Studying in the United States is expensive, but there is certainly a difference in the cost of each university. It is possible to study in America affordably, but this also requires proper research. In doing so, it is important to establish from the beginning what your budget is. Your budget will help determine the choices you have, but also remember that the tuition fees on the university website are often higher than the amount you will end up paying (provided scholarship opportunities are available.)

Costs of your studies

The total cost of studying in the U.S. varies greatly, depending on university, location and scholarships. To study at a community college, you should expect an average cost of between $20,000 and $60,000 per academic year. Below you can read more about the average cost of studying at a community college. Actual costs will vary from college to college.

Public community colleges
A public community college is funded in part by state tax dollars. As an international student, you are a non-resident and pay the higher out-of-state rate.

Private community colleges
Private community colleges may charge higher tuition, but sometimes offer better scholarship opportunities for international students. Also, private colleges more often have a campus where you can live.

You can find more information about each college’s exact fees and scholarship opportunities on its website.

Continuing your studies for a bachelor’s degree
Do you want to continue studying in the U.S. after earning an associate’s degree? The cost at a community college can be significantly lower than the cost of a bachelor’s degree at a four-year college. Starting at a community college may therefore be a cheaper alternative. Also check out the cost of a bachelor’s degree.

Application costs

Keep in mind that you will incur costs immediately upon application to a community college. Consider:

  • English language tests
    $50 to $255 per test, plus any costs to send test scores to yourself or to universities.
  • Application fees*
    $20 to $100 per university

*If you have a limited budget, it is sometimes possible to apply for an application fee waiver. This will exempt you from university application fees.

Travel costs

Prior to and during your stay in the US, you will incur travel-related expenses. The application fee for your visa is a one-time fee.

  • Student visa application and SEVIS fee
    $380 – $510, depending on visa type
  • Return to airport in the US 
    $500 – $1,500 depending on destination
  • Daily travel costs
    If you live on campus, these costs will be minimal. There is often public transportation on campus. If you live off campus, consider a bicycle. Car costs will be significantly higher.

Study costs

Below is an estimate of tuition costs per year. It is not possible to give absolute amounts because costs vary greatly from institution to institution and from region to region. Scholarships are not included in these costs; thus, your final cost will also be determined by your scholarship opportunities.

  • Tuition 
    $10,000 to $40,000 per academic year
  • Charges for use of services (fees) 
    $300 to $1,500 per academic year
  • Books and study materials 
    $750 or more per academic year

Want to see a list of colleges by cost? Through College Cost, a US government site, you can filter colleges based on tuition prices.

Room and dining

A number of community colleges allow you to live on campus as an international student; often these are private colleges. If you prefer to attend a public community college, you often have to arrange your own housing.

  • Room and dining (on campus)
    $8,000 to $15,000 per academic year
  • Room and dining (off campus)
    Room: $6,000 to $12,000 per year
    Dining: $ 1,500 to $3,500 per year*

*Students who do not live on campus can purchase a credit for on-campus meals in some cases.

Want to know the cost of living in different cities and regions? You can use Numbeo to compare the cost of living in different cities.

Insurance

It is important to have good medical insurance during your stay in the US. Sometimes you can stay insured in the Netherlands. In other cases, you must also take out US health insurance.

  • Health insurance 
    $300 to $3,000 per year
  • Campus health clinic fee
    $150 to $300 per year

Miscellaneous

As in the Netherlands, during your stay in the US, you will spend money on vacations, trips, clothing, and other personal expenses.

  • Staying during holidays
    $1,500 to $3,000 per year
    Most campuses are closed during winter and summer holidays, so you must provide alternative housing during this time.
  • Personal expenses 
    $1,500 to $3,000 per year