Study in USA from Nepal: Requirements, Costs, Visa & Scholarships (2026)

Are you planning to study in the USA from Nepal in 2026? This complete guide covers everything Nepali students need to know about studying in the United States, from academic and financial requirements to visa procedures, scholarships, and career opportunities.

The USA remains the top choice for Nepali students, with over 18,000 currently enrolled. With world-class universities, extended work opportunities (36-month OPT for STEM), and high-paying careers, understanding the requirements to study in the USA from Nepal is your first step toward success.

Whether you're pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree, this guide provides updated 2026 information on costs, visa processes, top universities, and scholarship opportunities to make studying in the USA from Nepal achievable.

What You'll Learn:

• Updated requirements to study in USA from Nepal 2026
• Complete cost breakdown with inflation-adjusted figures
• Step-by-step USA student visa process
• Scholarship opportunities for Nepali students
• Affordable universities and states
• Work opportunities and salary prospects

Table of Content

1. Why Study in the USA from Nepal? 5 Key Benefits for Nepali Students
2. Top 5 Most Popular Courses in the USA
   1. Computer Science & Software Engineering
   2. Data Science, Data Analytic & AI
   3. Business Administration & Management
   4. Engineering
   5. Healthcare & Nursing
3. Top 10 University in USA
4. Complete Requirements to Study in USA from Nepal
   1. Academic Requirements
   2. English Language Requirements 2026
   3. Financial Requirements
5. Total Cost to Study in USA From Nepal
   1. Bachelor's Program Tuition
   2. Master’s Program Tuition
   3. Living Cost in USA
   4. Pre Departure Cost From Nepal
6. USA Student Visa Requirements for Nepali Students
7. Scholarship Availability & Requirements for Studying in the USA
   1. Scholarships
   2. Scholarship Requirement
8. Career Opportunities After Graduation in the USA
   1. Optional Practical Training (OPT): Work After Graduation
   2. Careers in High-Demand Fields
   3. H-1B Visa Sponsorship: Long-Term Career path
   4. Salaries After Graduation in USA
   5. Carer Benefits of Studying in the USA
9. Conclusion
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why Study in the USA from Nepal? 5 Key Benefits for Nepali Students

Unmatched Academic Excellence

The USA hosts 30+ universities in the global top 100, offering cutting-edge research facilities, distinguished faculty, and innovative curricula. American universities lead in emerging fields like Artificial Intelligence, quantum computing, biotechnology, and sustainable energy areas experiencing explosive job growth through 2030.

Booming Job Market for International Graduates

The 2026 US job market is particularly favorable for international students:

• AI and Machine Learning: 45% job growth, average salaries $120,000-180,000
• Cybersecurity: Critical shortage with 700,000+ open positions
• Healthcare (Nursing, Medical Tech): Expanding due to aging population
• Data Science & Analytics: 35% growth across all industries
• Software Engineering: Consistent demand with $95,000-150,000 starting salaries

Extended Work Opportunities

STEM graduates receive 36 months of OPT (Optional Practical Training), allowing three years of US work experience after graduation. This extended period facilitates H-1B visa sponsorship and potential pathways to permanent residency.

Rising Nepali Student Community

With nearly 18,500 Nepali students currently in the USA, strong support networks exist across major university towns. Nepali student associations, cultural events, and mentorship programs ease the transition for newcomers.

Top 5 Most Popular Courses in the USA

Choosing the right course is one of the biggest decisions for any international student. The USA remains the most popular study destination because it offers world-class education, advanced research facilities, and incredible employment opportunities.

Below are the top 5 most popular and high-demand courses available in the USA. 

Computer Science & Software Engineering

Computer Science is the most in-demand and popular course in the USA. From Silicon Valley to New York tech startups, companies are constantly hiring skilled software professionals. 

Why this Course is Popular:

Computer Science opens doors to careers in:

• Software Development
• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Cybersecurity
• Cloud Computing
• Mobile & Web Development

Job Demand:

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts faster-than-average growth, especially in AI, machine learning, and cybersecurity roles.

Average Salary:

• Entry-level: $82,000-$120,000 per year
• Experienced/Top tech (FAANG): $150,000-$250,000+

Data Science, Data Analytic & AI

Data Science has become one of the fastest-growing fields in the USA, fueled by AI adoption across all industries. Every company now depends heavily on data-driven decision-making.

Why This Course Is Popular:

Student choose Data Science because it offers:

• High salaries
• Strong job stability
• Future-proof career
• Opportunities in almost every industry

Specializations include Data Engineering, AI & Machine Learning, Business Analytics, and Big Data.

Job Demand:

Data-related jobs are expected to grow 36% by 2033, making this one of the fastest-growing sectors in the world.

Average Salary:

• Entry-level: $90,000 - $120,000 per year
• Mid-level AI/ML roles: $130,000 - $200,000+

Business Administration & Management

Business remains one of the most versatile and widely chosen courses in the USA. Whether you want to work in marketing, finance, HR, or start your own company, a business degree opens multiple career doors.

Why This Course Is Popular:

• Strong internship opportunities
• High employability in all industries
• Networking with global business leaders
• Excellent ROI for MBA graduates

Popular specializations include Marketing, Finance, Entrepreneurship, Supply Chain, and HR. 

Job Demand:

Business grads are needed across tech, healthcare, banking, retail, logistics, and government sectors making demand consistently high. 

Average Salary

• Bachelor’s (BBA): $60,000 - $80,000 per year
• MBA graduates: $120,000 - $160,000 per year

Engineering 

Engineering has always been one of the strongest academic fields in the USA. The country is a good leader in innovation, manufacturing, aerospace, robotics, and infrastructure making engineering a high-value degree.

Why This Course is Popular:

• Hands-on research opportunities
• Strong OPT and H-1B visa success
• High-paying, stable jobs
• Opportunity to work in top global companies

Specializations like Computer Engineering and Electrical Engineering are especially trending due to the rise of AI and automation.

Job Demand

Mechanical, Electrical, and Computer Engineers are in steady demand, while Civil Engineering is growing due to major U.S. infrastructure investments.

Average Salary:

• Entry-level: $70,000 - $95,000 per year
• Specialized fields: $100,000+

Healthcare & Nursing 

Healthcare is one of the most secure and stable career fields in the USA. With an aging population and a shortage of nurses, doctors, and health administrators, the demand is increasing every year.

Why This Course Is Popular

• Very high job security
• Strong salary growth
• Opportunity to work directly after graduation (via OPT)
• Pathway to long-term career in the USA

Popular programs include Nursing (BSN, MSN), Public Health, Healthcare Management, Pharmacy, and Clinical Research.

Job Demand

Healthcare is one of the highest-demand sectors in the U.S. economy, with growth expected to continue for the next decade.

Average Salary

• Registered Nurse: $80,000 - $120,000 per year
• Healthcare Management: $70,000 - $110,000 per year
• Public Health: $60,000 - $90,000 per year

Top 10 University in USA 

Rank (US)	University	QS / Global Ranking
1	Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	1
2	Harvard University	4
3	Stanford University	6
4	California Institute of Technology (Caltech)	10
5	University of Pennsylvania (UPenn)	11
6	University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley)	12
7	Cornell University	16
8	University of Chicago	21
9	Princeton University	22
10	Yale University	23

Complete Requirements to Study in USA from Nepal

Understanding the complete requirements to study in the USA from Nepal ensures a smooth application process and visa approval. 

Academic Requirements

American universities evaluate Nepali academic credentials through a comprehensive review process that considers academic performance, extracurricular achievements, and personal qualities.

Bachelor's (Undergraduate) Academic Requirements for Nepali Students

Criteria	Details
Academic Qualifications	Must complete 12 years of schooling (10+2 system) from recognized Nepali institutions with strong performance in core subjects
Minimum GPA	3.0+ on a 4.0 scale or equivalent (65-70% in Nepali system) for competitive programs
Preferred Background	Strong foundation in Mathematics, Science, and English; specific requirements vary by major
Transcript Requirements	Official transcripts from Nepal Examination Board or respective institutions with certified English translations
Digital Verification	WES (World Education Services) or ECE evaluation increasingly required for top 100 universities
Alternative Pathways	Community colleges accept students with 2.5+ GPA, offering transfer opportunities to four-year universities

Master's (Graduate) Academic Requirements for Nepali Students

Criteria	Details
Academic Qualifications	Four-year bachelor's degree from a recognized Nepali university (TU, KU, PU, NU, etc.)
Minimum GPA	3.2+ on 4.0 scale or equivalent (75%+ in Nepali system) for competitive programs
Relevant Background	Degree in related field preferred; some programs accept students from different backgrounds with prerequisite courses
Transcript Evaluation	Course-by-course evaluation through WES, ECE, or other NACES-approved agencies
Additional Advantages	Research experience, publications, professional certifications, or relevant work experience strengthen applications
Digital Credentials	Blockchain-verified transcripts through platforms like Parchment now accepted by 300+ universities

2026 Digital Verification Updates:

• World Education Service (WES): Required by more university for credential evaluation
• Electronic Transcript Submission: Many universities now accept digital transcripts directly from institutions
• Blockchain Verified Credentials: Emerging trend for instant verification 
• Cost: WES evaluation costs $205-$235 (NPR 27,000-31,000)

English Language Requirements 2026

Test	Minimum Score (Bachelor's)	Minimum Score (Master's)	Validity	Cost
TOEFL iBT	70-80	80-90 (Top universities: 100+)	2 years	$200 (NPR 26,400)
IELTS Academic	6.0-6.5 overall	6.5-7.0 overall	2 years	$225 (NPR 29,700)
PTE Academic	50-58	58-65	2 years	$220 (NPR 29,040)
Duolingo	100-110	110-120	2 years	$49 (NPR 6,468)

Exemptions: Students who completed their previous degree in English medium from recognized institutions may qualify for waivers at some universities. Always verify specific requirements.

Financial Requirements 

Demonstrating financial capacity is critical for both university admission and visa approval. Understanding study in the USA from Nepal requirements regarding finances helps students prepare adequately.

I-20 Financial Documentation Requirements

The I-20 form (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status) requires proof of funding for:

• First year tuition and fees
• First year living expenses
• Travel costs

Minimum Financial Proof 2026:

• Public universities: $30,000-50,000 annually
• Private universities: $50,000-80,000 annually
• High-cost-of-living states (NY, CA, MA): Additional $5,000-10,000

Bank Balance Requirements for Nepali Students 2026:

• Liquid funds (cash, savings, fixed deposits) covering at least first-year expenses
• Bank statements from past 6 months showing consistent balance
• Source of funds documentation (salary slips, property documents, business income)
• Sponsor letters if parents/relatives funding education

Inflation-Adjusted Costs: Living expenses have increased 8-12% since 2023 due to inflation. Universities now require higher financial proof to account for increased costs of accommodation, food, transportation, and health insurance.

Acceptable Financial Documentation

Personal Funds:

• Bank statements (6 months) with certified English translation
• Fixed deposit certificates
• Investment portfolio statements
• Property valuation documents

Sponsor Funds:

• Sponsor's bank statements (6 months)
• Affidavit of support (notarized)
• Sponsor's employment letter and income proof
• Relationship proof with student
• Tax returns (if applicable)

Loans:

• Education loan sanction letter from recognized financial institution
• Loan amount should cover at least first-year expenses
• Nepali banks offering education loans: Nabil Bank, NIC Asia Bank, Himalayan Bank, Standard Chartered Nepal

Scholarships and Assistantships:

• Official scholarship award letter from university
• Graduate assistantship offer letter with stipend details
• External scholarship confirmation documents

2026 Update from U.S. Embassy Nepal: The embassy now requires digital submission of financial documents through the CEAC portal, expediting visa processing by 15-20%.

Total Cost to Study in USA From Nepal

Understanding the complete financial picture is essential for proper planning. Here's the comprehensive cost breakdown for studying in the USA from Nepal in 2026.

Tuition Fee Updates 2026

Bachelor's Program Tuition 

University Type	Annual Tuition (USD)	Annual Tuition (NPR)	4-Year Total (NPR)
Community College	$8,000 - $12,000	NPR 10,56,000 - NPR 15,84,000	NPR 42,24,000 - NPR 63,36,000
Public University (In-State)	$25,000 - $35,000	NPR 33,00,000 - NPR 46,20,000	NPR 1,32,00,000 - NPR 1,84,80,000
Public University (Out-of-State)	$35,000 - $50,000	NPR 46,20,000 - NPR 66,00,000	NPR 1,84,80,000 - NPR 2,64,00,000
Private University	$40,000 - $65,000	NPR 52,80,000 - NPR 85,80,000	NPR 2,11,20,000 - NPR 3,43,20,000
Ivy League/Top 20	$55,000 - $80,000	NPR 72,60,000 - NPR 1,05,60,000	NPR 2,90,40,000 - NPR 4,22,40,000

Master’s Program Tuition 

University Type	Annual Tuition (USD)	Annual Tuition (NPR)	2-Year Total (NPR)
Public University STEM	$30,000 - $45,000	NPR 39,60,000 - NPR 59,40,000	NPR 79,20,000 - NPR 1,18,80,000
Public University Non-STEM	$28,000 - $40,000	NPR 36,96,000 - NPR 52,80,000	NPR 73,92,000 - NPR 1,05,60,000
Private University STEM	$40,000 - $60,000	NPR 52,80,000 - 79,20,000	NPR 1,05,60,000 - NPR 1,58,40,000
Private University Non-STEM	$35,000 -$55,000	NPR 46,20,000 - NPR 72,60,000	NPR 92,40,000 - NPR 1,45,20,000
Top Business Schools	$60,000 - $80,000	NPR 79,20,000 - NPR 1,05,60,000	NPR 1,58,40,000 - NPR 2,11,20,000

Living Cost in USA

State-Wise Monthly Living Costs

Location	Housing	Food	Transport	Misc	Monthly Total	Annual Total
Texas (Dallas/Houston)	$800 - $1,200	$300 - $400	$100 - $150	$200 - $300	$1,400 - $2,050	NPR 22,17,600 - NPR 32,47,200
Ohio (Columbus/Cleveland)	$700 - $1,000	$280 - $380	$80 - $120	$180 - $250	$1,240 - $1,750	NPR 19,65,120 - NPR 27,72,000
California (LA/San Francisco)	$1,500 - $2,500	$400 - $550	$150 - $250	$300 - $450	$2,350 - $3,750	NPR 37,22,400 - NPR 59,40,000
New York (NYC)	$1,800 - $2,800	$450 - $600	$130 - $180	$350 - $500	$2,730 - $4,080	NPR 43,24,320 - NPR 64,63,680
Florida (Tampa/Orlando)	$900 - $1,400	$320 - $420	$120 - $180	$220 - $320	$1,560 - $2,320	NPR 24,71,040 - NPR 36,75,840
North Carolina	$750 - $1,100	$300 - $400	$90 - $140	$200 - $280	$1,340 - $1,920	NPR 21,23,040 - NPR 30,42,240
Michigan (Detroit/Ann Arbor)	$700 - $1,000	$280 - $380	$80 - $130	$180 - $260	$1,240 - $1,770	NPR 19,65,120 - NPR 28,03,680

Pre Departure Cost From Nepal

Expense Category	Cost (USD)	Cost (NPR)
University Application Fees	$50-90 per application	NPR 6,600 - NPR 11,880
Standardized Tests	$220 - $275	NPR 29,040 - NPR 36,300
English Tests	$49 - $225	NPR 6,468 - NPR 29,700
Credential Evaluation (WES)	$205 - $235	NPR 27,060 - NPR 31,020
SEVIS Fee	$350	NPR 46,200
Visa Application Fee	$185	NPR 24,420
Document Translation	$100 - $300	NPR 13,200 - NPR 39,600
Medical Exam	$150 - $250	NPR 19,800 - NPR 33,000
Flight Ticket	$900 - $1,500	NPR 1,18,800 - NPR 1,98,000
Initial Expenses	$1,000 - $2,000	NPR 1,32,000 - NPR 2,64,000
Total Pre-Departure	$3,000 - $5,500	NPR 3,96,000 - NPR 7,26,000

USA Student Visa Requirements for Nepali Students 

The F-1 student visa is required for Nepali students pursuing academic programs in the United States. The process involves several critical steps.

Step-by-Step F-1 Visa Process for Nepali Students

Step 1: Receive I-20 Form

• University issues I-20 after admission and financial verification
• Contains SEVIS ID number and program details
• Student and sponsor must sign I-20

Step 2: Pay SEVIS Fee

• SEVIS I-901 fee: $350 (NPR 46,900) as of 2026
• Pay online at fmjfee.com
• Save receipt for visa interview
• Payment must be made at least 3 days before visa interview

Step 3: Complete DS-160 Form

• Online nonimmigrant visa application
• Available at ceac.state.gov/genniv
• Upload passport-sized photo (2026 specifications: 2x2 inches, white background, taken within 6 months)
• Print confirmation page with barcode

Step 4: Schedule Visa Interview

• Create account on ustraveldocs.com
• Pay visa application fee: $185 (NPR 24,800)
• Schedule interview at U.S. Embassy Kathmandu
• 2026 Wait Times: Average 15-30 days; apply 3-4 months before program start

Step 5: Prepare Required Documents

Essential documents for F-1 visa interview:

• Valid passport (must be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay)
• I-20 form (signed)
• DS-160 confirmation page
• SEVIS fee payment receipt
• Visa application fee receipt
• Passport-sized photograph (2026 specifications)
• Academic documents (transcripts, degrees, certificates)
• English proficiency test scores
• Standardized test scores (SAT, GRE, etc.)
• Financial documents (bank statements, loan sanction, scholarship letters)
• Admission letter from U.S. university
• Previous visas and travel history (if applicable)

Step 6: Attend Visa Interview

Interview Location: U.S. Embassy Kathmandu, Maharajgunj

Interview Tips for Nepali Students:

• Arrive 30 minutes early; embassy prohibits mobile phones and electronic devices
• Dress professionally
• Be confident and honest in responses
• Answer questions directly and concisely
• Demonstrate strong ties to Nepal (family, property, career plans to return)
• Explain academic and career goals clearly
• Show genuine interest in chosen field of study

Common Interview Questions 2026:

1. Why do you want to study in the USA?
2. Why did you choose this specific university and program?
3. How will you finance your education?
4. What are your career plans after graduation?
5. Do you have relatives in the USA?
6. Why didn't you choose to study in Nepal or other countries?
7. What will you do if your visa is rejected?
8. How does this program relate to your previous education?
9. Do you plan to return to Nepal after your studies?
10. What are your salary expectations after graduation?

Step 7: Visa Decision

• Most interviews last 3-5 minutes
• Approved visas typically processed within 5-7 business days
• Passport delivered via courier or pickup

Visa validity: typically 5 years (for duration of student status)

Scholarship Availability & Requirements for Studying in the USA

US scholarships generally fall into four major categories. Each one targets a different type of applicant, academic toppers, financially needy students, leaders, or specific fields like STEM, nursing, and engineering.

Scholarships

Fully Funded Government Scholarships (Highly Competitive)

These cover 100% tuition + living cost + health insurance + travel which is perfect for outstanding students with excellent academics and leadership background.

Top fully funded options for Nepali students:

• Fulbright Foreign Student Program 2026
• Humphrey Fellowship 2026
• Global UGRAD Program (for exchange students)
• Peace Fellowship / Rotary Scholarships
• USAID-funded scholarships (varies by year)

University Merit Scholarships (Most Common & Best for Nepali Students)

Almost all U.S. universities offer merit-based scholarships for:

• High GPA students
• Strong English test scorers
• Students with good extracurriculars
• Students applying early

Amount ranges:

• $5,000 - $30,000 per year
• Some universities offer full tuition waivers

Need-Based Scholarships (For Financially Struggling Students)

These depend on:

• Family financial background
• Financial documents
• Student’s economic need

Many universities offer:

• Partial tuition support
• Housing grants
• Special consideration for low-income Nepali students

Departmental & Program-Specific Scholarships

For students applying to:

• STEM
• Engineering
• AI & Data Science
• Nursing
• Business & Finance
• Computer Science

These scholarships may come from:

• University departments
• Research labs
• Professors offering RA/TA positions

Amount:

• $2,000 - $20,000 or
• Full tuition + stipend (for graduate assistantships)

Scholarship Requirement

Academic Requirements (GPA)

Most scholarships require strong academics:

• Undergraduate: Minimum 3.0+ GPA
• Masters/Graduate: 3.2-3.6 GPA
• Fully funded programs may expect 3.7+ GPA

English Test Scores

Scholarships favor students with strong English proficiency.

Typical accepted scores:

• IELTS: 6.0-7.5
• TOEFL: 80-100+
• PTE: 55-65
• Duolingo: 110-130

Standardized Tests (Optional But Beneficial)

Even though many U.S. universities are test-optional in 2026, adding high scores boosts scholarship applications.

Recommended for higher chances:

• SAT: 1300+ for bachelor merit awards
• GRE: 300+ for master’s merit scholarships
• GMAT: 600+ for MBA scholarships

Strong SOP (Statement of Purpose)

Your SOP must explain:

• Why you deserve the scholarship
• Your goals & achievements
• Financial need (if applicable)
• Why you chose the program/university

Recommendation Letters (LORs)

Most scholarships require 2-3 recommendation letters from:

• Professors
• Employers
• Academic counselors

Extracurriculars & Leadership Skills

Scholarships prefer students who have:

• Leadership roles
• Volunteer work
• Community service
• Research or project experience

Financial Documents (For Need-Based Scholarships)

You may need to show:

• Family income proof
• Sponsor’s bank details
• Tax returns
• Income certificates
• Proof of financial hardship

Application Timing (Early Applications = Higher Chances)

• Most U.S. scholarships run out fast.
• Applying early increases your chances by 40-60%.

Career Opportunities After Graduation in the USA

Studying in the USA opens doors to some of the world’s strongest job markets. With thousands of global companies, advanced industries, and high-paying roles, the USA remains the top destination for international students seeking a successful career.

 

Below is a complete breakdown of the career path you can expect after graduating in the USA.

Optional Practical Training (OPT): Work After Graduation

The first step for most international students is OPT, a temporary work authorization for F-1 students.

How OPT Works

• 1 year of work permit for all courses.
• Up to 3 years for STEM courses (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math).
• Students can work in any company related to their field of study.

Why OPT Is Important

• Helps you gain U.S. experience
• Boosts your resume
• Increases chances of getting sponsored for H-1B
• Allows you to earn U.S.-level salary immediately after graduation

Careers in High-Demand Fields

Computer Science & IT Careers

CS graduates are among the top earners in the USA.

Popular Job Roles:

• Software Developer
• AI/Machine Learning Engineer
• Cybersecurity Analyst
• Cloud Engineer
• Web/App Developer
• Data Engineer

Average Salary: $90,000 - $150,000+ per year

Data Science, AI & Analytics Careers

This is the fastest-growing field in the USA.

Popular Job Roles:

• Data Scientist
• Data Analyst
• AI Specialist
• Machine Learning Engineer
• Business Intelligence Analyst

Average Salary: $100,000 - $160,000+ per year

Healthcare & Nursing Careers

The USA has a huge shortage of healthcare professionals.

Popular Job Roles:

• Registered Nurse (RN)
• Public Health Officer
• Healthcare Administrator
• Pharmacist
• Medical Technologist

Average Salary: $70,000 - $120,000+ per year

Engineering Careers 

Engineering remains one of the most stable and secure career paths.

Popular Job Roles:

• Mechanical Engineer
• Civil Engineer
• Electrical Engineer
• Aerospace Engineer
• Computer Engineer

Average Salary:
$75,000 - $130,000+ per year

H-1B Visa Sponsorship: Long-Term Career path

After OPT, many graduates continue their career through the H-1B work visa.

Fields With the Highest H-1B Sponsorship

• IT & Software Engineering
• Data & AI
• Mechanical & Electrical Engineering
• Finance & Accounting
• Healthcare
• University/Research positions

This visa allows skilled graduates to work in the U.S. for up to 6 years and is often the path to permanent residency.

Salaries After Graduation in USA

Field	Starting Salary (USD)	Approx. Starting Salary (NPR)
Computer Science	$85,000 - $120,000	NPR 12,100,000 - NPR 17,100,000 / year
Data Science / AI	$95,000 - $130,000	NPR 13,500,000 - NPR 18,500,000 / year
Engineering	$75,000 - $110,000	NPR 10,700,000 - NPR 15,700,000 / year
Business (BBA/MBA)	$60,000 - $100,000	NPR 8,550,000 - NPR 14,250,000 / year
Nursing & Healthcare	$70,000 - $120,000	NPR 9,975,000 - NPR 17,100,000 / year
Finance & Accounting	$65,000 - $110,000	NPR 9,260,000 - NPR 15,700,000 / year

Carer Benefits of Studying in the USA

• Highest starting salaries
• Work in world-class companies
• Global career mobility
• Possibility of permanent residency

Conclusion

Studying in the USA from Nepal in 2026 offers unmatched opportunities for academic excellence, career growth, and financial prospects. With updated requirements, accessible scholarships, and favorable visa policies, Nepali students can pursue their dreams in fields like Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, Healthcare, and Business.

 

The USA not only provides world-class education but also robust post-graduation work options like OPT and H-1B sponsorships, enabling students to gain global exposure and earn competitive salaries. By planning ahead we can understand costs, prepare strong applications, and leverage scholarships, Nepali students can make the most of this life-changing opportunity.

 

Start early, research thoroughly, and choose the course and university aligned with your career goals for a successful 2026 academic journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the minimum GPA required to study in the USA from Nepal?
   For undergraduate programs, Nepali students are generally expected to have a GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. For graduate programs, a minimum GPA of 3.2 or above is typically required, especially for competitive courses.
2. Which English tests are accepted for admission in 2026?
   Universities in the USA widely accept TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic, and the Duolingo English Test for 2026 admissions.
3. How much does it cost to study in the USA from Nepal in 2026?
   The cost varies depending on the program and university. For a bachelor’s degree, tuition ranges from around $25,000 to $65,000 per year, which is approximately NPR 33 lakh to 85 lakh. For master’s programs, tuition is roughly $30,000 to $80,000 per year, or NPR 39 lakh to 1.05 crore. 
4. Can Nepali students get scholarships in the USA?
   Yes, Nepali students have multiple scholarship opportunities. Fully funded government scholarships like Fulbright and Humphrey cover tuition and living expenses. Universities also offer merit-based scholarships for high academic achievers. Need-based scholarships are available for students with financial constraints, and program-specific assistantships exist for fields such as STEM, AI, and Nursing.
5. What career opportunities exist after graduation?
   After graduation, international students can work in the USA through Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows one year for non-STEM graduates and up to three years for STEM graduates. Many students transition to H-1B work visas for long-term employment.
6. Which are the top universities for Nepali students in the USA?
   Some of the most sought-after universities for Nepali students are the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Harvard University, Stanford University, California Institute of Technology (Caltech), University of Pennsylvania, University of California, Berkeley, Cornell University, University of Chicago, Princeton University, and Yale University.

 

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