The Demand for Physiotherapy has been increasing in the USA over the years, as many have started focusing on fitness, and it also helps in injury recovery and chronic conditions. More job opportunities arise in hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centres and sports to regain physical body function.
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Let's take a quick look at the top best universities in the USA for Masters in physiotherapy.
Top Universities for Physiotherapy in the USA
The USA is home to several premier institutions offering top-notch physiotherapy programs, blending rigorous academic instruction with extensive clinical experience.
Universities like the University of Southern California, the University of Pittsburgh, and Northwestern University lead with advanced research facilities, comprehensive curricula, specialised clinical internships, and high postgraduate employability rates.
Here are the 10 best universities in the USA for masters in physiotherapy :
| University Name | QS World University Rankings 2025 | Annual Tuition Fees (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| University of Washington | 63 | 30 lakhs |
| University of South California | 116 | 50 lakhs |
| Northwestern University | 47 | 50 lakhs |
| University of Delaware | 498 | 27 lakhs |
| University of Pittsburgh | 222 | 30 lakhs |
| University of Iowa | 491 | 25 lakhs |
| Duke University | 57 | 35 lakhs |
| Emory University | 199 | 45 lakhs |
| Creighton University | 309 | 30 lakhs |
| George Mason University | 801-1000 | 25 lakhs |
Admission Requirements for Physiotherapy in the USA
For Indian students who are looking forward to making a career in physiotherapy in the USA must meet a set of criteria and requirements for admission. Let’s take a closer look at the requirements.
Educational Qualification:
- For UG: A minimum SAT score of 600-800.
- For PG: Having a recognised degree with a minimum of 60%
When it comes to english language proficiency, the minimum score requirements are as follows:
GRE or GMAT Scores:
- Universities in the USA may ask for GRE or GMAT scores for Physiotherapy programs. Average scores needed are as follows:
Work Experience (For PG Only):
- A minimum of two years of post-qualification experience is necessary for Physiotherapy in the USA.
- You should also complete about 20-24 hours of physical training (PT) to demonstrate your experience.
- Having work experience can improve your chances of admission.
Copy of Passport and Visa:
- Indian students need a visa and a passport for admission to the USA universities.
- Apply for a USA student visa at least three months before your planned travel to the USA.
Finally, here is a list of documents required for physiotherapy in the USA for international students:
- Academic transcripts
- Original certificates from the university
- Scorecards for English Language Proficiency (ELP) and either the GRE or GMAT
- Statement of purpose
- Letter of recommendation
- Resume or CV
- Copy of your passport
- Proof of your financial resources
- Visa to study in the USA.
Application Process for Physiotherapy in the USA
Now, let’s explore the application process for programs in physiotherapy in the USA for international students. Follow these steps to smooth the admission process:
- Identify the university that offers courses in Physiotherapy in the USA.
- Once you decide on a university, visit its official website to find all the requirements.
- Fill out the application form and any the application fee.
- Submit all required documents before the application deadline.
- If you receive an invitation, attend university interviews.
- After the interviews, wait for the application letter and arrange the required funds for the university deposit.
Top Scholarships for Courses in Physiotherapy in the USA
Getting a Physiotherapy degree at a university in the USA can be very expensive. Well, the good news is that many universities in the USA provide Scholarships for Physiotherapy in the USA for Indian Students. Let’s take a look at various scholarships that are available for Indian students.
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility Criteria | Scholarship Amount (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| AAUW Indian Fellowship Program | Non-American women with a bachelor’s degree. | 16 lakh |
| F.A. Davis Scholarship | Student of a Physiotherapy course with a minimum 3.0 GPA. | 2.5 lakh |
| Quad Fellowship | Students from Australia, India, Japan, and the USA studying STEM degrees and clinical healthcare. | 40 lakh |
| Merit Scholarship, Northwestern University | Students with a GPA of 3.6 scores | Varies |
| Stauffer Scholarships, University of Delaware | Students of the Physical Therapy program | Varies |
| Mary Gross Hutchinson Memorial Scholarship, University of Washington | Students of Physical Therapy with good scores | Varies |
| Norman & Ruth Goldman Scholarships, University of Iowa | Students of the Physical Therapy program | Varies |
| Fulbright Foreign Student Scholarship Program | Students of PG and PhD courses in Physiotherapy | Varies |
| Anne Doyle Indian Student Award | Students will be chosen based on their academic record, essays and LOR. | 85,000 |
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Job Opportunities for Physiotherapy in the USA
Physiotherapy jobs in the USA provide many opportunities. Once you finish your physiotherapy studies there, you can find jobs in public and private hospitals, home healthcare services, nursing, and physician offices.
The average annual salary for a physical therapist in the USA is between 50 lakhs INR and 1.2 crores INR.
Some popular Physiotherapy jobs in USA are listed below:
| Job Prospect | Average Salary (INR) |
|---|---|
| Osteopath | 69 lakhs |
| Physical Therapist | 75 lakhs |
| Rehabilitation Director | 70 lakhs |
| Research Assistant | 51 lakhs |
| Sports Physio Rehabilitator | 65 lakhs |
What is the Physiotherapy License Exam in the USA?
Candidates who are looking forward to practising Physiotherapy in the USA must pass the NPTE examination, which stands for National Physical Therapy Examination.
This Physiotherapy License exam in the USA is administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy. It is necessary to clear this examination for both US and international therapists.
Covering topics such as therapeutic procedures, patient care and clinical science, the exam consists of about 250 multiple-choice questions.
Having a clear understanding of the exam formats and a strategic study plan will play a crucial role in getting good results.
Scope of Physiotherapy in the USA
With an increasing demand and growing space in the health care sector, the need for Physical Therapists in Hospitals, clinics and even sports teams will further continue to expand in the coming years.
As many people have started to prioritise health and lead a quality life, the need for such professionals will further increase in the future and will surely play a key role in the healthcare system in the USA.
They often collaborate with physicians, occupational therapists, and other specialists to create comprehensive care plans, making them an essential part of multidisciplinary medical teams.
Comparison with Physiotherapy Programs in Other Countries
Physiotherapy in the USA vs. Canada
| Feature | USA | Canada |
|---|---|---|
| Degree Requirement | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Master’s in Physical Therapy (MPT) or equivalent |
| Licensing Exam | NPTE (National Physical Therapy Exam) | PCE (Physiotherapy Competency Exam) |
| Study Duration | 6–7 years (Bachelor’s + DPT) | 5–6 years (Bachelor’s + MPT) |
| Post-Study Work Options | OPT + H1B Visa Pathway | Up to 3-year Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) |
| Tuition Costs (Avg.) | High (USD 60,000–100,000) (INR 50L - 84L) | Moderate–High (CAD 40,000–60,000) (INR 33L - 50L ) |
| Career Outlook | Strong demand in rehab, geriatrics | High demand in urban and underserved areas |
| Language Requirement | TOEFL/IELTS (for international students) | IELTS/TOEFL required |
Physiotherapy in the USA vs. Australia
| Feature | USA | Australia |
|---|---|---|
| Degree Requirement | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Bachelor’s + Master’s in Physiotherapy |
| Licensing/Registration | NPTE Exam + State Licensing | AHPRA registration + possible assessments |
| Study Duration | 6–7 years (Bachelor’s + DPT) | 4–5 years (combined undergrad/postgrad) |
| Post-Study Work Options | OPT + H1B Visa Pathway | Up to 4 years, depending on course length |
| Tuition Costs (Avg.) | High (USD 60,000–100,000) | Moderate (AUD 35,000–55,000) |
| Career Outlook | High in geriatrics, orthopaedics | Strong in aged care, disability, and sports rehab |
| Language Requirement | TOEFL/IELTS (for international students) | IELTS/TOEFL required |
Physiotherapy in the USA vs. the UK
| Feature | USA | UK |
|---|---|---|
| Degree Requirement | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | BSc or MSc in Physiotherapy |
| Licensing/Registration | NPTE + State Licensure | HCPC Registration (mandatory for practice) |
| Study Duration | 6–7 years (Bachelor’s + DPT) | 3–4 years (undergrad) or 1–2 years (postgrad MSc) |
| Post-Study Work Options | OPT + H1B Visa Pathway | 2-year post-study work visa for international grads |
| Tuition Costs (Avg.) | High (USD 60,000–100,000) | Moderate (GBP 25,000–40,000) |
| Career Outlook | Excellent in rehab, sports, and hospitals | Good in NHS and private practice |
| Language Requirement | TOEFL/IELTS (for international students) | IELTS is required for HCPC registration |
Conclusion
With the ever-growing demand for Physical therapists across various sectors, there are excellent exposure and opportunities for those looking to specialise in physiotherapy in the USA.
To guide you through your dream career journey, reach out to us at Leap Scholar. Leap Scholar provides flexible study options, collaborating with leading Indian universities to help you achieve your foreign education goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. Are physiotherapists in demand in the USA?
A. Yes, physiotherapists are highly in demand in the USA. Due to an aging population, increasing chronic conditions, and rising emphasis on preventive healthcare and rehabilitation, the profession is projected to grow significantly, offering excellent job prospects and competitive salaries across various sectors.
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Q. What are the job prospects for physiotherapy graduates in the USA?
A. The job prospects for physiotherapy graduates in the USA are generally promising. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of physical therapists is projected to grow 18% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. The increasing ageing population and the need for rehabilitation services contribute to this growth.
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Q. Can Indian students work as physiotherapists in the USA after graduation?
A. Indian students graduating from a physiotherapy program in the USA can work as physiotherapists by obtaining a work visa. One standard option is the H-1B visa, which allows employers to hire foreign workers in speciality occupations. However, it's important to note that the job market and visa requirements can change over time, so it is advisable to consult the relevant immigration authorities or an immigration attorney for the most up-to-date information.
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Q. What are the prerequisites for studying physiotherapy in the USA?
A. The prerequisites for studying physiotherapy program in the USA vary among universities and programs. However, typical requirements include a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, completion of specific prerequisite courses (such as biology, chemistry, and physics), a minimum GPA, and satisfactory scores on standardised tests like the GRE (Graduate Record Examination).
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Q. Are scholarships available for Indian students studying physiotherapy in the USA?
A. There are scholarships available for Indian students studying physiotherapy in the USA. Some universities offer merit-based scholarships specifically for Indian students, while others may have general scholarships or funding opportunities for students in the health sciences field. External organisations and foundations also provide scholarships or grants for Indian students.
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Q. Can physiotherapy courses be studied online in the USA?
A. Yes, there are online physiotherapy courses available in the USA. However, most physiotherapy programs require significant practical experience and hands-on training, which may not be entirely feasible through online learning. Some universities may offer hybrid programs that combine online coursework with on-campus or clinical components, allowing students to gain necessary practical skills while studying remotely.
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Q. Do physiotherapy courses in the USA require clinical placements?
A. Yes, physiotherapy courses in the USA typically require clinical placements, as practical experience is integral to the curriculum. These clinical placements provide students with real-world exposure under the supervision of licensed physical therapists. Clinical placements may occur in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, rehabilitation centres, sports clinics, or private practices.
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Q. Are physiotherapy courses in the USA accredited?
A. Yes, physiotherapy courses in the USA are typically accredited by the CAPTE. Accreditation ensures that the program meets quality education and clinical training standards. Graduating from an accredited program is essential for obtaining licensure as a physical therapist and practising professionally in the USA.
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Q. What is the cost of living for physiotherapy students in the USA?
A. The cost of living for physiotherapy students depends on the location and personal lifestyle choices. You can spend roughly 9 lakhs INR to 15 lakhs INR per year on accommodation, including shared apartments or university dormitories. Other living expenses, such as food, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, may add to the expenses.
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Q. How much does a Master's in Physiotherapy cost in the USA?
A. A Master’s Program in Physiotherapy in the USA will cost you anywhere between USD 20K - 60K (INR 17L - 51L), depending on the University and the specific program that you would choose.
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Q. What are the best universities in the USA for physiotherapy programs?
A. There are many top-ranking universities in the USA that offer physiotherapy. Notable mentions are Northwestern University, the University of Delaware, the University of Pittsburgh and Washington.
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