Global Select Education and Visa Services
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Friday, January 2, 2026

Top IT Courses in the USA for Nepali Students 2026

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The United States is the global hub of technological innovation, home to Silicon Valley and leading research institutions shaping the future of IT. For Nepali students eager to build a career in information technology, pursuing top IT courses in the USA offers unparalleled opportunities.

American universities lead in research on artificial intelligence, quantum computing, cybersecurity, and more. Internships with global tech giants like Google and Microsoft provide real-world experience, while the entrepreneurial culture fosters creativity and innovation. Graduates enjoy competitive salaries, with average IT salaries projected at $113,000 in 2025, plus access to up to 36months of Optional Practical Training (OPT) for work experience after graduation.

This guide covers why to study IT in the USA, popular specializations, top universities, application processes, scholarships, work opportunities, career prospects, and how GlobalSelect supports Nepali students.

Why Study IT in the USA?

Access to Cutting-Edge Research

US universities invest heavily in advanced technologies such as AI and cybersecurity. Students learn from leading researchers and participate in hands-on projects that push technological boundaries beyond classroom theory.

Real-World IndustryExperience

Internships with major tech companies allow students to work on products impacting millions worldwide. This practical exposure complements rigorous academics and enhancese employablity.

EntrepreneurialEnvironment

The US fosters innovation through startup incubators, mentorships, and venture capital access, ideal for Nepali students aiming to launch tech ventures or develop new solutions while studying or after graduation.

Popular IT Specializations for Nepali Students

  • Software Engineering: Learn core programming languages like Python, Java, and C++ to develop scalable software and applications.
  • Data Science & Analytics: Use Python and R for statistical analysis, machine learning,     visualization, and predictive modeling.
  • Artificial Intelligence &     Machine Learning: Study NLP, computer vision, and deep learning frameworks (TensorFlow/PyTorch) to work on intelligent systems.
  • Cybersecurity: Gain expertise in network security protocols, ethical hacking, and cryptography to protect digital infrastructure.
  • Cloud Computing: Get certified in AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud; learn cloud architecture, serverless computing.
  • UX/UI Design: Combine design thinking with technology using prototyping tools like Figma/Adobe XD to create user-friendly digital experiences.

Top-Ranked US Universities for IT Programs (2025/2026)

  • Massachusetts Institute of     Technology (MIT): World #1 for computer science;     unmatched innovation ecosystem.
  • Stanford University: Located near Silicon Valley; strong entrepreneurial support.
  • Carnegie Mellon University (CMU): Renowned for software engineering & cybersecurity.
  • Harvard University: Strong interdisciplinary approach integrating business & tech.
  • University of California,     Berkeley: Leading research in AI &     data science.

These universities combine academic excellence with industry ties that boost career prospects.

Application Process& Admission Requirements

Key steps include:

  • Standardized tests (TOEFL/IELTS +     GRE/GMAT where required).
  • Document preparation (transcripts, SOPs highlighting technical     skills).
  • Post-admission issuance of I-20 form and SEVIS fee payment.
  • F-1 visa application with interview at U.S. consulate.

Early preparation is essential due to competitive admission processes.

Tuition Fees &Living Costs Estimates

Tuition varies by university but typically ranges from $30,000 to $60,000 per year for graduate programs. Living expenses, including housing, food, and health insurance, average $15,000–$20,000 annually depending on location.

Scholarships &Financial Aid Opportunities

Nepali students can explore:

  • Merit-based scholarships from universities.
  • Need-based financial aid programs.
  • Fulbright Foreign Student Program offering full funding.
  • Aga Khan Foundation Scholarships provide partial grants/loans.
  • MPOWER Financing, offering loans without collateral or cosigners.
  • On-campus employment under F-1 visa guidelines supports additional income.

Proper scholarship guidance can significantly reduce education costs.

Work Opportunities Under F-1 Visa Regulations

During Studies

Students can work up to 20 hours/week on campus during semesters and full-time during breaks.

Internships

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) allows paid internships related directly to your program curriculum while studying.

After Graduation

Optional Practical Training (OPT) provides 12 months of work authorization post-degree; STEM OPT extension adds an additional 24 months for eligible fields—totaling up to 36months of practical experience in the US tech industry.

Transitioning toH-1B

Many graduates transition from OPT/STEM OPT to H-1B specialty worker visas via a lottery system favoring advanced degree holders from US universities.

Career Prospects& Salary Expectations

High-demand roles with average annual salaries (2025 data):

 

Salaries vary by region; tech hubs like Silicon Valley offer premiums of 20–30%. Entry-level roles often begin during OPT internships, progressing rapidly into specialized positions within a few years.

How GlobalSelect Supports Nepali Students

Global Select Nepal provides comprehensive consultancy services including:

  1. Personalized Career Counseling: Align your interests with suitable IT specializations and career goals.
  2. University Shortlisting: Match your profile with top US institutions offering ideal programs.
  3. Scholarship Advisory: Identify funding options, including Fulbright and MPOWER loans.
  4. Application Assistance: Craft compelling SOPs and prepare documents meticulously.
  5. F-1 Visa Guidance: Prepare you confidently for visa interviews, ensuring smooth processing.

With expert support throughout your study abroad journey—from application through career placement GlobalSelect helps Nepali students realize their ambitions in the US IT sector.

Studying IT in the USA offers Nepali students unmatched academic rigor combined with practical training opportunities that pave the way for lucrative global careers in technology’s fastest-growing fields. With careful planning and professional guidance from trusted consultants like Global Select Nepal, you can successfully navigate this exciting path toward becoming a future leader in information technology.

 

 

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CourseBachelor’s DegreeMaster’s DegreeRequirements or ConsiderationsEnglish Language Proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)Tuition Fees (per year for international students)Top Universities
Nursing
3 years1-2 yearsClinical placements required; may need specific health immunizations.Minimum IELTS 6.5; TOEFL 79-93.AUD $30,000 - $45,000University of Sydney, University of Melbourne, Monash University
Information Technology
3-4 years1-2 yearsMay require programming skills or prior coursework in IT.Minimum IELTS 6.5; TOEFL 79-93.AUD $30,000 - $50,000Australian National University, University of New South Wales, University of Melbourne
Accounting
3 years1-2 yearsNeed to meet accreditation standards by professional bodies.Minimum IELTS 6.5; TOEFL 79-93.AUD $30,000 - $40,000University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, University of Queensland
Engineering (various fields)
4 years1-2 yearsStrong background in mathematics and physics required.Minimum IELTS 6.5; TOEFL 79-93.AUD $35,000 - $45,000University of New South Wales, University of Sydney, Monash University
Social Work
4 years1-2 yearsPractical experience or placements required.Minimum IELTS 7.0; TOEFL 94-101.AUD $28,000 - $40,000University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, University of Queensland
Education (various fields)
4 years1-2 yearsA police clearance and working with children check required.Minimum IELTS 7.0; TOEFL 94-101.AUD $28,000 - $35,000University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, Monash University
Psychology
3 years1-2 yearsRequires strong research and psychological theory understanding.Minimum IELTS 7.0; TOEFL 94-101.AUD $30,000 - $45,000University of Sydney, University of New South Wales, University of Queensland
Occupational Therapy
3-4 years1-2 yearsMay require pre-registration or relevant clinical experience.Minimum IELTS 7.0; TOEFL 94-101.AUD $30,000 - $45,000University of Queensland, University of Sydney, Curtin University
Architecture
3-4 years2 yearsIncludes technical and creative coursework, portfolio may be required.Minimum IELTS 6.5; TOEFL 79-93.AUD $35,000 - $50,000University of Sydney, University of Melbourne, Monash University
Medicine and  Health Sciences
5-6 years2-4 yearsHighly competitive entry, includes clinical placements and internships.Minimum IELTS 7.0; TOEFL 94-101.AUD $45,000 - $70,000University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, Australian National University
State/TerritorySubclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa)Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa)
New South Wales (NSW)Required for some occupationsRequired for some occupations and regions
Victoria (VIC)RequiredRequired
Queensland (QLD)Not typically required, conditions applyRequired for some occupations and regions
South Australia (SA)Not typically required, conditions applyRequired for some occupations and regions
Western Australia (WA)Not typically requiredNot typically required
Tasmania (TAS)Not typically required, conditions applyNot typically required, conditions apply
Northern Territory (NT)Not typically requiredNot typically required
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)Required, uses Matrix systemRequired, uses Matrix system