UNIVERSITY COSTS IN THE USA

HOW MUCH DOES IT REALLY COST TO STUDY IN THE USA?

How much does studying in the USA really cost?

We help athletes and families understand the published price, available scholarships and what they may actually need to contribute.

UNDERSTANDING THE NUMBERS

How much does it cost ‍to study in the USA?

The published annual cost at a U.S. university can initially feel overwhelming. Depending on the institution, the total can reach $50,000 to $90,000 or more per year.

However, the published price is not necessarily what your family will pay.

Athletic scholarships, academic scholarships and other university aid can significantly reduce the final cost. The important number is therefore not just the published price, but the amount remaining after all scholarships and financial support have been applied.

We call this the out of pocket cost.
At a glance

WHAT DOES THE PUBLISHED COST INCLUDE?

The complete estimated annual cost is generally called the Cost of Attendance. It combines the university’s direct charges with estimated expenses associated with studying and living in the USA.
Tuition
The cost of your classes and the required fees charged by the university.
Housing
The cost of living on campus, usually in a university residence hall.
Meals
A university meal plan providing access to campus dining facilities.
Books
Estimated costs for textbooks, course materials, supplies and others.
Insurances
Health insurance is required and often purchased through the university.
University cost $55,000 per year minus $40,000 scholarships leaves $15,000 to fund with various family funding ways.
for example

WHAT WILL YOUR FAMILY ACTUALLY PAY?

The published cost is only the starting point. Scholarships and university aid may significantly reduce the amount your family needs to contribute.

Every university and scholarship package is different. Before an athlete commits, we help the family compare the complete offer and understand the expected annual contribution.

See illustrative example. This is different for every family.

Sports Scholarships

To be able to play sports and study in America, you need to have talent in your sport. Whether it's soccer or hockey. Coaches want to add talented international players to their team and offer a sports scholarship for it.

These sports scholarships are usually expressed in percentages, between 0 and 100%.

For example, if a coach gives you a 70% scholarship, and the total cost of attendance is $50,000 per year, you now 'only' pay about $15,000 per year.

Still expensive, but often, a sports scholarship can be combined with an academic scholarship.

Academic Scholarships

Universities in America reward students with high grades or test scores. It varies by university, but if you have good grades, you often qualify for an academic scholarship.

This scholarship is added on top of the already awarded sports scholarship.

For example, if you have an average GPA of 3.5, and the university offers you a $7,000 academic scholarship for it, you can stack this on top of your 70% sports scholarship worth $35,000.

This means you receive a total scholarship package of $42,000 and pay $8,000 per year yourself.
student loans

CAN INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS USE STUDENT LOANS?

Financing options depend on your nationality, country of residence and the university you attend.

Most international students are not eligible for U.S. federal student aid. However, possible alternatives may include education funding from your home country, private student loans or university-specific payment plans. Some private lenders require a U.S.-based co-signer.

We recommend exploring financing early and never relying on a loan until your eligibility and terms have been formally confirmed.
EARNING MONEY WHILE STUDYING

Can I work in America?

International students on an F-1 visa may generally work on campus for up to 20 hours per week while university is in session.

Available roles may include working in a library, dining facility, recreation center or another campus department. Employment opportunities and authorization requirements differ by university.

Off-campus employment is restricted and normally requires specific authorization. Income from a student job can help with personal expenses, but should not be relied upon to pay tuition or cover your main university costs.
A LOWER-COST PATHWAY

ALTERNATIVE COLLEGE OPTIONS

For soccer players, Junior College can provide a more affordable route into U.S. college sports.

Students normally complete a two-year associate degree before transferring to a four-year university to finish their bachelor’s degree. This can reduce the initial cost while allowing the athlete to develop academically and athletically.

For the sports Plus31 specializes in, this pathway is primarily relevant to soccer. There is no comparable NJCAA field hockey pathway.

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