Did you know that the USA continues to be the top choice for MS programmes worldwide? Studying in the USA gives you access to top universities, incredible facilities, and scholarships to ease the financial burden.
If you’ve been thinking, “What are the best masters courses in the USA in 2025?” or “What are the best universities in the USA for MS for Indian students?” You’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the top courses, universities, and funding options that can help you achieve your dreams!
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According to The Open Doors report, the USA hosts more than 1 million international students, with Indians being the country’s second-most populous international student group. This is an all-time high. Indian students now form 6% of the total international student population in the USA.
The USA is home to some of the world’s top-ranked universities. Indian students mostly prefer to pursue MS courses in USA. Some of the most popular include Stanford University, Texas A&M University, Arizona State University, and the University of California, Berkeley.
What is an MS in the USA?
The MS courses in the USA primarily include STEM courses, which denote programs in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Management.
The average duration of an MS program in the USA is 1-2 years. However, the duration of a Master’s program in Computer Science and Engineering is up to 3-5 years. In medicine, the course duration can be up to 6 years, depending on your specialisation.
Why Study MS Courses in the USA?
From the quality of education to the standard of living, the reason why the country attracts millions of students to its apex is diverse. Let us look at some of the top reasons:
- Quality of Education:
The US is home to some of the top-ranked universities in the world. According to the Times Higher Education ranking 2025, 38 of the top 100 universities are from the USA.
- Renowned Faculties:
Opting for the USA for your MS program will allow you to study and practice under leading experts in the field. The USA is known for employing the world’s most renowned faculties and resources.
- Wider choice of specialisations:
The country’s vast education system not only provides diverse options but also offers specialised programs that allow you to tailor your studies according to your specific interests and career goals.
- Research Opportunities:
The US government invests considerably in research and technology, making it one of the best places to conduct research.
- Networking Opportunities:
Universities in the USA maintain strong connections with top industries, businesses, and alumni networks. This will help you foster a better professional and personal network, which will help you further in your career.
- Scholarships Based on Merit:
Numerous scholarships are available to students in the USA who are pursuing an MS. These include university scholarships and scholarships from other external bodies or the government based on the student’s academic merit.
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Best MS Courses in the USA
The USA offers a variety of course options for a Master of Science degree. Considering all the relevant factors, it is important to figure out your field.
Not all programs are paid equally in terms of salary and reputation. Since the USA allows you to choose from a wide range of options, seek out your program based on its job prospects, average salary, and other benefits. Above all, ensure you are interested in the course and its specifics.
With the most popular programmes in each field and prestigious universities to pick from, we have put together a list of the top MS courses in the USA.
Check out the best MS courses in the USA:
| Course | Programs Offered | Top Universities |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering | Bio-Medical Engineering | Massachusetts Institute of Technology |
| Chemical Engineering | Stanford University | |
| Civil Engineering | Harvard University | |
| Computer Engineering | University of Pennsylvania | |
| Mechanical Engineering | Massachusetts Institute of Technology | |
| Aeronautical Engineering | Cornell University | |
| Business & Management | Business Analytics | Massachusetts Institute of Technology |
| International Management | New York University (NYU) | |
| Finance | Stanford University | |
| Marketing | University of Southern California (USC) | |
| Public Health | Environmental Health Sciences | University of Washington |
| Epidemiology | Massachusetts Institute of Technology | |
| Population, Family & Health | Johns Hopkins University | |
| Biostatistics | University of Pennsylvania | |
| Sciences | Biology | Yale University |
| Mathematics | Stanford University | |
| Physics | California Institute of Technology | |
| Data Science | University of Pennsylvania |
Top Universities to Study MS Courses in the USA
UNESCO categorises the USA among the countries with a well-developed educational system.
Here is a list of the top 10 universities in the USA according to the QS World Ranking 2025. We have also compiled the average annual tuition fee for an MS course for each university for your reference.
Top universities in the USA for MS and their tuition fees:
| Top University | QS Rankings 2025 | Annual Tuition Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | 1 | INR 44L- 70 L |
| Harvard University | 4 | INR 42 L – 72 L |
| Stanford University | 6 | INR 32 L – 51 L |
| University of California Berkeley (UCB) | 12 | INR 22 L – 63 L |
| University of Chicago | 21 | INR 30 L – 62 L |
| University of Pennsylvania | 11 | INR 22L – 62L |
| Cornell University | 16 | INR 18 L – 25 L |
| California Institute of Technology | 10 | INR 45 L – 51 L |
| Yale University | 23 | INR 39 L – 45 L |
| Princeton University | 22 | INR 44 L – 50 L |
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Scholarships for MS Courses in the USA
While the quality of education and career prospects of the USA are notable attractions, many international students choose the country for its good standard of living. Scholarships play a crucial role for many international students because when the standard of living increases, the average living cost in the place consequently increases.
Millions of international students reach the country every year despite the higher cost. The major reason for this trend is the country’s availability of scholarships and other financial aid.
These scholarships can cover your tuition fees, accommodation charges, health insurance, and travel allowance.
| Scholarship | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships | – USD 100K (INR 83 L) – tuition fees – One-way airfare |
| Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowship | – Provides J-1 visa support – Round-trip economy class airfare – Covers tuition and other fees |
| National Overseas Scholarship | – Maintenance Allowance: $15,400 (₹12 L) – Contingency Allowance: $1,500 (₹1 L) – Tuition and visa expenditures are covered – Medical insurance & equipment allowance is also given. |
| Knight-Hennessy Scholars at Stanford University | – Covers tuition fees and associated fees. – A stipend for living and academic expenses – travel stipend (economy-class ticket) |
| AAUW International Fellowships | – USD 20K – USD 50,000 (INR 16 L – INR 41 L) – Air travel stipend. – Covers tuition fees and living expenses. |
Admission Process for MS Courses in the USA
We have compiled the general steps for admission to an MS program in the USA. You can refer to it to develop a general awareness of the procedure.
Follow the steps below to have the most streamlined admission experience.
1. Choose Your Course and University
- Decide the course you want to pursue.
- Research and shortlist the best universities offering your desired program.
2. Check University Requirements
- Visit the university’s official website.
- Review eligibility criteria, required documents, admission process, and application fees.
3. Prepare and Provide requested details such as:
- Academic transcripts
- IELTS/TOEFL scores
- GMAT/GRE scores
- CV, LORs, and SOP
- Upload all necessary documents for review.
4. Pay the Application Fee
- Complete your application by paying the required fee.
5. Await University Response
- Wait for the university’s decision.
- If accepted, proceed with the visa application process.
Eligibility Requirements
The eligibility requirements for an MS program in the USA vary across colleges and universities. It can also depend on the program you opt for.
The general eligibility criteria for an MS in the USA are listed below:
- Undergraduate Degree:
The first requirement for studying MS courses in the USA is a bachelor’s degree. Although the scores vary by course and university, most universities require a minimum of 60% for a bachelor’s degree.
- Language Requirement:
Most universities ask for a language proficiency test. The common tests are IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and Duolingo. In general, the minimum score requirement for an MS in the USA is:
- GMAT/GRE: Certain MS courses in the USA require you to clear entrance examinations as part of their admission process. For subjects such as finance and management, universities ask for a GMAT or GRE. In general, a good test score for an MS in the USA is:
- Work Experience: Some universities in the USA ask for a minimum of 2 to 3 years of work experience to pursue an MS course.
In Summary
The United States is frequently regarded as the best place to pursue an MS degree abroad. By selecting the right program and institution, you can gain the skills and global exposure needed to excel in your chosen field and build a rewarding career.
The average yearly salary of students pursuing jobs after MS in the USA is INR 70 L-1 Crore. This can further escalate depending on your experience level, specialisation, work location, and work profile.
Leap Scholar’s expert guides can help you land the best universities and determine the best exam to land your dream university without trouble! Contact Leap today to begin your journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. Which MS program is best for getting a job in the USA?
A. STEM-related MS Programmes, such as computer science, electrical engineering, and data science, provide some of the best returns on investment in tuition fees to the average salary earned. STEM programs include Programmes in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Numerous specialisations are under each of these categories.
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Q. How long can I work in the USA after an MS?
A. International students with an F-1 visa who complete their master’s degree can stay in the USA for a duration of 12 months under the Optional Practical Training (OPT) scheme. The period can be extended to three years for those pursuing an MS degree in STEM fields such as computer science, engineering, and business management.
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Q. How do I get a job in the USA after getting an MS?
A. Most top universities in the United States have a high placement rate. International students typically apply directly on recruiter websites to gain MS jobs in the USA. Graduates can also apply for job openings on LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor to find job opportunities after MS in the United States.
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Q. How much can I make after studying MS courses in the USA?
A. The average annual salary in the USA for professionals with a master’s degree is INR 70,83,891. However, your salary can vary depending on several factors, such as your level of experience, specialisation, work location, and work profile. Completing your master’s from the top universities in the country will also escalate your job prospects.
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Q. What is the estimated cost of living for international students in the USA?
A. International students’ estimated cost of living in the USA is ₹97,637 per month. This excludes rent, which can vary depending on your region. The average annual tuition fee in the USA is INR 25L -99L. Since the USA provides numerous scholarships for its international students, which can help you to fund your studies.
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Q. Which is the best institute for MS Courses in the USA?
A. Over 1,500 universities in the United States offer master’s degrees. MIT, Stanford University, and Harvard University are among the top universities in the United States. Other top universities in the country include:
– University of California Berkeley (UCB)
– University of Chicago
– University of Pennsylvania
– Duke University
– Cornell University -
Q. What is the duration for MS courses in the USA?
A. In the USA, MS programs last between one and two years. This can vary depending on your field of study. The duration of a Master’s program in Computer Science and Engineering is up to 3-5 years. In medicine, the course duration can be up to 6 years, depending on your specialisation.
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Q. What are the best MS courses in the USA?
A. The USA is one of the most opted study-abroad destinations for an MS program. Some of the best MS courses offered by the universities in the USA are:
– Bio-Medical Engineering
– Chemical Engineering
– Civil Engineering
– Business Analytics
– Environmental Health Sciences
– Epidemiology
– Population, Family & Health
– Biostatistics -
Q. What are the top universities in the USA for an MS course?
A. The USA is home to some of the most prestigious universities in the world. Some of the top universities in the USA for an MS are:
– Massachusetts Institute of Technology
– Harvard University
– Stanford University
– University of California Berkeley (UCB)
– University of Chicago -
Q. Can I get scholarships to study MS in the USA?
A. Yes, it is possible to get a scholarship to complete an MS in the USA. Some of the most popular scholarships are:
– Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships
– Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowship
– National Overseas Scholarship
– Knight-Hennessy Scholars at Stanford University
– AAUW International Fellowships -
Q. Which course is best after completing MS?
A. The best course after completing an MS depends on your career goals and interests. You can consider pursuing an MBA or a PG course in management, which can help you improve your skills and knowledge to excel in leadership roles. Other options are also available, such as, pursuing a PhD for advanced research or professional certifications like PMP or CISSP for specialized skills.
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