Cost to Study in the USA in 2025: A Guide for International Students

Are you an international student looking to study in the US? Along with your tuition, there are several expenses you will need to keep in mind when figuring out the cost for you to study abroad. Knowing these costs will help you narrow down your options and identify the university that best meets your specific needs and budget.

Read on to learn everything you need to know about the various costs of studying in the USA, including tuition and living expenses as well as tips on how to finance your US education journey. 

Annual Tuition Fees in the USA (2025)

Studying in the US can be expensive, with total costs ranging from $32,000–$60,000 USD per year, covering tuition, housing, and other living expenses. Tuition is often the largest portion of your costs when studying abroad, and the annual tuition fee for international students in the US can vary significantly based on the type of university, degree program, and specific institution. 

While researching university options, you may come across public universities and private universities. These institutions are similar in many ways, but there are several key differences in terms of cost that you should keep in mind during your research.

Public vs Private Universities: What’s the Main Difference?

According to U.S. News and World Report, the average cost of earning a college degree ranges from $24,513 at public universities to $43,505 at private universities, but you should also consider the difference in facilities, support, instructors, and financial aid options, among other factors.

Public universities are primarily funded by the state and federal government, which allows them to offer lower tuition fees. Since they serve their local communities, they tend to have many majors, faculty, and pathways to better support their large and diverse student body. 

On the other hand, private universities operate independently of government funding. This financial independence often translates into having smaller class sizes, which offer students more individual attention, unique programs, and a more personalized education experience. They are funded through tuition, private donations, and endowments, which means their programs may have higher pricetags.

Here is an example of average tuition costs between public and private universities in the US:

While the list price of degree programs is often higher at private universities, many of these universities also offer financial aid packages that can make your US education more affordable.

Top Private Universities for International Students

Shorelight universities offer comprehensive degree programs that prepare students for lucrative careers. Let’s take a look at several of the top private universities for international students. 

American University 

Ranked #91 among national universities in the US (U.S. News & World Report), American University is a top research university located in Washington, DC. It offers 65+ undergraduate programs across a wide range of fields, including business, international relations, public affairs, STEM sciences, communications, and more. 

American University is recognized for its focus on global citizenship, public affairs, and interdisciplinary learning, offering direct access to internships and research opportunities at embassies, nongovernmental organizations, and multinational companies. The university also offers extensive funding resources for incoming students, with more than 80% of students receiving financial aid.

Gonzaga University 

Located in Spokane, Washington, Gonzaga University is ranked #98 among the top universities in the US (U.S. News & World Report), offering 49 majors, with more than 50 different concentrations in the arts and sciences, nursing and human psychology, business, and engineering. The university has a strong focus on research, encouraging student research from an undergraduate level with its Venture Lab and Integrated Science & Engineering facility. 

With 98% of incoming students receiving financial aid, Gonzaga University offers a wide range of scholarship opportunities for international students. 

Johns Hopkins University

Ranked #6 among national universities (U.S. News & World Report), Johns Hopkins University is a top-ranked research university located in Baltimore, Maryland. With more than 20 research centers and institutes, the university offers 18 master’s and 10 doctoral full-time degree programs at its Homewood Campus. Johns Hopkins is well known for its research-driven curriculum, providing international students with the opportunity to pursue research in a collaborative and engaging environment. 

Johns Hopkins offers a wide range of needs-based and merit-based scholarships for international graduate students. 

Tulane University

Ranked #63 among national universities (U.S. News & World Report), Tulane University is renowned for its small class sizes, global research partnerships, and interdisciplinary programs. With three campuses located in New Orleans, Louisiana, the university offers a selection of unique graduate degree options in architecture, engineering, business, and public health.

Tulane University offers up to $30,000 in need-based financial aid to international students, along with a variety of other financial aid options.  

Seattle University

Seattle University is located in the heart of Seattle, Washington, and offers top-ranked undergraduate and graduate programs with expert faculty and hands-on learning experiences. The university’s Albers School of Business and Economics is ranked #4 in Best Undergraduate Programs on the West Coast (U.S. News & World Report), and the College of Arts and Sciences offers programs ranked among the top 6% in the US (College Factual). At Seattle University, more than 94% of undergraduate students participate in on-campus research, summer research, and industry-sponsored projects, giving students the opportunity to build critical skills for their future careers.

Seattle University offers various merit-based and needs-based scholarships to international students 

The following table shows the average estimated costs of attending the above universities.

Tuition is a significant part of the cost involved in getting your US education, but it is also important to be aware of the cost of living in the US so that you can budget for your expenses. 

Cost of Living in the USA (2025)

Your cost of living in the USA will depend on several factors, including the university where you enroll and its location. For example, living in a metropolitan area like New York City or San Francisco’s Bay Area would be more expensive than living in a small university town as costs for accommodation, food, and transportation could be much higher.

Depending on these factors, your average living expenses could range from $2,000 to more than $6,000 per month. Understanding your costs can help you determine the funds you will need to finance your study in the US. 

Accommodation

Housing expenses are usually students’ second-largest cost when studying in the US. These costs can vary significantly based on the location, whether you choose on-campus housing or live off campus, and your lifestyle choices. Most universities require undergraduate students to live on campus during the first year of their studies. US universities and colleges charge between $5,000 to $8,000 per year on average for on-campus accommodation.

If you decide to move off campus in your second year, rental costs usually range from $6,000 to $15,000 annually for international students, depending on neighborhood, space, and amenities. 

Food and Groceries

Food can be a significant contributor to your living expenses as an international student. These costs will vary depending on whether you opt for your campus meal plan or buy groceries to cook for yourself off campus. A typical campus meal plan averages $570 a month, generally including a set number of meals and allowances for purchases off campus. You can expect to spend between $150 and $300 per month on groceries, though your actual expenses will depend on where you are living and your lifestyle. 

Transportation

The city you live in significantly impacts your transportation costs. Traveling to classes or for any other purposes will require you to make use of buses, trains, rideshares, and taxis, all of which vary in cost depending on how far you are traveling. Large cities usually have extensive public transportation infrastructure, and train and bus passes can cost $150 or less per month. Depending on your location and how often you commute, you might occasionally have to pay for private transportation to travel between cities or even get a car. 

Health Insurance

Most US universities require active health insurance plans for all enrolled students, including international students. Students can enroll in a university-sponsored health insurance plan, and some universities automatically enroll their students into the school plan. You also have the option to choose another plan, as long as it is compliant with university requirements. For more information, check out our guide on health insurance in the US.

Personal Expenses

For personal expenses, including entertainment, travel, and grooming, you can expect to pay approximately $10,000 to $12,000 per year, depending on your lifestyle. 

While tuition and the cost of living are recurring and highly important to plan for, there are several other costs you should consider that can come up before you travel to the US and also during your studies.

Additional Costs to Study in the USA in 2025

Besides tuition and ongoing everyday expenses, you will also need to budget for the following expenses in your study abroad plan.

Visa Application Fee

The student visa application costs approximately $535. It consists of the following fees: 

• I-901 SEVIS fee - $350

• DS-160 form fees - $185

You can apply for your non-immigrant student visa up to 365 days before your program start date. It is recommended to apply early, preferably as soon as you get your university acceptance letter, as it can take several months to receive your visa. 

Flight Costs

For international students planning to study in the USA, flight costs are an essential expense to consider, as you may want to visit back home during your semester breaks. Planning ahead to book early flights, being flexible with your travel dates, and budgeting can be key to saving money on flights. 

Books, Academic Materials, and Supplies

In addition to your tuition at US universities, it is crucial to budget for other expenses such as textbooks and supplies. While these might seem like minor costs at first, they can add up significantly and vary based on your chosen major. The average cost of textbooks and supplies can be more than $1,200 during your first year of college. 

Though there are many costs to consider when thinking about studying in the US, universities often offer a wide range of financial aid options that you can consider.

Scholarships to Study in the USA: How Does it Work?

Nearly one in five international students in 2023 reported their university as the primary source of funding. However, not all scholarships are the same. Some scholarships may cover a small portion of your tuition, while others can be full-ride university offers. Understanding the different types of scholarships can help you understand the best options for your needs: 

• Merit-based scholarships: These scholarships are based on academic excellence, given to high-achieving students with great grades.

• Need-based scholarships: Students who can demonstrate a financial need may apply for financial assistance through these scholarships.

• Athletic scholarships: If you are skilled in sports, you may be able to qualify for a scholarship based on your skills and achievements in a particular sport.

• Diversity-based scholarships: Many schools offer diversity-based scholarships to encourage people with different backgrounds, ethnicities, gender identities, and other communities to pursue a degree.

• Essay-based scholarships: Many private and public organizations sponsor essay writing competitions where students can win scholarships. 

• STEM scholarships: These scholarships specifically support students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

• Service-based scholarships: If you volunteer or make community service a regular part of your life, you may be able to turn that passion into student aid.

You can learn about the different types of scholarships you can use to fund your US education through your university’s websites, scholarship databases, and government programs. To learn more about scholarship opportunities, read our in-depth guide to scholarships for international students studying in the US. 

Student Loan and Funding Options for International Students

In addition to scholarships, there are several other funding options available to international students planning to study in the USA, including student loans, grants, and work-study programs. 

Student Loans 

Student loans can help you bridge any financial gaps that scholarships and personal funds may not cover, and distribute the cost of the degree over several years. Most student loans are specifically designed to support your higher education journey, covering tuition fees, accommodation, and other living costs. 

Shorelight, for instance, works with MPower Financing and Prodigy Finance to offer flexible student loan plans that do not require a qualified co-signer, collateral, or US credit history. To learn more about student loan options for international students, reach out to a Shorelight advisor — they can help you research the cost of living in the US and evaluate your options. 

Assistantships, Fellowships, and Research Grants

While general scholarships for graduate students are not as widely available as they are for undergraduate studies, graduate students often have access to assistantships, fellowships, and research grants, which can provide substantial funding. Many graduate and doctoral students apply for assistantships or research grants to cover their tuition and living expenses.

Part-time Jobs

While in the US, international students on an F-1 visa can supplement their income by working part time. In most cases, work is limited to on-campus jobs, with a maximum of 20 hours per week while the academic term is in session. If you wish to work off-campus, you may be eligible to apply for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT), depending on your program.

There are several options available to finance your study in the US. With careful planning and smart choices, you can successfully fund your US education experience. 

Learn how to make money as an international student in the US >

Tips to Save and Manage Expenses as an International Student

Managing your funds efficiently is crucial to your life as an international student in the US. Here are several tips to help you save money and handle your expenses.

1. Maintain a budget: Listing your personal expenses and income streams gives you a clear picture of your financial needs and habits. A monthly or weekly budget will keep track of your costs while helping you save money for emergencies. 

2. Evaluate housing options thoroughly: When looking for housing, it is a good idea to weigh the transportation or commute costs against the rent. Living near the university or in on-campus housing may lead to higher rent, but it often eliminates transportation costs. Another option to save on housing is renting an apartment with roommates and sharing the cost of rent. 

3. Leverage student discounts: Students can often access a wide range of perks and exclusive discounts, so make sure you have your student ID with you at all times to take advantage of student promotions. While the individual discounts can feel small, the savings you gain can add up substantially as you can get discounts at movie theaters, insurance providers, shopping malls, restaurants, and more. 

4. Shop and sell secondhand: You can often get your textbooks secondhand from previous students and used book websites, especially if it is a standardized book used every year or semester. This also means you can resell the books once you are done with the semester to make extra cash. In addition to books, you can also shop at thrift stores for furniture and clothing to keep your costs low. 

5. Limit nonessential expenditures: Leisure expenses can be a significant hidden cost if not managed properly. Avoiding impulse purchases and subscriptions, using your student discounts, and participating in events hosted by your university can ensure you’re making the most of student life while saving money in the long run. 

Budgeting is an essential part of being an international student in the US. By understanding your expenses and making responsible choices, you can enjoy your time in the US while setting yourself up for long-term success. 

Next, let’s take a look at international students’ commonly asked questions on the costs of studying in the US. 

FAQ: Costs of Studying in the USA for International Students

How much does it cost to study in America in total per year?

The cost of studying in the USA for international students can vary greatly depending on your college, major, and location. It generally ranges from $32,000 to $60,000 USD per year, covering tuition, housing, and other living expenditures. 

What is the cost of studying in the USA per month?

The monthly living expenses for studying in the USA can range from $2,000 to more than $6,000 per month, depending on one’s location and lifestyle. University fees are paid by semester, and tuition costs vary greatly depending on the university, major, and campus location. 

How much does a four-year degree cost in the USA?

The cost of a four-year degree in the USA for international students can range from $100,000 to $300,000 in total. 

What is the cost of an undergraduate degree in the USA?

The cost of a bachelor’s degree in the USA for international students can range from $25,000 to $50,000 per year. 

What are the master’s tuition fees in the USA for international students?

The cost of a master’s degree in the USA for international students can range from $25,000 to $55,000 per year. 

A US education can be expensive, but with the right preparation and financial planning — including scholarships, financial aid, part-time work opportunities, and other funding sources — you can achieve your higher education goals. 

For more information about the costs of studying in the US, contact a Shorelight advisor today >