I’m an international student planning to study in the US next year. I’ve been researching tuition fees and living expenses, but I can’t seem to find a clear answer about the ongoing costs associated with maintaining my F-1 student visa after I’ve initially gotten it. I understand there’s an initial SEVIS fee, but what about things like annual renewal fees, health insurance requirements related to the visa, or other hidden costs I should be aware of? I’m especially concerned about anything that might fluctuate significantly year to year. I’m looking for a realistic estimate of all costs directly tied to maintaining my legal student status each year, excluding regular living expenses and tuition. What are all the costs I need to budget for annually once I’m in the US and studying?
Answer
The cost of maintaining a student visa in the United States goes beyond the initial visa application fees and encompasses various expenses incurred throughout the duration of your studies. These costs can be categorized into several areas:
1. SEVIS Fee:
- What it is: The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee is a mandatory fee paid to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. It covers the cost of administering the SEVIS system, which tracks international students and exchange visitors.
- Cost: As of late 2023, the SEVIS fee for F-1 and M-1 students is $350.
- When it’s paid: This fee is typically paid before your visa interview and is a one-time fee for each new program of study. If you transfer to a new school, you usually do not have to pay the SEVIS fee again as long as the transfer is done properly through SEVIS. However, if you leave the U.S. for more than five months and need a new initial I-20, you may need to pay the SEVIS fee again.
2. Tuition and Fees:
- What it is: This is the most substantial cost for international students. Tuition fees vary greatly depending on the type of institution (public vs. private), the program of study, and the level of study (undergraduate vs. graduate). Mandatory fees can include technology fees, activity fees, health service fees, and transportation fees.
- Cost:
- Public universities: Can range from $25,000 to $45,000 per year for undergraduate programs and $20,000 to $40,000 per year for graduate programs. Tuition rates depend on the specific state, and whether you are an in-state resident.
- Private universities: Typically range from $40,000 to $70,000 or more per year for both undergraduate and graduate programs.
- Payment: Tuition is usually paid at the beginning of each semester or quarter. Payment plans are sometimes available.
3. Living Expenses:
- What it is: This covers the cost of housing, food, transportation, personal expenses, and other daily living costs. The cost of living varies significantly depending on the location. Major metropolitan areas such as New York City, Los Angeles, and San Francisco are generally more expensive than smaller cities or rural areas.
- Cost:
- Housing: Rent for off-campus apartments can range from $800 to $2,500 or more per month, depending on location and size. On-campus housing is often more affordable but may have limited availability.
- Food: The cost of food can range from $300 to $600 per month, depending on your eating habits.
- Transportation: Public transportation costs vary by city. A monthly pass can cost anywhere from $50 to $150. If you own a car, you will also need to factor in the costs of car insurance, gas, and maintenance.
- Personal expenses: This includes clothing, entertainment, toiletries, and other miscellaneous expenses. Budgeting $200 to $500 per month is reasonable for personal expenses.
4. Health Insurance:
- What it is: Most U.S. colleges and universities require international students to have health insurance. Some schools offer their own health insurance plans, while others allow students to purchase private insurance.
- Cost: Health insurance can cost from $500 to $3,000 per year, depending on the coverage and the insurance provider.
- Why it’s important: Healthcare in the U.S. is very expensive, and health insurance is essential to protect you from unexpected medical bills.
5. Visa Renewal and Extension:
- What it is: Your F-1 visa is typically valid for a specific period, but your I-20 form (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status) is what allows you to stay in the U.S. as long as you maintain your student status. If you need to extend your program of study, you must apply for an extension of your I-20 from your Designated School Official (DSO). You may need to renew your visa if it expires while you are still studying in the U.S., but you only need to do this if you plan to travel outside the U.S. and re-enter.
- Cost:
- I-20 Extension: There is typically no fee to extend your I-20, but you must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses for the extended period of study.
- Visa Renewal: The visa application fee for an F-1 visa is $160. This fee is required each time you apply for a new visa.
- Considerations: Visa renewal can be done at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country or a third country. It is important to start the renewal process well in advance of your visa’s expiration date.
6. Other Potential Costs:
- Textbooks and Supplies: Textbooks can be expensive, costing several hundred dollars per semester. Used textbooks can be a more affordable option. You will also need to budget for school supplies such as notebooks, pens, and a calculator.
- Travel Expenses: If you plan to travel within the U.S. or internationally during your studies, you will need to budget for transportation, accommodation, and other travel expenses.
- Optional Practical Training (OPT): If you plan to participate in OPT after graduation, you will need to pay a fee to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). As of late 2023, the filing fee for Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization), which is used to apply for OPT, is $470.
- Contingency Fund: It is always a good idea to have a contingency fund to cover unexpected expenses such as medical emergencies or unforeseen travel costs.
Summary Table (Estimates Per Year):
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| SEVIS Fee (One-time) | $350 |
| Tuition and Fees | $25,000 – $70,000+ |
| Living Expenses | $12,000 – $30,000+ |
| Health Insurance | $500 – $3,000 |
| Visa Renewal (If needed) | $160 |
| Textbooks and Supplies | $500 – $1,500 |
| Other Expenses | Variable |
Important Considerations:
- Funding Sources: Carefully consider your funding sources and ensure that you have sufficient funds to cover all of your expenses throughout your studies. Funding sources may include personal savings, family contributions, scholarships, grants, and loans.
- Financial Planning: Create a detailed budget to track your income and expenses. This will help you manage your finances effectively and avoid overspending.
- Work Restrictions: F-1 students are subject to certain restrictions on employment. You may be able to work on campus for a limited number of hours per week. After your first academic year, you may be eligible for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT). However, these work opportunities may not be sufficient to cover all of your expenses.
- Exchange Rates: Be aware of exchange rate fluctuations, as these can affect the cost of your studies.
It is crucial to research the specific costs associated with your chosen program of study and location in the U.S. and to plan your finances accordingly. Contact the international student office at your school for more information and guidance on managing your finances as an international student.
