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How Much Does it Cost to Study in the US?

Studying in the US is expensive. It can cost around $32,000-$60,000 USD per year, with prices varying by degree program, type of university, and location, among other factors.

The tuition cost of your program will usually be the largest factor in what you pay to study in the US. Tuition cost can vary greatly between different universities, for example, the price of earning a computer science degree at one university may be much more expensive than the same degree at a different university.

Why does college tuition vary? Remember, no two universities are exactly alike, and college administrators consider program content, facilities, faculty and staff, guest lecturers, events, and other activities when determining their final pricing each year.

Housing is usually the second highest portion of your cost to study in the US. Many universities require international students to live on campus in their first year. While on-campus advantages include no commute time, easy navigation, and convenient access to everything you need, student housing can also be very costly, depending on the university. To save money, some students opt to live off campus after completing their first year of study. Off-campus options can include nearby apartments and/or shared group housing, depending on your preferences and budget.

Whether you plan to live on campus or off, dining is another large cost. While on-campus dining options often feature comprehensive meal plans, if you plan to live off campus, you need to budget your finances for groceries.

Additionally, there are other regular expenses to consider, such as fuel if you plan to have a car, transit costs if you want to use public transportation, and health insurance.

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Tuition Fees for Different Types of Universities

The university where you enroll will determine your final tuition fees. Public and private universities, two-year colleges, and four-year colleges will all have different tuition fee structures.

For example, public universities receive funding from the government, while private universities receive funding from donations, foundations, and other private sources. Tuition fees at private US universities tend to be higher than public universities, as tuition makes up a large part of their funding. Public universities may be required to accepted a certain percentage of local students, and students who live in that same state often have lower tuition fees compared to students from another state or country.

The duration of your preferred university’s degree program also affects the tuition fee you will pay. Some public and private colleges offer a two-year associate’s degree with general education classes — these are known as two-year colleges, community colleges, or technical colleges. Because of their shorter duration, associate’s degree programs can be affordable options, enabling students to enter the workforce sooner or transfer to continue their studies for a bachelor’s degree (having paid a lower cost for their first two years).