As per international education data, the USA offers 5,000+ universities and 1M+ of programs across all study levels, making it one of the most diverse education destinations in the world. Popular programs to study in USA for Pakistani students include Business, Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, Health Sciences, and Finance. Most of the universities require IELTS 6.0–6.5 for bachelor’s and 6.5–7.0 for master’s or TOEFL 80+, minimum 2.5–3.0 GPA (60–70% marks). Bachelor’s degrees usually take 4 years, master’s 1–2 years, and PhDs 3–5 years. Gaps up to 10 years accepted with justification.Average tuition fees range from USD 20,000–50,000 per year, with living costs of USD 1,200–2,500 per month. Bank statement needs $40,000+ as Fulbright Foreign Student Program, AAUW International Fellowships offer full/partial funding and Need‑Based Aid help reduce costs—especially when guided by the best USA consultant in Lahore, who supports Pakistani students throughout admission and visa processing.
Quick Facts of Study in USA
| Language of Instruction | English |
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| Visa Type | F‑1 Student Visa |
| Living Costs | USD 1,200–2,500 / month |
| Work Rights | 20 hrs/week (on-campus) |
| Post‑Study Work | OPT (1–3 years) |
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| Bank Statement Required | $40,000+ for 1 year |
| Visa Processing Time | 3–8 weeks |
List of Cheapest Universities in USA
Below are affordable universities in the USA for Pakistani students, along with popular programs and approximate annual fees:
| University | Popular Programs | Average Annual Fees (USD) |
| University of Florida | Engineering, Business | $28,000 – $35,000 |
| Arizona State University | IT, Hospitality | $25,000 – $40,000 |
| University of Texas Dallas | Computer Science | $30,000 – $45,000 |
| San Jose State University | Engineering, Data Science | $20,000 – $32,000 |
| University of Central Missouri | Business, Nursing | $15,000 – $25,000 |
Bonus: Community colleges allow students to transfer to top US universities after 2 years, significantly reducing total study cost.
Study in USA Fees for Pakistani Students
The cost of studying in the USA depends on your course, university, and state. Below is a complete breakdown of tuition fees for Pakistani students.
| Program | Annual Tuition (USD) |
| Diploma / Associate Degree | $8,000 – $15,000 |
| Bachelor’s Degree | $20,000 – $50,000 |
| Master’s Degree | $25,000 – $60,000 |
| PhD | $20,000 – $40,000 |
| Medical Programs | $50,000 – $100,000 |
Tip: If you are searching for the cheapest universities in USA, public state universities and community colleges offer lower tuition and better scholarship options.
Scholarships in USA for Pakistani Students
The USA offers a wide range of scholarships to international students that help reduce tuition fees and living expenses.
| Scholarship | Coverage | Offered By |
| Fulbright Scholarship | Full tuition + stipend + travel | U.S. Government |
| AAUW International Fellowships | $20K–$50K/year | AAUW |
| RTP/GAANN | Full funding + assistantships | Federal programs |
| University Merit Scholarships | 25% – 100% tuition | Universities |
| Need‑Based Financial Aid | Partial / Full | Universities |
Many Pakistani students secure partial or full scholarships based on academic merit and strong English proficiency.
Cost of Living in USA for Students
The following cost of living in USA for students on monthly cost estimate are given below:
| Expense | Monthly Cost (USD) |
| Accommodation | $600 – $1,200 |
| Transportation | $50 – $150 |
| Food | $300 – $500 |
| Entertainment | $100+ |
Average monthly expenses range from USD 1,200–2,500, depending on the city.
Step‑by‑Step Admission Process to Study in USA
Applying to study in the USA is a structured process. Pakistani students often take guidance from the best USA consultant in Lahore, who ensures proper documentation and visa preparation. These Study abroad services typically include:
- Free Career Counseling
- University Selection
- Document & Admission Process
- English Language Test Guidance
- Scholarship Guidance
- Visa Application Assistance
Here’s an easy step‑by‑step guide to help you through the USA admission process:
Choose Your Program & University
Select a program based on your academic background, budget, and career goals. Use official university websites and accreditation bodies to verify programs.
Check Entry Requirements
Generally, universities require:
- GPA 2.5–3.0 (60–70% marks) minimum
- IELTS 6.0–6.5 for bachelor’s programs
- IELTS 6.5–7.0 for master’s programs
- Acceptance of TOEFL 80+, Duolingo 105+, or PTE
- Relevant subject background
Prepare Documents
- Academic transcripts and attested certificates
- Valid passport
- English test results (IELTS / TOEFL/PTE)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Letters of Recommendation (2–3 LORs)
- CV/Resume (for master’s applicants)
- Passport-size photos
Receive Offer Letter & I‑20
After application review, universities issue I-20 form with conditional/unconditional offer. Accept offer, pay deposit ($1,000–$5,000), and SEVIS fee ($350). I-20 confirms enrollment for USA study visa requirements.
USA Study Visa Requirement (F-1 Visa)
Meeting the USA study visa requirements is crucial for Pakistani students. After receiving university admission and I-20 form, students must complete the F-1 visa application process and attend an embassy interview. Bank statement must cover first-year tuition ($20,000–$50,000) plus USD 15,000–40,000 living expenses, maintained 3–9 months prior. Strong academic goals, financial proof, and Pakistan ties boost approval rates to 75%+. Let our best study visa consultants in Lahore handle your USA study visa requirements.
Complete F-1 Visa Requirements & Checklist:
- I-20 Form (Issued by the university after deposit)
- DS-160 Confirmation Page (Online visa application)
- SEVIS Fee Receipt ($350 paid online)
- Visa Application Fee ($510 – non-refundable)
- Valid Passport
- Bank Statement (USD 40,000+ covering tuition + living)
- Sponsor Affidavit (if sponsored)
- Academic Documents
- SOP/GTE Statement
After completing all the above requirements, you will appear for the visa interview. Once your F-1 visa is approved, you can make your travel arrangements and begin your study journey in the USA.
Cost of Studying in the USA for Pakistani students
Planning your finances is an essential step before starting your studies in the USA. Below is an estimated breakdown of tuition fees, living expenses, and mandatory charges for international students for the 2025–26 academic year.
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
| Tuition Fee (per year) | $6,000 – $12,000 |
| Living Expenses | $8,000 – $10,000 |
| Health Insurance | $800 – $1,500 |
| Books & Study Materials | $500 – $1,000 |
| University Application Fee | $25 – $100 (per university) |
| F-1 Visa Application Fee | $160 |
| SEVIS Fee | $350 |
FAQs – Study in USA for Pakistani Students
What is the SEVIS Fee?
The SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee is a mandatory fee paid to the U.S. government. It supports the system used to track and manage international students during their stay in the USA. This fee must be paid before your F-1 visa interview, and the receipt is required at the embassy.
How to get a 100% scholarship in the US?
Students get a full scholarship if they apply early to state universities + Fulbright/need-based aid.
Can I study in the USA with 20 lakhs?
Yes, students can study in community colleges ($10K/year) + scholarships make it possible.
How can I avoid U.S. student visa rejection?
Strong academics, genuine intent, correct documents, and professional interview preparation significantly improve approval chances.
Is the USA a good study destination for Pakistani students?
Yes, the USA is one of the top study destinations for Pakistani students due to its globally ranked universities, wide range of programs, flexible entry requirements, and strong post-study work opportunities through OPT.
What is OPT and how long can Pakistani students stay after graduation?
OPT (Optional Practical Training) allows students to work in the USA for:
- 12 months (all degrees)
- Up to 36 months for STEM programs
Can I extend my stay in the USA after OPT?
Yes. Students on STEM programs can apply for a 24-month OPT extension, allowing a total stay of up to 36 months.
Is Duolingo accepted for USA universities?
Yes, many U.S. universities accept Duolingo English Test (DET) with scores typically ranging from 105–120, depending on the program and university.
Can I study in the USA after intermediate or A-levels?
Yes. Students can apply after Intermediate (FA/FSc/ICS/ICOM) or A-levels for bachelor’s programs or associate degrees at community colleges.
Can I study in the USA without IELTS from Pakistan?
Yes. Many U.S. universities accept Duolingo, TOEFL, or PTE instead of IELTS, and some offer IELTS waivers for English-medium education (e.g., Arizona State University, Drexel University, University of Dayton, CSU/SUNY campuses).
