Why USA for Masters: Top Reasons for Indian Students in 2026

Every year, many Indian students ask why USA for masters. The answer is clear: rising applications and strong career opportunities show that the USA offers excellent education and job prospects after graduation.

In 2023–2024, the country hosted over 3.31 lakh (331,602) Indian students, many enrolled in postgraduate programs, accounting for more than 27% of the total international student population in the U.S. (IIE Open Doors). Leading universities like MIT, Stanford, and the University of Chicago offer advanced research facilities, globally recognised degrees, and strong industry partnerships. Graduates often begin their careers with salaries ranging from $70,000 to $95,000 (₹62–84 lakh per year), depending on the field of study.

These outcomes show why the USA continues to attract ambitious students who want academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong career growth. The next sections will explore in detail what makes the USA the preferred choice for master’s programs.

Why the USA for Masters: Top 5 Advantages and Benefits

The USA has over 4,500 accredited institutions offering masters programs at top universities with research and industry-focused courses. Many Indian students choose to study there, which explains why USA for masters remains a popular choice. Studying in the USA also gives students the chance to experience different cultures, build international networks, and gain global exposure. Graduates can earn high salaries, making a masters in the USA a worthwhile investment.

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1. Top 10 Universities in USA for Masters

Over 1 million international students study in the USA, including 1,65,936 Indian graduate students, a 63% increase from previous years. MIT is recognised for its research output and strong engineering programs, Stanford University has a high number of startups and entrepreneurship opportunities, while Harvard University provides global academic collaborations and extensive business and law programs. Caltech is focused on science and engineering research, and the University of Chicago is known for its economics and data analysis programs.

Graduates from the University of Pennsylvania, Cornell University, University of California, Berkeley (UCB), Yale, or Johns Hopkins University benefit from focused programs in business, engineering, technology, law, and public health, with opportunities to work on research projects and gain experience that supports career growth in their chosen fields.

2. Popular Master's Courses in the USA 

The USA attracts over 2 lakh Indian students, forming the largest international student community. Here are 5 popular master’s programs, their top universities, and tuition fees.

MBA

• Harvard Business School – $90,505 (₹80.4L)
• Stanford Graduate School of Business – $82,455 (₹73.2L)
• Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania – $87,970 (₹78.1L)

MS in Computer Science

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) – $64,310 (₹57.2L)
• Stanford University – $51,887 (₹46.1L)
• University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) – $42,324 (₹37.6L)

MS in Data Science

• New York University (NYU) – $82,512 (₹73.2L)
• University of Chicago – $76,608 (₹68.0L)

Master of Public Health (MPH)

• Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health – $74,340 (₹66.1L)
• Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health – $85,740 (₹76.2L)
• UC Berkeley – $34,685 (₹30.8L)

Master of Laws (LLM)

• Harvard Law School – $80,760 (₹71.8L)
• Yale Law School – $74,044 (₹65.8L)
• Stanford Law School – $103,272 (₹91.8L)

Note: Fees may vary by program and university. Additional costs for housing, food, and materials may apply.

3. Post-Study Career Opportunities

One of the most significant benefits of doing MS in USA is the wealth of post-study career opportunities available to graduates. Top US universities have strong ties with leading companies and industries, providing a strong platform for launching your career. 

As a graduate with a master’s degree from one of the leading universities in the USA, you can earn up to INR 75 Lakhs ($90,324) annually. And with a master’s degree in Electrical Engineering and Computer Engineering, you can make up to INR 91 Lakhs ($110,000).

Here's an in-depth look at the career prospects you can expect after completing your master’s course in the USA.

4. Smooth Student Visa Process for Master's in the USA

Applying for a student visa to study at the top universities for a master's in the USA is crucial. In recent academic years, the US student visa approval rate increased to 65%, with the US Department of State issuing over 4,11,000 student visas.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to help ease your student visa application process effectively.

Types of Student Visa

There are two primary types of student visas for international students wishing to study in the United States:

• F-1 Visa: The most common visa for full-time students attending accredited academic institutions or language schools in the USA.
• J-1 Visa: Used for exchange programs, including students, professors, and research scholars.

Process Overview:

1. Apply & Get I-20: Receive the acceptance letter and Form I-20 from your university.
2. Pay Fees: Complete SEVIS and visa application payments online.
3. Submit DS-160: Fill out the non-immigrant visa application form.
4. Schedule an Interview: Book your appointment at the US embassy or consulate.
5. Prepare Documents: Keep passport, I-20, DS-160 confirmation, academic transcripts, test scores, and financial proof ready.
6. Visa Approval: Once approved, you can start your master’s program in the USA.

Note: Visa processing timelines and requirements may vary depending on the embassy or consulate and are subject to change.

5. Scholarships for Masters in USA for Indian Students

Pursuing a master’s degree in the USA is an important step for Indian students, both academically and professionally. This shows why USA for masters is a top choice. Scholarships in USA can help cover costs and make programs like MBA, Computer Science, and Data Science more accessible. Some of the main scholarships include:

1. Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship: Covers tuition, living, and travel expenses. Indian students with strong academics and leadership potential can apply.
2. Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation Scholarship: Provides interest-free loans for tuition to Indian students with a first-class degree.
3. Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship: Offers loans and grants for tuition and living expenses to Indian students with strong academics and financial need.
4. Generation Google Scholarship: Grants up to $10,000 for students in Computer Science or Engineering with strong academics and leadership potential.
5. Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship: Covers full tuition, living expenses, and airfare for Indian students with a first-class degree and leadership potential.
   

Note: Scholarship amounts and eligibility criteria may vary depending on the university and program.

Eligibility Requirements to Study Masters in USA

If you are wondering how to study masters in USA, the first step is to ensure you meet the academic, test, and program-specific eligibility requirements.

General Eligibility:

• Bachelor’s Degree: 3–4 years from a recognised institution, typically with a minimum of 60–65% marks or equivalent CGPA.
• Standardised Tests: GRE 160+ or GMAT 48+.
• Work Experience: 2–5 years (varies by program).
• Letters of Recommendation: 2–3 academic/professional references.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP): Essay outlining career goals and program fit.
• Resume/CV: Highlighting academic and professional experience.

Minimum English Language Proficiency Test Score:

Summing Up 

Pursuing a master’s in the USA opens doors to world-class universities and popular programs like MBA, Computer Science, and Data Science. The benefits of doing MS in USA include earning a globally recognized degree from institutions like Harvard, MIT, or Stanford, which enhances your career prospects and resume value.

Indian students are increasingly choosing the USA, with graduate enrollment rising by 63%, showing that doing a masters in USA is worth it, as answered by the growing demand. You’ll gain access to a diverse community from over 100 countries, learn from top faculty, and engage in cutting-edge research. Global networking opportunities with over 1 million international students further amplify your professional growth.

For funding, LeapFinance provides loans covering tuition and living expenses with interest rates starting at 8.5% and a quick approval process, helping you focus on your academic journey.  Start your loan application with Leap Finance today!

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