If you’re searching for accurate information regarding the living cost for international students in USA, then this article is for you. The fascinating campus life, cultural diversity, and adaptable education system make the USA the most preferred study destination among international students.
Studying in the USA is a complete package that can redefine your life. However, without careful budgeting, we won’t advise you to set off on this adventure, as the USA can be expensive. The living cost for international students in USA can range from $15,000 to $25,000 annually and approximately $2,000 to $3,000 per month. This budget covers everything from accommodation, meals, books, transport, and clothes, to recreational activities.
In this article, we’ll give you an inch-by-inch breakdown of the living costs in the USA including the kind of universities, accommodation, and courses you should choose. So let’s read ahead, we really hope that this article helps you manage your finances and live a cost-friendly life in the States.
Factors Influencing the Living Cost for International Students in USA
Tuition fees and the cost of living for international students in USA depend on numerous factors such as; the location, type of accommodation, the university, and the course you’ve selected.
1. Location
In the States, there are generally 3 kinds of locations that students can choose to stay at:
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Urban Areas
Major cities like New York, San Francisco, and Boston are some of the most expensive places to live in the world. For instance, a one-bedroom apartment here is between $2,500 to $3,000 a month.
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Suburban Areas
New residential areas close to large cities can be considered suburban areas. These areas offer the necessary level of urbanization, at relatively affordable costs of living.
Though rent expenses in these areas can put a dent in one’s wallet. In suburban areas, students have the option to live in shared flats or apartments.
Apart from that, if one chooses to stay at the accommodation provided by the university, it can be way cheaper and range from $1,500 to $2000 per month on average.
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Rural Areas
If you opt to stay in rural areas, living costs will be quite easier to manage. The monthly rent of a one-bedroom apartment here can start from $600 depending on its location.
2. Type of University
International students in USA have the option to enroll in public or private universities based on their grades and preferences.
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Public Universities
Many public universities and colleges are funded by the government, which is why public universities have relatively lower tuition fees compared to private universities. For instance, in Texas, the total annual costs of public colleges and universities are around $12,450 on average.
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Private Universities
Private institutions are administered by private sponsors. This is why they become more expensive for international students. The average tuition fee in private colleges in Massachusetts is $30,950 annually.
3. Course Duration and Schedule
The next factor that you need to understand while planning out your finances in USA is the course duration and their schedules. Generally, universities in the USA offer full-time and part-time programs
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Full-Time Programs
The majority of international students enroll in full-time study programs in the USA but these courses are highly demanding and have higher tuition fees. However, they allow students to live on campus, which can be cheaper for them. This way students can have a bit of relief while covering their finances.
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Part-Time Programs
Unlike full-time programs, part-time courses are quite flexible, involve fewer classes, and take more time to complete. This flexibility presents students with an excellent opportunity to work part-time, save money, and manage their budgets more effectively.
However, this also comes at a price. When a student is enrolled in a particular course for such a long time, it may incur high overall living costs. Also, part-time students sometimes do not get the privilege of on-campus accommodation or meal plans.
4. Accommodation Cost in USA
When you are determining the living cost for international students in USA, the next most important thing to consider is the lodging expenses. As an international student who is enrolled in a full-time program in the USA, you will have the following options for housing:
- Rental apartment: $600–$3,000 per month
- Shared flats: $600–$1,500 per month
- On-campus accommodation: $9,500–$15,000 per year
For international students, on-campus accommodation is undoubtedly the least expensive lodging option. However, there are so many candidates applying for this housing. This is the reason why the spaces in on-campus accommodation get filled quickly.
So you’ll have to apply early. In case you fail to grab a spot in on-campus accommodation, you’ll have the option to rent an apartment on your own or with other roommates close to your university.
5. Cost for Utilities
Next, while discussing the Living Cost for International Students in USA, we have to understand the monthly expenditure of utilities in the USA which will account for a major chunk of your budget.
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Meal Expenses
Generally, on food, you will most likely spend $300 to $500 per month. However, these costs are totally dependent on the food choices you make. Many people like to go to fast-food restaurants because of their convenience.
Some prefer fine dining and those who are on a tight budget usually do meal-prepping at home. So, this range can vary based on the type of food you decide to have.
If you want to save a lot of money and be on the healthier side, then we would suggest you cook your food at home.
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Health Insurance Cost In USA
The cost of health insurance is a mandatory expense that needs to be covered. Most American institutions cover health insurance for international students. However, in some instances, they have to pay on their own. On average, international students’ health insurance costs range between $1500 to $2500 per year.
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Transportation Cost In USA
Another factor that accounts for a major part of international students’ budget in the USA is the expense of transportation. Depending on where your housing is and the distance you travel, the monthly cost of travel can be around $40 to $100.
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Other Essential Expenses
Other essential expenses include syllabus books, clothing, stationery, and other items of use. These items’ prices differ based on what you need and where you live. On average, international students can expect to pay somewhere between $1,000 and $1,500 on miscellaneous items each month.
So, if you’re moving to America any time soon, you need a proper understanding of all the living costs for international students in the USA. This way you’ll be able to plan your finances and be well prepared for every situation that you may encounter in the USA.
Tips to Save Money as an International Student in USA
Here are some most helpful tips for saving costs in USA as international students that you can’t afford to miss:
- First of all, always prepare a budget and save for unexpected circumstances
- If possible find a part-time job
- Avoid buying new textbooks and go for the used ones
- Look for scholarships and financial aid opportunities
- Always prepare your meals at home and avoid frequent dining out
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FAQs:
How much money is needed to live in the USA as a student?
Living costs for international students in USA can fall within the budget of $10,000 to $18,000 per year and around $1000 to $1500 per month.
How much can a student earn in the USA while studying?
The U.S. federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour, with part-time jobs averaging up to $20 per hour. Students can work on-campus, while off-campus work is allowed under specific conditions. F-1 students may work off-campus in cases of severe economic hardship or special student relief. Apart from that, M-1 students can engage in practical training after getting done with their degrees.
Is the USA cheap for international students?
Without proper budget planning or financial aid, it can be expensive for international students to study in the USA. However, if you choose affordable American universities or get a scholarship, managing your finances in this country will be a lot easier for you.
