Understanding MPC’s Expenses
Cost of Attendance
You must provide documentation showing sufficient funds to cover your first year in the U.S. when you apply. Estimated costs include living expenses, tuition, fees, health insurance, and books.
F-1 students must enroll in at least 12 units each semester and purchase mandatory
health insurance. Tuition and fees are subject to change based on the required minimum
units for F-1 status.
Estimated Annual Costs for F-1 Student for 9-Month School Year (2024-2025)
- Tuition, Enrollment & Student Fees: $10,572.00 based on $437 per unit for 12 units minimum for two semesters and additional fees
- Mandatory Health Insurance: $1,736.40 ($868.20 per semester)
- Estimated Living Expenses: $9,000, including books, supplies, room and board, etc.
Total Estimated Cost: $21,308.40
How to Pay
Tuition and health insurance fees are paid per semester, not annually, and vary based on enrolled units. Payment is due after you enroll in your classes. Other expenses like books and housing are separate. International students must pay non-resident tuition rates throughout their studies and cannot establish California residency for tuition purposes.
Mandatory Health Insurance
By default, you will be assigned health insurance from MPC and fees charged as follows:
- Fall Semester: August 1 - January 31 ($868.20)
- Spring Semester: February 1 - July 31 ($868.20)
When you register for classes, the insurance fee will be added to your WebReg account. This insurance is required and cannot be deferred.
To pay the fee separately from your tuition, submit a WebReg slip to Fiscal Services by email or in person.
You may purchase a health insurance policy other than the one provided by MPC. The benefits of the outside insurance must be comparable to those provided by MPC for international students, and you must follow the strict guidelines below for your insurance to be approved by the ISP Office.
- The health insurance company must be based in the United States (US). If it is a foreign insurance company, it must have an office in the US.
- You must complete a Health Insurance Affidavit must be completed and signed by the insurance agent working for the insurance company.
- The Health Insurance Affidavit must be presented to the ISP Office at least one week before registering for classes for approval.
- If you register for classes before your alternative insurance is approved, you will automatically be charged for MPC insurance. If this happens, you must either request a refund from the alternative insurance provider, or carry both types of insurance.
If you’re completing Optional Practical Training (OPT) authorized with your F-1 visa, you are not required to have medical insurance. However, because of high healthcare costs in the United States, the ISP Office strongly encourages F‐1 students to ensure they always have adequate insurance coverage. We urge you to protect yourself financially by purchasing health insurance.
A major illness or accident in the United States can be financially devastating if you do not have adequate coverage. If you have questions or want further information, please consult the International Student Program Coordinator in the ISP Office.