Reddit user shares what Indian students need to know about US study expenses: Rs 51,657 for shared rooms, visa costs, sponsorship issues

Pursuing a Master’s degree in the United States has long been viewed as a stepping stone to career success, especially for Indian students. However, a recent viral Reddit post has sparked wide discussion by highlighting the stark challenges that come with this dream. The post, written by a student pursuing an MS in the US, offers an unfiltered and brutally honest account of the struggles international students face—from financial burdens and job market instability to mental health crises and cultural isolation.

Financial Struggles and High Living Costs

The student opened the post with a warning: “Don’t come here unless you're fully prepared to weather the storm.” They emphasized that while getting a job is possible, many remain unemployed despite having the right skills. The financial pressure begins early. “$30/hr (Rs 2,582) isn't that much, the rent, utils, insurance, groceries, travel all adds up,” they wrote, adding that students often underestimate their expenses without a strict budget planner.

Even shared accommodations in expensive areas like the Bay Area are costly. “One shared room is shared by 3 people where each pay 600 dollars (Rs 51,657) min each excluding utils,” the student noted. Compounding the issue is the limited on-campus work allowance—20 hours per week during semesters and 40 in the summer—with some jobs paying as little as $16/hour (Rs 1,377).

Loan burdens were another major concern. “I am literally living paycheck by paycheck as I took a huge loan with an interest of 12/annum,” they said, adding that international money transfers also come with additional fees, making things worse.

Visa Hurdles and Job Market Challenges

The post outlines the complex legal path to employment for international students. “You cannot work internships until one year and after you graduate you have 2 months time to find a job where you have to work more than 20 hours/week,” they explained. After the OPT period, students must secure a position at an E-verified company for H-1B sponsorship.

Unfortunately, many employers avoid this. “You’ll see many jobs which you'd fit perfect for say that they don't sponsor and you not to apply.” Even internships are not immune. “Almost all jobs ask you if you want to be sponsored even in internships...it is legal for them to reject candidates if they don't want to sponsor.”

The H-1B visa process has also become more expensive. “The H1B fee has increased to 2500 dollars which was 10 dollars earlier, the companies aren't trying a lot,” the student noted. Despite having four years of startup experience and applying to over 500 internships, they received only two interview calls.

Mental Health and Isolation

In addition to financial and career pressures, the post brings attention to the toll on mental health. “There are many lonely days. If you get sick, you don't got nobody to take care of you,” the user shared. Therapy options are limited by high costs and inadequate insurance coverage: “Therapists here charge 100-200+$/hr, (Rs 8,609 - Rs 17,219) insurance won't cover. No dental or vision plans in student insurance.”

The emotional strain is compounded by the lack of a support system. “Came here knowing nobody or support...you’ll find out in some situation [that] your friends are looking out for themselves.”

Friction with roommates is another source of stress. “Roommates generally are in a similar position and fights break out more, you can't leave either as you'll be in lease...You’ll have to even separate refrigerators as well.”

Subtle Racism and Cultural Barriers

The post also highlights the experience of discrimination. “There is subtle passive and active racism. Stereotypes run deep. You'd be randomly ignored in Walmarts, Aldis etc.” The student also observed that “people think Indians are cheap...you have no idea how much hate Indians get in tech.” Even interactions with fellow Indians were not always supportive. “You'd face more racism from other Indians as well.”

Instances of cultural insensitivity were also mentioned: “Get used to comments about Indian food smell while some microwave raw fish. About how they can't understand you when you talk to them, even though you don't have a thick accent.”

Despite the overwhelming challenges, the student acknowledged moments of kindness. “There are really nice people around too. They genuinely try to help and be nice to you.” Free resources were also a small relief: “You get free stuff off the road...Facebook marketplace actually has pretty good deals...Many temples, churches and gurudwaras give you free food.”

Mixed Reactions From the Community

The Reddit post drew a wide range of responses. One user commented, “It’s hard to save money here...If you came to US a decade ago, it was all worth it, but sure won’t recommend it now.” Another wrote, “Well put. And it's not like it ends after finding a job, you will always be an outsider.”

However, not everyone agreed. “Why do everyone here thinks that all students are doing CS...US is the only place which has most opportunities,” one user said. Another added, “Indians living abroad know they can shift back anytime, but they chose not to...they are simply nostalgic and want the country to prosper.”

The student ended the post with a strong message for anyone considering the same path: “Yes if you can bear all that. Come aboard. Cheers.” They acknowledged the risks and hardships but maintained personal pride in their decision: “I know that nobody is responsible but me for my decision and I am proud of it.”