Planning for US bachelor's degree.Can I earn my tuition fee as well as my living expenses if I work part time?

Question

I am an Indian planning a Bachelor's degree in nanotechnology in US for the winter09 semester. I am willing to work there part-time. Please let me know if I can earn my tuition fees as well as my living expenses by working there. Also, I heard that the US universities do not allow you to work for an initial period of 6 months. Is this true? If yes, how much will it cost that 6 months period?

Please reply!

Answer 1

Depends on what school you're going to and what kind of tuition you're paying, but as far as I know, international students have to pay more and in general, US universities have comparatively high tuition already.

Of course it also depends on what kind of part-time job you're looking at.  If you're picking up just an hourly wage sort of job, it's unlikely you'll be able to pay both living expenses, housing, AND tuition.  Your best chance for the cheapest studies is probably to go on some kind of research grant or scholarship from either your home uni or the uni you want to study at in the US.  Usually being a TA (teacher's assistant) will either decrease tuition or on-campus housing costs.

I don't know about the work visas, but usually that stuff can be found online; aside from the time period of not working, see what the application process is, because those can be lengthy.

Good luck!

Answer 2

Most foreign students on an F1 visa are not allowed to hold jobs, with the exception of a minor one on campus as part of a financial aid plan. It would definitely NOT be enough to earn tuition and living expenses.

As to the cost of university studies, that varies greatly on the institution you attend and you need to contact them directly.

Answer 3

Not working part time.  But contact the school you plan to attend and see if there is anyway you can receive help.  The work restriction is true..  It appears that you are versed in mathmatics.  Perhaps you could fill a teaching position or tutoring young people and earn your keep that way.