Hidden costs international students face when studying in the US

Hidden costs international students face in the US

Beyond tuition, students often face extra costs for housing deposits, health insurance gaps, academic fees, banking and credit setup, immigration paperwork, travel, and work limitations. These expenses are rarely shown upfront but add significantly to the real cost of studying in the US.

Detailed explanation

• Housing deposits and move-in fees: Off-campus apartments usually require the first month’s rent, last month’s rent, and a security deposit. Some places also charge application fees and background-check fees.
• Utilities and setup charges: Internet, electricity, gas, and water may not be included. Companies may require setup fees or deposits if a student has no US credit history.
• Mandatory health insurance gaps: University plans are costly, and many do not cover dental, vision, or certain treatments. Emergency room visits can cost hundreds even with insurance.
• Immunizations and medical paperwork: Schools often require specific vaccines. If a student’s records are incomplete, clinics charge for shots, lab tests, and document verification.
• Campus fees not included in tuition: Lab fees, course materials, engineering or business program fees, printing fees, and online tools can add up each semester.
• Books and required supplies: Textbooks are expensive, especially new editions. Art, architecture, engineering, or computer science programs often require specialized tools or software.
• Banking costs: Some banks charge monthly maintenance fees, ATM fees, or foreign transaction charges. International money transfers also include hidden exchange-rate markups.
• Building US credit: Without credit history, students pay higher deposits for phones or utilities. Secured credit cards require upfront cash deposits.
• Phone plans and activation fees: Prepaid plans are cheaper but limited; postpaid plans may require credit checks and activation charges.
• Transport and local travel: Public transit passes, ride-share use, campus parking permits, winter clothing for colder states, and unexpected long-distance travel costs.
• Immigration-related costs: Visa application fees, SEVIS fees, document mailing, renewing passports, and paying for status updates or travel signatures.
• Limited work options: Since off-campus work is restricted, many students must cover all living costs without US income, which becomes a hidden budget pressure.
• Break housing: Dorms may close during holidays. Students must pay for temporary housing or travel, which adds unplanned expenses.
• Unexpected academic or administrative delays: Repeating a course, late registration penalties, graduation application fees, or transcript fees often surprise students.