Studying in the USA is your dream? But you feel confused about where to begin the journey from. If that’s you, then you are in the right blog.
It’s a dream of many Nepalese students wanting to study in the USA. In Nepal, there are many consultancies available. While they aim to assist you, sometimes their guidance may unintentionally cause challenges during your USA journey.
You might be thinking, “ Can a Nepali student study and survive there?”. Every year, thousands of students go to the USA for study purposes. Not only to study but also to work and settle there.
Yes, we know that you are having trouble deciding whether to go USA or not. Don’t worry, ICCC is here to help you out. The best consultancy for USA in Nepal, serving thousands of students. Making their journey easy so that they don’t miss the opportunity to study abroad.
In this blog, we will be discussing every factor you should know about the USA. You will get the information related to intakes and scholarships. Let us show you why we are the best consultancy in Nepal for the USA.
Understanding the USA Education system
The United States doesn’t have a single education system; instead, each state runs its own. Although there is diversity in education. However, the education system appears to be similar throughout the country.
The USA portrays education as a great weapon to build its country. Education is compulsory and is available to every citizen in the country. Learning is offered through public schools, private institutions, and even homeschooling.
Primary and secondary level education is far better than in other countries in the world. What makes the USA stand out is Post-Secondary education. It includes universities, colleges, and vocational education.
Students can have access to over 4000 colleges and universities. From top Ivy League schools to affordable community colleges. Students can choose a vast range of programs and institutions.
While the USA has been the global leader in providing the top level of education for decades. Providing Flexibility in choosing the course and the institutions. Not only that the USA education system serve international students too. They provide multiple intakes to enroll and help by providing scholarships to support their education.
Types of student visa
The USA is the dream of many Nepalese students and people. But did you know? The USA has divided student visas into 3 types: F1, M1, and J1 visas. Let’s break it down and explain to you what the types are.
F1 visa:
F1 visa, also known as an academic student visa. This is a common type of visa issued to international students. F1 visa holders are admitted to the US for a fixed period, which is their academic time.
If the holder wants, they can add an extra 60 days after course completion. This visa allows on-campus work and Optional Practical Training after graduation.
M1 visa:
M1 visa, also known as a Vocational student visa. Students are not allowed to work while studying. They are only allowed after their course is completed. M1 visa holders are admitted for a fixed period, which is their course duration. They can only exceed 30 days after course completion.
J1 visa:
J1 visa, also known Exchange Visitor visa. Students and professionals are given participate in an exchange program. These programs are sponsored by educational and cultural institutions. J1 visa holders can stay until the exchange program ends.
| Visa type | Description | Visa status | Cost of a US student visa(SEVIS Visa Application Fee) | Certifications | Work restrictions |
| F1 | Most commonly, for full-time academic studies. | Academic student visa | $350+$185=$535 | Bachelor’s, master’s, and phd programs | On-campus work: Less than 20 hours/week |
| M1 | On a full-time basis, include vocational study. | Vocational student visa | $350 + $185 = $535 | Diploma certificate | Not allowed |
| J1 | For participation in an exchange program in | Exchange program visa | $220 + $185 = $405 | High school, internships, and Research | Depends on the program sponsor |
Intakes for USA
Before going to the USA for study purposes, you must know about intakes. Intakes are also known as the admission or semester. It shows the availability of the programs conducted by several colleges and universities.
The USA has been divided into three intakes:
Summer intake:
Summer intake is the least preferred intake as it has limited programs for a short period. It starts in May and ends in August. Application deadlines for the Summer intake are typically around March of the same year. Fewer scholarship opportunities due to fewer programs.
Spring intake:
This intake is the second most popular to get enrolled in. This intake provides better programs than the summer intake. The application deadlines for Spring intake usually fall around September or October. It starts from January and ends in April. You can get a scholarship opportunity more than the summer intake.
Fall intake:
The most preferred intake for international students. This intake provides a wider range of programs. The Fall semester typically begins in late August or early September. Most universities start Fall 2025 in late August or early September. More scholarship and financial aid are provided due to wider programs are available.
Full Scholarships for Nepalese students in the USA?
You might wonder why a scholarship is needed? Let me tell you, Nepal is a country with low-income households. Being able to study in the USA from Nepal is impossible if these scholarships are not available.
These scholarships help needy students from Nepal who want to study in the USA. These available scholarships are hard to find because of a lack of information.
For many students in Nepal, especially those from rural areas or families with limited income. For them, studying abroad feels more like a distant hope than a real opportunity. Although they meet the academic requirements, they often cannot cover the cost.
The full scholarship covers:
- Full tuition costs
- Monthly living expenses
- Round-trip airfare
- Visa and fee support
- Health insurance
- Book and academic supply allowances
- Research, conference, or internship funding, where applicable
Now let’s discuss those popular full scholarships provided by the USA:
Full Bright Scholarship:
This scholarship is given to those students trying to study master’s and doctoral programs in the USA. This is a fully funded scholarship and the most respected scholarship given to Nepalese students. To get this scholarship, you must have completed a bachelor’s degree in Nepal with # years of Full-time work experience.
Harvard University(Undergraduate and Graduate)
Harvard University offers need-blind admissions for all undergraduates, including international students. Most receive over $60,000 in aid yearly, and families earning under $85,000 often pay nothing. Graduate aid varies by program and includes fellowships or assistantships. Strong academics, leadership, and impact matter. Many Nepali students have received full support.
Stanford Knight-Hennessy Scholarship:
Stanford’s Knight-Hennessy Scholars program supports graduate students from all fields. Applicants must be admitted to Stanford and apply separately with essays, recommendations, and a video. Scholars receive full funding, leadership training, and join a global community. Applications from Nepal and other diverse backgrounds are encouraged.
Rotary Peace Fellowship:
Each year, 130 peace and development leaders from around the world receive this scholarship. The scholarship supports master’s students studying peace and conflict resolution. Partner centers are in the USA, Japan, the UK, Australia, Sweden, or Uganda.
AAUW Women International Fellowship (Women only):
This scholarship focuses on women only. Those women who want to study graduate and postgraduate studies in the USA. This helps cover tuition, living expenses, books, and health insurance. Funding ranges from $18,000 to $30,000, depending on the level of study.
Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship:
This scholarship supports professionals from developing countries, including Nepal. This scholarship supports master’s students in social and economic development. It covers tuition, living expenses, insurance, airfare, and internships. Applicants must be accepted into a World Bank-approved program first.
USA student Visa Application process
In the above headings, we discussed intakes and some scholarships. Now we will be discussing the application process for a USA student visa. Also known as an F1 student visa.
The F-1 Student Visa allows international students to study full-time in the US. It applies to SEVP-approved schools, including universities, colleges, and language programs. After graduation, students can work in their field through Optional Practical Training (OPT).
Now let’s discuss what the steps are for the student visa application process:
Get accepted to a SEVP-approved institution:
Apply for an SEVP-certified school: You must first be accepted by a U.S. institution approved by SEVP. Only then can you apply for an F-1 Student Visa. A list of SEVP-approved schools can be found on the DHS website.
Receive your Form I-20: After acceptance, you’ll get Form I-20 to apply for the F-1 visa.
Verify your Information: Your I-20 details match your passport and application forms.
- Pay the SEVIS Fee:
You are required to pay the SEVIS fee once you are accepted by an SEVP institution.
– SEVIS-I 901 Fee payment: Pay the $350 SEVIS fee on the SEVP website before applying for your visa.
– Save the receipt: You should save the receipt. It will act as proof of Fee payment.
– Processing Time: Payment confirmation is usually available within 24-48 hours.
- Complete the DS-160 form:
Fill out the DS-160 form: You need to fill DS-160 form. This needs to be completed before the visa interview.
Print DS-160 confirmation page: This document contains a barcode required for your visa appointment.
Time Required: Completing the DS-160 form takes about 45-60 minutes.
- Pay the visa application fee:
Visa Fee payment: You need to pay a $185 non-refundable visa application fee. You can pay at an approved center or the U.S. embassy website.
Keep your receipt: You must present proof of payment during your visa appointment.
Processing Time: Payment confirmation can take 1-3 business days.
- Schedule the visa interview:
Book your interview: Schedule your visa interview for the nearest date from the US embassy. You can also check the US Visa Information and Appointment Services website.
Check the waiting time: Visa appointment wait times vary by location, so book early to secure a spot.
Processing Time: An Interview may take a few days to several weeks. Please check the availability on the US Embassy website.
- Gather Required Documents:
Before applying for the USA visa interview, you need to gather the required documents.
- Valid passport (must be valid for at least six months beyond your stay)
- I-20 form from the admitting university
- DS-160 confirmation page
- SEVIS payment receipt
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Test scores: TOEFL/IELTS, SAT/GRE/GMAT (if required by your university)
- Financial documents: bank statements, sponsor letters, affidavit of support
- Visa appointment confirmation letter
- Passport-sized photographs (as per US visa photo guidelines)
Common Visa Application Mistakes for Studying in the USA from Nepal
While applying for a USA student visa, you need to be aware of. The one mistake and your dream to study abroad might seem to crash. Don’t worry, these steps will help you avoid the mistakes:
- Inaccurate information:
The most common mistake is inaccurate information. Ensure all names, dates, and passport numbers are correct and match your supporting documents. While you are applying, please double-check the information.
- Submitting a poor-quality photo:
Your visa photo should match the specified requirements. The photo must be a recent one taken within 6 months. Must be the correct dimension, having a plain and light colored background.
- Misunderstanding the visa requirements and types:
You should be aware of the visa requirements and types you are applying for. There are several visa types, like tourist, student, work, and immigration. Many applicants mistakenly assume that a single type of visa will meet their needs.
- Neglecting to translate the document:
If you didn’t translate the document into the country you are applying to. The chances of a Visa rejection are high. If you are going to the US, then you need to translate all documents into English.
- Applying too late:
The last-minute application for a visa is a risky move. As the visa has unexpected delays sometimes. It’s better to apply 3-4 months earlier.
Why is ICCC the Best Consultancy for USA in Nepal?
ICCC has been providing the service to thousands of students every year. With over 10 years of experience in this field, we provide the best of the best for our students. We provide end-to-end support and expert counselling.
Here are some points that will show why we are the best consultancy in Nepal for USA:
- Expert Guidance:
We provide end-to-end support and expert guidance. You will be given all the valuable information to make your journey effortless. With 10 years of excellence, our teacher will guide you every step. Starting from day one until you land.
- Small class sizes:
Unlike other consultancies, we provide small classes with a limited number of students. We make the discussion between the teacher and the students more effective. That will initiate the interaction, leading you towards your goal.
- Contemporary Teaching Methods:
We believe in going hand in hand with Technology and development. We combine traditional teaching with technology. Interactive whiteboards, audio systems, and online resources enhance your learning experience.
- Proven Track records:
ICCC has helped thousands of students achieve their goals. We focus on student welfare, which makes us stand out from others. Students who study IELTS with us consistently score an average band of 7+.
- Ethical practice:
We believe in providing the best service with honesty and integrity. It’s been 10 years of providing excellent service. No misinformation is given by us to attract students to our classes. We stay updated on all visa and process changes to ensure honest guidance.
Conclusion
The USA is an ultimate destination for those seeking opportunity in their life. You’ll grow personally and professionally while thriving in the global community.
Choosing to study USA from Nepal can be life-changing, filled with opportunities and challenges. At ICCC, we make dreams come true. We have been committed to excellence and a vision. Guiding Nepalese students on to abroad study journey.
Thinking of studying in the USA might be difficult, but with our guidance, we will make it easy for you. In this blog, we discuss the U.S. education system and its intake process. Additionally, international students can take advantage of various scholarship opportunities.
FAQ
- What is the minimum GPA to study in USA from Nepal?
You typically need a 2.5–3.0 GPA for undergraduate programs and 3.0+ for graduate programs. Always check specific academic requirements before applying.
- Does Harvard accept a 2.0 GPA?
The chances of acceptance are less. For the Class of 2027, a mere 2.21% of admitted students to Harvard had GPAs below 3.5.
- Which intake is good for the USA?
The fall intake is the most preferred intake for international students. Fall is preferred due to more programs and scholarship opportunities.
- How much does it cost to study in the USA from Nepal?
The average tuition fee for studying in the USA is:
- Community college: $6,000 to $ 20,000 per year
- Undergraduate program: $10,000 to $50,000 per year
- Graduate program: $ 10,000 to $ 50,000 per year
- Doctoral program: $ 28,000 to $ 55,000 per year
How much bank balance is required for a US visa?
The U.S. government doesn’t set a fixed amount. However, it’s recommended that international students have at least $18,000. This assures immigration that they can afford one year of study.
- Which subject is best for the USA?
The best courses to study in the USA are engineering, business management, math, and science. The best course is the one you feel confident and passionate about.
- How long after a visa interview will I get my visa?
Within 10-15 working days after the visa interview, you will receive the visa. Keeping in mind that sometimes a delay may happen, try contacting the education consultancy for information.
- How to get a scholarship in the USA?
You need to have a strong GPA, extracurricular activities, and IELTS, PTE, SAT, etc scores. Also, you need to research the scholarships. Get guidance from a counsellor or study abroad advisor about scholarships.
- Is US visa interview easy?
No, the USA visa interview is not easy. You will be asked several questions that will show your intention to the visa officer. You can consult a study abroad advisor to better prepare for interviews.
- Can I earn while studying in USA?
Yes, you can earn while studying in the USA. You must have an F1 visa first to work approximately 20 hr a week. Also, working full-time in the USA is allowed during vacation and holidays.
