Eligibility to Study in the USA from Nepal

Last reviewed: July 20, 2026. There is no single national GPA, test score, or percentage that guarantees admission to a U.S. college. Each institution and program sets its own academic and English-language requirements. Admission, Form I-20 issuance, and the student-visa decision are separate steps.

1. Choose an eligible U.S. institution

Students seeking F-1 or M-1 status should apply to a school certified by the U.S. Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). A school can issue Form I-20 only after it admits the student and enters the required information in SEVIS. Before paying an application deposit, verify the institution and program and read its international-admissions page.

Search the official SEVP school list.

2. Meet the institution’s academic requirements

Requirements differ by degree level and program. A typical application may request transcripts, certificates, an English translation where necessary, recommendations, a statement of purpose, a resume, or a portfolio. The university decides how it evaluates Nepalese qualifications and whether credential evaluation is required.

  • Undergraduate: usually secondary-school records and any program-specific prerequisites.
  • Graduate: usually a relevant bachelor’s degree plus department-specific requirements.
  • Transfer: prior college records and a course-by-course credit review.

A three-year bachelor’s degree is accepted by some graduate programs and not by others. Do not treat it as universally accepted or rejected; check the exact program.

3. Check the current testing policy

SAT, ACT, GRE, and GMAT are not universal U.S. government requirements. A university may require, recommend, waive, or not consider them. The same principle applies to IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo English Test, and other evidence of English proficiency. Use the admissions page for the intended intake, because policies can change.

Do not take an exam solely because a general study-abroad article says it is mandatory. Confirm the accepted test, minimum score, score validity, and submission deadline directly with the institution.

4. Show sufficient funding for Form I-20

After admission, the school normally asks for financial evidence before issuing Form I-20. The amount should be based on the institution’s own estimated tuition and living expenses, not a generic national figure. Funding may include personal or family funds, scholarships, school funding, or other documented sources accepted by the school.

F-1 students have limited employment options, so a future part-time job should not be presented as the main plan for paying tuition and living costs. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security advises students to speak with their designated school official before accepting employment.

5. Apply for the appropriate student visa

Receiving Form I-20 does not guarantee a visa. For an F-1 or M-1 application, the U.S. Department of State lists core documents such as a valid passport, DS-160 confirmation page, fee receipt when required, photograph, and Form I-20. A consular officer determines visa eligibility. Applicants may also be asked for evidence of academic preparation, intent to depart after study, and ability to pay educational and living expenses.

Use the official instructions for the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you will apply, because appointment and payment procedures are location-specific.

Practical eligibility checklist

  1. Select the degree, subject, intake, and budget.
  2. Confirm the school is SEVP-certified.
  3. Read the exact program’s academic and English requirements.
  4. Check whether SAT, ACT, GRE, or GMAT is required for that program.
  5. Prepare transcripts and any certified translations requested.
  6. Apply for admission and financial aid by the institution’s deadlines.
  7. After admission, submit acceptable financial evidence for Form I-20.
  8. Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee and follow the official student-visa process.

Useful MKS Prep guides

Official sources

This guide is general educational information. Always follow the current requirements of the institution and the official U.S. government websites.

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