Eligible to Study in the USA?

English Language Proficiency Test Comparison

Read our blog on “IELTS vs TOEFL – Which is Better for Nepali Students?

Standardized tests are essential for admission into many programs, particularly in the United States and other English-speaking countries. 

These tests evaluate students’ academic aptitude and readiness for college or graduate studies. 

However, some universities have introduced test-optional or test-waiver policies, especially post-COVID, making it essential to understand when and where tests are necessary.

Which Programs Require Which Test?

Note: Some courses in Canada, Australia, and Europe do not require SAT, GRE, or GMAT. Always check university-specific guidelines.

Score Expectations

Pro Tip: A strong test score can significantly improve scholarship chances and offset average grades.

Test Waivers & Test-Optional Policies

• During the COVID-19 pandemic, many universities adopted test-optional or test-blind policies.
• In 2025, some institutions still do not require GRE or SAT, especially for:
  • Online or hybrid programs
  • Professional experience-based admissions (MBA, Public Policy, etc.)
  • Certain STEM Master’s programs

To study abroad, students must demonstrate they have enough funds to cover at least one year of tuition and living expenses. 

This is not only a university requirement but also crucial for obtaining a student visa. Below is a detailed breakdown of the typical financial requirements for international students.

Estimated Annual Cost Breakdown

Proof of Funds Requirement

To get a student visa, students typically need to show:

• Bank balance/certificate or bank statement with enough to cover 1 year’s total cost
• Letter from financial sponsor, if applicable

Loan approval letters (if funding is via education loan)

To study in the USA, international students must apply for an F-1 Student Visa. This visa allows you to live and study in the U.S. for the duration of your academic program.

Below is a step-by-step guide to the F-1 visa process, along with important documentation you’ll need.

Step-by-Step F-1 Visa Application Process

1. Receive a Valid I-20 Form
   • Issued by your U.S. university after admission and financial verification.
   • It outlines your program details, cost of attendance, and SEVIS ID.
2. Pay the SEVIS I-901 Fee
   • Amount: $350
   • Must be paid online before completing your visa application.
   • Receipt is required during the interview.
3. Complete the DS-160 Form
   • This is the online non-immigrant visa application.
   • Save the confirmation page with barcode—you’ll need this for your interview.
4. Schedule a Visa Interview
   • Book an appointment at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
   • Prepare all required documents and be ready to answer questions about your study plans.
5. Attend the Visa Interview
   • Carry the following documents:
     • Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay)
     • I-20 form
     • DS-160 confirmation page
     • SEVIS fee receipt
     • University acceptance letter
     • Academic transcripts and test scores
     • Financial proof (bank statements, loan letters, sponsor affidavit)

Answer questions honestly about your intent to study and return after graduation.

 Common Visa Rejection Reasons

• Inadequate financial proof
• Inconsistent or weak answers during the interview
• Lack of ties to home country
• Suspicion of intent to immigrate permanently
• Incomplete or incorrect documentation

Tip: Practice with mock interviews. Goreto provides full visa preparation, including document checks and one-on-one coaching.

Before applying to universities and for a student visa, you must prepare and organize your documents properly. Here is a comprehensive checklist of all the essential paperwork required for both university admission and visa processing.

Use this checklist to track your progress!

Academic Documents

• Grade 10 Marksheet & Transcript (SEE/SLC)
• Grade 11 & 12 Transcript and Certificate (+ NEB equivalency if needed)
• Bachelor’s/Master’s Transcripts and Degree Certificate (if applying for PG)
• Provisional Certificate (if final certificate not available)
• Migration Certificate (if required by university)

Test Score Reports

• IELTS / TOEFL / PTE / Duolingo Score Report
• SAT / GRE / GMAT Score Report (if applicable)

Financial Documents

• Bank Balance Certificate (1 year of cost)
• Bank Statements (last 6 months)
• Affidavit of Support (from sponsor/guardian)
• Education Loan Sanction Letter (if applicable)
• Income Source Verification (salary slips, tax returns, etc.)

Supporting Documents

• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Letters of Recommendation (2–3 copies)
• Updated CV/Resume
• Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond course end)
• Recent Passport-size Photos (as per visa specs)

Bonus Documents (Optional but Helpful)

• Work Experience Letters (for PG/MBA applicants)
• Extra-Curricular Certificates
• Police Clearance Certificate (if requested)

Studying abroad can be expensive, but there are many scholarships available that can significantly reduce the financial burden. Scholarships come in different forms, such as merit-based, need-based, and university-specific, and they are awarded based on different eligibility criteria.

Types of Scholarships

1. Merit-Based Scholarships
   • Awarded based on your academic achievements, test scores, and extracurricular involvement.
   • Examples: Fulbright Scholarship, Rhodes Scholarship, Dean’s Scholarships (offered by universities).
2. Need-Based Scholarships
   • Awarded to students who demonstrate financial need, often requiring submission of income details or a financial aid form.
   • Examples: Pell Grant (USA), Need-Based Scholarships from universities.
3. University-Specific Scholarships
   • These are scholarships provided by the university you are applying to. These can be merit-based, need-based, or a combination of both.
   • Example: Harvard University Financial Aid, University of Toronto International Scholarships, Stanford University Scholarships.

Popular Scholarships for Nepali Students

For Nepali students looking to study abroad, several scholarships are widely recognized and accessible:

• Fulbright Scholarship (USA): Covers tuition, living expenses, and travel for Nepali students pursuing a master’s or Ph.D. degree.
• The Nepali Student Scholarship Program (Various countries): Offered by the government of Nepal for study abroad at selected institutions.
• University-Specific Scholarships: Many universities offer fully funded scholarships for Nepali students, including institutions like Harvard, Stanford, MIT, and UC Berkeley.
• Commonwealth Scholarship (UK): Provides funding for postgraduate study in the UK for students from Commonwealth countries, including Nepal.
• Asian Development Bank (ADB) Scholarships: For students from ADB member countries, including Nepal, for study in specific institutions.

Goreto’s Help in Finding & Applying for Scholarships

At Goreto Education Consultancy, we assist students with:

• Scholarship research: Helping you find the best-fit scholarships for your program and financial profile.
• Application support: Guidance on how to write strong scholarship essays and gather the required documents.
• Interview preparation: Preparing you for scholarship interviews to maximize your chances.

We help students navigate through complex scholarship options, making it easier to find and apply for financial aid that suits their needs.

Related Resource:
Top Scholarships for Nepali Students in the USA – New Blog

When applying to universities abroad, it’s crucial to keep track of application deadlines to ensure that you have enough time to complete all requirements, including standardized tests, documentation, and visa processing. 

Different intakes have different timelines, so it’s important to plan ahead!

Key Intakes

1. Fall Intake (August/September)
   • Most popular intake for international students.
   • This intake is for students who want to start their studies in August or September.
   • Priority deadline for many universities is between December and February.
   • Best time to apply for a full range of programs, scholarships, and financial aid.
2. Spring Intake (January)
   • Starts in January (Winter term).
   • Common for students who missed the Fall deadline.
   • Application deadlines are typically June to October.
   • Fewer programs available than Fall, especially for undergraduate students.
3. Summer Intake (May/June)
   • Limited availability of programs.
   • Less common, but some universities offer short-term programs or summer courses.
   • Deadlines are typically around October to December.

 Suggested Timeline for Key Deadlines

Tip Box

Start your USA application in Class 12 to catch the Fall intake.

Planning ahead for Fall intake is key to ensuring you meet deadlines and have ample time to complete all requirements, including visa processing. Starting in Class 12 gives you a head start for August/September intakes.

This section will provide answers to the most common questions asked by students looking to study in the USA. 

1. Can I study in the USA without IELTS?

Yes, you can study in the USA without IELTS. Many universities offer test-optional policies or accept other English proficiency tests like TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo. Additionally, students who have completed their schooling in English or have previous education in English-speaking countries may be exempted from the IELTS requirement.

2. What is the minimum GPA to study in the USA from Nepal?

The minimum GPA required to study in the USA depends on the university and program you’re applying to. Typically, a 2.5–3.0 GPA (out of 4.0) is acceptable for most undergraduate programs. For postgraduate programs, universities may require a higher GPA, usually 3.0 or above. However, a strong application, including a good Statement of Purpose (SOP) and Letters of Recommendation (LORs), can sometimes compensate for a lower GPA.

3. Can I apply with a study gap?

Yes, you can apply to universities in the USA with a study gap. However, you will need to explain the gap in your Statement of Purpose (SOP) or in an interview. A study gap can be accepted if you can provide a valid reason, such as work experience, internships, or personal reasons that have added value to your education.

4. What are the chances of getting a visa?

The chances of getting a student visa (F-1) depend on several factors, including:

• The strength of your academic background (test scores, grades, etc.)
• Financial proof showing you can cover the cost of education and living expenses

Your intent to return to your home country after graduation (ties to your home country) Following the correct application process and preparing for the visa interview can increase your chances.

Have a specific question that isn’t listed here? Feel free to ask your own question, and our experts will get back to you with the best possible advice.

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