The United States, renowned for its cultural diversity and innovation, stands as a premier destination for international students, attracting a substantial number from Nepal each year. With a plethora of world-class universities offering diverse academic programs, students can tailor their educational experience to their aspirations. The USA’s commitment to research and technology, coupled with its multicultural communities, not only enriches the learning environment but also fosters a global perspective among students.

Beyond academic excellence, the USA prioritizes the safety and quality of life for international students. Robust support systems, including dedicated international offices and extensive student services, facilitate a smooth transition and a welcoming atmosphere. Moreover, the country’s strong ties with industries provide ample opportunities for internships, co-op programs, and networking, enhancing students’ employability. With Optional Practical Training (OPT) and STEM OPT extensions, the USA offers a compelling package for students seeking a top-tier education, cultural immersion, and a pathway to diverse career opportunities.

Why Study In the USA?

Opting to pursue education in the United States presents a golden opportunity for Nepalese students, promising not only academic enrichment but also significant personal and professional advancement. The decision to study in the USA is underpinned by several compelling reasons:

Academic Excellence: The USA stands as a global hub for top-tier universities renowned for their academic rigor and innovative pedagogical approaches. Enrolling in a U.S. institution ensures exposure to cutting-edge knowledge and skills, laying a robust foundation for future success.

Research and Innovation Hub: American universities prioritize research, offering unparalleled opportunities for students to engage in groundbreaking projects. Access to state-of-the-art labs and collaboration with leading scholars creates an environment conducive to fostering innovation and intellectual curiosity.

Global Career Prospects: A U.S. degree serves as a universal ticket to diverse career opportunities. Nepalese students benefit from a practical, industry-relevant curriculum, enhancing their employability and positioning them as sought-after professionals on the global stage.

Cultural Diversity and Networking: The USA provides a distinctive chance for students to be part of a culturally diverse community. Interaction with peers from various backgrounds not only enhances the academic experience but also cultivates a global network that proves invaluable for future endeavors.

Holistic Personal Development: The U.S. education system adopts a holistic approach, emphasizing not only academic prowess but also personal growth. Nepalese students can hone critical thinking, leadership, and communication skills, preparing them for success in a dynamic global landscape.

Inclusive Learning Environment: American universities champion an inclusive learning environment, welcoming students from diverse cultures and perspectives. Nepalese students contribute to and benefit from this vibrant academic community, expanding their worldview.

Embarking on an educational journey in the USA represents an investment in the future that transcends geographical boundaries. It equips Nepalese students with the tools they need not only to thrive academically but also to navigate and excel in an increasingly interconnected and competitive global landscape.

Which Test is required to study in the USA?

The USA accepts IELTS, PTE, and TOEFL exams, the same as other English-speaking nations.

IELTS (International English Language Testing System) :

Around 3400 universities and colleges in the United States accept an applicant’s IELTS score to assess his or her English language skills. The minimum IELTS score required in the United States ranges from 6 to 9, based on the subject and university.

PTE (Pearson Test of English Academic) :

Pearson’s Test of English has recently gained acceptance in the United States. It is approved by around 785 universities and colleges in the United States. In the United States, the minimum PTE score accepted is 50. However, it varies depending on the courses and universities to which one applies.

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) :

The TOEFL exam is without a doubt one of the most commonly used language exams. The TOEFL scores required on the internet-based test may range from 70 and above 85, depending on the major degree and university you pick.

SAT, GMAT, and GRE are also accepted for bachelor’s and master’s degrees, and those who perform very well on such examinations are eligible for scholarships.

Requirements for Nepalese Students to Study in the USA

F-1 Student Visa Acquisition: Secure an F-1 visa for pursuing studies in the United States. Admission Process: Apply to universities renowned for robust programs; review specific program prerequisites.
Language Proficiency: Exhibit proficiency through IELTS or PTE tests
Standardized Exams: Certain programs require GRE or GMAT scores.
Financial Verification: Present documentation verifying the capacity to fund tuition and living costs.Recommendation Letters: Attain compelling letters of recommendation from educators or industry professionals.
Healthcare Coverage: Acquire insurance, frequently mandatory for international students.

General Requirement

• GPA 2.50 ABOVE
• IELTS 6.0 / PTE 53 / DUOLINGO 110
• 3 YEARS GAP ACCEPTED

Intakes in the USA for Nepalese Students

For Nepali students considering higher education in the USA, it’s essential to grasp the nuances of the academic calendar, which revolves around three primary intakes: Fall, Spring, and Summer. Each intake carries its distinct characteristics, providing flexibility for Nepali students to tailor their academic pursuits according to their timelines and preferences. This overview sets the stage for students to navigate and select the intake that best suits their educational journey in the USA.

Fall (August/September):

Popularity Among Nepali Students: Over 70%
Key Feature: Offers a comprehensive university experience with a vibrant campus life.

Spring (January/February):

Popularity Among Nepali Students: Around 20%
Key Feature: This represents a fresh start in the new year, making it ideal for those with adjusted timelines.

Summer (May/June):

Popularity Among Nepali Students: Less Common
Key Feature: Provides an accelerated academic pace, suitable for students aiming to fast-track their studies.

Visa Application Process

• Receive your I-20 along with your SEVIS number.
• Complete the DS 160 form.
• Pay the $185 interview fee at Nepal Investment Bank.
• Book an appointment with the US Embassy for the visa interview.
• Pay the $350 SEVIS fee at Nepal Investment Bank or any other bank.
• Bring your passport, I-20, original academic transcripts, SEVIS, and DS 160 receipt to the interview.
• Prepare for the Interview

Congratulations if you receive your visa; if not, reapply using the DS 160 form. (You do not have to pay for your SEVIS again because it is valid for one year.)

Scholarships in the USA

While pursuing education in the United States can be costly, numerous scholarships are available to assist international students.

Virtually all institutions offer scholarship programs, with many welcoming applications from overseas students. However, some may require SAT or ACT examinations. According to the Fulbright Commission, nearly 600 American colleges extend scholarships of $20,000 or more to international students, typically assessed based on academic excellence, financial requirements, or involvement in extracurricular activities.

Categories of Scholarships:

University Scholarships:

Most colleges provide financial assistance to international students, supporting them in various ways.

Merit Scholarships:

Based on academic accomplishments, merit scholarships encompass different forms, such as:

Academic Scholarships:

Awarded by institutions or private groups to students with high SAT or ACT scores.

Sports Scholarships:

Competitive opportunities for student-athletes seeking to study in the US. Financial Scholarships: Awarded based on the recipient’s financial needs, with certain options available to international students.

Colleges in the USA

UNIVERSITY NAME	UNIVERSITY TYPE	STATE
ARKANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY	PUBLIC	ARKANSAS
ATLANTIS UNIVERSITY	PRIVATE	FLORIDA
CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY OF SAN BERNARDINO	PUBLIC	CALIFORNIA
EASTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY	PUBLIC	MICHIGAN
GANNON UNIVERSITY	PRIVATE	PENNSYLVANIA
GOVERNORS STATE UNIVERSITY	PUBLIC	ILLINOIS
GRAND VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY	PUBLIC	MICHIGAN
INDIANA TECH	PRIVATE	INDIANA
INTERNATIONAL TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY	PRIVATE	CALIFORNIA
LAWRENCE TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY	PRIVATE	MICHIGAN
LINCOLN MEMORIAL UNIVERSITY	PRIVATE	TENNESSE
MILWAUKEE SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING	PRIVATE	WISCONSIN
MISSOURI WESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY	PUBLIC	MISSOURI
MONROE COLLEGE	PRIVATE	NEW YORK
Mount Aloyousis College	PRIVATE	Pennsylvania
MURRAY STATE UNIVERSITY	PUBLIC	KENTUCKY
NORTHWEST MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY	PUBLIC	MISSOURI
OKLOHOMA CITY UNIVERSITY	PRIVATE	OKLAHOMA
SAN FRANCISCO BAY UNIVERSITY	PRIVATE	CALIFORNIA
SOUTHEAST MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY(SEMO)	PUBLIC	MISSOURI
Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville	PUBLIC	Illinois
SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE UNIVERSITY	PRIVATE	NEW HAMPSHIRE
SOUTHERN STATES UNIVERSITY	PRIVATE	CALIFORNIA
Southern Utah State University	PUBLIC	Utah
STRATFORD UNIVERSITY	PRIVATE	VIRGINIA
TENNESSEE TECH UNIVERSITY	PUBLIC	TENNESSE
TROY UNIVERSITY	PUBLIC	ALABAMA
UNITED STATES UNIVERSITY	PRIVATE	CALIFORNIA
UNIVERSITY OF FINDLAY	PRIVATE	OHIO
UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN-FLINT	PUBLIC	MICHIGAN
UNIVERSITY OF NEVADA	PUBLIC	NEVADA
UNIVERSITY OF NEW HAVEN	PRIVATE	CONNECTICUT
UNIVERSITY OF THE POTOMAC	PRIVATE	WASHINGTON
WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY	PRIVATE	VIRGINIA
WESTCLIFF UNIVERSITY	PRIVATE	CALIFORNIA
WESTERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY	PUBLIC	ILLINOIS
WICHITA STATE UNIVERSITY	PUBLIC	KANSAS
WILMINGTON UNIVERSITY	PRIVATE	NEW CASTLE
YOUNGSTOWN STATE UNIVERSITY	PUBLIC	OHIO
MIDDLE TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY	PUBLIC	TENNESSE
PURDUE UNIVERSITY NORTHWEST	PUBLIC	ILLINOIS
THOMAS COLLEGE	PRIVATE	MAINE
WEBSTER UNIVERSITY	PRIVATE	MISSOURI
UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI ST LOUIS	PUBLIC	MISSOURI
INTERNATIONAL AMERICAN UNIVERSITY	PRIVATE	CALIFORNIA
HUDSON TILLOTSON UNIVERSITY	PRIVATE	TEXAS
WILKES UNIVERSITY	PRIVATE	Pennsylvania

Cost to Study in the USA

Program Level	Fee Range (USD)
Community Colleges	$6,000 to $20,000 per year
Undergraduate	$20,000 to $40,000 per year
Graduate	$20,000 to $45,000 per year
Doctoral Degree	$28,000 to $55,000 per year

Cost of Living in the USA

Expenses	Cost in USD
Electricity	$60 to $100 per month
Internet	$45 to $50 per month
Transportation	$45 to $100 per month
Food	$400 to $600 per month
Phone	$50 to $100 per month

*The cost may range higher or lower depending on the student’s lifestyle.