Living costs in the USA can look greatly different depending on where in the country you are studying. QS Best Student Cities 2024 ranks San Diego as the USAa's top city for affordability and New York as its least. Living costs can vary quite a bit within the same city, too. Alongside accommodation, transport, and groceries, your lifestyle, social activities, and so on can also influence your costs of living.
Tuition Fees
Based on
The University
Generally, the bigger and more prestigious the university, the higher the tuition fee
Your Program
Technical and highly resource-intensive programs can be more expensive
Your Study Level
Generally, bachelor’s programs tend to be more expensive in comparison to postgraduate programs because of the longer course duration
Location of the University
The higher the cost of living in the city (and location within the city) where the university is located, the higher tuition fees tend to be
Tuition Fee Ranges
*for the 2023-24 academic year
Public, out-of-state
USD $23,640 per year
*average
to
Private
USD $42,162 per year
*average
Cost of Living
Your costs of living in the US as an international student depend on a variety of factors. Location is a pretty big factor – London, for example, is comparatively more expensive than the rest of the US, ranging from £1,300 to £1,400 a month. Outside of the US, costs can range from £900 to £1,300 per month. Your accommodation type, spending on meals, transport, lifestyle, etc. all factor into your living expenses.
Costs of living depend on
The City
Location in City
Accommodation Type
Transport
Lifestyle
Spending on Meals
Miscellaneous Expenses
(mobile plans, gym memberships, subscriptions)
Clothing
Social Activities
(e.g., movies, concerts, sports events, nights out)
You can estimate your average costs of living using Study US’s Cost of Living Calculator.
Frequently Asked Questions
Study in USA
To apply for a U.S. F-1 student visa, you first need an I-20 form from a SEVP-approved university. Then pay the SEVIS fee, complete the DS-160 form, book your visa interview, and prepare financial and academic documents. Following each step carefully increases your chances of approval.
Scholarship options for Indian students in the USA include Fulbright-Nehru Awards, university merit scholarships, need-based grants, and departmental fellowships. Many U.S. universities also offer assistantships that reduce tuition and provide stipends. Applying early with strong academics and a clear statement of purpose improves your chances.
Affordable options for international students include universities like California State University campuses, University of North Texas, and University of South Florida, which offer lower tuition fees and financial aid. Choosing public universities and considering regional campuses helps manage costs while maintaining strong academic standards.
The cost of a master's degree in the USA in 2025 is typically between USD 25,000 and 45,000 per year, depending on the university and program. Living expenses may add USD 15,000 to 20,000 annually. Careful planning and scholarships help reduce the overall financial burden.
With OPT, international students can stay in the USA for up to 12 months after completing their degree. STEM graduates may apply for a 24-month extension, giving them up to 36 months of work authorization. OPT must be directly related to their field of study.
Gradstar Global helps you choose the right U.S. university by understanding your career goals, academic background, and budget. We compare programs, rankings, scholarships, and job outcomes to find the best fit for your profile. This ensures your university choice supports both your education and future career.
Gradstar makes applying to U.S. universities easier by guiding you through every stage, from selecting universities and preparing applications to editing essays, securing recommendations, and understanding visa requirements. Our expert support saves you time, avoids mistakes, and gives you confidence throughout the entire process.
