Quick Definition
Cost of Attendance (COA) is the total estimated annual cost of studying at a US university, including tuition, fees, housing, food, books, transportation, and personal expenses. Stated on the I-20 form, it is the amount of financial evidence required for the F-1 visa application.
Cost of Attendance (COA) — Full Explanation
COA for US universities: $40,000–$90,000/year (tuition + living). The COA on your I-20 is what you must demonstrate you can fund. Subtract any awarded scholarships to get the remaining financial requirement. On-campus housing is cheaper than off-campus in most US cities.
Country Relevance
USA
AS
Written & reviewed by
Arjun SinghAcademic Counsellor — Test Prep & Complex Profiles
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — you must show funds equal to the full first-year COA on your I-20, minus any confirmed scholarship or assistantship awards.
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