Dhiraj Kandel
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Finance
Whether it is Wall Street investment banks in New York City to the corporate headquarters of Fortune 500 companies, pursuing finance in the USA puts one right at the center of the world economy.
To Nepali students, it presents a chance to acquire world-class knowledge in the understanding of banking, investment, risk management, and corporate finance, as well as to create a global network.
Your interest may be in investment banking, as a financial analyst, or in assisting businesses in Nepal to secure funds to expand their operations.
A U.S. finance degree will immerse you in an analytical environment to develop critical thinking and technical skills, combined with a global dimension that forms a great start to any professional career.
At Goreto Educational Consultancy – the best educational consultancy in Nepal – we’ve guided many Nepali students into top U.S. finance programs.
From selecting the right university and preparing a competitive application to finding scholarships and handling the visa process, we ensure your journey is smooth and focused on your career goals.
If you’re ready to explore how a finance degree from the USA can open doors worldwide, start here: Study in the USA from Nepal or message us on WhatsApp for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Why Study Finance in Australia?
Finance can be predicted as one of the most profitable and worldwide applicable spheres, and the USA remains its epicenter in terms of financial markets, multinationals, and investors.
Nepali students can study finance in the USA, which not only imparts academic knowledge but also provides exposure and experience in the industry and can make their career fast in any part of the globe.
- International Financial Centre
The USA has Wall Street, the New York Stock Exchange, NASDAQ, and numerous multinational banks, and it is the right place to get training through the real-time market and through market leaders in the industry.
- Various Career Options
U.S finance programs are designed to cater to various career objectives through its specialization.
The specialisations include corporate finance and investment banking, financial planning, fintech, and risk management.
- High Paying Potential
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics puts the median salary of a financial analyst at above 96 thousand dollars a year, with seniority positions of investment banker and portfolio managers making far more.
- Real World Learning Possibilities
In the United States, colleges and universities combine the use of case studies, trading simulations, internships, and networking opportunities in their finance courses so the graduates are ready to work.
- International Awareness & connections
A USA degree in finance is held in high esteem across the globe, and this will allow one to work in the U.S., back to Nepal, contribute towards the growth of the banking industry, or even work in global financial centers like London, Dubai, and Singapore.
Course Levels & Highlights
Finance programs in the USA are offered at different levels, allowing Nepali students to enter based on their academic background, budget, and career plans.
The level you choose will determine tuition fees, duration, and the types of roles you can pursue after graduation.
| Level | Duration | What You’ll Learn | Top Institutions |
| Associate Degree in Finance/Business | 2 years | Fundamentals of accounting, economics, corporate finance, and investment principles | De Anza College, Santa Monica College, Northern Virginia Community College |
| Bachelor’s in Finance (BBA/BS) | 4 years | Corporate finance, financial markets, investments, risk management, and financial modelling | University of Pennsylvania (Wharton), University of Michigan, Indiana University Kelley School of Business |
| Master’s in Finance (MSF) | 1–2 years | Advanced corporate finance, derivatives, portfolio management, and financial analytics | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Boston College |
| MBA with Finance Concentration | 1.5–2 years | Strategic management, corporate governance, mergers & acquisitions, global financial strategy | Harvard Business School, Columbia Business School, Stanford Graduate School of Business |
Specialisations for Nepali Students
- Investment Banking
- Cooporate Finance
- Financial Planning & Wealth Management
- Risk Management & Insurance
- Fintech & Financial Analytics
A large number of Nepali students begin at a community college where they get an Associate Degree in business or finance, and then transfer into a university to conclude the last two years of a bachelor’s degree, which saves them the tuition and makes it easy to adapt their learning to the American education system.
Eligibility & Entry Requirements
To study finance in the USA, Nepali students must meet specific academic, English language, and documentation requirements.
These vary by institution and course level, but the general guidelines are as follows:
Academic Requirements
| Program Level | Academic Qualification |
| Associate Degree | Completion of +2 (NEB or equivalent) in any stream; minimum 50% aggregate. |
| Bachelor’s Degree | Completion of +2 (NEB or equivalent) in any stream; minimum 60% aggregate. Some universities may require SAT/ACT scores. |
| Master’s in Finance (MSF) | Bachelor’s degree in finance, business, economics, or a related field. Students from other fields may be accepted with relevant work experience. GRE/GMAT may be required for competitive programs. |
| MBA with Finance Concentration | Bachelor’s degree in any field, preferably with 2–3 years of work experience. GMAT or GRE scores may be required. |
English Language Requirements
| Program Level | IELTS Academic | TOEFL iBT | PTE Academic | Duolingo English Test |
| Associate Degree | Overall 6.0 (no band <5.5) | 61+ | 50+ | 90–100 |
| Bachelor’s Degree | Overall 6.5 (no band <6.0) | 79+ | 58+ | 105–110 |
| Master’s Degree | Overall 6.5–7.0 (no band <6.0) | 79–100+ | 58–65 | 110–120 |
| MBA | Overall 6.5–7.0 (no band <6.0) | 79–100+ | 58–65 | 110–120 |
Documents Required for Application
- Academic transcripts and certificates (SEE/SLC, +2, Bachelor, Master, if applicable)
- Valid passport
- English proficiency test results (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/Duolingo)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) outlining your interest in finance and career goals
- Updated CV (for Master’s/MBA applicants)
- Letters of recommendation (academic/professional)
- GRE/GMAT/SAT/ACT scores if required
- Proof of funds (bank statements, income source)
Note for Nepali Students
In case you missed the requirements to go directly to a bachelor’s degree, you can take a community college business/ finance program and complete it before entering a university. SAT/ACT or GRE/GMAT are not required in many now test-optional U.S. educational institutions.
Plan 9-12 months ahead of your target intake to be at your best, admitted, with scholarships as well!
Costs Breakdown (AUD + NPR)
The study of finance will vary in the USA according to the level of your program, university rank, and its location.
Expensive business schools in the large city centers, such as those located in New York, Boston, or San Francisco, are going to have higher tuition and living expenses, whereas regional and community colleges are cheaper.
| Expense | Associate Degree (USD/NPR) | Bachelor’s Degree (USD/NPR) | Master’s Degree (USD/NPR) | MBA (USD/NPR) |
| Tuition (per year) | $8,000–$15,000 | NPR 1.06M–1.99M | $25,000–$50,000 | NPR 3.32M–6.64M | $25,000–$55,000 | NPR 3.32M–7.31M | $40,000–$75,000 | NPR 5.32M–9.98M |
| Living Expenses (per year) | $12,000–$18,000 | NPR 1.59M–2.39M | $12,000–$18,000 | NPR 1.59M–2.39M | $12,000–$20,000 | NPR 1.59M–2.65M | $15,000–$25,000 | NPR 1.99M–3.32M |
| Health Insurance | $1,000–$2,000 | NPR 132K–265K | $1,000–$2,000 | NPR 132K–265K | $1,000–$2,500 | NPR 132K–332K | $1,000–$2,500 | NPR 132K–332K |
| SEVIS Fee | $350 | NPR 46K | $350 | NPR 46K | $350 | NPR 46K | $350 | NPR 46K |
| Visa Fee (F-1) | $185 | NPR 25K | $185 | NPR 25K | $185 | NPR 25K | $185 | NPR 25K |
Exchange rate used: 1 USD = NPR 133 (subject to change, so check with Goreto for updated figures).
The cost of living will differ a lot based on the city.
In more expensive financial centers such as New York, Boston, or San Francisco, the rent per month may cost between 1,500-2,500 dollars (NPR 199K-332K).
In cheaper cities like Raleigh, North Carolina, or Columbus, Ohio, and especially in the rental cost, it can vary between $800-$ 1200 (NPR 106k-$159K).
Nepali students share apartments, lowering the cost of rent down to 500 to 700 dollars a month (NPR 66K to 93K), and work part-time on campus up to 20 hours a week- at 10 to 15 dollars an hour (NPR 1,330 to 1,995/hour) to pay basic living expenses.
Application & Visa Roadmap
Applying to study finance in the USA requires planning and attention to detail, especially for competitive programs at top-ranked business schools.
Nepali students should start preparations at least 9–12 months before their target intake to allow time for entrance tests, document preparation, and visa processing.
Step-by-Step Guide for Nepali Students
Choose Your Course, Specialisation, and Location
Decide your study level (Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s, MBA) and area of interest — such as corporate finance, investment banking, risk management, or fintech.
Select a city based on both career opportunities and living costs.
Check Entry Requirements
Review academic qualifications, English proficiency scores, and any required standardised tests (SAT/ACT for Bachelor’s, GRE/GMAT for Master’s or MBA).
Prepare Application Documents
- Academic transcripts and certificates (SEE/SLC, +2, Bachelor, Master if applicable)
- Valid passport
- English proficiency test results (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/Duolingo)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining your interest in finance and career aspirations
- Updated CV (especially for Master’s/MBA applicants)
- Letters of recommendation (academic/professional)
- GRE/GMAT/SAT/ACT scores if required
- Proof of funds (bank statements, income source)
Apply to the University/College
Submit your application directly through the university’s online portal or via Goreto Educational Consultancy, the best educational consultancy in Nepal.
Early applications increase your chances of securing scholarships and admission to your preferred program.
Receive and Accept the Offer Letter
Offers may be conditional (pending grades or tests) or unconditional.
Accept your offer by paying the tuition deposit.
Obtain Your I-20 Form
After acceptance and payment, your institution will issue the I-20, which is required to apply for your F-1 visa.
Pay SEVIS Fee & Apply for F-1 Visa
Pay the SEVIS fee ($350 / NPR 46K) online, complete the DS-160 visa form, pay the visa fee ($185 / NPR 25K), and schedule your interview at the U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu.
Visa Interview
Bring your I-20, admission letter, financial documents, SEVIS receipt, DS-160 confirmation, and passport.
Be ready to discuss your study choice, funding plan, and career goals.
Book Travel & Attend Pre-Departure Counselling
Once your visa is approved, book your flights. Goreto provides pre-departure sessions to prepare you for living in the USA — covering accommodation, budgeting, cultural adaptation, and networking with other Nepali students.
Post-Study Work & PR Pathways
U.S. university graduates are given the option of working and gaining post-study work by using Optional Practical Training (OPT) after graduating.
Although the field of finance more typically falls outside of STEM programs, financial streams that include data analytics or quantitative finance may be eligible to be covered by STEM OPT extensions.
| Pathway | What it is | Duration | Why it matters for Finance graduates |
| Curricular Practical Training (CPT) | Paid internship or training during your studies, approved by your university | Part-time or full-time while studying | Helps you gain practical finance experience with banks, investment firms, or corporate finance teams before graduation |
| Optional Practical Training (OPT) | Full-time work in a role related to your degree after graduation | Up to 12 months | Allows you to gain hands-on experience in investment banking, corporate finance, or financial consulting |
| STEM OPT Extension | Extra work period for STEM-eligible finance programs (e.g., quantitative finance, financial analytics) | Extra 24 months (total of 36 months with OPT) | Gives more time to build a strong career profile and seek long-term work sponsorship |
| H-1B Work Visa | Employer-sponsored visa for specialty occupations | Up to 6 years | The common next step after OPT for skilled finance roles can lead to permanent residency |
| Employment-Based Green Card | Permanent residency through employer sponsorship (EB-2 or EB-3 categories) | Varies | Allows you to live and work in the USA long-term if your employer supports your PR application |
There are numerous Nepali finance graduates whose OPT year in bank employment, investment firms, or corporate finance offices provides an opportunity to gain work experience.
Individuals who are in STEM-qualified majors like financial engineering or data analytics usually utilize STEM OPT to make themselves more attractive to H-1B visa or green card sponsorship.
Career Outcomes & Salaries
A finance degree from the USA opens opportunities in banking, investment, corporate finance, fintech, and consulting.
For Nepali students, these roles can provide high earning potential in the USA during OPT or back in Nepal, where the banking and investment sector is rapidly expanding.
| Job Role | Average Annual Salary (USD) | Approx. Annual Salary (NPR) |
| Financial Analyst | $96,000 | NPR 12.76M |
| Investment Banker | $125,000 | NPR 16.62M |
| Portfolio Manager | $120,000 | NPR 15.96M |
| Risk Manager | $110,000 | NPR 14.63M |
| Corporate Finance Manager | $115,000 | NPR 15.29M |
| Financial Planner / Wealth Manager | $90,000 | NPR 11.97M |
| Fintech Product Manager | $105,000 | NPR 13.97M |
| Management Consultant (Finance) | $130,000 | NPR 17.29M |
Exchange rate used: 1 USD ≈ NPR 133 (subject to change — check with Goreto for updated figures).
Frequently Asked Questions
Associate degrees take 2 years, bachelor’s degrees take 4 years, master’s degrees take 1–2 years, and MBA programs usually take 1.5–2 years.
Not always. Many universities accept students directly after a bachelor’s degree, though work experience can strengthen your application. MBA programs often prefer 2–3 years of experience.
Most universities require IELTS 6.5–7.0 or TOEFL iBT 79–100. Some accept PTE or the Duolingo English Test.
Yes. F-1 visa holders can work up to 20 hours per week on campus during classes and full-time during breaks.
Tuition fees range from $8,000 to $75,000 per year (NPR 1.06M–9.98M) depending on the level and institution.
Living expenses are around $12,000–$25,000 per year (NPR 1.59M–3.32M).
Generally, no, but certain finance programs like quantitative finance or financial analytics may qualify for a STEM designation.
While there’s no direct PR pathway after study, you can work under OPT, transition to H-1B if your role qualifies, and later apply for a green card through employer sponsorship.
Yes. It offers high salaries, global career opportunities, and strong demand in both the U.S. and Nepal’s banking sectors.
At Goreto Educational Consultancy, the best educational consultancy in Nepal, we simplify your move into studying finance in the USA, making it a well-informed and stress-free experience.
We have got your back, even when it comes to supporting you to the right university and specialisation, to writing a solid SOP and applying to scholarships, to making it through the F-1 visa process.
We will also make you ready to live in the USA through our pre-departure counselling, which will help you understand how to budget, where to stay, and how to build networks with Nepali students and international students based in the same discipline as you.
If you’re ready to launch your finance career in the USA, visit Study in USA from Nepal or message us on WhatsApp for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Your future in finance starts here.
