Home to some of the world’s most prestigious colleges & universities and cutting-edge research, the United States (US) has an excellent reputation as a study destination. In fact, the US attracted nearly 1.2 million international students during the 2024/25 academic year.
From the country’s education system and student visa information to a high-level look at its food and culture, read on to learn what international students need to know about studying in the US.
Why Study in the US?
The US continues to be the most popular destination for international students. As the most represented country in Times Higher Education’s (THE) 2026 World University rankings, its universities are some of the best on the planet.
- 🔸A Globally Recognized Education
Did you know that American institutions claimed the top three spots in the world in the U.S. News and World Report’s 2026–2027 Best Global Universities list? From Big Ten universities known for their world-class academics and athletics to small liberal arts colleges which nurture future creatives, the American academic world is as diverse and innovative as the country itself.
American institutions offer students a wide range of programs and fields of study. Campuses also offer students state-of-the-art learning, arts, and sports facilities as well as resources for research opportunities.
- 🔸Exploring American Cultures
The US is often referred to as a ‘melting pot,’ meaning that people from diverse cultures and ethnicities form a unified community. American culture has been influenced by many different groups of people, with each one contributing unique customs, traditions, and perspectives across different regions within the US.
- 🔸Building a Global Career
Studying in the US is a great way for international students to prepare for their careers. A degree from an American college or university is often highly regarded by employers. Plus, many US-based institutions offer international students internship opportunities where they can develop practical skills.
Do International Students Need a Visa to Study in the US?
To pursue academic studies, international students typically need an F-1 visa to study in the US. To obtain an F-1 visa, students must first apply and be accepted by a SEVP-approved academic institution.
In 2026, the US government made some important changes to how F-1 visas work, ranging from how long the visas last to how students may transfer between different study areas or academic institutions.
What is the Average Cost of Living in the US?
The average cost of living varies across the US, and will also differ based on individual lifestyle. Many coastal states like New York or California can be more expensive, while inland states such as Missouri, the Dakotas, and Iowa tend to be more affordable.
- 🔸Tuition
The cost of studying in the US varies by institution, study level, and program type. STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and professional degrees like law or medicine are generally more expensive than humanities or liberal arts programs.
In general, international students pay out-of-state tuition rates at public institutions. They may also have to pay additional international fees. Meanwhile, international and domestic students usually pay the same tuition at private colleges. Over the 2025/26 academic year, the average yearly tuition for out-of-state students at a public college was US$25,400, and the average private tuition was just under US$45,000.
- 🔸Housing
Accommodation costs vary based on the type of housing. Many students live on-campus during their first year to ease their transition. Campus housing options include dormitories with shared cooking and bathroom facilities and apartments with private bedrooms and shared or private kitchens.
On-campus housing costs averaged between US$5,300 and US$8,100 per year in 2025, but vary further across each institution depending on the housing style. Nation-wide, off-campus housing costs ranged from US$500 to over US$3,500 per month, with higher costs in coastal cities and in the northeastern states. When living off-campus, students should also budget for utilities like power and water, as these costs may not be included in rent.
- 🔸Living Expenses
All international students must include housing, food, transportation, and daily expenses in their budget. It’s also important to budget for utilities (if living off campus), a phone, textbooks and course materials, laundry, and recreational activities. Below are some averages and ranges for common expenses:
- 📍Food and Groceries: US$300 to US$685 per month
- 📍Public Transportation: US$35 to US$140 per month (sometimes included with tuition)
- 📍Utilities (including Internet): US$200 to US$500 per month
- 📍Phone: US$61 (national average)
- 📍Academic Supplies: US$930 to US$1,500 per academic year
Studying in the US is a unique experience for many international students. Whether you’re exploring vibrant cities or embracing campus traditions, studying in the US can allow you to grow academically and set yourself up for a global career.
Source: ApplyBoard