Living in the America
- Accommodation: Accommodation options include on-campus dorms, off-campus apartments, or homestays. On-campus living is the most convenient but can also be more expensive. Off-campus rent depends on the city and area.
- Cost of Living: The average cost of living for international students is around $1,000 to $2,000 per month, depending on the city (New York and San Francisco are more expensive).
- Healthcare: The US has a private healthcare system, and international students are required to have health insurance either through their university or through private providers. Healthcare can be expensive, so having good coverage is crucial.
Post-Study Work Opportunities
- Optional Practical Training (OPT): OPT allows international students with an F-1 visa to work in the US for up to 12 months after graduation (up to 24 months for STEM students). It’s an excellent opportunity to gain practical work experience in the US.
- H-1B Visa: After OPT, students can apply for an H-1B visa, which allows them to work in the US for up to six years in a specialty occupation.
Student Rights and Work Opportunities
- Work Rights: F-1 visa holders can work on-campus for up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during breaks. After completing one year of study, they can apply for OPT to work off-campus in their field of study.
- Minimum Wage: The minimum wage in the US varies by state. The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour, but states like California and New York have higher rates.
