Master’s in the USA from Nepal: Admission, F-1 Visa and Funding

Admission requirements

• Four-year bachelor’s degree; some universities review three-year degrees case by case.
• TOEFL iBT, IELTS or Duolingo English Test as accepted by the university.
• GRE or GMAT: required at some programmes, optional or waived at many others.
• Statement of purpose, CV and two or three recommendation letters.
• Bank documents covering the cost of attendance shown on the I-20.

Funding your master’s

US costs are high, but funding is more common than in most countries. Universities offer merit scholarships and tuition waivers, and departments hire graduate students as teaching or research assistants, sometimes with a stipend. Funding is competitive, so apply early with a strong statement and good test scores.

F-1 visa process from Nepal

The interview is short. Officers want to understand why this course and university, how you will pay, and what you plan to do after graduating. Answer in your own words; memorised scripts are easy to spot. US visa screening rules have been tightened recently, so follow the latest embassy guidance.

• Accept admission and receive your Form I-20 from a SEVP-certified school.
• Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee.
• Complete the DS-160 and pay the visa fee.
• Book and attend your interview at the US Embassy in Kathmandu.
• Carry your I-20, financial documents, academic records and test scores.

Work during and after study

F-1 students can work on campus up to 20 hours a week during term. After graduation, Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows up to 12 months of work in your field, and graduates of eligible STEM degrees can apply for a 24-month extension.

USA or Ireland?

A US master’s usually takes two years and costs more overall, but funding and STEM OPT make it attractive for strong profiles. Most Irish taught master’s take one year, there is usually no visa interview, and graduates currently get up to 24 months of Stamp 1G stay back. Many US tech companies run their European operations from Dublin.

Step by step

1. 1

   Shortlist

   Pick ambitious, target and safe universities that match your profile and budget.

2. 2

   Tests

   Take TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo, and the GRE if your programmes need it.

3. 3

   Apply

   Submit applications with SOP, CV and recommendations before the deadlines.

4. 4

   I-20 and SEVIS

   Accept an offer, send financial documents, receive your I-20 and pay SEVIS.

5. 5

   Visa interview

   Complete the DS-160 and prepare for your interview in Kathmandu.

Frequently asked questions