Studying in the United States is one of the biggest aspirations for Nepali students after +2 or bachelor’s.
The US is home to thousands of universities — from Ivy League institutions that are centuries old to modern campuses leading in technology and research.
But with so many options, choosing the right university often becomes the hardest part of the journey.
For Nepali families, the decision isn’t only about global rankings. It’s about finding a balance between quality education, affordability, scholarship opportunities, and the kind of lifestyle that makes adjusting to a new country easier.
A student from Kathmandu may thrive in a big city like New York, while someone from Pokhara might prefer the calm of a university town such as Ann Arbor.
This is where guidance matters. Many of the best universities in USA look expensive on paper, but they also offer generous financial aid packages — sometimes making them more affordable than smaller or lesser-known schools.
Others stand out for their strong Nepali student communities, which provide a sense of home away from home.
At Goreto, we’ve helped students successfully study in USA from Nepal by matching them with universities that fit their academic goals, career dreams, and financial realities.
The universities listed below are among the most popular choices for Nepali students, each offering unique strengths and opportunities.
This guide introduces some of the best universities in USA that Nepali students often target.
From Ivy League names like Harvard and Yale to public universities such as UC Berkeley and Michigan, each has unique strengths.
Some are known for generous scholarships, while others are attractive for their strong Nepali communities and affordable living costs.
At Goreto, we’ve helped countless students successfully study in USA from Nepal, and one thing is clear: the “best” university is not always the one with the highest ranking.
It’s the one that matches your academic goals, your budget, and your future plans. That’s the perspective we’ll bring to this list.
At first I thought American universities were out of reach, but with financial aid and Goreto’s guidance, I found a university that actually fit my budget and my career goals.
Studying in America isn’t only about chasing Ivy League names — it’s about finding the university that fits your goals, budget, and lifestyle.
Here are some of the most popular choices Nepali students explore when planning their US journey.
For many Nepali students, Harvard represents the peak of academic ambition. Only a handful from Nepal make it here each year, but those who do often receive generous financial aid. Harvard’s global reputation ensures that even a few graduates from Nepal carry influence and opportunities wherever they go.
Stanford is a dream choice for students passionate about innovation and technology. While very few Nepali students are admitted, its location in Silicon Valley makes it an inspiring target for those aiming to contribute to fields like IT, engineering, or entrepreneurship.
MIT is known worldwide for science, engineering, and problem-solving. Nepali students rarely get into MIT, but those who do often play active roles in research and represent Nepal proudly on the global stage. Its community is welcoming, though the path to admission is among the toughest.
UC Berkeley is one of the most respected public universities in the world, particularly strong in science, technology, and social sciences. Some Nepali students have found opportunities here, drawn by its research focus and California’s innovation culture.
The University of Chicago is famous for its economics and business programs. A few Nepali students have found their way here, especially those with strong academic backgrounds. Its urban setting also makes it attractive for internships, which can be valuable for Nepali students balancing study with career preparation.
Yale is a respected destination for students aiming for law, politics, or humanities. Very few Nepali students are admitted, but those who are benefit from a supportive aid system and a community that values global perspectives.
Princeton’s smaller class sizes and highly personalized learning environment appeal to Nepali students who thrive in close-knit academic settings. Only a select few from Nepal make it here, but generous scholarships make it possible for talented applicants to attend.
Columbia sits at the heart of New York, making it appealing for students interested in business, journalism, or international affairs. While Nepali admissions are rare, those who succeed enjoy not just world-class education but also the opportunities of one of the most global cities.
Northwestern is respected for journalism, law, and business. It is not a common destination for Nepali students, but those admitted gain access to strong academic programs and the advantage of being near Chicago.
NYU is one of the largest private universities in the US, with highly respected programs in business, law, and the arts. For Nepali students, it provides access to world-class opportunities in the heart of New York City, with supportive faculty and extensive student resources.
Caltech is a small but powerful institution for science and research. Admission is highly selective, and only a few Nepali students reach here. Those who do usually pursue specialized fields like physics, chemistry, or aerospace, benefiting from close mentorship with leading professors.
UPenn, home to the Wharton School of Business, is a dream for Nepali students aiming for business, law, or medicine. Only a small number from Nepal make it here, but those admitted often receive generous aid and gain access to one of the strongest alumni networks in the world.
UCLA offers a wide range of programs and is located in one of the most diverse cities in the US. A small number of Nepali students study here, often attracted by strong programs in arts, business, and engineering, along with Los Angeles’s multicultural lifestyle.
The University of Michigan is known for its research and strong international student community. It has welcomed Nepali students over the years, particularly in engineering, public health, and social sciences. The town of Ann Arbor is also considered affordable and student-friendly.
USC is popular for programs in business, engineering, and film. While admissions are competitive, Nepali students who study here benefit from its industry connections, especially in technology and entertainment.
Brown is famous for its flexible curriculum that allows students to design their own academic path. While only a handful of Nepali students get the chance to study here, those who do enjoy the freedom to explore multiple interests with world-class faculty support.
For most Nepali families, the first question is not which university to choose, but how to afford it.
When you hear that some universities charge more than USD 60,000 per year (over NPR 80 lakhs), it sounds impossible.
But here’s what many don’t realize: the best universities often give the best scholarships.
Harvard, Yale, and Princeton all offer need-based aid that can cover almost the full cost if you are admitted.
Many public universities like Michigan or UC Berkeley also provide partial scholarships, research assistantships, or on-campus jobs that make expenses more manageable.
This is why Nepali students should never rule out top universities just by looking at the price tag.
For some, studying at a famous Ivy League with financial aid ends up costing less than going to a smaller private college with no scholarships.
If you want to see full details about types of scholarships, eligibility, and deadlines, check our Scholarship in USA guide.
Not every student needs to aim for the most expensive or competitive institutions.
The USA also offers excellent universities that combine quality education with lower tuition fees, making them attractive for Nepali and other international students.
These schools are often located in smaller, welcoming cities with strong community support.
Known for reasonable tuition and diverse programs, CSU Long Beach offers a supportive environment and practical learning opportunities. It’s a smart choice for students who want quality education with affordable living costs in California.
With some of the lowest tuition fees in the USA, UTEP stands out for budget-conscious students. Its strong academics and multicultural community make it especially welcoming for international learners.
Popular among international students for affordability, SDSU combines excellent academic programs with part-time job opportunities. Its location provides a safe and comfortable lifestyle, ideal for Nepali students.
A mid-sized public university offering diverse programs at a reasonable cost. UCM’s location in Warrensburg means lower living expenses compared to larger US cities, making it a practical choice for students.
Offers affordable tuition in business, engineering, and sciences. Its friendly city setting helps international students adjust easily while still enjoying strong career and research opportunities.
A smaller institution with popular programs in arts, business, and education. Its personal learning environment and welcoming campus community make it an ideal choice for students seeking both affordability and support.
The total cost of studying in the US depends on both tuition fees and living expenses.
Public universities usually cost between USD 20,000–35,000 per year (around NPR 26–45 lakhs).
Private universities often cost between USD 40,000–65,000 per year (NPR 52–85 lakhs).
Living expenses also vary a lot:
In big cities like New York or Los Angeles, students may spend USD 1,500–2,000 (NPR 2–2.5 lakhs) per month.
In smaller university towns like Ann Arbor (Michigan) or Chapel Hill (UNC), the cost can be much lower — sometimes by 30–40%.
On top of this, Nepali students should plan for health insurance, textbooks, visa fees, and travel. These extra costs can add up to about USD 5,000 (NPR 6.5 lakhs) per year.For a detailed breakdown of tuition, housing, and day-to-day living, visit our Cost to Study in USA from Nepal page.
Get a quick snapshot of how Nepali students manage costs, work, and post-study opportunities—so you can plan with clarity, not confusion.
F-1 international students are legally allowed to work this much on-campus during semesters.
Typical pay range for part-time on-campus jobs—enough to cover small monthly expenses
Average yearly financial aid awarded to international students at U.S. colleges
Standard OPT allows 1 year of work after graduation—STEM fields may extend up to an additional 24 months
The application process looks complicated at first, but if you break it into steps, it becomes easier to manage. Here’s how most Nepali students do it:
Most students start preparing during their final year of +2 or bachelor’s so that they can apply one year before classes begin. Applying early improves your chances of both admission and scholarships.
For a step-by-step guide with checklists, see our full Application Process and Visa Requirements pages.
With so many universities in the USA, it’s normal to feel confused.
Should you apply to an Ivy League, or look at strong public universities that are more affordable? Should you focus on scholarships first, or location and student life?
The truth is, the “best” university is different for every Nepali student.
For some, it’s about pursuing engineering in a research hub like MIT.
For others, it’s about getting into a public university with lower living costs and a supportive Nepali community. What feels right for one student may not be the right fit for another.
This is where guidance makes all the difference. At Goreto, we’ve been helping students study in USA from Nepal for years.
Our counselors don’t just list names — they sit with you, understand your budget, your academic background, and your career dreams, then suggest universities where you’ll actually thrive.
We also guide you with scholarship applications, visa preparation, and everything in between.
If you’re serious about studying in the USA, the next step is simple: talk to us.
A short consultation can save you months of confusion and help you avoid costly mistakes.
Book a Free Consultation and let’s plan your US journey together.
The educations quality in Canada meets all the standards expected by employers in all fields of work. The Canadian education system is also recognized by employers globally for having really high standards. and producing graduates that are ready to face real world challenges.
No. Top universities like Harvard or MIT are extremely selective, but there are thousands of universities in the USA. Even if your grades are average, you can still find good universities that fit your profile. The key is applying smartly.
You can apply for undergraduate programs after +2. If you already have a bachelor’s, you can apply for master’s. Both options are open to Nepali students.
Not always. Many universities are test-optional now. But a good SAT score (1100–1400+) can improve your chances of admission and scholarships, especially at competitive universities.
Very important. Most universities want IELTS 6.0–7.0 or TOEFL iBT 80–100. Higher scores increase scholarship chances too.
Yes, temporarily. After completing your degree, you can work under OPT (Optional Practical Training) for 1 year. If you’re in a STEM field, you can extend up to 3 years. During this time, some students switch to work visas.
From choosing the right country to finding scholarships and housing — our counselors will guide you at every step.
Choose the right country based on your goals
Find courses that match your career plan
Get guidance on colleges and universities
Plan your finances, scholarships & part-time jobs
Plan your abroad stay & post-study plan
Schedule a free consultation with our expert counselors to discuss your study
Schedule a free consultation with our expert counselors to discuss your study
