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The main types of costs involved in study in the United States
are tuition and fees, plus living costs. These vary widely,
which gives you some control over the costs involved in your
education. All U.S. universities publish information on the
costs for their institution and area. Consider the points
outlined below in calculating your costs.
> Tuition
and Fees
> Living
Costs
Tuition and Fees
Tuition is the cost of instruction, while fees are charged
for services such as the library, student activities, or the
health center. International graduate students are required
to pay both tuition and fees, unless covered by financial
assistance. Some universities also charge international students
mandatory health insurance fees.
Although the range of tuition and fees may vary greatly from
school to school, there is no correlation between the level
of tuition and fees and the quality of an institution. The
amount charged by a particular university depends on many
factors, the most significant of which is what type of school
it is. Tuition and fees are generally higher for private universities
than for state schools. State universities charge out-of-state
residents higher tuition than state residents. In almost all
instances, international students studying at state schools
will have to pay this higher rate throughout their study program
since they do not qualify for residents' rates. It should
be remembered, too, that not all universities charging the
lowest tuition and fees have the lowest living costs; you
should examine both factors to get a more accurate estimate
of your annual expenses.
Since tuition and fees vary between institutions and rise
an average of 5 percent each year, it is best to consult current
university catalogs, Web sites, or reference material available
at your U.S. educational information or advising center for
the latest figures. Be sure to confirm current costs with
the institution at the time you apply.
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Living Costs
Living costs vary widely and depend on individual lifestyles.
If you are bringing family members with you to the United
States, this will, of course, increase your monthly expenses.
Living expenses are highest in the large cities, in California,
and in the Northeast. Costs can be much lower in the South,
the Midwest, and other areas. University catalogs and Web
sites are good sources of information on current living costs.
Within the total living costs they quote, you will usually
find an approximate breakdown of costs for items such as room,
board, books, medical insurance, and personal expenses. Your
U.S. educational information or advising center may also have
information on the latest monthly living expenses by city
or institution.
Your basic living expenses will include food and housing,
of course, but don't forget to allow for the following:
Books and Supplies: Universities estimate the cost
for books and supplies for the academic year. Students studying
in the United States must buy their textbooks, and book costs
can be quite expensive. Most institutions have on-campus bookstores.
Many of these stores allow you to purchase used books at a
lesser cost, or sell back your books at the end of a semester
at partial value. If you are planning to study in a field
that requires special supplies, such as engineering, art,
or architecture, your expenses are likely to be greater than
the average.
Transportation: The living costs quoted by most universities
do not cover trips between the United States and your home
country. Be sure that your annual budget includes expenses
for return travel between your home country and your school.
If you plan to live off-campus and commute to the university,
you should add in your commuting expenses.
Other Personal Expenses: Personal expenses include
items such as the cost of basic goods, clothing, and services.
Health insurance is required. If you have dependents — a spouse
and/or children — or if you have special medical needs, substantial
additional funds will be needed to meet your living expenses.
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