living
The cost of living for international students in the USA can vary depending on the location and the lifestyle of the student. It is important to consider all the costs associated with living and studying in the USA, as these can quickly add up.
International students are often faced with higher tuition fees than domestic students, and the cost of living in the USA can be high, especially in desirable big cities. The cost of attendance, excluding tuition, can be approximately $18,864 at UC Berkeley, while at universities in expensive cities like NYU, expenses can go up to $28,000 or higher.
There are various costs that international students need to consider when planning their studies in the USA. These include visa application fees, travel costs, health insurance, taxes, room and board, and general living expenses such as food and transportation. Additionally, students may need to factor in the cost of social activities, entertainment, and any other personal expenses.
To afford the cost of living in the USA, international students often rely on personal or family funds, scholarships, internships, on-campus jobs, or financial aid. Online learning is also an option for students who cannot afford to leave home, as it allows them to obtain a US degree without incurring the costs associated with living in the country.
It is important for international students to have a realistic plan for funding their studies and living expenses in the USA. They should be aware of the financial aid options available, as well as the application processes and requirements, to ensure they can secure the necessary funding.
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Frequently asked questions
The cost of living in the USA can be high, especially in big cities. Some students work in restaurants to pay for their tuition and expenses, although this is illegal for international students. Students can also apply for financial aid, although this can be a fraught process.
There are two primary types of financial aid available to international students: need-based and merit-based awards. Many colleges, especially private ones, aim to distribute aid as equitably as possible. For example, Harvard University states that foreign students have the same access to financial aid funding as US citizens.
The USA is the world's top destination for higher education, but it is not the only option. International students may also consider studying in other English-speaking countries such as Canada or Australia, which may be more price-conscious. Online learning is another option for students who cannot afford to travel to the USA.
