Since the 2005/2006 academic year, the number of international students enrolled in an American college or university has steadily increased. Last year nearly 1.1 million people ventured to the U.S. to take classes, contributing over four billion dollars to the U.S. economy and providing a more diverse learning environment for their fellow classmates. In many ways, expat students face many of the same educational expenses as their native counterparts. They must figure out how to cover the fees for tuition and supplies, as well as the costs of day-to day-living (like food and shelter). Indeed, the price of a good education can quickly add up for all students, regardless of the place they call home. Foreign students studying in the U.S., though, often face even more bills than their native counterparts. Take a look at three hidden costs that a lot of international students face while pursuing an American education:
Immigration Issues
Getting into and paying for school is just part of the battle for international students wanting to study in the U.S. In addition to getting accepted into an American academic program, they must apply for and get a student visa. Student visas currently cost $160 plus a $350 Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVIS) fee to cover the administrative costs of tracking international students while they’re in the U.S. And according to the student’s country of origin, there could be insurance and other fees tacked on, as well. Finally, most student visas limit the number of hours a student can work while having the visa. This means students must verify that they already possess the financial resources to come to the U.S. and study without simultaneously needing a paying job to cover their expenses while here. Of course, there are exceptions, but they often necessitate paying for additional legal counsel — for instance, when students request to extend their stays and/or explore options after OPT expires.
International Student Fees
Not only must international students pay the U.S. government a support fee, most must also pay the school they attend a support fee. Both fees attempt to offset the costs of administering and managing the automated system that maintains data on all international students in the U.S.
Insurance
Most U.S. colleges and universities require their students to have health insurance. International students are no exception. And even if it’s not required, international students should buy insurance since unforeseen medical issues could cost them even more than any upfront enrollment or premium costs. This can be a shock to students coming from countries with low-cost, universal health care.
Transportation
One other hidden expense is the cost of transportation. Many expat students are used to cheap, public transport. Moving to the U.S., where there is often limited public transportation, forces many expats into needing better options. Whether it’s a car or some other type of vehicle, many have to shell out even more money just to get to the places they need to go!