Affordable Universities for International Students in the USA

Looking for top-notch higher education in the USA but worried about it being too expensive? The good news is that the USA is home to several affordable institutions of higher learning. This attracts students worldwide to pursue their education dreams of studying abroad and turning them into reality. Let us explore some of the best and most affordable universities for international students in the USA in this article.

What Determines the Cost of Studying in the USA?

When thinking about studying in the USA, it is important to understand the key factors that may influence the cost of pursuing a program at one of its universities. Here are some of them you should consider when applying for affordable universities in America for Nepalese students: 

• Tuition fee: This is one of the most important factors affecting university costs in the country. The tuition fee of the program you wish to pursue is the primary cost of attending a university.  

• Cost of living: This is another factor that influences the cost of universities. The total living expenses in the region where the university is located (which you wish to apply to) affects the total cost of studying as well. Living expenses include accommodation, food, transport, etc. 

• Scholarships: Many US universities offer scholarships and other forms of financial aid to international students. This helps ease the financial load of pursuing the program. This assistance can significantly reduce the cost of studying in the US.

• Student visas: International students who study in the US on a valid student visa (F-1) generally pay a relatively higher tuition fee than what domestic students need to pay.    

List of Top Affordable Universities in the USA for Nepalese Students 

The US is home to several affordable institutions where Nepali students can pursue higher learning. For your convenience, we have listed out the top 10 cheapest universities in the USA for Nepalese students in the table below:

_{Related Sources: https://shorelight.com/universities/graduate/university-of-wyoming/?_gl=1*diycqp*_gcl_au*MjA2MTg2MDU0OS4xNzQwNjYzNjQw*_ga*OTU4MjUzMjQwLjE3NDA2NjQ5OTc.*_ga_G1E9W8VNHS*MTc0MDY2NDk5Ny4xLjAuMTc0MDY2NDk5OS41OC4wLjA.#tuition}

_{https://wmich.edu/finaid/cost-of-attendance}

_{https://www.sfa.msstate.edu/cost/24/gr}

_{https://studentaffairs.fresnostate.edu/financialaid/documents/24-25/cost-of-attendance/graduate2425.pdf}

_{https://www.lsac.org/choosing-law-school/find-law-school/llm-and-other-law-programs-us-canada/florida-international#:~:text=The%20total%20annual%20tuition%20and,time%20of%20application%20is%20%2420%2C180.}

_{https://www.csulb.edu/international/future-students/tuition-fees}

_{https://financialaid.illinoisstate.edu/paying/2024-2025-graduate/index.php}

_{https://kelley.iu.edu/programs/full-time-mba/admissions/tuition-aid-scholarships.html}

_{https://www.siue.edu/paying-for-college/tuition-and-fees/international/}

_{https://admissions.unm.edu/costs-financial-aid/}

Disclaimer: The figures in the table above are indicative and must be used only for reference. The fee for each university and program is subject to change at the university’s discretion. It’s always advisable to check with the idp experts for the latest fee structure.

Cost of Living in Major USA Cities for International Students

In addition to the cost of US universities, it helps to know the average cost of living in different cities in the country. This enables students in Nepal to make an informed decision regarding studying in the USA.

The following table lists the most affordable cities in the USA along with their approximate living costs for a better understanding:

_{Source: https://www.idp.com/india/blog/cost-of-living-in-major-cities-in-the-usa/} 

Disclaimer: All figures are indicative only and subject to variation from one year to another based on inflation and other factors. Please connect with IDP experts for the latest figures and free consulting. 

FAQs for New Zealand Education Consultants in Nepal

1. What is the tuition cost for international students in the USA?

The actual cost of studying at a US university is likely to vary from one institution to another. The average cost of a postgraduate course at a recognised university is estimated at USD 20,180.

_{Related Source: https://www.lsac.org/choosing-law-school/find-law-school/llm-and-other-law-programs-us-canada/florida-international#:~:text=The%20total%20annual%20tuition%20and,time%20of%20application%20is%20%2420%2C180.}

2. What are the eligibility criteria for Nepalese students in the USA?

The admission requirements for each university are likely to vary. Most universities require Nepali students to produce a proof of identity, valid passport, academic transcripts and other relevant documentation to study in the US.

3. What scholarships are available for Nepalese students in the USA?

Many US universities offer Nepalese students a variety of scholarships as a form of financial aid and assistance. Some of the top scholarships available include:

• AAUW International Fellowships

• Fulbright Foreign Student Program

• Rotary Peace Fellowships

4. What part-time jobs are there for international students in the USA?

Nepalese students can work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) to support their study and living expenses in the country. Some of the major part-time jobs that most students take up include:

• Tutoring

• Sales Assistant

• Library Assistant

• Freelance Writer

• Virtual Assistant

5. Which state is the cheapest for international students in the USA?

Some of the most affordable US states for international students are:

• Missouri

• Indiana

• Kansas

_{Updated on 06 March, 2025}