Plan Smarter with MPOWER

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CPT vs OPT: How to legally work while studying in the U.S.

If you’re studying in the U.S. on an F-1 visa, you may be wondering how you can legally gain work experience. Whether you’re hoping to intern during your program or land a job after graduation, there are two main options: curricular practical training (CPT) and optional practical training (OPT).

Both CPT and OPT are legal ways to work in the U.S. as an international student, but they differ in when you can use them, the eligibility rules and the types of jobs permitted. Here’s how to decide which option best fits your academic and career goals.

What is CPT?

Curricular practical training, or CPT, allows F-1 students to work off campus while still enrolled in their academic program. This work must be a required or integral part of your curriculum, such as a for-credit internship or practicum.

CPT must be approved by your university’s designated school official (DSO) and is employer-specific, meaning you can’t switch jobs without getting new authorization. It’s often used for internships, cooperative education programs or practicum placements that are tied directly to your coursework.

To qualify for CPT, you must:

Be enrolled full time at a SEVP-certified school for at least one academic year (unless you’re in a graduate program that requires immediate training)
Have a job offer related to your major
Receive approval from your DSO before you start working

There’s no official time limit on CPT, but if you do 12 months or more of full-time CPT, you’ll lose eligibility for OPT later on. Part-time CPT (20 hours or fewer per week) does not affect your OPT eligibility.

What is OPT?

Optional practical training (OPT) is temporary work authorization for F-1 students that allows you to gain hands-on experience in your field of study. Unlike curricular practical training (CPT), OPT does not need to be tied to a specific course and can be used during or after your program.

OPT is not employer-specific. Once you’re approved, you can work for any qualifying employer in your field, as long as you follow the rules for reporting and remain in status.

There are two types of OPT:

Pre-completion OPT: Used while you’re still enrolled in school
Post-completion OPT: Used after you’ve graduated

Most students choose post-completion OPT. You can apply for up to 12 months of OPT, and if you have a qualifying STEM degree, you may be eligible for a 24-month extension, giving you up to 36 months of total work time.

To apply, you’ll need:

A recommendation from your DSO in SEVIS
To file Form I-765 with USCIS
To wait for approval before starting work (this can take two to three months)

CPT vs. OPT: Key differences

Here’s how CPT and OPT compare across key areas:

Feature	CPT	OPT
When it’s used	During your academic program	During or after your academic program
Purpose	Internship or training for credit	General work experience in your field
Authorization	DSO only	DSO + USCIS
Time limit	Varies, but 12+ months full-time CPT cancels OPT	12 months standard (24-month STEM extension possible)
Job requirements	Must have a job offer before applying	No job offer needed to apply
Employer flexibility	Job-specific	Can switch employers (with reporting)
Credit requirement	Usually required	Not required

Choosing the right option for you

The right work option depends on when you want to work, what kind of job you’re aiming for and how your academic program is structured.

Use CPT if:

You want to work while still in school
You’re required to complete an internship as part of your degree
You have a specific job offer tied to your major

Use OPT if:

You want to gain experience after graduation
You’re not required to do a for-credit internship
You’re planning to stay in the U.S. longer term, especially through STEM OPT

One important note: Using 12 months or more of full-time CPT will make you ineligible for OPT. If you’re planning to work long term after graduation, consider limiting your CPT to part time or fewer than 12 months full time.

Also, keep in mind that CPT and OPT can’t be used at the same time. If you’re considering both, talk to your DSO about timing and program requirements so you don’t accidentally disqualify yourself. Remember that work opportunities can impact eligibility for scholarships for international students.

MPOWER Financing: Work experience shouldn’t be a financial burden

You’re investing in your education, and gaining work experience is a key part of that. But internships and early job opportunities aren’t always paid, and even paid ones may not cover your full living costs.

That’s where MPOWER Financing can help.

MPOWER offers no-cosigner student loans designed specifically for international students studying in the U.S. That means you can stay focused on your studies and training opportunities, even if your job is unpaid or part time.

Here’s what makes MPOWER a strong option:

International education loan without collateral available to F-1 visa holders in select postgraduate programs
Covers tuition, housing and other living expenses
Fixed interest rates, no hidden fees
No collateral or U.S. credit history required
Career support and resources through Path2Success

Final thoughts: Work legally and plan early

Working in the U.S. during or after your degree can be a great way to build your resume and boost your career, but it has to be done the right way.

Whether you choose CPT, OPT or both, the key is to start planning early. Make sure your training aligns with your academic program, talk to your DSO before starting any job and always follow F-1 visa rules carefully.

With the right approach, you can gain valuable experience while staying on track to reach your long-term goals.

On-campus jobs that maximize income while keeping your F-1 status safe

If you’re a Nepali student studying in the U.S. on an F-1 visa, finding part-time work can be a smart way to manage daily expenses without breaking immigration rules. But not all jobs are allowed under F-1 status, and working off campus without authorization could risk your visa.

The safest and easiest way to earn money while studying overseas is through an on-campus job. These roles are approved under your visa and offer flexible hours that fit your academic schedule. Some even help build experience in your field.

This article breaks down the best on-campus jobs for international students, how to stay within F-1 rules and what Nepali students should prioritize when choosing where to work.

What counts as an on-campus job under F-1 rules

The U.S. government allows international students on F-1 visas to work on campus for up to 20 hours per week while school is in session. You can work full time during official breaks.

To qualify, the job must:

Be located on your university’s campus
Be paid by the university or a university-approved contractor
Not replace a U.S. citizen or permanent resident in the same role

Jobs in campus offices, libraries, dining halls, labs or bookstores are all eligible. Some roles at campus-affiliated businesses, such as food services or cafes inside university buildings, also count if the university directly contracts them.

Before you start working, speak with your designated school official (DSO). They’ll confirm your eligibility and update your SEVIS record if needed.

High-earning on-campus jobs to consider

Some on-campus jobs pay better than others, especially if they involve technical skills or specialized experience. Here are several international student job opportunities that combine good pay with valuable experience.

1. Research assistant

If you’re in a STEM program, a research assistant who often works on experiments, data analysis or lab management is one of the most well paid roles.

Hourly pay range:US$12 to US$24
Why it works: Often aligns with your coursework or thesis and builds academic credibility

2. Teaching assistant or grader

Graduate-level students are often hired to help professors with assignments, labs or test scoring.

Hourly pay range: US$13 to US$22
Why it works: Boosts your resume and may lead to recommendation letters

3. IT support staff

If you have tech skills, campus IT offices often hire students to troubleshoot hardware, support systems or assist with help desk services.

Hourly pay range: US$14 to US$20
Why it works: High hourly pay and experience that can apply to OPT jobs later

4. Library assistant

Library worker roles are flexible and involve managing materials, assisting students and maintaining quiet study areas.

Hourly pay range: US$14 to US$18
Why it works: Low stress and regular hours, ideal for students who want to study during slow shifts

5. Campus tour guide or orientation leader

If you enjoy public speaking and want to improve your communication skills, this is a good option.

Hourly pay range: US$14 to US$20
Why it works: Builds soft skills and can lead to leadership roles on campus

6. Student center or event staff

Help with campus events, conferences or university-run activities.

Hourly pay range: US$11 to US$20
Why it works: Flexible scheduling and opportunities to meet other students

7. Food service worker (on-campus only)

Work in university dining halls, coffee stands or convenience stores.

Hourly pay range: US$13 to US$19
Why it works: Steady work and often includes free meals or discounts

Nepali students working during school

Many students from Nepal take on-campus jobs to help cover expenses. But part-time income alone is often not enough to manage tuition, housing and emergency costs. That’s where MPOWER Financing can help.

MPOWER offers private student loans specifically for international students without requiring a cosigner or collateral. This means you can focus on studies and part-time work without depending on your family’s property or savings.

Along with flexible funding, MPOWER supports students through:

Scholarships for international students
Budget planning tools and financial literacy content
Transparent terms with no prepayment penalties
The Path2Success program, which includes job search guidance and resources If you’re trying to stay on top of your education, finances and career goals while studying abroad, MPOWER can help you manage the big picture.

Tips for Nepali students balancing work and academics

Many Nepali students work part time to reduce financial pressure on their families. Here are a few reminders to help you stay safe and focused:

Always confirm the job is on-campus and approved under F-1 rules
Limit your hours to 20 per week during the semester
Keep your grades strong, especially if you hold a scholarship or TA position
Track your pay carefully if you plan to file taxes later
Use your work experience in your resume for future internships or OPT jobs for international students

If you’re sending money home or managing loan expenses, consider tracking your budget with free tools or spreadsheets. Even small earnings can make a difference when spent wisely.

Budget-friendly U.S. cities for Nepali grads: Salaries, rent and job prospects

Living in the U.S. after graduation can be exciting but also expensive. Many Nepali students expect big paychecks during optional practical training (OPT), only to realize that rent, taxes and daily costs can eat up most of their salary.

The good news is that not all U.S. cities are equally expensive. In fact, some cities offer strong job opportunities, good pay and much lower rent than major tech hubs like New York or San Francisco. These places can be ideal if you’re looking to save money, gain work experience and speed up your international student loan repayment.

Here are seven budget-friendly U.S. cities that many international grads from Nepal find appealing, especially during their OPT.

1. Austin, Texas

Austin is a fast-growing tech hub with lots of job opportunities and a relatively lower cost of living than Silicon Valley.

Average rent (1-bedroom): US$1,400
Entry-level salary in tech or data roles: US$80,000 to US$100,000
Why it works: No state income tax and a friendly environment for international workers

2. Raleigh, North Carolina

Raleigh offers strong demand for STEM grads, especially in biotech, engineering and healthcare.

Average rent (1-bedroom): US$1,200
Entry-level salary in biotech or IT: US$75,000 to US$100,000
Why it works: Safe, clean and near many research universities and tech companies

3. Columbus, Ohio

Columbus is growing in finance, insurance, logistics and tech sectors. It also has one of the lowest costs of living among major U.S. cities.

Average rent (1-bedroom): US$1,100
Entry-level salary in business or analytics roles: US$60,000 to US$90,000
Why it works: Accessible public transit and a good mix of employers open to OPT candidates

4. Salt Lake City, Utah

This city combines outdoor lifestyle with a booming tech industry known as Silicon Slopes.

Average rent (1-bedroom): US$1,300
Entry-level salary in engineering or software roles: US$70,000 to US$100,000
Why it works: High quality of life and growing demand for skilled workers

5. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Known for education, robotics and healthcare, Pittsburgh offers career options and manageable rent.

Average rent (1-bedroom): US$1,100
Entry-level salary in robotics or public health: US$60,000 to US$95,000
Why it works: Home to top universities and research centers that support international talent

6. Minneapolis, Minnesota

With strong demand for workers in healthcare, IT and data analytics, Minneapolis offers both jobs and affordability.

Average rent (1-bedroom): US$1,200
Entry-level salary in data or health fields: US$65,000 to US$85,000
Why it works: Clean city with good infrastructure and support for international professionals

7. Dallas, Texas

Dallas is home to many Fortune 500 companies and has job options in finance, engineering and logistics.

Average rent (1-bedroom): US$1,500
Entry-level salary in finance or business: US$65,000 to US$100,000
Why it works: Low taxes, strong job growth and a growing international community

MPOWER Financing helps Nepali students manage costs after graduation

For Nepali students studying in the U.S., location plays a huge role in your financial success after graduation. That’s why it’s important to choose both a smart city and a funding option that gives you flexibility.

MPOWER Financing offers no-cosigner student loans that cover both tuition and living expenses. That means you can choose a city that fits your goals, not just one your budget forces you into.

Through MPOWER’s Path2Success program, students also access:

Job search guidance and tools
Tools to estimate post-graduate costs
Guidance on budgeting and repayment
OPT and H-1B prep workshops

Whether you’re in Dallas or Pittsburgh, having clear financial support and tools can help you stretch your salary and stay on track after school.

What Nepali grads should look for in a city

Cost of living is important, but it’s not the only thing to consider. As a Nepali grad on OPT, you should also look at:

International student job opportunities in your field
Employer willingness to hire OPT or sponsor H-1B
Access to Nepali or South Asian communities
Public transportation if you don’t have a car
State taxes and healthcare access

Many students from Nepal also look for quiet cities with clean environments and affordable food. Places that feel safe and culturally friendly can ease the stress of adjusting after graduation.

If you’re planning to send money home, repay a loan or save for future visa steps, choosing the right city can make a big difference.

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.

OPT made simple: A Nepali graduate’s 36-month roadmap to STEM work in the U.S.

For many Nepali postgraduate students studying STEM in the U.S., optional practical training (OPT) is the clearest path to staying and working legally after your degree. But the process can feel overwhelming. You have to apply on time, choose the right employer and understand how the STEM OPT extension works, all while preparing for life after university.

Whether you’re still studying or close to finishing your master’s program, here’s how to use the full 36 months available through OPT and get the most out of your U.S. work experience.

How OPT works for international STEM students

OPT is a U.S. work authorization for international students program for international students on F-1 visas. It lets you work in a job directly related to your degree, first for up to 12 months after graduation, and then for an additional 24 months if you studied a STEM subject and meet certain requirements.

That means you could legally work in the U.S. for up to three years after finishing your degree.

Here’s what that timeline typically looks like:

First 12 months: Apply for standard post-completion OPT. You can apply up to 90 days before finishing your degree and no later than 60 days after. You need to have completed at least one academic year.
STEM OPT extension: If your degree is on the U.S. government’s STEM-designated list and your job qualifies, you can apply for a 24-month extension. This gives you a total of 36 months of work time in the U.S.

You don’t need a job offer to apply for the first 12 months. But for the STEM extension, your job must meet specific requirements, including being with a company enrolled in E-Verify and offering formal training and supervision.

Why OPT is important for Nepali students

For students from Nepal, OPT jobs for international students can offer more than just work experience. It can give you:

Time to earn and save before loan repayment begins
Professional connections to help you stay through H-1B sponsorship
A pathway to prove yourself in a U.S. job without needing a green card
Space to explore career fit without immediately returning home

This is especially helpful if your family helped support your education through loans for study abroad, or if you’re using a no-cosigner loan and want to start repayment with income from the U.S.

Many Nepali students say they feel anxious about repaying education loans. OPT can reduce that stress by giving you time and income to prepare. But only if you plan carefully and stay within the rules.

What to do before applying

It’s easy to miss deadlines or misunderstand the process, especially when English isn’t your strongest language or you’re juggling coursework, housing and job applications. Here’s what you should do before applying for OPT:

Check your program’s eligibility. Not every STEM field qualifies. Look up the DHS list or ask your school’s designated school official (DSO).
Understand the visa timeline. You can’t start working until your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) arrives. Apply early.
Talk to your DSO. They’ll help you with Forms I-765 (application) and I-983 (training plan).
Research employers. For STEM OPT, your job must be full time, paid and offer training. Freelance or contract roles aren’t eligible.

Choosing the wrong job or waiting too long to apply could make you ineligible. And for Nepali students with limited support abroad, that could mean returning home before you’re ready.

Finding the right job and employer

If you’re planning to use the full 36 months of OPT, you need to be strategic about where and how you apply. Here’s what to look for:

E-Verify status: Your employer must be registered in the U.S. E-Verify system to sponsor your STEM OPT extension.
STEM relevance: Your job duties must clearly connect to your degree. It’s not enough to work at a tech company. You must use your STEM skills.
Structured training: Your employer must provide mentorship or a training plan as part of your OPT extension paperwork.
Reliable documentation: Avoid employers who hesitate to fill out Form I-983 or don’t understand the process.

Companies that have hired international students before, especially in IT, data science, health care and engineering, are more likely to qualify. Start your search early. Use your university career center, networking groups and online job boards that filter for OPT eligibility.

If you’re from Nepal, don’t be afraid to reach out to alumni from your region who’ve gone through the process. Their advice can help you avoid common mistakes and save time.

How MPOWER Financing can support your OPT goals

Many Nepali students worry about two things after graduation: how to repay their loans and how to stay in the U.S. long enough to build a career.

MPOWER Financing offers private student loans that are specifically designed for international students who don’t have a cosigner or collateral. That makes it a good fit for Nepali students who want more control and fewer family pressures.

What makes MPOWER a helpful option during and after OPT?

No cosigner and no collateral required
Loans available for 500+ universities across the U.S. and Canada
Fixed student loan interest rates and no prepayment penalties
Support through Path2Success, which includes OPT visa guidance, job search resources and tips for working in the U.S.

MPOWER student loans are based on your future earning potential, not your financial past. That’s important if you come from a family that can’t offer land or property as security. If you want a funding option that respects your independence and gives you room to grow, it’s worth exploring.

Staying compliant during all 36 months

Once you’re approved for OPT, you must maintain your status. That means:

Reporting your job and employer details to your school
Avoiding unemployment longer than 90 days (or 150 days total if using STEM OPT)
Updating your address and job info whenever it changes
Making sure your job duties match your degree

Even small errors, like forgetting to update your employer info, can impact your visa status. Nepali students often say the hardest part isn’t getting approved, but keeping up with the rules after.

Overall, OPT can be a great springboard for Nepali STEM graduates, giving you valuable U.S. work experience, professional growth and a stronger path toward your long-term career goals. By understanding the rules, applying on time, and choosing the right employer you can make the most of every stage.

Funding education: Grants and no-cosigner loans for Nepali F-1 students

For many Nepali postgraduate students, studying in the U.S. is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. But tuition, housing and other expenses often add up to more than what families can afford. Traditional bank loans in Nepal require collateral, which may not be possible if your family doesn’t own land or property. On top of that, getting a cosigner in the U.S. can feel nearly impossible.

The good news is that F-1 students from Nepal have more funding options today than ever before. Grants and no-cosigner student loans are two of the most accessible ways to pay for your education without putting family assets at risk.

This article explains how these funding options work, where to find them and what makes them especially helpful for Nepali students.

Why traditional funding is difficult for Nepali students

Nepali families often try to finance education costs through:

Loans from private banks in Nepal
Property-based loans using land as collateral
Support from relatives abroad
Education scholarships from foreign universities or agencies

But these methods come with limits. Many banks in Nepal require proof of income, family guarantees or fixed property. Students without wealthy relatives or collateral may be told that studying abroad is “too risky” or “not realistic.”

No-cosigner loans and grants give students another path forward. They let you access international education based on your potential, not your background.

What is a grant and how can Nepali students qualify?

A grant is a financial award that you do not need to repay. Grants are usually based on financial need, academic merit or personal background. They are often offered by universities, governments or private organizations.

Types of grants available:

University-based grants
Many U.S. universities offer need-based or merit-based grants to international students. These are usually awarded during the admissions process.
Government or NGO grants
Programs like the Fulbright Foreign Student Program offer full funding for Nepali students who qualify. Some smaller NGOs also offer partial support.
Private or industry-specific grants
Some grants are available for students studying in certain fields like engineering, public health or sustainability. These can come from foundations, research groups or nonprofits.

How to find grants:

Search university financial aid pages.
Use resources like eduPASS, InternationalScholarships.com or the Institute of International Education.
Ask your school’s international office about grants for Nepali or South Asian students.
Look for grants tied to your field of study or career goals.

Grants are competitive and may not cover the full cost of study. But they can reduce the amount you need to borrow, especially in your first year.

What is a no-cosigner loan and how does it work?

No-cosigner loans are private student loans that do not require a U.S. citizen or permanent resident to co-sign. These loans are offered by international lenders that assess your future potential, not just your family background.

Why no-cosigner loans matter for Nepali students:

You don’t need property or financial guarantees from home.
You can apply independently, even if your family can’t support you financially.
You stay in control of your repayment without putting relatives at risk.
You gain access to schools that would otherwise be unaffordable.

Key features to look for:

Fixed interest rates
No collateral or upfront fees
Simple eligibility criteria
Support for tuition and living expenses
Transparent repayment plans

No-cosigner loans are especially useful if you’ve already been admitted to a U.S. university but are unsure how to cover the full cost.

How Nepali F-1 students can fund their future

MPOWER Financing was created for international students who need access to education without the barriers of traditional lending. For Nepali F-1 students, this means no cosigner, no collateral and no hidden fees.

MPOWER loans are available for over 500 U.S. and Canadian universities. The application process focuses on your academic program and future earning potential, not your family’s wealth or property.

In addition to flexible student loans, MPOWER also offers:

Grants and scholarships, including STEM scholarships, international leadership
Fixed interest rates with no prepayment penalties
Support for living expenses at eligible universities
Path2Success resources, including visa guidance, career support and budgeting tools

If you’ve been accepted to a university but are unsure how to fund your education, MPOWER can help you move forward with confidence and independence.

When grants aren’t enough: combining funding sources

Even if you receive a grant, it may only cover a portion of your tuition or living costs. This is especially true at private universities or in high-cost cities. Many Nepali students need to combine several types of funding to make it work.

Here’s how to build a realistic funding plan:

Start with grants and scholarships. These reduce what you’ll need to borrow and don’t need to be repaid.
Add family support if available. Some families can help with application fees, flights or the first semester of housing.
Use no-cosigner loans to fill the gap. Loans can cover tuition, housing and other costs that remain after grants are applied.
Consider on-campus work. While part-time jobs won’t cover full tuition, they can help with food, phone plans and daily expenses.

This mixed approach helps you stay enrolled, meet visa requirements and manage finances across your entire program. It also reduces pressure on your family by spreading the cost across multiple sources.

DISCLAIMER – All terms and conditions are subject to change at any time. Subject to credit approval, loans are made by Bank of Lake Mills or MPOWER Financing, PBC. Bank of Lake Mills does not have an ownership interest in MPOWER Financing. Neither MPOWER Financing nor Bank of Lake Mills is affiliated with the school you attended or are attending. Bank of Lake Mills is Member FDIC. None of the information contained in this website constitutes a recommendation, solicitation or offer by MPOWER Financing or its affiliates to buy or sell any securities or other financial instruments or other assets or provide any investment advice or service.

U.S. office	India office
1101 Connecticut Ave. NW Suite 900, Washington, DC 20036	The Cube at Karle Town Center, 9th Floor, 100 Ft, Nada Prabhu Kempe Gowda Main Road, Next to Nagavara, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560045, India

Top F-1 Visa Interview Questions and Answers

Documents to carry for your F-1 visa interview

How to dress for your F-1 visa interview?

Common F-1 visa interview questions and sample answers

1. Questions about your study plans

2. Questions about your university and course

3. Questions about your financial situation

4. Questions about your academic capability

5. Questions about your postgraduation plans

Wrapping up

FAQs

How long does the F-1 visa interview take?

How to pass the F-1 visa interview?

What are the most common F-1 visa interview questions?

Can an F-1 visa be rejected?

Can I reapply if my visa is denied?

Can I reschedule the interview?

Top F-1 Visa Interview Questions and Answers

Documents to carry for your F-1 visa interview

How to dress for your F-1 visa interview?

Common F-1 visa interview questions and sample answers

1. Questions about your study plans

2. Questions about your university and course

3. Questions about your financial situation

4. Questions about your academic capability

5. Questions about your postgraduation plans

Wrapping up

FAQs

How long does the F-1 visa interview take?

How to pass the F-1 visa interview?

What are the most common F-1 visa interview questions?

Can an F-1 visa be rejected?

Can I reapply if my visa is denied?

Can I reschedule the interview?

Top F-1 Visa Interview Questions and Answers

Documents to carry for your F-1 visa interview

How to dress for your F-1 visa interview?

Common F-1 visa interview questions and sample answers

1. Questions about your study plans

2. Questions about your university and course

3. Questions about your financial situation

4. Questions about your academic capability

5. Questions about your postgraduation plans

Wrapping up

FAQs

How long does the F-1 visa interview take?

How to pass the F-1 visa interview?

What are the most common F-1 visa interview questions?

Can an F-1 visa be rejected?

Can I reapply if my visa is denied?

Can I reschedule the interview?

Plan Smarter with MPOWER

CPT vs OPT: How to legally work while studying in the U.S.

What is CPT?

What is OPT?

CPT vs. OPT: Key differences

Choosing the right option for you

MPOWER Financing: Work experience shouldn’t be a financial burden

Final thoughts: Work legally and plan early

On-campus jobs that maximize income while keeping your F-1 status safe

What counts as an on-campus job under F-1 rules

High-earning on-campus jobs to consider

1. Research assistant

2. Teaching assistant or grader

3. IT support staff

4. Library assistant

5. Campus tour guide or orientation leader

6. Student center or event staff

7. Food service worker (on-campus only)

Nepali students working during school

Tips for Nepali students balancing work and academics

Budget-friendly U.S. cities for Nepali grads: Salaries, rent and job prospects

1. Austin, Texas

2. Raleigh, North Carolina

3. Columbus, Ohio

4. Salt Lake City, Utah

5. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

6. Minneapolis, Minnesota

7. Dallas, Texas

MPOWER Financing helps Nepali students manage costs after graduation