Top 12 U.S. majors Nepali students choose (And the salaries After OPT)
Choosing what to study in the U.S. is a big decision, especially when you’re investing so much time and money to study overseas. For Nepali students, the pressure is even higher. You’re often picking a major not just for personal interest, but to find a good job, repay student loans and possibly stay longer on a visa.
Many students from Nepal choose fields in science, technology, engineering or business because these offer higher salaries and better chances for optional practical training (OPT) and H-1B sponsorship. But there are other options worth exploring too.
Here are 12 of the most common majors chosen by Nepali international students in the U.S., along with estimated starting salaries after OPT.
1. Computer science
One of the most popular majors for Nepali students, computer science offers strong career potential and high demand.
- OPT advantage: Qualifies for the 24-month STEM extension
- Common roles: Software developer, data analyst, systems engineer
- Estimated starting salary: US$75,000 to US$95,000
2. Information technology
This field focuses more on managing systems, networks and security rather than software design.
- OPT advantage: STEM eligible
- Common roles: IT support specialist, cybersecurity analyst, systems administrator
- Estimated starting salary: US$65,000 to US$85,000
3. Business analytics
Combines business knowledge with data skills. Many Nepali students choose this for its mix of technical and practical training.
- OPT advantage: Many programs are STEM designated
- Common roles: Data analyst, business intelligence analyst, marketing analyst
- Estimated starting salary: US$70,000 to US$90,000
4. Engineering (mechanical, civil, electrical)
Engineering has long been a top choice for students from Nepal. It offers structured career paths and strong visa prospects.
- OPT advantage: All major engineering disciplines are STEM eligible
- Common roles: Design engineer, project engineer, field engineer
- Estimated starting salary: US$70,000 to US$85,000
5. Data science
This fast-growing field focuses on extracting insights from data. Many Nepali students choose it after studying math, engineering or CS.
- OPT advantage: Strong support for STEM extension
- Common roles: Data scientist, machine learning engineer, data engineer
- Estimated starting salary: US$100,000 to US$140,000
6. Public health
With global experience and practical internships, public health degrees can lead to U.S. or international careers.
- OPT advantage: Some programs are STEM eligible
- Common roles: Health data analyst, policy researcher, program coordinator
- Estimated starting salary:US$50,000 to US$70,000
7. Health care administration
This major focuses on managing hospitals, clinics and health systems. It’s a growing field in the U.S.
- OPT advantage: Not STEM, so OPT is limited to 12 months
- Common roles: Healthcare analyst, practice manager, operations coordinator
- Estimated starting salary: US$55,000 to US$75,000
8. Accounting
A practical and respected field, especially for students who want clear job roles and predictable career paths.
- OPT advantage: Not STEM, but strong job demand
- Common roles: Staff accountant, auditor, financial analyst
- Estimated starting salary:US$55,000 to US$70,000
9. Finance
Finance majors from Nepal often pursue roles in corporate finance, banking or fintech.
- OPT advantage: Not STEM, but good job prospects
- Common roles: Financial analyst, credit analyst, investment associate
- Estimated starting salary:US$70,000 to US$90,000
10. Hospitality and tourism
Some Nepali students with family ties to travel or hospitality businesses choose this major to gain global experience.
- OPT advantage: Not STEM
- Common roles: Hotel manager, event coordinator, travel operations associate
- Estimated starting salary: US$45,000 to US$60,000
11. Environmental science
Ideal for students interested in climate, conservation or sustainable development. It connects well with global NGO careers.
- OPT advantage: STEM eligible
- Common roles: Environmental analyst, sustainability coordinator, field technician
- Estimated starting salary: US$50,000 to US$65,000
12. Mathematics or statistics
These majors are in high demand for data-related jobs and give strong flexibility across industries.
- OPT advantage: STEM eligible
- Common roles: Data analyst, quantitative researcher, risk analyst
- Estimated starting salary: US$70,000 to US$90,000
MPOWER Financing supports your goals from classroom to career
Many Nepali students choose their major based on job potential and visa options. But without financial flexibility, even the best program can feel out of reach.
MPOWER Financing helps international students from Nepal fund their education with no-cosigner student loans. Loans are based on your future earning potential, not your family’s assets.
MPOWER also supports your career through the Path2Success program, which offers:
- Job search resources tailored for F-1 students
- OPT and H-1B guidance
- Resume and interview prep
- Webinars designed for international students
With support during and after your degree, you can choose a major that’s right for your future, not just the one your bank approves.
Tips for Nepali students choosing a major
Your major affects your visa, job search and future salary. Before choosing, ask yourself:
- Is this program STEM designated? This affects how long you can work on OPT
- Are the job skills in demand? Some fields offer more options than others
- Does the program offer career support or internships? Practical experience matters
- Would I enjoy this work long term? You’ll perform better if you actually like the field
Many Nepali students also look at the cost of the program, the location of the university and the average cost of living in that area. A high-paying field is helpful, but a manageable budget for college students is just as important if you’re funding your education without family support.
