Dhiraj Kandel
Sr. Student AdvisorSchedule a free consultation with our expert counselors to discuss your study
Studying in the USA is a dream for thousands of Nepali students every year.
The United States is home to world-class universities, diverse cultures, cutting-edge research, and endless career opportunities.
However, the application process can seem complicated if you don’t know where to start.
This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of applying to study in the USA from Nepal—from choosing the right university to getting your visa approved.
Research and Choose the Right University/Program
The first step is finding a university and program that fits your goals. The USA offers:
- Community colleges (2-year associate degrees)
- Universities (undergraduate, graduate, PhD)
- Liberal arts colleges (broad education focus)
When choosing a university, consider:
- Tuition fees and scholarships
- Location and living costs
- Rankings and academic reputation
- Career prospects and internship opportunities
Resources like university websites, EducationUSA, and education fairs in Nepal are excellent starting points.
Understanding admission requirements
Understanding admission requirements for the USA is essential for international students planning to study abroad.
Key factors include academic qualifications, standardized tests like SAT, ACT, GRE, or GMAT, English proficiency exams such as TOEFL or IELTS, transcripts, recommendation letters, essays, and financial proof.
Researching universities ensures proper preparation.
Academic qualifications
Academic qualifications for the USA include strong grades, relevant coursework, transcripts, and meeting specific program prerequisites for admission.
English proficiency test
English proficiency tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo assess international students’ language skills, ensuring readiness for academic success in USA.
Standardized tests
Standardized tests like SAT, ACT, GRE, or GMAT evaluate academic readiness, critical thinking, and subject knowledge for admission to U.S. universities.
Supporting documents
Supporting documents include transcripts, recommendation letters, essays, resumes, and financial statements, providing universities with comprehensive insight into applicants’ qualifications.
Prepare Necessary Documents
Before applying, make sure you have:
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- English test score reports
- Valid passport
- Financial documents (bank statements, income source proof, sponsor letter)
Experience letters (if applying for graduate programs)
Apply to Universities
1. Choose Your Application Method
Apply directly through the university’s portal
Or use the Common Application (Common App) — great for multiple undergraduate applications at once
2. Know Your Intakes
- Fall (August/September) – most popular with the widest options
Spring (January) – a good alternative if you miss Fall
Summer (May/June) – limited programs, but still an option
3. Watch the Deadlines
Applications usually open 6–12 months before classes start
Apply early to boost chances of admission and scholarships
4. Budget for Fees
Application fees typically range from $50–100 per university
Receive Offer Letter & I-20 Form
Once accepted, you will receive an:
- Offer letter (conditional or unconditional)
- Form I-20 – issued by the university after you accept admission and show proof of financial support.
The I-20 form is mandatory for your US student visa application.
Prepare for the Visa Process
The next step is applying for your US student visa (F-1 visa).
The visa process includes:
- Pay the SEVIS fee (USD 350).
- Fill out the DS-160 visa application form online.
- Book a visa interview appointment at the US Embassy in Kathmandu.
- Collect required visa documents:
- Valid passport
- I-20 form
- SEVIS payment receipt
- DS-160 confirmation page
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Financial proof (bank statements, affidavits, sponsor details)
- Visa interview appointment letter
Visa Interview Preparation
The visa interview is the most crucial step. Common questions include:
- Why do you want to study in the USA?
- Why did you choose this university?
- How will you fund your studies?
- Do you plan to return to Nepal after graduation?
Tip: Be confident, honest, and clear in your answers. Show strong financial capability and your intent to return after studies.
After Visa Approval
Congratulations! Once your visa is approved:
- Pay your tuition fees (if not already paid).
- Book your flight to the USA.
- Arrange accommodation (on-campus or off-campus).
Attend pre-departure orientations organized by consultants, universities, or EducationUSA.
At first, the US application process felt overwhelming. But with Goreto’s step-by-step guidance, I successfully applied and even secured financial aid at a university that matched my goals and budget.
Departure & Arrival in the USA
Before leaving Nepal:
- Pack essential documents (passport, I-20, visa approval, university admission letter).
- Carry sufficient funds for initial expenses.
At the US immigration, you will need to present:
- Passport with an F-1 visa
- I-20 form
- University admission details
After arrival, complete university registration and attend orientation sessions.
Scholarships & Financial Aid for Nepali Students
Scholarships and financial aid for Nepali students provide opportunities to pursue quality education in Nepal and abroad.
These programs support deserving students by covering tuition fees, living expenses, or research costs.
They promote academic excellence, equal access, and career growth, enabling Nepali students to achieve their educational and professional aspirations.
Start your scholarship search early and prepare a strong application.
- Merit-based scholarships – Granted to students with exceptional academic achievements, leadership skills, or talents. These awards reduce financial burden while encouraging excellence, motivation, and recognition of outstanding performance in studies or extracurricular activities.
- Need-based scholarships – Offered to students from low-income families who cannot afford education costs. These scholarships ensure equal access, covering tuition, living, or study expenses, enabling deserving learners to pursue education without financial hardship.
- External scholarships – Funded by international programs, governments, or private foundations like Fulbright or EducationUSA. They provide opportunities for Nepali students to study abroad, fostering global exposure, cultural exchange, and academic development.
Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing university application or visa deadlines.
- Submitting weak SOPs or generic recommendation letters.
- Inadequate financial planning.
- Not preparing properly for the visa interview.
With proper guidance and preparation, these mistakes can be avoided.
Studying in the USA from Nepal is a life-changing opportunity, but it requires careful planning and timely action.
From choosing the right university to securing your visa, every step is important.
At Goreto Education Consultancy, we guide Nepali students through the entire process—applications, scholarships, test prep, and visa interviews—so you can achieve your American dream with confidence.
Ready to start your US study journey? Contact Goreto today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
It’s best to start at least 12–18 months before your intended intake to meet deadlines and prepare documents.
The Fall intake (August/September) is the most popular, offering the widest range of programs and scholarships.
Yes, most universities require proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL). Some also accept Duolingo or may waive tests if you studied in English.
Application fees typically range from USD 50–100 per university, though some colleges offer fee waivers.
Yes! You can apply individually through each university’s portal or use the Common Application (for undergraduate programs).
Commonly required documents include academic transcripts, standardized test scores (if needed), English test scores, a Statement of Purpose (SOP), recommendation letters, and financial documents.
