Everything has it’s price. This also applies to a study-related stay in the USA. International students have different costs for studying in the USA. But the good news is that there are many ways to get financial assistance.
Cost: US tuition fees
Whether domestic or international students, tuition fees apply to all students in the US. However, the level of the tuition differs significantly in part. On average, tuition fees in the USA range between US $ 12,000 and 16,000 per year.
The exact amount of study-related costs to study in the US depends on several factors:
- State or private college: Private colleges usually charge higher fees than public colleges and universities.
- Type of university: Relatively low costs for studying in the USA are incurred at the community colleges in the USA . In contrast, research universities and the renowned universities of the Ivy League, for example, charge particularly high fees.
- In-State or Out-of-State Student: State universities differentiate between students residing in that state and students living outside of it. The second group also includes international students. Expect higher study-related costs to study in the United States.
- Type of Degree: An LLM or MBA in the US is more expensive than a Bachelor degree. Semester programs in the USA are a popular study option, not least because the tuition fee is set significantly lower in many cases than for a full degree. There are also cost differences in the choice of subjects. Literature and cultural studies courses are usually cheaper than courses in economics or natural sciences.
In addition to the tuition fees, there are other study-related costs for studying in the USA, such as registration and service fees as well as book costs.
In the US, international students often have to get health insurance through the university. In most cases, it makes sense to take out additional private health insurance abroad.
Cost point: cost of living
While studying abroad, there are not only costs for studying in the USA, but also for everyday life. The average cost of living in the United States varies from state to state. It also depends on whether students live in a rural area or in the middle of a big city. In addition, the individual lifestyle has an influence on how high the costs actually turn out in everyday life.
For studying abroad in the USA, students must plan rental costs in any case. The amount of rent differs depending on the type of accommodation. If you have a room in a student residence or live with a host family, you usually do not have to pay any additional costs or costs for internet use. Often a so-called meal plan is already included in the semester-related costs for studying in the USA. The meal plan is also often included in homestay programs.
At least US $ 20-40 per week should be set aside for food. It is also worth saving money on activities such as going to the cinema and restaurants, sporting events or excursions. Further cost items can be transport and communication costs. Any health costs that may arise should also be planned for.
The best way to save costs for studying in the USA is something that students can find out on-site in particular. You will find many useful tips on the subject in the field reports on studying abroad in the USA, a country located in North America according to globalsciencellc.
Financing options for studying in the USA
From foreign BAföG to scholarships to student loans – there are various financing options for studying in the USA. For students studying in the United States for a semester or two, the following grants are eligible:
- Foreign BAföG
- PROMOS
- Fulbright Scholarships
The following funding options are available to students doing a full degree in the United States:
- Sports Scholarships USA
- Flat rate scholarships for international students
- Scholarships and assistantships from US universities
In addition, there is the DAAD as well as numerous foundations and organizations for the promotion of talented students in Germany that also award scholarships. It is also worth thinking about a low-interest student loan. This can also cover the costs of studying in the USA.
International students can also work up to 20 hours per week on campus to reduce the burden on their wallets. With an F1 visa it is also possible to apply for an Open Practical Training and earn additional money in this way.
