How much will it cost to study in the USA?

Studying abroad can be an expensive affair. However, an efficient budget plan can help you manage your living expenses more effectively. Before you depart from Malaysia, ensure that you consider expenses such as accommodation, food, health coverage, and travel, in addition to your tuition fee, when estimating the cost of studying in the US. 

The following table offers a general overview of average annual fees for different study programs in the United States: 

For those aiming to pursue a Bachelor's Degree, the annual study expense in the USA can range from approximately $20,000 to $40,000 (USD). Similarly, the cost of studying in the US for a Postgraduate Degree typically falls within the $20,000 to $45,000 (USD) bracket per year.  

For those pursuing a Doctoral Degree (PhD), the study cost can range from $28,000 to $55,000 (USD). These figures provide a general indication of the investment involved in pursuing higher education in America. 

It's important to understand that universities in the US are broadly divided into two categories - Public/State and Private. Generally, the cost of studying at a public university tends to be more affordable compared to that of a private one. However, your tuition fees will still ultimately depend on the type of qualification you seek and the specific university or school you choose. For undergraduate programs, you can typically expect to spend anywhere from approximately $20,000 to $50,000 (USD) per year, though this is an indicative figure. You'll also find that courses in humanities, arts, and education are often cheaper, while subjects such as medicine and engineering are likely to be more expensive. If you wish to study at a postgraduate level, the tuition fees are typically higher, and the costs vary depending on the program. As with most other countries, MBA programs are often the most expensive. The average cost for these programs is approximately. $35,000 yearly (this is also an indicative figure). 
 
The tuition fee ranges provided below apply to the majority of public and private universities across the USA, with the actual cost of study varying based on factors such as the university's reputation, its location, and the specific program you enrol in. 

Undergraduate programs: 

• Humanities and social sciences: $20,000 - $30,000 per year 

• Engineering and technology: $30,000 - $50,000 per year 

• Business and commerce: $25,000 - $45,000 per year 

• Health sciences and medicine: $35,000 - $60,000 per year 
   

Postgraduate programs: 

• Master's degrees: USD $20,000 to $45,000 per year.  

Master's programs in fields such as arts, business, and humanities tend to be on the more affordable end, while specialised programs like law and health sciences typically involve a higher cost of study. 

• Doctoral programs (PhD): USD $5,000 to $15,000 per year.  

PhD programs often have lower tuition costs compared to master's programs, as many universities offer teaching or research assistantships that cover tuition and provide a stipend. The specific range can vary depending on the university and the academic discipline. 

• MBA programs: USD $40,000 to $70,000 per year.  

MBA programs are generally among the most expensive programs in the USA, with highly prestigious business schools (e.g., Harvard, Stanford, Wharton) charging tuition fees towards the upper end of this range. 

Beyond tuition fees, there are other university-related costs you'll need to consider when planning your budget. These additional elements contribute to your study expenses in the USA. 

Student services fees 

In addition to tuition fees, you will likely encounter student services fees at universities in the US. These generally range from approximately USD $200 to USD $1,000 per year, though the exact amount will depend on the specific institution you attend. 

These fees support a variety of essential services and resources intended to enrich your overall student experience. This often includes funding for student activities and clubs, access to health services and fitness centres, as well as university resources such as libraries and student counselling services. Typically, these fees also cover costs associated with student orientation programs, wellness initiatives, and student advocacy services.    

Study materials and textbooks 

Another factor to keep in mind as you budget for your study expenses in the US is the cost of study materials and textbooks. 

You can generally expect to budget between USD $500 and USD $1,200 per year for these materials. This includes the cost of textbooks, study guides, laboratory equipment (if required for your program), and other course-specific resources. It's worth noting that costs can vary significantly depending on your field of study; for instance, students in engineering or medical programs often face higher expenses due to specialised textbooks and materials. 

To provide a clearer overview of the annual financial commitment for a university education in the US, let us summarise the total expenses.  The primary component is the tuition fee, which, as previously discussed, can range between: 

• For undergraduate programs: USD $20,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on the specific program of study and the university. 

• For postgraduate programs: USD $20,000 to $70,000 per year, contingent on the chosen program and institution. 

Then, the supplementary costs should also be considered: 

• Student services fees: Ranging from USD $200 to $1,000 per year. 

• Study materials and textbooks: Approximately USD $500 to $1,200 per year. 

Considering these factors, the total estimated annual cost of study in USA can be summarised as follows: 

Undergraduate programs: 

• Minimum annual cost: 

Tuition: USD $20,000 

Living Expenses: USD $18,048 

Total: USD $38,048 

• Maximum annual cost: 

Tuition: USD $50,000 

Living Expenses: USD $22,200 

Total: USD $72,200 

Postgraduate programs: 

• Minimum annual cost: 

Tuition: USD $20,000 

Living Expenses: USD $18,048 

Total: USD $38,048 

• Maximum annual cost: 

Tuition: USD $70,000 

Living Expenses: USD $22,200 

Total: USD $92,200 

These figures provide a general estimate of the potential cost of study you should anticipate when planning your higher education in the America. Remember that these are broad ranges, and your actual expenses may vary. 

To begin your studies in the US, the first essential step for Malaysian students is securing a valid student visa, typically the F-1 student visa. 

The initial application for this visa requires a standard fee of USD $160. Additionally, you will need to pay a mandatory SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee of USD $350. This fee supports the US government's system for tracking and monitoring international students and is payable online after you receive your Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status) from your US university – a vital document for your visa application. 

Beyond the fees for your actual visa, there are some additional costs to consider: 

• Visa interview or appointment: In some cases, you may need to attend a visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in Malaysia. Remember to factor in potential travel expenses to and from the embassy, which will vary based on your location. 

• Courier or mailing fees: If your approved visa and supporting documents need to be mailed to you, there might be additional courier or postal charges, ranging from USD $10 to $50, depending on the service. 

Make sure to factor these visa-related expenses into your overall cost of studying in the US. 

While the cost of studying abroad can be steep, there are various financial aid opportunities and scholarships in America available to help make your educational journey more manageable. 

University scholarships 

Many universities across the United States offer merit-based scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships can range from covering a portion of your tuition fees to providing full tuition coverage, depending on the institution and your academic achievements. It's worth checking the websites of the universities you are interested in to learn about their specific scholarship offerings and eligibility criteria. 

Government scholarships 

Several government-sponsored programs also provide funding for international students. One notable example is the Fulbright Program, which offers scholarships for students from various countries to study in the USA. These prestigious scholarships often have specific eligibility requirements and application processes, so thorough research is essential. 

External scholarships 

Beyond universities and government initiatives, various external organisations, foundations, and even international bodies like the United Nations and the World Bank also offer scholarships for international students pursuing studies in the USA. These scholarships often have their own specific criteria and application procedures, so it's advisable to explore a wide range of these opportunities to find those that align with your profile and field of study. 

Beyond the core cost of study related to tuition, your overall expenses will also include your day-to-day spending and where you choose to live. These costs can vary depending on your lifestyle and your accommodation preferences. Generally, international students can anticipate annual living expenses ranging from approximately USD $18,048 to $22,200, as mentioned earlier. Let's break down some of these key areas: 

Accommodation 

On-campus housing 

Living in university-provided accommodation offers the convenience of proximity to classes and campus facilities. The monthly cost for on-campus housing typically ranges from USD $1,110 to USD $1,120.  

Off-campus housing  

Renting off-campus can offer more independence, but costs can vary significantly depending on the location. On average, you can expect to pay between USD $870 and USD $1,100 per month. Urban areas generally have higher rental costs compared to suburban or rural locations.  

Shared accommodation  

Sharing an apartment or house with others is a common way students studying in the US can reduce their living expenses. The monthly cost for shared accommodation can range from USD $600 to USD $800 per person.  

Other living expenses  

Food and groceries  

Your food expenses will be influenced by your dietary preferences and how often you choose to eat out. On average, you might spend around USD $690 to USD $700 per month on groceries. To manage your costs effectively, try cooking at home and purchasing groceries in bulk to save on cash.  

Transportation 

Transportation is another aspect that will contribute to your overall study expenses in the USA. Depending on your location, you'll have several options: 

• Public transit: Many US cities offer public transportation systems, with monthly passes typically ranging from USD $100 to USD $120, depending on the specific city. 

• Student transit pass: It's worth checking if your university or city offers discounted transit passes for students, as these can help reduce the cost of studying in the US. 

• Biking or walking: For shorter distances, and in areas with suitable infrastructure, biking or walking can be free or low-cost alternatives to public transportation. 

Other living costs 

Beyond the essentials, it's important to budget for other aspects of your life in the US: 

• Entertainment: Depending on your social habits and how often you engage in leisure activities, you might allocate between USD $50 and USD $150 per month for entertainment. 

• Personal expenses: Don't forget to factor in personal expenses such as clothing, toiletries, and other miscellaneous items. These can usually range from USD $30 to USD $100 per month. 

To sum up, the cost of studying in the US involves a combination of tuition fees, visa expenses, health insurance, study materials, living expenses, and accommodation. 

By carefully considering each of these elements and creating a detailed budget before you travel to the United States, you can manage your finances effectively and make the most of your study experience abroad.  

At IDP, we understand that navigating the financial aspects of studying in the USA can feel overwhelming, so we’re here to help. Our experienced counsellors are here to provide you with personalised guidance, including navigating the various costs involved, exploring leading universities in the USA within your budget, and even providing information on potential scholarships and financial aid options.  

Contact IDP today to take the next step in planning your educational journey in the United States.