Don’t be put off by the potential expense of studying in the US. While it may not be the cheapest destination, there are many ways to make international study in the country more affordable
There are certainly more affordable places to study than the US, but where else can you visit natural wonders such as the Grand Canyon, sites of such cultural significance as Hollywood, and historic cities like Philadelphia all in the same country? If you’ve decided that the US is the place for you, you shouldn’t let financial worries stop you pursuing your academic dreams.
The US boasts some of the most prestigious universities in the world, many of which have thriving international communities ready to welcome new, talented learners. If you are thinking about enrolling at an institution in the US, there are undoubtedly costs involved. The good news is there are many ways that students can make the experience more affordable. We’ve listed our top eight budgeting tips to ensure that you enjoy your time studying in the US without money troubles getting you down:
1. Save up
Although it’s easier said than done, many international students save up as much as they can before moving to the US, knowing that education can be expensive in the country. On average, public colleges in the US charge between $35,000 (£27,800) and $45,000 (£35,800) per year, while private colleges can charge $50,000 (£39,800) to $75,000 (£59,700). If you can save, start doing so as early as possible before your course starts. Having a financial buffer in place before the academic year begins will ease at least one of the stresses of your time at university.
2. Look into scholarships
While many academic scholarships are available only to US citizens, some are open to international applications. Investigate whether your chosen institution offers scholarships and what the criteria are. Often, financial assistance will be dependent on academic or extracurricular performance, so be ready to wow your university with your credentials if you find a scholarship that is relevant to your studies.
The Fulbright Foreign Student Programme is perhaps the most well-known scholarship for international students in the US, providing graduates, young professionals and artists with funding to study and conduct research. Funded by the government, the grant covers tuition fees, airfare, a living stipend and health insurance for the duration of study.
The #YouAreWelcomeHere scholarship is a grassroots campaign described as “a welcome message from US higher education to international students around the world”. Participating institutions offer two annual, renewable scholarships that cover at least half of tuition costs for international undergraduates dedicated to furthering the #YouAreWelcomeHere message. Applicants are required to answer a short essay question or present a multimedia project about their ideas for applying their leadership skills on their future campuses.
3. Work part-time
Although your international student visa is unlikely to permit you to work full-time, it might allow you to work up to 20 hours a week on-campus during your first year of study. In the second year, most international visas allow students to apply for permission to work 20 hours a week off-campus. Always check your visa regulations before applying for work.
4. Apply for financial aid
In addition to merit-based scholarships, many US institutions offer needs-based financial aid. Again, this is often limited to domestic students – but not exclusively. Check carefully with your institution to see if it’s willing to cover some of your costs, and be prepared to share documents relating to you and your family’s financial records.
5. Find homestay accommodation
Accommodation can be a significant expense when studying in the US, particularly if you cannot secure on-campus living, where rates are generally lower. However, one option that is often overlooked is a homestay. Living with a family in the US can be mutually beneficial, allowing international students to immerse themselves in US culture and receive their accommodation at a much more affordable rate compared with private rentals.
6. Go outside
While it’s true that bars, restaurants and accommodation can be pricey in the US, there is one thing that students can enjoy completely for free – the great outdoors. The US has some of the most thrilling and beautiful open spaces in the world. So whether you have New York’s Central Park on your doorstep or a little-known piece of woodland, don’t forget that not every enjoyable experience in the US has to hit your wallet.
7. Make the most of your student discount
There is a huge range of activities, restaurants and retail outlets offering student discounts in the US, from well-known brands such as Levi’s to internationally famous museums such as New York’s Museum of Modern Art. Carry your student discount card with you everywhere you go, and if you want an up-to-date list of outlets accepting the card, the international office at your higher education institution should be able to help.
8. Make a budget
The most important tip for any student trying to make their studies as affordable as possible – whether they are living at home or abroad – is to make a budget. Come up with a rough list of your weekly and monthly expenditures, factoring in essentials such as tuition, accommodation and food, and setting aside funds for socialising. If you keep track of your outgoings, there’s no reason you shouldn’t be able to have a fulfilling and enjoyable time studying in the US.
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