Study in the USA from Bangladesh – Courses, Visa & Scholarships
- Banani, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- info@zenithstudyabroad.com
- 01332-538533
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01332-538532
01332-538532
We hear it all the time: “The USA is too expensive for Bangladeshi students.” But then, every few weeks, there’s another student landing a full scholarship, starting a high-paying job, or getting into a top-tier grad program. So what’s the real story?
The truth is, students are still choosing the U.S., and for good reason.
And here’s something many overlook: U.S. universities offer more scholarships to international students than the UK and Australia combined. Yes, tuition fees can reach $50,000 per year. They give financial aid to about 40% of the international students enrolled in their programs. These could be merit scholarships or research assistantships.
What about after graduation? Many Bangladeshi students go on to earn starting salaries that make loan repayment manageable, sometimes surprisingly quickly. Employers worldwide recognize the value of a U.S. education, and many top companies continue to prioritize graduates from American universities.
So when people say, “Stay local, save money,” ask yourself: why are NASA, Google, and Harvard all in the same country? Why are so many global leaders U.S. graduates? The opportunities are there for those who plan well and take bold steps. Your American dream might be closer and more affordable than you think.
Studying in the USA has always come with a price tag, but in recent years, it’s not just about the cost. It’s also about what you study. The types of degrees that attract major scholarships and funding have shifted, and students are starting to notice.
Degree/Programs | Average Fees $$$ |
Community Colleges | $6,000–$20,000 annually |
Undergraduate | $20,000–$40,000 annually |
Graduate | $20,000–$45,000 annually |
Doctoral Programs | $28,000–$55,000 annually |
Source: IDP Education
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields continue to dominate when it comes to financial aid. Programs in computer science, engineering, and healthcare often receive the bulk of available funding. Choose one of these paths, and your chances of receiving a scholarship are significantly higher. Pick literature or history? The funding tends to be far more limited.
Many smaller U.S. colleges offer lower tuition fees and are genuinely supportive of international students, but they often get overlooked. Students and parents chase big names like MIT or Harvard, even when more affordable, lesser-known universities offer high-quality education. It’s a bit like how some excellent movies end up on streaming platforms while blockbuster titles fill every cinema screen.
This leads to a tough but very real choice for Bangladeshi students:
There’s no single right answer. It depends on your goals, your background, and how much flexibility you have. What’s important is making that decision with your eyes open, and with proper guidance.
Managing living costs in the U.S. can feel like solving a complex puzzle, especially when you’re dealing with a new country, unfamiliar prices, and a student budget. But with the right planning, it’s more than possible to make it work, without giving up comfort or your peace of mind.
For every major city with sky-high rent, there’s a smaller college town offering a quieter life and far more affordable living. For every high-end apartment, there’s shared housing, homestays, or dorms that cost less and come with a sense of community. The trade-offs aren’t always bad, it’s about knowing your priorities and being realistic.
Expenses | Average Cost $$$ |
Books & Stationery | $500–$1,000 annually |
Travelling | $500–$1,200 annually |
Food & Groceries | $2,500 annually |
Clothes & Footwear | $28,000–$55,000 annually |
Source: IDP Education
Big cities often look exciting, but they come with higher expenses, rent, food, transport. Smaller towns may not have the same buzz, but they often give students the chance to live better for less. It’s not about which is better; it’s about which one fits your lifestyle, your goals, and your budget.
One mistake students often make is choosing based only on the university’s name, not the full cost of living. Being practical with location can lead to long-term savings and less stress.
1. New York City (Large Metro)
2. San Francisco (Large Metro)
3. Boston (Mid-Sized City)
4. Austin (Mid-Sized City)
Source: University Living – Cost of Living in Austin
5. Chicago (Mid-Sized City)
Tuition gets most of the attention when planning for study abroad, but many smaller, essential costs don’t show up until later. And by then, they can seriously impact your savings.
Here are a few often-overlooked expenses that add up fast:
These costs are rarely mentioned in brochures, but they’re very real and can put pressure on a student’s budget. The smartest thing you can do? Start early, ask questions, and read the fine print. Every small detail you understand now is one less surprise later.
Studying in the U.S. is a huge opportunity, but budgeting for it is just as important as choosing the right course. The more prepared you are, the more freedom you’ll have to focus on your studies and enjoy the experience.
Some scholarships stick to this older philosophy: help those who work hard, not just those who can afford application fees or prep courses. And while new scholarship programs pop up with layers of rules, the most effective ones still focus on practical support. Whether it’s tuition coverage, travel funds, or monthly stipends, the goal stays the same: keep education within reach.
Scholarship Name | Key Benefits |
Foreign Fulbright Student Program | Tuition, health, books, airfare, and living costs |
Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation | Strong academics in specific fields (social science, science, law, etc.) |
Humphrey Fellowship Program | All expenses covered for experienced public service professionals |
Microsoft Scholarships | STEM fields (computer science & related), academic excellence, leadership, tech passion |
Source: IDP Education
Don’t go chasing after big names. Sometimes, it’s the lesser-known grants from smaller universities or state schools that give you more flexibility and genuine support. As a student from Bangladesh, try to find those scholarships that see you not just as an applicant, but as someone worth investing in.
Studying in the USA is a strategic step for Bangladeshi students who plan smart, budget carefully, and seek out real opportunities. Yes, the costs can be high, but the returns often go far beyond money: a respected degree, global networks, and the freedom to shape your career on your own terms. With scholarships, affordable cities, and practical planning, the path becomes clearer. It’s not about being rich, it’s about being prepared. For students ready to work for it, the U.S. education system can be one of the best investments they’ll ever make.
Contact us for a free consultation so we can make your dream a reality!
