Typical paid range
$140 – $230/hr · $3,000 – $9,000 package
$ (USD) · indicative, get it in writing
Most consultants
Charge you directly
Paid hourly or by package
How consultant fees work here
Independent educational consultants usually work for you and your family rather than for a university, so they charge directly — by the hour or as a package. Their advice is not tied to any institution, but it also means you pay up front. The same core information is available free from your school counsellor and official university websites, so weigh what the extra, personalised guidance is worth to you.
What you can get free elsewhere
- University shortlisting and counselling
- Filling and submitting university applications
- Guidance on the standard student-visa process
Fee red flags
- A guaranteed visa or guaranteed admission — no agent can guarantee a government or university decision.
- A charge for a university offer letter — legitimate universities issue these directly, for free.
- Any fee without an itemised, written breakdown — get it in writing before paying.
- Pressure to hand over original documents (passport, certificates) — give copies, keep originals.
- A blank form to sign — you are legally responsible for what is submitted in your name.
Accreditation & regulation
IECs in the US are not licensed or regulated. Look for membership of IECA, HECA or NACAC, ask about their recent admissions results, and never trust anyone who guarantees admission.
India
Nepal
Bangladesh
Nigeria
Kenya
Philippines
Pakistan
Sri Lanka
Ghana
Vietnam
Indonesia
Malaysia
United Kingdom
Australia
Canada