Study In USA

Education System

The United States is one of the world’s largest destinations for international higher education, offering a wide choice of universities, colleges, academic programs, research opportunities and career-focused study options. In the 2024/25 academic year, U.S. higher education hosted 1,177,766 international students, including 24,890 students from Nepal.

Why Study in the USA?

U.S. Education System

The U.S. higher education system includes several types of institutions:

• Community Colleges: Usually offer two-year associate degrees and may provide pathways to bachelor’s degrees.
• Bachelor’s Degree: Usually takes about four years of full-time study.
• Master’s Degree: Advanced postgraduate study, commonly completed in one to two years depending on the program.
• Doctoral Degree: Research-focused study leading to a PhD or another doctoral qualification; duration varies by field and institution.
• Professional Programs: Specialized degrees in areas such as law, medicine, business and other professions.
• English Language and Pathway Programs: Available at selected institutions for students who need academic or English-language preparation.

U.S. institutions can be public or private, and admission, curriculum, grading and graduation requirements vary by institution. Community colleges may also offer transfer pathways to four-year universities.

Top Universities and Colleges in the USA

Well-known U.S. universities and colleges include:

Research Universities

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
• Stanford University
• Harvard University
• Princeton University
• Yale University
• California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
• University of California, Berkeley
• University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
• Columbia University
• Cornell University
• University of Michigan–Ann Arbor
• Georgia Institute of Technology
• University of Washington
• Carnegie Mellon University

Colleges and Community Colleges

• Santa Monica College
• De Anza College
• Pasadena City College
• Houston Community College
• Northern Virginia Community College

How to Choose the Right U.S. University or College

Do not choose a university based only on ranking. Compare the institution and program based on:

• Course curriculum and specialization
• Accreditation and institutional recognition
• Admission requirements
• Tuition and total cost of attendance
• Scholarships and available financial aid
• Location and living costs
• Internship and practical-learning opportunities
• Class size and academic support
• Career services and graduate outcomes
• International student services
• Program-specific STEM or professional opportunities

EducationUSA recommends considering academic, financial and personal fit because there is no single official ranking that determines the “best” U.S. institution for every student.

Top Courses to Study in the USA

• Computer Science
• Information Technology
• Data Science
• Artificial Intelligence
• Cybersecurity
• Engineering
• Business Administration
• Management
• Finance
• Accounting
• Economics
• Marketing
• Health Sciences
• Public Health
• Biotechnology
• Biological Sciences
• Nursing
• Pharmacy
• Architecture
• Computer Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Environmental Science
• Social Sciences
• Psychology
• Communication and Media
• Mathematics
• Statistics
• Education
• Hospitality and Tourism

Entry Requirements to Study in the USA

Admission requirements vary by university, college and program. Common requirements for international students from Nepal include:

• Academic transcripts and certificates
• Relevant previous qualification
• English language proficiency such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE or another accepted test
• SAT or ACT where required for undergraduate admission
• GRE, GMAT or another program-specific test where required
• Statement of purpose or personal statement
• Letters of recommendation
• Resume/CV for relevant programs
• Passport
• Financial documents where required
• Portfolio for selected creative programs
• Application fee, where applicable
• There is no single national admission requirement for U.S. universities. Each institution sets its own academic, English-language and standardized-test requirements.

USA University Intakes

Fall Intake

The Fall intake, generally beginning in August or September, is the main intake at many U.S. universities. It commonly offers the widest selection of programs and is an important admission cycle for undergraduate and graduate students.

Spring Intake

The Spring intake, generally beginning in January, is available at many universities but may have fewer program options than Fall. Deadlines and available courses vary by institution.

Summer Intake

The Summer intake, generally beginning in May or June, is offered by selected universities and programs. It is less common than Fall and Spring for full-degree international study.

Rolling and Program-Specific Admissions

Some U.S. institutions use rolling admissions, while others have fixed application deadlines. Certain programs may have separate departmental deadlines or limited-entry admission cycles. Always check the official university deadline for your intended program.

Which USA Intake Is Best for Nepali Students?

Fall is generally the most suitable intake for students who want the widest choice of universities and programs. Spring can also be a good option when a suitable program is available. The right intake depends on your academic preparation, test dates, application deadlines, scholarship opportunities and visa timeline.

How to Apply to U.S. Universities from Nepal

Step 1 : Research Universities and Programs

Shortlist universities and programs based on your academic background, career goals, budget, location and admission requirements.

Step 2 : Check Admission Requirements

Review the official university website for academic qualifications, English proficiency, standardized tests, required documents and application deadlines.

Step 3 : Prepare for Required Standardized Tests

Take IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo English Test, SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT or other required tests according to the specific university and program.

Step 4 : Prepare Application Documents

Prepare transcripts, certificates, passport, resume/CV, recommendation letters, financial documents and other required materials in the format requested by the institution.

Step 5 : Write Your Personal Statement or Application Essay

Your essay should clearly explain your academic interests, relevant experience, goals and reasons for choosing the specific program. It should be accurate, original and tailored to the institution.

Step 6 : Obtain Letters of Recommendation

Choose teachers, professors, academic advisers or relevant professional supervisors who know your academic or professional abilities and can provide meaningful recommendations.

Step 7 : Submit Your Application

Complete the university application carefully, upload the required documents, submit test scores where required and pay the application fee if applicable.

Step 8 : Apply for Scholarships and Financial Aid

Check university scholarships, merit awards, departmental funding, fellowships, assistantships and other financial aid opportunities before the relevant deadlines.

Step 9 : Receive Your Admission Decision

The university may issue an admission offer, conditional offer, waitlist decision or rejection depending on its admission process.

Step 10 : Accept the Offer and Complete Enrollment Requirements

After accepting an offer, complete the university’s enrollment requirements and provide the information needed for issuance of your Form I-20.

Cost to Study in the USA

The cost to study in the USA varies significantly by institution, program, degree level and location. Your total budget should include:

• Tuition and university fees
• Accommodation
• Food and daily living expenses
• Health insurance
• Books and academic supplies
• Local transportation
• Visa and immigration-related fees
• Airfare and personal expenses

Public universities, private universities and community colleges can have significantly different tuition costs, while living expenses also vary by city and state. South and Midwest locations generally have lower living costs than many major metropolitan areas.

Students should use the university’s official estimated cost of attendance and Form I-20 figures when planning finances rather than relying on a single generic USA study cost.

Scholarships and Financial Aid to Study in the USA

Scholarships and financial assistance vary by university and program. International students may find:

• Merit-based scholarships
• University scholarships
• Departmental scholarships
• Tuition waivers
• Fellowships
• Teaching assistantships
• Research assistantships
• Graduate assistantships
• External scholarships

Funding is competitive, and deadlines may be earlier than the normal admission deadline. Some U.S. universities provide financial assistance specifically for international students, while others have limited options.

USA Student Visa Process

Most Nepali students pursuing academic study at a U.S. university or college apply for an F-1 student visa. Vocational or other recognized nonacademic study generally falls under the M-1 visa, while approved exchange programs use the J-1 visa.

Step 1 : Choose an SEVP-Certified Institution

Apply to a school certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) if you need F-1 or M-1 student status.

Step 2 : Apply and Receive Admission

Complete the university or college admission process and receive an official acceptance.

Step 3 : Receive Form I-20

After admission and SEVIS registration, the school issues Form I-20, which is required for an F-1 or M-1 student visa application.

Step 4 : Pay the I-901 SEVIS Fee

F-1 and M-1 students must pay the I-901 SEVIS fee before applying for the student visa. The current fee for F and M students is US$350.

Step 5 : Complete the DS-160 Form

Complete the DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application accurately and submit it electronically. Keep the confirmation page for the interview. Students need information from their Form I-20, including the SEVIS ID, when completing the form.

Step 6 : Pay the U.S. Student Visa Application Fee

The current nonimmigrant visa application fee for F, M and J applicants is US$185, subject to any applicable country-specific visa issuance fee.

Step 7 : Schedule the Student Visa Interview

Schedule your interview according to the U.S. Embassy’s current instructions in Kathmandu. Appointment availability can change based on workload, staffing and season, so apply early.

Step 8 : Prepare Financial and Supporting Documents

Prepare evidence of academic preparation, funding for tuition and living expenses, passport, Form I-20, DS-160 confirmation and any additional documents relevant to your case.

Step 9 : Attend the F-1 Student Visa Interview

During the interview, be prepared to explain your chosen program, academic background, funding arrangements and plans after completing your studies. A visa officer determines eligibility under U.S. immigration law.

Step 10 : Provide Fingerprints/Biometrics as Required

Ink-free digital fingerprints are generally collected as part of the visa application process, although procedures can vary by location.

Step 11 : Administrative Processing Where Applicable

Some visa applications require additional administrative processing after the interview. The duration varies by individual case, and it is not included in standard interview wait-time estimates.

Step 12 : Receive Your Visa Decision

The consular officer will either issue or refuse the visa. Visa issuance is not guaranteed, so avoid making non-refundable travel arrangements before the visa is issued.

Student Visa Documents Checklist

• Valid passport
• DS-160 confirmation page
• Visa application fee receipt, where required
• Form I-20 for F-1 or M-1 applicants
• SEVIS information and I-901 payment confirmation
• Passport-size photo where required
• University admission/acceptance letter
• Academic transcripts, certificates and degrees
• Required standardized test scores
• Financial documents
• Scholarship or funding documentation, if applicable
• Additional documents requested by the U.S. Embassy or consular officer

F-1 Student Visa for Academic Study

The F-1 visa is generally used for academic study at a U.S. college, university, language institute or other academic institution.

M-1 Visa for Vocational Study

The M-1 visa is generally used for vocational or other recognized nonacademic study and training.

J-1 Visa for Exchange Programs

The J-1 visa is used for approved exchange visitor programs. Students receive Form DS-2019 rather than Form I-20 from their exchange program sponsor.

U.S. Student Visa Interview Questions

Common topics may include:

1. Why did you choose this university and program?
2. Why do you want to study in the USA?
3. Why did you choose this field of study?
4. How does the program relate to your previous education?
5. Who will finance your education?
6. What are your plans after completing your studies?
7. Why did you choose this particular university?
8. What are your career goals?

Answers should be truthful, concise and consistent with your application and academic plans.

U.S. Student Visa Processing Times

There is no single processing time for every applicant. Interview appointment availability varies by location and season, while administrative processing can add additional time in some cases. New F-1 and M-1 visas may generally be issued up to 365 days before the program start date, but new students cannot enter the United States more than 30 days before the start date.

Working While Studying in the USA

F-1 students may generally work in qualifying on-campus employment for up to 20 hours per week while school is in session and may work full-time during permitted school breaks. Off-campus employment is restricted and requires specific authorization under U.S. immigration rules.

Students should not rely on unauthorized employment to fund their education because maintaining valid F-1 status is essential.

Post-Study Work Opportunities in the USA

Eligible F-1 students may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) for employment directly related to their major. Post-completion OPT can provide up to 12 months of employment authorization.

Eligible graduates with qualifying STEM degrees may receive a further 24-month STEM OPT extension, potentially allowing up to 36 months of practical training when combined with regular post-completion OPT. STEM OPT has additional requirements, including an eligible degree and qualifying E-Verify employer.

Some graduates may later pursue employer-sponsored immigration options such as H-1B, but these are separate processes and are not guaranteed.

Can Nepali Students Bring Dependants to the USA?

Yes. An F-1 student may generally bring a spouse and unmarried children under 21 to the United States in F-2 status. Each dependent receives an individual Form I-20, but F-2 dependents do not pay the I-901 SEVIS fee.

F-2 dependents cannot work in the United States. F-2 spouses are generally limited to part-time study, while F-2 children may attend elementary and secondary school.

Best States and Cities in the USA for Nepali Students

The best location depends on your university, course, budget, climate, transportation and preferred lifestyle. California, New York and Texas hosted the largest numbers of international students in 2024/25.

Popular locations to consider include:

• California: Los Angeles, San Francisco Bay Area, San Diego
• New York: New York City, Buffalo, Albany
• Texas: Dallas–Fort Worth, Houston, Austin
• Massachusetts: Boston, Cambridge
• Illinois: Chicago
• Virginia: Northern Virginia, Richmond
• Pennsylvania: Philadelphia, Pittsburgh
• Ohio: Columbus, Cleveland
• Washington: Seattle
• Colorado: Denver

Compare the university and total cost of living rather than choosing a city only because it has a large international or Nepali community.

Frequently Asked Questions by Students

How much bank balance is required to study in the USA from Nepal?

There is no single fixed bank-balance amount for every student. You should be able to demonstrate sufficient funding for your tuition, living and other education-related costs. Your university’s Form I-20 provides an important reference for the estimated costs of your program, and the consular officer may request evidence showing how those costs will be covered.

What is the minimum IELTS score for the USA?

There is no national minimum IELTS score for all U.S. universities. Each institution and program sets its own English-language requirements. Some programs may require higher scores than the university’s general minimum.

Can I study in the USA without IELTS?

Yes. Some U.S. institutions accept alternatives such as TOEFL, PTE or Duolingo English Test, while others may offer English-language waivers or alternative pathways under specific conditions. Requirements differ by institution and program.

What is an I-20?

Form I-20 is the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status issued by an SEVP-certified institution to an eligible F-1 or M-1 student. It is required when applying for the relevant student visa.

What is SEVIS?

SEVIS, the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, is the U.S. government system used to maintain information about F, M and J international students and exchange visitors. F-1 and M-1 students must be registered in SEVIS.

What is an SEVP-certified school?

An SEVP-certified school is an institution authorized to enroll international students in F-1 or M-1 status and issue the required Form I-20. Students can verify eligible institutions through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s school search resources.

What is the difference between F-1 and M-1 visas?

F-1 is primarily for academic study at universities, colleges and other academic institutions. M-1 is generally for vocational or other recognized nonacademic study and training.

What is CPT?

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is practical training that is an integral part of an F-1 student’s academic program and is authorized by the student’s designated school official. It normally occurs before completion of the program.

What is OPT?

Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows eligible F-1 students to undertake temporary employment directly related to their major. Post-completion OPT is generally available for up to 12 months.

What is STEM OPT?

STEM OPT is a 24-month extension available to eligible F-1 students with qualifying science, technology, engineering or mathematics degrees who meet the additional program requirements.

Can F-2 dependents work in the USA?

No. F-2 dependents are not authorized to work in the United States.