Affordable Business Administration Bachelor’s Degree for International Students in the US

Many international students are curious about pursuing a business administration bachelor’s degree in the US. Unfortunately, finding an affordable option that covers all expenses is quite a challenge. This article will explore the costs and provide some realistic options.

Myth: Can I Study Business Administration in the US for $9,500 Per Year?

It is impossible to fund a business administration bachelor’s degree in the US at $9,500 per year for an international student. This amount will barely cover the cost of food, rent, and transportation. To obtain a student visa, international students are required to demonstrate their ability to fully fund their education without working and also to commit to leaving the country after graduation.

Realistic Costs and Options

Minot State University (Minot, North Dakota): This university stands as one of the most affordable options. International students pay the same tuition as in-state students, approximately $19,000 per year. However, international students should budget for travel to and from the US. While these costs are substantial, I doubt they can be brought down much below $16,500 per year.

Why $19,000 Is Still Not Enough

Let's consider the full picture. Even a high-performing and very lucky American student might find it challenging to afford this amount. For international students, access to scholarships and financial aid is extremely limited. Even if you were extraordinarily lucky and received a full scholarship, you would still need to cover additional expenses. These include:

Visa fees Travel and airport transfers Dorm room necessities Cell phone service A laptop and school supplies Laundry costs Miscellaneous snacks and beverages Clothing for a different climate Hotel and meals during breaks when the campus is closed

These expenses will consume every dollar of your scholarship, leaving you with no additional funds. Therefore, having a bigger financial cushion is crucial. Explore options with your bank or government for loans or scholarships.

Fort Hayes State University: A More Reasonable Option

Fort Hayes State University is usually recommended as a more affordable choice for a bachelor’s degree in the US. They estimate the total cost at $25,798 per year, which includes both tuition and housing. This is a more realistic option if you seek financial aid.

Without Financial Support, Visa Denial

Without significant financial assistance, these costs are not close to what you will need for tuition and living expenses. Even starting at a community college will not be possible with such a limited budget. Furthermore, without financial aid, you would be denied a visa due to insufficient resources.

Private Schools and Scholarships: Some private institutions offer scholarships to international students, but these are typically for general Bachelor’s degrees rather than business administration. Consider applying to these schools for a general bachelor's degree and think about pursuing an MBA later.

Conclusion

While it is challenging to find an affordable business administration bachelor’s program in the US for international students, some options like Fort Hayes State University and Minot State University are worth exploring. Ensure you have a solid financial plan, as the cost of living in the US can be significantly higher than the tuition fee alone. For more detailed information on tuition, costs, and financial aid, please refer to the respective university websites or speak with admissions counselors.