Every year, thousands of students from all over the world set their sights on Boston. Why? Because it feels like the heart of education in the United States. But even though many dream to study in Boston for international students, the journey is not always easy. The city is home to big names like Harvard, MIT, Boston University, and Northeastern schools that attract the best minds. Yet for international students, the process can be quite challenging.
From applying for a visa to finding affordable housing, or even figuring out how much everything will cost, it’s a lot to think about. In 2023 alone, over 60,000 international students chose Massachusetts, with Boston welcoming most of them (source: Massachusetts Department of Higher Education). But not everyone makes it, and not because they aren’t smart, they just didn’t have the right info.
That’s why this guide is here. Whether you’re worried about tuition, scholarships, or what it’s like to live in Boston, we’ve made it easy. We’re walking you through it all, step by step.
This article covers everything you need to know about Study in Boston for international students from tuition fees to living costs and more.
Why Study in Boston?
Boston is known as one of the best student cities in the world. It is safe, clean, and full of smart people. You will find students from many different countries here. That makes it easy to make new friends and learn about new cultures.
Boston also has many libraries, museums, parks, and quiet places to study. But it also has fun places like coffee shops, music halls, and shopping areas. The mix of learning and fun makes Boston special for students.
Top 7 Best Universities in Boston for International Students
If you’re looking to study in Boston as an international student, here are the best schools to consider. These schools are known around the world and offer many programs. They also accept students from different countries and help them settle in.
| University | Tuition per Year | Top Courses | Application Time | Support for International Students |
| Roxbury Community College | $7,000 – $9,000 | Arts, Science, Nursing | Jan – May | Small class sizes, transfer help |
| Bunker Hill Community College | $8,000 – $10,000 | Business, Health, IT | Jan – May | Very affordable, good for transfer |
| Suffolk University | $35,000 – $45,000 | Law, Business, Media | Dec – March | Friendly for international students |
| Northeastern University | $40,000 – $50,000 | Engineering, Business, CS | Jan – March | Strong co-op programs & support |
| Boston University (BU) | $48,000 – $52,000 | Medicine, Law, Arts | Nov – Jan | Many clubs, international community |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | $53,000 – $55,000 | Science, Engineering, Tech | Aug – Dec | Top for research and innovation |
| Harvard University | $50,000 – $55,000 | Law, Medicine, Business | Aug – Dec | World-class education and support |
Tip: If you want to save money, start at a community college like Bunker Hill or Roxbury, then transfer to a bigger school later.
Curious about the advantages of pursuing your studies overseas? Reach out to IBS Consulting and book your FREE consultation to learn more!
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Cost of Studying in Boston for International Students
The cost of studying in Boston for international students can be high, but knowing all the fees can help you plan better. It’s more than just tuition, you should also think about health insurance, books, and other small costs.
Main Costs to Expect
| University | Tuition Fees | Health Insurance | Books & Supplies | Misc. Fees | Total (Yearly) |
| Roxbury CC | $7,000 – $9,000 | $1,500 | $600 | $300 | $9,400 – $11,400 |
| Bunker Hill CC | $8,000 – $10,000 | $1,500 | $600 | $300 | $10,400 – $12,400 |
| Suffolk | $35,000 – $45,000 | $2,000 | $1,000 | $800 | $38,800 – $48,800 |
| Northeastern | $40,000 – $50,000 | $2,000 | $1,200 | $1,000 | $44,200 – $54,200 |
| BU | $48,000 – $52,000 | $2,500 | $1,000 | $1,200 | $52,700 – $56,700 |
| MIT | $53,000 – $55,000 | $2,500 | $1,000 | $1,500 | $58,000 – $60,000 |
| Harvard | $50,000 – $55,000 | $2,500 | $1,000 | $1,200 | $54,700 – $58,700 |
Remember: Some schools offer scholarships or part-time jobs to help with tuition.
Living Expenses in Boston for Students
Apart from school fees, you also need to think about the living expenses in Boston for students. Boston is a beautiful place but not the cheapest. Let’s break down the average monthly costs.
Monthly Living Budget
| Item | Estimated Cost per Month |
| Rent (shared room) | $700 – $1,200 |
| Food & Groceries | $250 – $400 |
| Transportation (with student discount) | $90 – $120 |
| Phone & Internet | $50 – $80 |
| Fun/Entertainment | $50 – $150 |
| Health Insurance (monthly) | $125 – $210 |
| Misc. (toiletries, books, etc) | $70 – $150 |
Total Monthly Estimate: $1,200 – $2,000
Yearly Living Cost: $14,400 – $24,000
Tips to Save on Living
- Live with roommates to share rent
- Cook at home instead of eating out
- Use student transport cards for discounts
- Shop at affordable stores like Target or Walmart
- Look for part-time jobs if your visa allows
How to Apply to a University in Boston
To study in Boston for international students, here’s what you need to apply:
- High school or college transcripts
- Valid international passport
- English test scores – IELTS or TOEFL
- Statement of purpose (why you want to study)
- Recommendation letters
- Application fees (usually $50–$100)
How to Save on Living Costs
Boston can be expensive, but there are smart ways to save money:
- Cook at home instead of eating out daily
- Use student discounts for buses, trains, and shopping
- Share your apartment with other students
- Use free school resources like libraries and events
- Find part-time jobs (schools often help with this)
Where to Live: Housing Tips for Students
Finding a safe and affordable place to stay is important when you study in Boston for international students. Here are your options:
- Dormitories (on-campus housing): Easy and safe but can be expensive
- Shared Apartments: Cheaper and more flexible
- Homestay: Live with a local family for a better cultural experience
- Student Websites: Use places like Facebook groups, school forums, or trusted websites
Always visit the place or get a virtual tour before paying rent. Make sure the area is safe and close to public transport.
Why IBS Consulting is Your Best Option
Planning to study in Boston for international students comes with a lot of stress, from choosing the right school, to applying, getting your visa, and finding a place to stay. That’s why many students trust IBS Consulting.
Here’s why IBS Consulting is your best friend during this process:
- They help you choose the best universities in Boston for international students that match your budget and goals
- They guide you through the visa process step by step
- They help you gather documents and apply to schools
- They advise on living expenses in Boston for students so you can budget wisely
- They also help you apply for scholarships or affordable schools like community colleges
- And even after you arrive, they keep in touch and support you if you need anything.
How to Apply to Study in Boston
Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Choose the school
- Visit the school website
- Apply online and upload your documents
- Wait for an admission offer
- Get your I-20 form (needed for visa)
- Apply for a student visa (F1 visa)
- Plan your travel and get ready.
Documents you need:
- School transcripts
- English test result (TOEFL/IELTS)
- Passport
- Statement of purpose or essay
Apply early. Some schools close applications by January or February.
Interested in learning more about the benefits of studying abroad? Call IBS Consulting to schedule a FREE consultation right away!
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Student Visa for the USA (F1 Visa Basics)
To study in Boston for international students, you need a student visa.
What is an F1 visa?
- It lets you live and study in the USA as a student.
What you need:
- Form I-20 from your school
- Pay the SEVIS fee
- Fill out the DS-160 form
- Book a visa interview at the U.S. embassy
- Show your passport, school letter, and money proof
Tips:
- Answer questions honestly
- Show you plan to return to your home country after school
Working While Studying in Boston
Yes, international students can work, but with rules:
- You can work on-campus for up to 20 hours per week
- After your course, you can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) to work in your field
- You must get permission from your school before working
Common jobs:
- Library assistant
- Cafeteria worker
- School office helper
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
If you’re planning to study in Boston for international students, you probably have a lot of questions. Let’s answer a few of the most common ones:
Is Boston affordable for students?
Boston can be pricey. But you can save money by:
- Sharing a room or apartment with other students
- Cooking your own meals instead of eating out
- Applying for school or private scholarships
These small changes can help reduce the living expenses in Boston for students.
What is the cheapest university in Boston?
If you’re looking to save money, community colleges like:
- Bunker Hill Community College
- Roxbury Community College
are the most affordable options. They offer good education at a lower price.
Can I get a scholarship in Boston?
Yes! Many schools in Boston offer scholarships to international students.
- Make sure to apply early
- Meet the school’s requirements
- Keep your grades high
How much does it cost to live in Boston monthly?
You might spend between $1,200 to $2,000 per month. This depends on:
- Where you live
- How you eat
- Your lifestyle
This is a big part of the cost of studying in Boston for international students.
What documents do I need to study in Boston?
You will need:
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- A valid passport
- School transcripts
- English test scores (like IELTS or TOEFL)
- A student visa (F-1)
Conclusion
Planning to study in Boston for international students is a big step. But it’s also a smart one. Boston is home to some of the best universities in Boston for international students, like Harvard, MIT, and Boston University. These schools are known for good teaching and great student life.
We understand that the cost of studying in Boston for international students may feel high. Between tuition fees in Boston universities and your day-to-day costs, it adds up. But don’t worry, there are ways to manage it. Many students get scholarships, find part-time work, and live with friends to cut costs.
If you’re serious about making your dream come true, start preparing now. Choose your school. Get your documents ready. Ask questions when you are not sure.
And if you need help, IBS Consulting is here for you. We can guide you from start to finish; school choice, application, visa support, and more. We’ve helped many students who want to study in Boston for international students, and we can help you too. Let us make your study journey easier. Reach out today, we’re happy to help.
