Reasons to Why Study Masters in USA for International Students

Are you considering pursuing a master’s degree and wondering why the USA should be your top choice? You’re not alone. 

According to recent academic data, the USA hosts over 2,50,000 Indian students, with a significant percentage of them enrolled in master’s programs. Indian students constitute more than 25% of the international student population in the USA, reflecting a steady increase in recent years. 

But why the USA for masters specifically – you might ask! What is it that makes America such a popular choice for postgraduate studies? The answer lies in the fact that the USA is home to some of the world’s most renowned and top-ranked universities, including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Stanford University, and the University of Chicago. 

These institutions not only provide Indian students like you with the opportunity to engage in groundbreaking research but also offer a high-quality education that can ignite your potential and open doors to international career prospects, inspiring and motivating you to reach new heights.

In this article, you will discover some top reasons and benefits for why the USA for a master’s could be among the best decisions for your academic and professional future. 

So, without further ado, let’s get you started with your hunt for the top universities in the USA for masters, the cost of studying in the USA, and more!

Key Highlights

Here are the key components you will discover in this comprehensive blog post, including the top master’s courses in the USA, their eligibility requirements and the costs of studying.

Elements	Description
Top Universities for Masters in the USA	Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Harvard University Stanford University
Top Masters Courses in the USA for Indian Students	MS in Finance MS in Computer Science MS in Medicine and Sciences
Eligibility Criteria for Masters Courses in the USA	Eligibility Criteria for Master Courses in the USA
English Proficiency Test Requirements	IELTS (7.0) TOEFL (100)
Cost of studying in the USA	INR 25L – 71L ($30,000 – ($84,830)
Scholarships for Masters in the USA	Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship

Please note: Eligibility criteria, test requirements, and the cost of studying in the USA can vary depending on the university and program. 

Why USA for Masters? Top Advantages and Benefits

Did you know there are more than 4,500 accredited higher-education institutions in the USA?

The pull of the USA for higher education isn’t just a trend; it’s backed by compelling reasons and substantial benefits that make it a prime destination for ambitious students like you. Choosing the USA for your master’s degree is a decision that can significantly impact your academic and professional future.

Here are the top reasons and benefits of doing a masters in the USA.

1. World-Renowned Universities

More than 25 of the world’s top 100 universities, such as Harvard, MIT, Stanford, and the University of Chicago, are located in the USA. These institutions are known for their rigorous academic standards, advanced research, and influential faculty. 

Earning a degree from a prestigious US university adds significant value to your resume, making you a competitive candidate in the global job market.

2. Advanced Research Opportunities

US universities are at the forefront of research and innovation, offering extensive resources and funding for research projects. As a master’s student, you will have the opportunity to work on groundbreaking research in state-of-the-art laboratories and research centres.

This exposure enhances your knowledge and skills and allows you to contribute to significant advancements in your field.

3. Diverse Range of Programs

The USA offers master’s programs across various fields, from engineering and computer science to business and social sciences. This diversity allows you to find a program that matches your academic interests and career goals. 

Many universities also offer interdisciplinary programs that enable you to tailor your education to your specific needs.

4. Global Networking Opportunities

Studying in the USA allows you to build a strong professional network. With an international community of more than 10,50,000 students, the top universities in the USA for masters will enable you to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds.

Additionally, many programs in LLM and MBA include opportunities to connect with industry leaders, attend professional conferences, and participate in internships, which can be invaluable for your career.

5. Career Advancement and Earning Potential

A master’s degree from a US university can significantly boost your career prospects and earning potential. 

Graduates from US institutions are highly sought after by top employers such as Microsoft, Deloitte, Google and Amazon due to their strong academic background, practical skills, and exposure to a dynamic learning environment. As a graduate from top universities in the USA you can earn between INR 75 Lakhs and INR 91 Lakhs ($90,324 and $110,000) annually.

6. High Employment Chances

Securing a master’s degree from a prestigious institution like the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) can open doors to unparalleled career opportunities. MIT graduates are often at the forefront of innovation, holding influential positions in some of the world’s most renowned companies. 

For example, Kofi Annan, the former Secretary-General of the United Nations, earned a Master of Science from MIT’s Sloan School of Management. 

Top universities in the USA including MIT(2), Stanford University(3) and Harvard University(4) have the highest graduate employability ranks according to the Times Higher Education ‘Global University Employability Ranking’.

4 Top Universities in the USA for Masters

Imagine yourself walking across a prestigious university campus in the USA, joining a 

vibrant community of over 1 million international students – that’s right, over 1 MILLION.

According to recent data from the Open Doors Report, the number of Indian graduate students increased by 63% and outnumbered Chinese students. The USA has 1,65,936 Indian students enrolled in graduate courses.

Here are the 4 top universities in the USA for masters courses and their QS rankings in 2025 to help you make an informed decision.

Top Universities in the USA for Masters	QS World University Rankings 2025
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	1
Harvard University	4
Stanford University	6
University of Chicago	21

Now that you know the top universities in the USA and their rankings, let’s briefly discuss them.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Ranked as the #1 university in the world, MIT is a globally leading research university in Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA. Established in 1861, the institution is over 150 years old. At MIT, graduate students comprise roughly 40% of the total student population. 

According to the university’s latest statistics, as of 2023-2024, around 300 Indian students are currently studying at MIT. This constitutes MIT’s second-largest international student community.

Student Life: At MIT, you’ll experience a vibrant campus life filled with opportunities for collaboration and innovation. The university’s strong emphasis on research means you’ll have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and resources. 

MIT has over 500+ student organisations and offers an array of extracurricular activities you can participate in, such as music, dance, sports and other cultural events.

Here is the table highlighting the top master’s courses and tuition fees at MIT.

Parameters	Details
Top Masters Courses	Master of Computer ScienceMaster of Chemical Engineering Master of Business Administration (MBA) through the Sloan School of Management
Approximate Average Tuition Fee	INR 26L – INR 70L ($30,995 – $84,350) per year

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Harvard University

Harvard University needs no introduction. Founded in 1636, it is the oldest university in the USA. It is known for its prestigious history and academic excellence, which attracts top talent from around the globe.

With around 9,970 international students currently enrolled, 816 of whom hail from India, Harvard offers a diverse and inclusive environment that encourages intellectual growth and cultural exchange.

Harvard University offers more than 100 master’s courses in various disciplines, including mathematics, economics, computer science, and more.

Student Life: Life at Harvard is enriched by many extracurricular activities, world-class libraries, and a strong alumni network of over 4,00,000 Harvard graduates worldwide. Situated in Cambridge, Massachusetts, you’ll enjoy the benefits of a bustling college town with plenty of cultural, social, and professional opportunities.

As a Harvard student, you can access 450+ student-run organisations and choose from various extracurricular fields, such as photography, dance, debate, and more.

Here is the table highlighting the top master’s courses and tuition fees at Harvard University.

Parameters	Details
Top Masters Courses	Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Harvard Business School Master of Laws (LL.M.)Master in Public Policy (MPP)
Approximate Average Tuition Fee	INR 47L –  INR 64L ($56,550 – $77,100) per year

Stanford University

One hundred fifty years old, Stanford University stands out for its entrepreneurial spirit and close ties to Silicon Valley. Ranked #6th among the top universities in the world, this legacy university is at the forefront of pioneering research in clinical therapies. It has made significant contributions to the fields of medicine and healthcare. 

With nearly 500 Indian students enrolling yearly, Stanford’s graduate programs are highly sought after for their focus on innovation and interdisciplinary research.

Student Life: The university’s proximity to Silicon Valley enhances its reputation, offering you unparalleled opportunities for internships, networking, and employment in the tech industry. 

The university has over 600 student organisations and clubs committed to the arts, community service, social, and athletics. The beautiful campus, iconic architecture and extensive green spaces provide a picturesque setting for your studies.

Here is the table highlighting the top master’s courses and tuition fees at Stanford University.

Parameters	Details
Top Masters Courses	Master of Science in Computer ScienceMaster of Science in EngineeringMaster of Business Administration (MBA)
Approximate Average Tuition Fee	INR 11L – INR 17L ($13,240 – $20,365) per quarter

Want to learn how to get into Stanford University? Read: How to Get into Stanford University from India?: Complete Guide!

University of Chicago

Established in 1890, the University of Chicago is one of the world’s leading universities, known for its strong emphasis on rigorous academics and pioneering research. 

The university is home to over 10,870 graduate students from over 100 countries. International students comprise 24% of the total students at the University of Chicago. The university offers various master’s programs in Economics, Business, and the Social Sciences. 

Student Life: You’ll be part of a diverse and intellectually stimulating community at the University of Chicago. With more than 350 student organisations, numerous sports clubs and 18 varsity sports teams, there is never a dull moment at the University of Chicago.

The campus offers a rich blend of cultural and academic experiences in the Hyde Park neighbourhood. You’ll also have access to world-class museums, libraries, and a vibrant urban setting, making it an exciting place to pursue your master’s degree.

Here is the table highlighting the top master’s courses and tuition fees at the University of Chicago.

Parameters	Details
Top Masters Courses	Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the Booth School of Business Master of Laws (LLM)Master’s Program in Computer Sciences
Approximate Average Tuition Fee	INR 18L – INR 23L ($21,715 – $26,987) per quarter

5 Popular Masters Courses in the USA 

The USA offers a wide range of master’s programs that attract students from all over the world, including more than 2 lakh Indian students. With this increasing enrolment of Indian students in top universities in the USA, India forms the largest International student community. 

Here are five popular master’s courses, their eligibility criteria, and the universities that offer them.

1. Master of Business Administration (MBA)

An MBA is one of the most sought-after degrees globally, and the USA is home to some of the best business schools in the world. This program equips students with the skills needed for leadership roles in various industries.

Here is a table highlighting the top universities offering MBA and their tuition fees.

Top Universities	Annual Tuition Fees for International Students Pursuing MBA
Harvard Business School	INR 64L ($76,410)
Stanford Graduate School of Business	INR 69L ($82,455)
Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania	INR 71L ($84,830)

2. Master of Science in Computer Science

The Master of Science in Computer Science is highly popular due to the growing demand for tech professionals. The program focuses on advanced computing skills, algorithms, and systems.

Here is a table highlighting the top universities offering MS in Computer Science and their tuition fees.

Top Universities	Tuition Fees for International Students Pursuing MS in Computer Science
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	INR 25L ($29,875)
Stanford University	INR 54L ($65,082)
University of California, Berkeley	INR 28L  ($33,071)

3. Master of Science in Data Science

With the rise of big data, an MS in Data Science is in high demand. This program prepares students to analyse and interpret complex data to drive decision-making processes.

Here is a table highlighting the top universities offering MS in Data Science and their tuition fees.

Top Universities	Tuition Fees for International Students Pursuing MS in Data Science
New York University (NYU)	INR 45L ($54,516) full tuition cost
University of Chicago	INR 9L ($11,154) per quarter

4. Master of Public Health (MPH)

The MPH program is designed for those interested in public health, health policy, and epidemiology. It provides the skills to tackle health challenges and improve community health outcomes.

Here is a table highlighting the top universities offering Master of Public Health (MPH) and their tuition fees.

Top Universities	Annual Tuition Fees for International Students Pursuing MPH
Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health	INR 58L ($69,300)
Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health	INR 55L ($65,952)
University of California, Berkeley	INR 18L ($22,143)

5. Master of Laws (LLM)

The Master of Laws (LLM) is a popular and prestigious postgraduate course in the field of law in the USA. This advanced degree allows lawyers to specialise in a specific area of law, gain a deeper understanding of the legal system, and enhance their professional credentials.

Here is a table highlighting the top universities offering Master of Laws (LLM) and their tuition fees.

Top Universities	Annual Tuition Fees for International Students Pursuing LLM
Harvard Law School	INR 64L ($77,100)
Yale Law School	INR 62L ($74,044)
Stanford Law School	INR 62L ($74,475)

Eligibility Criteria for Top Masters Courses in the USA

To pursue a master’s degree in the USA, you must meet various eligibility criteria, which typically include academic qualifications, standardised test scores, work experience, and other specific requirements. 

Here are the eligibility criteria for some of the most popular master’s courses in the USA.

• Bachelor’s Degree: A bachelor’s degree of 3-4 years from a recognised institution.
• GMAT/GRE Scores: Competitive GRE scores of 160 or above, GMAT (48 or above).
• Work Experience: Typically 2-5 years of professional work experience.
• Letters of Recommendation: Usually 2-3 letters from professional or academic references.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP): An essay outlining career goals, reasons for pursuing the master’s course, and how the program aligns with your aspirations.
• Resume/CV: Detailed professional resume highlighting your academic and professional experiences.

Minimum English Language Proficiency Test Score:

Tests	Minimum Scores Required
IELTS	7.0
TOEFL	iBT 100

Intakes for Master’s Courses in the USA for International Students

US universities typically offer multiple intakes for master’s courses, providing flexibility for international students to start their studies at different times of the year. The primary intakes are the Fall, Spring, and Summer intakes. 

Each intake has its unique timeline and set of advantages, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your academic and personal circumstances.

Fall Intake

The Fall intake is the most popular and widely preferred among international students. It aligns with the start of the academic year in the USA and offers a comprehensive range of programs and courses.

• Application Period: September to December of the previous year
• Semester Start: August/September

Spring Intake

The Spring intake is the second most common and provides another opportunity for students to begin their studies without waiting an entire year.

• Application Period: February to April of the previous year
• Semester Start: January

Summer Intake

The Summer intake is less common and usually limited to specific programs or courses. It offers an additional option in case you are looking to start your studies at a different time of the year.

• Application Period: October to January of the same year
• Semester Start: May to June

Choosing the right intake and planning your application process meticulously can greatly enhance your chances of securing admission to a top US university for your master’s studies.

Post-Study Career Opportunities

One of the most significant benefits of doing a master’s in the 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.

Typical Job Roles	Estimated Average Annual Salary in the USA
Data Scientist	INR 59L – INR 1CR ($71k – $150k)
Software Engineer	INR 57L – INR 1CR ($68k – $144k)
Lawyer	INR 50L – INR  1CR ($60k – $172k)
Marketing Manager	INR 41L – INR 91L ($49k – $109k)
Financial Analyst	INR 41L – INR 89L ($50k – $107k)

Please note: The salary figures above are rough estimates and may vary by location and currency exchange rates.

Student Visa Application Process for Masters 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.

Type of Student Visa	Application Fees	Visa Issuance Time
F-1 Visa	$185 (approx. INR 15K)	365 days before the course/program start date
J-1 Visa	$185 (approx. INR 15K)	365 days before the course/program start date

Steps to Obtain an F-1 Visa

Listed below are the key steps involved in obtaining an F-1 visa to study a full-time master’s course in the USA.

• Research and Apply: Apply to the institution of your choice and receive an acceptance letter or Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status) from the school’s designated official (DSO).
• Pay the Application Fee: After receiving your Form I-20 from the institution, pay the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee of $185 (approx. INR 15K) online.
• Online Application: Complete the DS-160 form online. This form is the application for a nonimmigrant visa and includes personal information, details about your intended stay in the USA, and other relevant details.
• Appointment: Schedule an appointment for a visa interview at the nearest US embassy or consulate in your country of residence. 
• Prepare the required documents: Passport-size photographs, a passport, a Form DS-160 confirmation page with a barcode, Form I-20 issued by the SEVP-certified institution and the SEVIS fee payment receipt. 
• Academic documents: School transcripts and official test scores.
• Financial evidence showing sufficient funds to cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs during your stay in the USA. This may include bank statements, scholarship award letters, or sponsor letters.
• Visa Approval or Denial: If approved, you will receive your passport with the F-1 visa stamp, allowing you to travel to the USA for your studies.

Scholarships for Master’s in the USA for Indian Students

Embarking on a master’s degree journey in the USA is a significant academic and professional investment in your future. For Indian students, scholarships are pivotal in making this dream a reality by offering crucial financial support. 

Here’s a detailed look at some prominent scholarships for Indian students.

Scholarships	Benefits
Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship	Covers the tuition fees for your master’s course
Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship	Approximately $1,40,000

Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships

The Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships, administered by the United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF), offer prestigious awards that cover tuition, airfare, living expenses, and health insurance. These fellowships provide comprehensive financial support for Indian students pursuing master’s degrees at select US institutions. 

Eligibility Criteria to apply for this scholarship:

• You must have a bachelor’s degree from a recognised university with 55% marks
• You must have a minimum of three years of professional work experience
• You should demonstrate expertise in leadership and community service

Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship

The Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship is a prestigious program designed to support Indian students pursuing an MBA at the Stanford Graduate School of Business (GSB). 

The fellowship is awarded to up to five Indian students annually, enabling them to pursue their MBA studies at Stanford GSB without financial burden. Under the Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship, each student receives an estimated $140,000 (approx. INR 1CR)  total value grant that covers full tuition, associated fees, and other living expenses.

Summing Up 

As you prepare to begin your dream academic journey in the USA, armed with the knowledge of world-class universities and popular master’s courses like MBA, Computer Science, and Data Science, the path ahead is filled with promise.

The benefits of doing a master’s in the USA are self-explanatory to answer the question, ‘why a masters in the USA are spreading like wildfire among Indian students’. Earning a degree from a top US university, like Harvard, MIT, or Stanford, adds immense value to your resume, making you a highly sought-after candidate in the global job market.

You’ll join a community of ambitious peers from over 100 countries, all eager to learn from world-renowned faculty and contribute to groundbreaking research. Consider the staggering number of Indian graduate students, which has seen a remarkable 63% increase, reflecting the growing preference for American higher education among Indian scholars. 

Moreover, the prospect of gaining invaluable global networking opportunities, fueled by over 1 million international students nationwide, underscores the potential for lifelong connections and professional growth.

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