Research tuition hikes, family living, and healthcare costs before coming to the U.S. to limit financial surprises.
A fellowship is a graduate scholarship that normally comes with responsibilities to teach a class or perform research. Bhavita Walia, a graduate student from India studying biomedical science at the University of Connecticut, has her tuition waived. In exchange, she teaches.
However, she still has to stick to a tight budget. She recommends getting a roommate and discussing shared expenses. "It is quite expensive to furnish an entire apartment by yourself," she says. "For me, it wiped out a significant chunk of my savings, and I still have things I need to buy."
4. Learn about the U.S. healthcare system: Mirzazad wasn't prepared for American healthcare. In Iran, she had a public healthcare system where she didn't have to worry about the costs of doctor's visits.
In the United States, she made the mistake of choosing a doctor outside of her insurance network and paid more money. Students should request insurance paperwork from the school before arrival in order to review potential costs, experts say.
Prospective students should ask schools about copay charges—a set fee a patient is charged per visit that often depends on the type of doctor being seen—as well as the amount the student must pay for emergency hospital visits. Other services could have a deductible, an amount the student must pay before the insurance company pays the balance. While a student may not need medical services beyond general checkups, it's best to prepare for medical costs in case they arise.
For more international student tips and news, explore the Studying in the United States center.
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