Travel and stay in USA is a very common concern among international students. Most students worry about expenses of staying in the USA. Considering all the aspects, travel and stay in USA for international students from India is expensive. The annual average cost of living in USA ranges from USD 10,000 - USD 20,000. This depends on the quality of accommodation and travel that the candidate chooses. The monthly cost comes down to USD 1000 - USD 1700.

This includes accommodation, food, travel, books, clothing and entertainment. Candidates have the option to stay in the university hostel or outside the campus. The on campus cost of studying in USA is usually lesser than staying outside the campus. Candidates should also consider the travel or flight cost which is usually around USD 1200 - 1500 (1 lakhs - 1.2 lakhs).

The travelling cost does not include the passport and the US student visa costs. Candidates need to pay separately for the Visa. Candidates need to convert their currency before travelling to the USA. Candidates can exchange the currency via banks since airport exchange costs 20% in fees. This conversion will incur extra charges. 

Why USA is A Good Place to Stay

USA is one of the most popular countries to live in. Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, Washington, DC are some best cities in USA for students. The travel and stay in USA for Indian students are based on many factors. The most important ones are states below:

• Quality of Life: The key advantage of travel and stay in USA for Indian students is the high standard of life. The most important are good food, clean water, medical care, good education, entertainment and more. 
• Highest average income: The international students have the opportunity to earn more than what they would have in their hometown. 
• Positive “Can do” attitude: USA is a country of diverse culture. The positive mindset and attitude drives the candidates to perform better and achieve their goals. 
• Career Opportunities: USA has only 5% unemployed people which is very less as compared to other countries. The job opportunities are high since all the top companies have their base in the United States. 

Documents Required for Travel and Stay in USA

The travel and stay in USA for international students from India should have multiple documents prepared for smooth access. For admission to US universities, you need to submit your academic transcripts and English language reports. These documents include:

• Valid Passport for travel to the United States – The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the period of stay in the United States. 
• Nonimmigrant Visa Application
• Form DS-160 confirmation page.
• Payment receipt from the university that the candidate is admitted to.
• Recent Photo - Candidates must upload a photo while submitting the DS-160 form. If they fail, they should carry copies of photos at the interview. 
• Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (F-1) Student Status - For Academic and Language Students, Form I-20 or Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (M-1) Student Status for Vocational Students, 
• Form I-20 – The US institution will send you a Form I-20 once they have entered the information in the SEVIS database.
• Transcripts, diplomas, degrees, or certificates from schools attended
• Standardised test scores required by the U.S. school;

• Candidates must show the intent to return after completion of the course of study
• Bank statement showing the amount available to pay for the cost of tuition and stay

Visa Process for USA

The US student visa process requires the applications to submit their application in the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their home country. The application fees details are:

• Nonimmigrant visa types are USD 160. This includes tourist, business, student, and exchange visas. 
• Petition-based visa costs are USD 190. This includes work and religious visas. 
• K visas cost USD 265 
• E visas is USD 205 

After submitting the application, it usually takes 3-5 weeks depending on the types of Visa that the candidate is applying for. After the Visa processing, the applicant can get a positive reply on their application, and the consulate will deliver the document. The delivery of the visa can take up to two other workdays. 

Immigration Process

For a post study work visa in USA the immigration process is different. The immigration process for travel and stay in USA for international students from India involves multiple steps which are:

• Submit a Petition: The immigrant petition must be approved by USCIS before the case can proceed to the National Visa Center.
• NVC Processing: After USCIS approves your petition, they will transfer your case to the Department of State's National Visa Center (NVC) for pre-processing.
• Paying the Fees: Candidates must pay Immigrant Visa Application Processing Fee and Affidavit of Support Fee.
• Complete Affidavit of Support - Also called the Form I-864, is a document an individual signs to accept financial responsibility for the applicant who is coming to stay in the United States. 
• Collect Financial Evidence and other Supporting Documents
• Complete Online Visa Application (DS-260)
• Collect Civil Documents: The civil documents must be issued by the official issuing authority in the home country.
• Scan and Submit the documents online: Log into CEAC and go to the “Start Now” buttons located under Affidavit of Support Documents and Civil Documents.
• Prepare and attend the Interview on the scheduled date: Candidates must go to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate with the printed visa application (DS-260) confirmation page.
• After approval, candidates must pay USCIS Immigrant Fee to the U.S and schedule the travel to the US before Visa expiration. 
• The Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials check the documents on arrival.
• Once approved, one can enter the USA.

Modes of Travel

Indian candidates need to travel by flight to USA. To move from student accommodations in USA, you can opt for this modes of travel. This is a one time cost which ranges from USD 1200 - 1500 (1 lakhs - 1.2 lakhs). However, candidates must focus on their travel in USA while they are staying. The modes available are trains, bus, car rentals, Uber, Bike etc. The detailed cost are:

Price of Car Rental in the USA

• Budget: $150 – $400 per week for a budget car that will comfortably fit two people and luggage
• Mid-range: $400 – $600 for a mid-range car that will easily fit four people and luggage
• High-end: $600+ for a high end car such as a convertible, large SUV or luxury vehicle

Cost for Public Transport in USA

Candidates can buy bikes or motorbikes for travel. That will incur the petrol cost of around USD 3,684. The monthly cost of living in USA for different types of public transportation are:

Note: 1 USD = INR 82.90 as of March 1, 2024

Types of Accommodation

Accomodation in USA is the top most expense that international citizens need to pay. Some private and public universities in USA offer on-campus housing. There are multiple types of accommodation that the students and visitors can opt for. These include:

• On Campus accommodation
• Off campus accommodation
• Temporary accommodation

The details of the accommodation are provided below:

On Campus Accommodation

The on campus accommodation is the cost of staying at the university. For this you need a student visa, and check the top reasons for student visa rejection before applying. The on campus accommodation as per region are:

Note: 1 USD = INR 82.90 as of March 1, 2024

Off Campus Accommodation

The off-campus housing cost in the USA generally ranges between 1,300 to 1,800 USD (1.07 to 1.48 lakhs INR) per annum. To be eligible for off campus housing, you may need to submit a student aid report. The off campus housing cost in USA and related living expenditures are tabulated below:

Note: 1 USD = INR 82.90 as of March 1, 2024

Temporary Accommodation

Temporary accommodation usually applies to those who are travelling on a post study work visa in USA, vacation and so on. This includes people who are going to stay for few days or weeks in the US. The cost details are:

• Budget Hotels: Range starts from $50 – $100 per night for two people for a private room in a budget hotel or motel.
• Mid-range Hotels: Very reasonable accommodation starts from $100 – $200 per night for two people for a private room.
• High-end Hotels: High end hotels charge $300 as the starting price
• Airbnb: Airbnbs can be rented at a much cheaper price if someone wants to stay for 2 weeks or a month. 

Meal Costs in USA

One must consider meals as an expense while travelling or during the stay in USA. The basic meal costs are:

Note: 1 USD = INR 82.90 as of March 1, 2024

Factors While Choosing Accommodation in USA

There are many factors which International travellers and students must consider when choosing the travel and stay in USA for Indian students. One of main factor is a strong CSS profile for international students. The other includes location, accessibility, price, amenities, culture and environment. 

• Location - This is one of the most important factors. International students must select the stay near to college. They must also check if grocery stores, public transport, and restaurants are nearby.
• Cost - This is one of the most important factors as the candidates need to get the stay within their budget. Checking the cost before renting an apartment is mandatory. 
• Safety and Security - Researching the crime rates of the location is important. Candidates should also check amenities such as locks on doors and windows, security cameras, and on-site security personnel.
• Amenities - International students do not travel with amenities. Hence, they should look for a stay with all amenities like kitchen, laundry facilities, and Wi-Fi. It's also important to consider other amenities such as a gym, swimming pool, or study areas, as these can improve the quality of life and provide additional value.
• Culture and Lifestyle - Culture and lifestyle are important factors to consider when choosing accommodation. International students should consider their personal preferences and lifestyle when choosing accommodation. Some students may prefer a quiet and peaceful environment, while others may prefer a more social and active environment.

Candidates must be aware that they should abide by the Visa and immigration laws during their stay in the USA. The cost is higher and hence, a very strong backup is necessary during the stay. 

FAQs

Ques: What are the visa requirements for traveling to the USA?

Ques: How far in advance should I apply for a U.S. visa?

Ques: What is the ESTA program, and do I need it?

Ques: Can I extend my stay in the USA as a tourist?

Ques: What are the transportation options for getting around the USA?

Ques: Is it necessary to tip in the USA, and what is the customary tipping rate?

Ques: How does the healthcare system work for tourists in the USA?

Ques: What are the best ways to save money on accommodation in the USA?

Ques: Are there any cultural norms or etiquettes I should be aware of in the USA?

Ques: How does public transportation work in major U.S. cities?

Ques: What is the best time of year to visit the USA?

Ques: Can I use my foreign driver's license to rent a car in the USA?

Ques: Are there any restrictions on bringing food items into the USA?

Ques: How can I stay connected with family and friends back home during my U.S. visit?