Four-year colleges mainly offer bachelor’s degree programs, which usually take four years to complete and cost more than two-year colleges. The cost of a bachelor’s degree program varies by school and its specific courses, activities, facilities, resources, and unique offerings such as placement programs.

What Is the Average College Tuition?

In 2021, the average college tuition cost at a public university is $10,388 USD and $38,185 USD at a private college. For out-of-state students (including international students), the average cost is $22,698 USD (U.S. News & World Report).

When choosing a college, remember not to rule out universities with higher tuition fees! Some universities charge a high tuition fee while also providing a wide range of need- and/or merit-based grants and scholarships to offset the cost of studying in the USA.

Additionally, remember to research exactly what is included in your university tuition and fees. Some schools with a high tuition cost feature unique benefits, such as career placement opportunities, career fairs, or advanced facilities where you can conduct research. They may also offer public transportation services for students and even discounts at local eateries or shopping centers.

These additional benefits and services can make high tuition fees at US universities worthwhile as they reduce the cost of other expenses. Together, this may reduce your overall cost of studying at a US university.

What’s the Cost for an International Student Studying at a US University?

The exact cost to study at a US university depends on the university where you hope to enroll, and this cost changes further depending on city, state, and degree program.

In addition to your tuition fee at US universities, it is important to choose the right housing option that meets your personal needs and budget. While housing costs vary, US universities and colleges charge between $5,000-$8,000 USD per year on average for on-campus residences. If you want to live off campus after completing your first year, the average rent for a single-bedroom apartment is usually between $6,000-$15,000 USD per year, depending on the state, neighborhood, square footage, and amenities. Keep in mind that you need to also pay electricity, internet, and water bills along with your rent.

If you are younger than 25, expect to pay between $30-$140 per month for US health insurance, with rates varying by your university’s specific health plans and their related coverage.

Transportation and living expenses are another important cost to plan out. Transport costs in the US can be affordable, with bus and train passes costing $150 USD or less per month. For living expenses (entertainment, travel, grooming, etc.), you might pay approximately $10,000-$12,000 per year, depending on your lifestyle.

What Are the Differences Between Tuition and Fees?

Tuition fees at US universities usually refer to the cost of your degree program at the institution, covering classes, instruction/faculty salaries, and research facilities. A fee covers other non-course services offered at the university, such as shuttle service, academic counseling, groundskeeping, and the like. Tuition is a type of fee, and there are many other fees which contribute toward your total cost of studying in the US. Most university fees are mandatory in order to enroll in your program.

What Are the Different Types of US University Fees?

University fee types will vary, depending on the university and degree program. For example, a student pursuing a major in engineering will be expected to pay laboratory fees, but English majors would not see this charge on their bill.

While fee structures and costs may not be identical across majors, there are mandatory fees that typically apply to all students. Here are the common fees you can expect at your US university or college:

• Orientation fees: These are fees for your orientation program and are usually only charged during registration for first-time students in the US.
• Campus fees: Campus fees are a broad term for fees covering campus upkeep, such as maintenance or access to certain buildings and programs. As a general term, each university might have their own name for this type of fee if they charge it.
• Dining fees: Dining fees differ based on the meal plan you choose. There are on-campus dining options, off-campus dining options, and even add-on options that allow you to customize your meal plan. For example, at Auburn University, add-on options allow students to add 25 block meals (a block meal grants access to a buffet-style dining location) to their dining plan.
• Housing fees: Housing fees are applicable to on-campus options, like dormitories and residence halls, and off-campus options such as subsidized apartments. When you are looking at housing fees, find out whether they include additional services, like utilities, or just cover housing only.
• Health Insurance fees: Health insurance plans are mandatory for international students. Depending on your health care needs, different types of health insurance plans are available at varying costs. Whether you opt for full coverage or a “just the basics” plan, you can expect to see charges for health insurance on your university bill. (For more information, read our blog post about health insurance in the US.)
• Technology fees: Technology fees are charged for services and resources such as computer labs, student portals, WiFi, online registrations for classes and events, computer security, and faculty research.