Study in USA for Nepali Students – 2025 Guide and Requirements
Studying in the United States in recent years has become the desire of Nepali students aspiring to obtain higher education abroad. With its world-renowned institutions, a reputation for innovative research, and the opportunity to live in a multicultural environment, the U.S. has become a hub for foreign students.
According to the 2024 Open Doors Report, over 15,000 Nepali students are currently studying in the USA, making Nepal one of the top countries in South Asia sending students to U.S. universities.
In this blog, we will guide you through the necessary information you need to launch your academic journey to the United States.
Why study in the USA?
The USA offers unparalleled opportunities for personal and academic growth. The U.S. higher education system is internationally recognized for its academic excellence, research-based teaching methods, and support for highly employable graduates.
Here are some of the most compelling reasons why thousands of Nepali students go to the United States every year to study:
- World-class education system: The U.S. has an excellent education system, providing over half of the world’s top 100 international universities that offer internationally recognized degrees and are highly rated by employers.
- Wide range of course options: The U.S has a broad range of available study programs, including business programs and specialized STEM courses at the graduate and doctoral level.
- Cutting-edge research and innovation: Students can engage in cutting-edge research, with billions of dollars a year spent on research in areas such as AI, biotechnology, clean energy, and more.
- Global career opportunities: A degree in the United States can open doors to employment opportunities in Europe, Asia and Australia.
- Scholarships and financial aid: Many scholarships (like MPOWER Financing scholarships) and assistantships help deserving and promising international students who are unable to cover all their study abroad expenses.
- Post-study work opportunities: Students have a chance to gain practical work experience through programs called optional practical training (OPT) and curricular practical training (CPT).
- Strong alumni network: Many reputable U.S. universities have a wide community of alumni around the world who are willing to guide and counsel new students.
Intakes available in the USA
Planning your application timeline is just as important as preparing the required documents. Luckily, universities in the U.S. have several intakes a year, which means Nepalese students can submit their applications when they’re ready, both academically and financially.
Here’s a breakdown of the intake periods offered by U.S. universities:
- Fall intake (August-September): This is the primary intake, and most international students choose this because a broad majority of study programs are available at this time of the year, along with scholarships and funding opportunities.
- Spring intake (January): This is an alternative avenue to students who didn’t meet the fall intake deadline. Though there are fewer programs, spring still has many courses at the graduate level.
- Summer intake (May-June): Available only for a few programs, the summer intake is commonly available for short courses, English preparatory programs, or foundation-level studies. It’s not as popular but may be appropriate for students who want to fast-track their studies.
Popular courses for Nepali students in the USA
An important factor in linking education with your prospective career is the use of the appropriate academic program. Nepali students prefer programs that not only coincide with their interests but are highly employable and have international demands.
Some of the most popular courses among Nepalese students studying in the U.S are:
- STEM fields (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics): These programs are very popular because they offer strong career opportunities, high-paid occupations, and eligibility for OPT extensions up to three years.
- Business and management: Degrees in business administration, finance, and entrepreneurship are very popular due to the expanding start-up environment and the demand for business-oriented graduates.
- Medicine and health care: Programsin nursing, public health, and biomedical sciences offer excellent careers, especially for those interested in medical service and the welfare of people.
Top universities in the USA for Nepali students
The choice of university you join also builds your academic image and influences the type of job opportunities and visa privileges awarded to you. The U.S. has some of the best institutions and lots of schemes that grant scholarships and specialized care to Nepali students.
Here are the 15 top universities in the U.S with a high number of international students, according to QS World University Rankings and U.S News & World Report:
|
University name |
QS World ranking (2025) |
U.S. News ranking (2025) |
|
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) |
1 |
2 |
|
Stanford University |
3 |
3 |
|
Harvard University |
4 |
1 |
|
California Institute of Technology |
6 |
9 |
|
University of Chicago |
11 |
6 |
|
University of Pennsylvania |
12 |
8 |
|
Columbia University |
23 |
12 |
|
Princeton University |
17 |
4 |
|
Yale University |
16 |
5 |
|
University of California, Berkeley |
10 |
15 |
|
New York University (NYU) |
35 |
25 |
|
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor |
19 |
20 |
|
University of Southern California (USC) |
28 |
28 |
|
University of Texas at Austin |
67 |
32 |
|
Purdue University |
99 |
43 |
What are the requirements to study in the USA from Nepal?
To study in the U.S., a Nepalese student must meet a university’s academic requirements and secure the necessary funding and student visa. Be informed and organized to prevent delays or rejections.
Checklist: Requirements to study in the USA from Nepal
|
Requirement |
Graduate (master’s/Ph.D.) |
|
Academic qualification |
Bachelor’s degree |
|
Valid passport |
6+ months validity |
|
English proficiency test |
IELTS/TOEFL/PTE |
|
Standardized test (if required) |
GRE/GMAT (program-specific) |
|
Academic documents |
Transcripts, degrees |
|
Statement of Purpose (SOP) |
Required |
|
Letters of recommendation (LORs) |
Two to three LORs |
|
Resume or CV |
Mandatory |
|
Proof of financial support |
Required |
|
I-20 Form |
Required |
|
DS-160 Form and SEVIS Fee |
Required ($350 SEVIS) |
|
F-1 visa interview |
Required |
|
Health insurance |
Often mandatory |
Explanation of each requirement
Each requirement is important to your academic profile and proof that you’re able to study in the USA.
1. Academic qualification
Universities in the United States evaluate your educational experience and GPA, as well as the validity of your prior studies. Many universities require a GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for graduate school admission.
Competitive programs are likely to require a higher cut-off and can even look at the quality of your previous curriculum.
2. Valid passport
One of the most important requirements in the admission and visa process is a valid passport. It should remain valid at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the U.S. Any carelessness or discrepancies in your passport information can result in visa delays or a denial.
3. English proficiency test
To prove you can work within an English-speaking academic environment, you must pass an official test, i.e., IELTS (6.0- 7.5), TOEFL iBT (79- 100) or PTE (53-73). Make sure you verify any program requirements, as scoring requirements may vary among universities or different departments.
4. Standardized test scores (if required)
Standardized tests such as the GRE or GMAT are commonly necessary for graduate programs in STEM or business and can often make a significant difference in the competitiveness of admission.
5. Academic documents
These include official transcripts, mark sheets, and graduation degree confirmation papers from your previous institutions. All documents must be original or duly certified, and may need to be translated into English. A properly documented academic record makes it easier for an admissions team to evaluate your academic background.
6. Statement of purpose (SOP)
SOP is a personal persuasive essay in which you state your intellectual interests, your plans, and why you are opting to join this particular program or university. You can use this to demonstrate your enthusiasm, readiness, and suitability for the program, other than grades and test scores.
7. Letters of recommendation (LORs)
These are letters of reference in which instructors, professors, or employers write about your skills, performance, and character. LORs are especially significant to graduate admissions, and they can also play an important role in influencing the perception of the admission committee about your candidacy.
8. Curriculum vitae (CV) or resume
A graduate applicant is required to submit a resume or CV summarizing his or her educational background, internships, volunteer work, part-time employment, and research. This document helps universities understand your career path and preparedness for advanced academic work.
9. Proof of financial support
To obtain a student visa, you need to show evidence of sufficient funds to cover your tuition and attendance costs for at least one year. This could be in the form of bank statements, letters of sponsorship, or proof of a student loan, such as a loan from MPOWER Financing.
10. I-20 Form from a U.S. university
The I-20 is an official document issued by your U.S. university after admission and after reviewing available funds. You’ll need it to make the SEVIS fee payment and get an F-1 visa appointment
11. DS-160 form and SEVIS fee
DS-160 is your official online application for a non-immigrant visa (F-1). You must pay a SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee of US$350. This allows you to keep your visa and academic records within the U.S. immigration system.
12. F-1 visa interview
The F-1 visa interview is an important step and will take place at the U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu. During the interview, you’ll be asked to speak about your academic goals, your study abroad financing. It is important for you not to say that you are planning to stay in the U.S, but you may take advantage of CPT and OPT opportunities. Be confident, honest, and ready with all the necessary documents.
13. Health insurance
Student health insurance is mandatory at many U.S. institutions because medical care is expensive and often not accessible without coverage. Most universities either offer their student health plans or require you to purchase an approved external policy to ensure continuous coverage throughout your studies.
Total cost to study in the USA from Nepal
Knowing how much your postgraduate studies in the U.S. will cost is important to any Nepalese student who wants to study in the United States. Students have to pay tuition fees, as well as cover as well as accommodations, insurance, books, and travel.
Here are the highlights of the estimated total cost:
Estimated total cost: Highlights
|
Expense category |
Annual cost (Approx.) |
|
Tuition fees |
US$10,000 – US$70,000 |
|
Living expenses |
US$10,000 – US$18,000 |
|
Health insurance |
US$500 – US$2,000 |
|
Books and study materials |
US$500 – US$1,200 |
|
Visa application and SEVIS fee |
US$510 |
|
Flight (round trip) |
US$1,200 – US$1,800 |
|
Miscellaneous |
US$1,000 – US$2,000 |
|
Total estimated cost |
US$23,000 – US$80,000/year |
Many students are able to ease these costs through MPOWER’s flexible loan programs.
Cost breakdown
Here’s a closer look at the various cost components:
1. Tuition fees
The most significant and important component of your education budget is the tuition fee, and it varies based on the institution and program selected. Tuition per year at public universities ranges between US$10,000 US$25,000,whereas private university tuition varies between US$40,000and US$70,000 annually.
2. Living expenses
The cost of living includes rent, food, travel, utilities, and daily personal expenses. It may vary between US$10,000 – US$18,000 per annum, depending greatly on the location. Major cities such as New York, Boston, or San Francisco have a much higher cost of living.
3. Health insurance
Most U.S. universities require students to have health insurance either through the university or with a preferred third-party insurer. It’s essential, as medical care in the U.S. is expensive; an emergency visit without insurance can cost a couple of thousand dollars. Health insurance plans for students tend to range betweenUS$500 and US$2,000.
4. Study materials and books
The cost of textbooks, software, lab supplies, and course materials is also dependent on your major and ranges from US$500 to US$1,200annually. You can reduce this cost by purchasing used books, renting textbooks, or obtaining e-books through the library or the web.
5. Visa/SEVIS fees
To apply for an F-1 student visa, you’ll have to pay two fees. The SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee is US$350, and the visa application fee is US$160, for a total cost of US$510.
6. Travel
The average price of a round-trip ticket between the U.S. and Nepal is US$1,200 – $1,800,depending on the airline, the season, and the destination city. You can save money by booking in advance and traveling during the low seasons.
7. Miscellaneous expenses
These are individual expenditures like dining out, mobile phone, entertainment, clothes, toiletries, gym membership and emergency funds. This is a very personal category, but most students spend aboutUS$1,000-US$2,000 per year in this category. Be sure to budget carefully.
What are the challenges faced by Nepali students?
Studying abroad is a thrilling journey; however, it comes with challenges that you should be prepared for. With advance planning, you can transition to the U.S. with few hassles.
1. Culture shock and homesickness
Problem: Adapting to a new culture, way of life, food, and social norms may be daunting to Nepali students.
Solution: To facilitate the adjustment, engage in Nepali student groups or international clubs where you’re likely to find a familiar environment and friends. Keeping in touch with family back home regularly and taking part in cultural activities goes a long way to preserving emotional stability.
2. Language barrier
Problem: Nepali students know English, but in the beginning, it may be frightening to use it both at the academic and social levels.
Solution: Participation in language classes and conversation practice groups with peers can help a lot to improve the level of fluency and listening skills. You can also improve vocabulary and confidence by watching movies or reading aloud.
3. Financial stress
Problem: Living in the U.S. can be expensive and stressful, particularly when you’re on a low budget.
Solution: Consider applying for a part-time, on-campus job, or apply for a scholarship or a research or teaching assistantship. It’s important to keep a monthly budget and track all expenses so as not to go overboard.
4. Visa and immigration anxiety
Problem: Fear of visa rejection or retention may cause anxiety and stress.
Solution: To ease that anxiety, make sure you stay informed about visa regulations, keep your full-time student status and regularly consult your university’s international student office can help you stay compliant and reduce anxiety. MPOWER Financing offers a free visa support letter as well as a free online visa prep course, with mock interviews available for an additional fee.
5. Academic pressure
Problem: The coursework at U.S. universities can be intense, semesters hectic, and expectations high.
Solution: Plan your study schedule and set short-term objectives to manage your workload. Take advantage of campus academic resources, such as tutoring labs or writing centers.
6. Scams and fraud
Problem: International students often face scams with false promises of work, tax help or phony agencies offering visa extensions.
Solution: Never trust suspicious communications without first checking with well-known university sources. Be wary of offers that seem too good to be true, particularly when originating from unknown numbers, email or even social media accounts.
Conclusion
Studying in the USA from Nepal is a life-changing decision that brings a wealth of opportunities, from world-class education to global career paths. While the application and visa process may seem complex at first, careful planning and preparation can make your journey smooth and successful.
Start early, understand your eligibility, budget wisely, and don’t hesitate to reach out for academic and financial guidance. Your dream of studying in the U.S. is closer than you think.
Need help financing your U.S. education? MPOWER Financing offers collateral-free student loans to help Nepali students like you make their study abroad dream come true.
FAQs
What GPA is required to study in the USA from Nepal?
Most U.S. universities require a minimum GPA of 3.0 to 3.5 or higher for graduate-level studies. Competitive universities may expect an even higher GPA.
How much does it cost to study in the USA from Nepal?
The total cost ranges from US$23,000 to US$70,000 per year, depending on the university, location, course of study, and lifestyle.
What IELTS score is required to study in the USA from Nepal?
Students generally need a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 to 7.5. Some universities may accept lower scores with conditional admission.
Which university is best for Nepali students in the USA?*
Top choices include Harvard, MIT, Stanford, the University of Michigan, Purdue and NYU, based on rankings, affordability and academic support for international students.
*Schools mentioned in this post do not endorse MPOWER’s loans and MPOWER is not affiliated with the schools noted in this message.
Which study programs are best for obtaining a U.S. visa?
Courses with strong career prospects, like STEM, business, health care, and IT, are considered favorable for visa approval and post-study work opportunities.
What’s the cheapest way to study in the USA?
To study affordably, consider community colleges, apply for full scholarships or need-based aid, and choose public universities in less expensive states.
See if you’re eligible for MPOWER financing at these universities.
