{"id":2123,"date":"2022-03-03T15:45:45","date_gmt":"2022-03-03T10:15:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/?p=2123"},"modified":"2026-09-23T11:59:23","modified_gmt":"2026-09-23T11:59:23","slug":"stem-in-usa-eligibility-cost-top-colleges-admission-process","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/stem-in-usa-eligibility-cost-top-colleges-admission-process\/","title":{"rendered":"STEM Courses in USA for Indian Students: 2027 List, Top Universities, Fees and STEM OPT"},"content":{"rendered":"<span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\"><\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 11<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">min read<\/span><\/span>\n<div class=\"quick-read-box\">\n\n  <div class=\"qr-header\">\n    <span style=\"font-size:18px;\">\u26a1<\/span>\n    <h3 class=\"qr-title\">Quick Read<\/h3>\n  <\/div>\n\n  <ul>\n    <li>STEM status is set by the CIP code on Form I-20<\/li>\n\n    <li>Up to 36 months of US work after a STEM degree<\/li>\n\n    <li>3-year Indian degrees accepted at some universities only<\/li>\n\n    <li>MIT graduate tuition: $66,720 (\u20b963.86 lakh) for 2026-27.<\/li>\n\n  <\/ul>\n\n  <div class=\"qr-footer\">\n    ? Best for: Indian Class 12 graduates and professionals choosing US STEM degrees\n\n  <\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p><div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_68_1 ez-toc-wrap-left counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Table of Content<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #192a3d;color:#192a3d\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #192a3d;color:#192a3d\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/stem-in-usa-eligibility-cost-top-colleges-admission-process\/#What_Counts_as_STEM_Courses_in_USA_The_DHS_CIP_Code_Test\" title=\"What Counts as STEM Courses in USA: The DHS CIP Code Test\">What Counts as STEM Courses in USA: The DHS CIP Code Test<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/stem-in-usa-eligibility-cost-top-colleges-admission-process\/#Benefits_of_STEM_Courses_in_USA_for_International_Students_OPT_STEM_OPT_and_H-1B\" title=\"Benefits of STEM Courses in USA for International Students: OPT, STEM OPT and H-1B\">Benefits of STEM Courses in USA for International Students: OPT, STEM OPT and H-1B<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/stem-in-usa-eligibility-cost-top-colleges-admission-process\/#STEM_Courses_in_USA_List_Degrees_Majors_and_CIP_Codes\" title=\"STEM Courses in USA List: Degrees, Majors and CIP Codes\">STEM Courses in USA List: Degrees, Majors and CIP Codes<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/stem-in-usa-eligibility-cost-top-colleges-admission-process\/#STEM_MBA_Commerce_and_MPH_Routes_in_STEM_Courses_in_USA\" title=\"STEM MBA, Commerce and MPH Routes in STEM Courses in USA\">STEM MBA, Commerce and MPH Routes in STEM Courses in USA<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/stem-in-usa-eligibility-cost-top-colleges-admission-process\/#Top_STEM_Universities_in_USA_QS_World_University_Rankings_2027\" title=\"Top STEM Universities in USA: QS World University Rankings 2027\">Top STEM Universities in USA: QS World University Rankings 2027<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/stem-in-usa-eligibility-cost-top-colleges-admission-process\/#STEM_Programs_in_USA_Requirements_for_Indian_Students\" title=\"STEM Programs in USA Requirements for Indian Students\">STEM Programs in USA Requirements for Indian Students<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/stem-in-usa-eligibility-cost-top-colleges-admission-process\/#Cost_of_STEM_Courses_in_USA_in_INR_2026-27_and_Funding_Options\" title=\"Cost of STEM Courses in USA in INR (2026-27) and Funding Options\">Cost of STEM Courses in USA in INR (2026-27) and Funding Options<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/stem-in-usa-eligibility-cost-top-colleges-admission-process\/#STEM_Courses_in_USA_2026-27_Policy_Changes_Indian_Students_Must_Track\" title=\"STEM Courses in USA 2026-27: Policy Changes Indian Students Must Track\">STEM Courses in USA 2026-27: Policy Changes Indian Students Must Track<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/stem-in-usa-eligibility-cost-top-colleges-admission-process\/#Choosing_STEM_Courses_in_USA_Decision_Framework_for_Indian_Students\" title=\"Choosing STEM Courses in USA: Decision Framework for Indian Students\">Choosing STEM Courses in USA: Decision Framework for Indian Students<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/stem-in-usa-eligibility-cost-top-colleges-admission-process\/#STEM_Courses_in_USA_Application_Calendar_for_Fall_2027\" title=\"STEM Courses in USA Application Calendar for Fall 2027\">STEM Courses in USA Application Calendar for Fall 2027<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/stem-in-usa-eligibility-cost-top-colleges-admission-process\/#When_STEM_Course_Plans_in_USA_Go_Wrong\" title=\"When STEM Course Plans in USA Go Wrong\">When STEM Course Plans in USA Go Wrong<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/stem-in-usa-eligibility-cost-top-colleges-admission-process\/#3_Key_Takeaways_on_STEM_Courses_in_USA\" title=\"3 Key Takeaways on STEM Courses in USA\">3 Key Takeaways on STEM Courses in USA<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/stem-in-usa-eligibility-cost-top-colleges-admission-process\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions_About_STEM_Courses_in_USA\" title=\"Frequently Asked Questions About STEM Courses in USA\">Frequently Asked Questions About STEM Courses in USA<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Counts_as_STEM_Courses_in_USA_The_DHS_CIP_Code_Test\"><\/span><strong>What Counts as STEM Courses in USA: The DHS CIP Code Test<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">STEM courses in USA are programs whose Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code appears on the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) STEM Designated Degree Program List. The course name does not decide STEM status. The code does.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Core STEM series:<\/strong> Engineering (14), Biological and Biomedical Sciences (26), Mathematics and Statistics (27) and Physical Sciences (40) qualify automatically.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Related fields:<\/strong> Selected codes in computing, data science, agriculture, psychology and management science.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Last update:<\/strong> 22 July 2024. DHS adds codes periodically; see our note on<a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/usa-adds-new-stem-fields-for-opt\/\"> new STEM fields added for OPT<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How to check if a course is STEM designated:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Ask the university for the program&#8217;s 6-digit CIP code, or find it on the program page.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>After your admit, check the &#8220;Program of Study&#8221; box on page 1 of your<a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/what-is-i20-form-in-usa-fees-and-sample\/\"> Form I-20<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Match the code against the DHS STEM list PDF.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If the code is missing, ask the international student office in writing before paying your deposit.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Source:<\/em><\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ice.gov\/doclib\/sevis\/pdf\/stemList2024.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em> <\/em><em>DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Counselor insight:<\/em><\/strong><em> Same title, different code. An MS Finance coded 52.0801 (Finance, General) does not qualify; an MS Financial Engineering coded 27.0305 does.&nbsp;<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Benefits_of_STEM_Courses_in_USA_for_International_Students_OPT_STEM_OPT_and_H-1B\"><\/span><strong>Benefits of STEM Courses in USA for International Students: OPT, STEM OPT and H-1B<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The biggest benefit of STEM courses in USA for international students is work time after graduation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>OPT:<\/strong> 12 months of post-completion work authorisation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>STEM OPT extension:<\/strong> 24 more months, for up to 36 months in total, with an E-Verify employer.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Filing window:<\/strong> Up to 90 days before your program ends and no later than 60 days after.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Unemployment cap:<\/strong> 90 days on OPT and 150 days across OPT plus STEM OPT.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pay:<\/strong> The US median wage for software developers is $135,980 (\u20b91.30 crore), based on BLS 2025 data.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>In the latest Open Doors data (2024\/25), 57% of international students in the US studied STEM fields, and India sent 363,019 students, the most of any country. For the route from OPT to longer-term status, read about<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/post-study-work-visa-usa-for-indian-students\/\"><em> <\/em><em>post-study work visa options in the USA<\/em><\/a><em>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Sources:<\/em><\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/working-in-the-united-states\/students-and-exchange-visitors\/optional-practical-training-opt-for-f-1-students\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em> <\/em><em>USCIS: OPT for F-1 Students<\/em><\/a><em>,<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/studyinthestates.dhs.gov\/sevis-help-hub\/student-records\/fm-student-employment\/unemployment-counter\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em> <\/em><em>SEVIS Help Hub: Unemployment Counter<\/em><\/a><em>,<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/opendoorsdata.org\/annual-release\/international-students\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em> <\/em><em>Open Doors 2025<\/em><\/a><em>,<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.onetonline.org\/link\/localwages\/15-1252.00?zip=94025\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em> <\/em><em>O*NET wages (BLS 2025)<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Currency Conversion Note:<\/em><\/strong><em> All costs above use $1 = \u20b995.71 as of September 2026. Verify the live rate before finalizing your budget.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Counselor insight:<\/em><\/strong><em> The 36-month window can give you up to three H-1B lottery attempts. Students who spend Year 1 of OPT only job-hunting lose one of them.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"STEM_Courses_in_USA_List_Degrees_Majors_and_CIP_Codes\"><\/span><strong>STEM Courses in USA List: Degrees, Majors and CIP Codes<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Use this STEM courses in USA list as a quick STEM degree list in USA; every code appears on the DHS list.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-palette-color-5-background-color has-background has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Field<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>STEM programs in USA (bachelor&#8217;s or master&#8217;s)<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>CIP code<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Technology<\/td><td>Computer Science<\/td><td>11.0701<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Technology<\/td><td>Computer and Information Systems Security<\/td><td>11.1003<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Technology<\/td><td>Data Science, General<\/td><td>30.7001<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Technology<\/td><td>Data Analytics, General<\/td><td>30.7101<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Business-STEM<\/td><td>Business Analytics<\/td><td>30.7102<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Business-STEM<\/td><td>Management Science<\/td><td>52.1301<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Business-STEM<\/td><td>Actuarial Science<\/td><td>52.1304<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Economics<\/td><td>Econometrics and Quantitative Economics<\/td><td>45.0603<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Engineering<\/td><td>Electrical and Electronics Engineering<\/td><td>14.1001<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Engineering<\/td><td>Mechanical Engineering<\/td><td>14.1901<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Engineering<\/td><td>Civil Engineering<\/td><td>14.0801<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Engineering<\/td><td>Industrial Engineering<\/td><td>14.3501<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Engineering<\/td><td>Engineering Management<\/td><td>15.1501<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Science<\/td><td>Biotechnology<\/td><td>26.1201<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Mathematics<\/td><td>Statistics<\/td><td>27.0501<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>These STEM majors in USA exist at bachelor&#8217;s and master&#8217;s level, and STEM OPT applies after either. If you are shortlisting STEM courses in USA for masters, many STEM masters degrees in USA also come in 1-year formats; compare them in our guide to<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/one-year-masters-programs-in-usa\/\"><em> <\/em><em>one-year master&#8217;s programs in USA<\/em><\/a><em>. For the most popular option, see<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/ms-in-computer-science-in-usa-colleges-fees\/\"><em> <\/em><em>MS in Computer Science in USA<\/em><\/a><em>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Source:<\/em><\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/studyinthestates.dhs.gov\/stem-opt-hub\/additional-resources\/eligible-cip-codes-for-the-stem-opt-extension\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em> <\/em><em>Study in the States: Eligible CIP Codes<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Counselor insight:<\/em><\/strong><em> If CS admits look out of reach, the list of STEM masters courses in USA also includes Industrial Engineering and Engineering Management. These STEM masters in USA carry the same STEM OPT benefit.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"STEM_MBA_Commerce_and_MPH_Routes_in_STEM_Courses_in_USA\"><\/span><strong>STEM MBA, Commerce and MPH Routes in STEM Courses in USA<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>1. STEM MBA programs in USA:<\/strong> A standard MBA (52.0201) is not STEM. STEM MBA universities in USA use a STEM code, most commonly 52.1301 (Management Science).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Full program:<\/strong> Kellogg designates its full-time MBA as STEM for all graduates.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Major only:<\/strong> Wharton grants STEM OPT eligibility only for its STEM-designated majors or concentrations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>School-by-school detail:<a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/stem-mba-in-usa-eligibility-cost-top-colleges\/\"> STEM MBA in USA for Indian students<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>2. STEM courses in USA for commerce students:<\/strong> BCom and BBA graduates with strong maths can target MS Business Analytics (30.7102), Actuarial Science (52.1304), Business Statistics (52.1302), or quantitative economics (45.0603). A general MS Finance or MS Marketing is usually non-STEM.<a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/questions\/is-business-analytics-considered-a-stem-program-in-the-us\">&nbsp;<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>3. MPH STEM universities in USA:<\/strong> Public Health, General (51.2201) is not STEM. Epidemiology (26.1309), Biostatistics (26.1102), and Environmental Health (51.2202) are. Johns Hopkins lists its full-time, on-campus MPH as STEM-designated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Counselor insight:<\/em><\/strong><em> At track-based schools, map your STEM major credits in Semester 1 so Year 2 electives do not pull you off the STEM track.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Top_STEM_Universities_in_USA_QS_World_University_Rankings_2027\"><\/span><strong>Top STEM Universities in USA: QS World University Rankings 2027<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">QS 2027 ranks 184 US universities, and MIT is the top STEM university in USA and first worldwide. The table covers the top 10 STEM universities in USA in QS order.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-palette-color-5-background-color has-background has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>US rank<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>University<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>QS 2027 world rank<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Type<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>1<\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mit.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Massachusetts Institute of Technology<\/a><\/td><td>1<\/td><td>Private<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2<\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.stanford.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Stanford University<\/a><\/td><td>2 (joint)<\/td><td>Private<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>3<\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.harvard.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Harvard University<\/a><\/td><td>5<\/td><td>Private<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>4<\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.caltech.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">California Institute of Technology<\/a><\/td><td>7<\/td><td>Private<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>5<\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.upenn.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">University of Pennsylvania<\/a><\/td><td>15<\/td><td>Private<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>6<\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cornell.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Cornell University<\/a><\/td><td>16 (joint)<\/td><td>Private<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>7<\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.yale.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Yale University<\/a><\/td><td>16 (joint)<\/td><td>Private<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>8<\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jhu.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Johns Hopkins University<\/a><\/td><td>20 (joint)<\/td><td>Private<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>9<\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.berkeley.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">University of California, Berkeley<\/a><\/td><td>20 (joint)<\/td><td>Public<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>10<\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.uchicago.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">University of Chicago<\/a><\/td><td>24<\/td><td>Private<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>For a longer list of STEM universities in USA, such as the top 20, top 50 or top 100 STEM universities in USA, filter the QS 2027 table by country, then check QS subject rankings for your major.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Source:<\/em><\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.qs.com\/insights\/us-performance-in-the-qs-world-university-rankings-2027\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em> <\/em><em>QS: US Performance in the World University Rankings 2027<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Counselor insight:<\/em><\/strong><em> Public universities outside the top 20 often offer lower tuition with the same 36-month STEM OPT runway. Start with our list of<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/cheapest-universities-in-usa-for-masters\/\"><em> the <\/em><em>cheapest universities in USA for masters<\/em><\/a><em> and build across three rank bands.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"STEM_Programs_in_USA_Requirements_for_Indian_Students\"><\/span><strong>STEM Programs in USA Requirements for Indian Students<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Eligibility for STEM courses in USA depends on your study level.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Bachelor&#8217;s route (after Class 12):<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics (PCB for life sciences) in Class 12.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/exams\/sat\">SAT<\/a>\/<a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/act-exam\/\">ACT<\/a> policy varies; MIT requires the SAT or ACT. Check<a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/sat-colleges-top-colleges-accepting-sat-score-rankings-cutoffs\/\"> colleges accepting SAT scores<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Master&#8217;s route:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>US graduate schools generally expect 16 years of education.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>3-year Indian degrees: UConn does not accept them as equivalent; Syracuse accepts selected ones earned in Division I from a NAAC &#8220;A&#8221; or higher institution.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>GPA, <a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/exams\/gre\">GRE <\/a>and English test (<a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/exams\/toefl\">TOEFL<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/exams\/ielts\">IELTS, <\/a>or <a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/exams\/duolingo\">Duolingo<\/a>) policies are set per program.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-palette-color-5-background-color has-background has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Document<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>India-specific detail<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Class 10 and 12 marksheets<\/td><td>Board-issued (CBSE, ICSE or state board)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Semester marksheets and consolidated <a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/academic-transcript-certificates-meaning-sample-university-colleges\/\">transcript<\/a><\/td><td>Sealed by your university registrar<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Provisional or degree certificate<\/td><td>Final-year students submit the provisional certificate after results<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Credential evaluation<\/td><td>WES or ECE, if the program asks for it<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/statement-of-purpose\">SOP<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/letter-of-recommendation\/\">LORs <\/a>and resume<\/td><td>LORs from college faculty or your Indian employer<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Financial documents<\/td><td>Bank statements, education loan sanction letter, sponsor&#8217;s ITRs<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Passport<\/td><td>Valid for your full program; renew early if it expires mid-course<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/questions\/what-is-the-minimum-amount-i-need-to-show-in-my-bank-account-for-the-us-student-visa-application\"><em>See what our counselors say about the bank balance needed for a US student visa<\/em><\/a><em>. For the visa steps, follow our guide on<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/how-to-apply-for-f1-visa-usa\/\"><em> <\/em><em>how to apply for an F-1 visa<\/em><\/a><em>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Counselor insight:<\/em><\/strong><em> Indian registrar timelines for sealed transcripts vary widely, so request them in September 2026.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Cost_of_STEM_Courses_in_USA_in_INR_2026-27_and_Funding_Options\"><\/span><strong>Cost of STEM Courses in USA in INR (2026-27) and Funding Options<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Tuition and Living Costs for STEM Courses in USA<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-palette-color-5-background-color has-background has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>University (2026-27)<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Item<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Annual cost<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>MIT<\/td><td>Graduate tuition, 9 months<\/td><td>$66,720 (\u20b963.86 lakh)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>MIT<\/td><td>Housing and food, 9 months<\/td><td>$24,930 (\u20b923.86 lakh)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>MIT<\/td><td>Health insurance<\/td><td>$5,148 (\u20b94.93 lakh)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Stanford<\/td><td>Graduate Engineering tuition, 3 quarters<\/td><td>$69,717 (\u20b966.73 lakh)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Purdue (West Lafayette)<\/td><td>International graduate tuition and fees<\/td><td>$29,194 (\u20b927.94 lakh)<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Public universities keep tuition closer to Purdue&#8217;s range.<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/questions\/do-public-universities-typically-cost-around-twenty-to-thirty-lakhs-in-total-tuition-fees-in-usa-for-a-masters\"><em> <\/em><em>See what our counselors say about \u20b920 to \u20b930 lakh tuition at US public universities<\/em><\/a><em>. To add rent, flights and a second year, use our<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/ms-in-us-cost\/\"><em> <\/em><em>MS cost in USA for Indian students<\/em><\/a><em> breakdown.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Counselor insight:<\/em><\/strong><em> Purdue&#8217;s figure excludes some engineering and computing program differentials, so price your exact department.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Pre-Departure Fees<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-palette-color-5-background-color has-background has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Fee<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Amount<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/sevis-fees-for-usa-and-how-to-pay\/\">SEVIS <\/a>I-901<\/td><td>$350 (\u20b933,499)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Visa application (<a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/mrv-fee-receipt-and-what-is-receipt-number-for-us-visa\/\">MRV<\/a>)<\/td><td>$185 (\u20b917,706)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Visa Integrity Fee (collected at issuance by some consulates)<\/td><td>$250 (\u20b923,928)<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>These are paid before you fly, so budget them alongside your deposit. Our guide to<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/us-visa-fees-for-indians-application-validity\/\"><em> <\/em><em>US visa fees for Indians<\/em><\/a><em> explains when each is paid and how long the visa stays valid.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Currency Conversion Note:<\/em><\/strong><em> All costs above use $1 = \u20b995.71 as of September 2026. Verify the live rate before finalizing your budget.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Funding Options for STEM Courses in USA<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>University funding:<\/strong> Merit scholarships and teaching or research assistantships.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Education loans:<\/strong> Most Indian families combine savings with a loan. Compare the<a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/best-education-loan-in-india-for-study-abroad\/\"> best education loans in India for study abroad<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Fulbright-Nehru Master&#8217;s Fellowships (USIEF):<\/strong> These require a 4-year degree (or a master&#8217;s or PG diploma after a 3-year degree) and three years of work experience. They fund study on a<a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/j-1-student-visa-us-guide-requirements-rules-how-to-apply\/\"> J-1 visa<\/a>, so F-1 OPT rules do not apply.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Undergraduate aid:<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/questions\/as-a-middle-class-twelfth-grader-what-scholarships-are-actually-available-for-undergraduate-study-in-the-us\"> Read expert answers on scholarships for middle-class students in the US<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Sources:<\/em><\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/sfs.mit.edu\/graduate-students\/cost-of-attendance\/grad-cost-of-attendance\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em> <\/em><em>MIT Student Financial Services<\/em><\/a><em>,<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/studentservices.stanford.edu\/tuition-rates\/2026-2027-graduate-and-professional-tuition-rates\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em> <\/em><em>Stanford Student Services<\/em><\/a><em>,<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.purdue.edu\/treasurer\/finance\/bursar-office\/tuition\/fee-rates-2026-2027\/graduate-tuition-and-fees-2026-2027\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em> <\/em><em>Purdue Bursar<\/em><\/a><em>,<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/isso\/2026\/05\/19\/visa-integrity-fee\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em> <\/em><em>Boston University ISSO<\/em><\/a><em>,<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.usief.org.in\/fulbright-fellowships\/fellowships-for-indian-citizen\/fulbright-nehru-masters-fellowships\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em> <\/em><em>USIEF: Fulbright-Nehru Master&#8217;s Fellowships<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"STEM_Courses_in_USA_2026-27_Policy_Changes_Indian_Students_Must_Track\"><\/span><strong>STEM Courses in USA 2026-27: Policy Changes Indian Students Must Track<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-palette-color-5-background-color has-background has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Rule<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Status (23 September 2026)<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>What it means for you<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>End of Duration of Status (fixed admission, 30-day grace period)<\/td><td>Blocked by a court injunction on 14 September 2026<\/td><td>Current D\/S rules and the 60-day grace period apply<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Practical Training rule (RIN 1653-AA97)<\/td><td>On the regulatory agenda; no text published<\/td><td>OPT and STEM OPT unchanged for now<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>New OPT application fee<\/td><td>Cleared White House review; amount not published<\/td><td>Budget for a possible new fee<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>$103,265 (\u20b998.83 lakh) fee on H-1B cap petitions<\/td><td>Proposed 25 August 2026; comments close 24 September 2026<\/td><td>Not in effect; employers would pay if finalized<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>$100,000 (\u20b995.71 lakh) H-1B proclamation fee<\/td><td>Extended to September 2027; court vacatur blocks enforcement<\/td><td>Not collected at present<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Wage-weighted H-1B lottery<\/td><td>In force since 27 February 2026<\/td><td>Higher-wage offers get better selection odds<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Currency Conversion Note:<\/em><\/strong><em> Fee amounts use $1 = \u20b995.71.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Official sources:<\/em><\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/oiss.yale.edu\/immigration\/elimination-of-duration-of-status-summary-faqs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em> <\/em><em>Yale OISS: Duration of Status<\/em><\/a><em>,<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.reginfo.gov\/public\/do\/eAgendaViewRule?pubId=202510&amp;RIN=1653-AA97\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em> <\/em><em>RIN 1653-AA97<\/em><\/a><em>,<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.govinfo.gov\/content\/pkg\/FR-2026-08-25\/html\/2026-17324.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em> <\/em><em>Federal Register: Fee for Certain H-1B Petitions<\/em><\/a><em>,<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/working-in-the-united-states\/h-1b-specialty-occupations\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em> <\/em><em>USCIS: H-1B<\/em><\/a><em>,<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cupahr.org\/resource\/appeals-court-keeps-h-1b-fee-blocked-during-ongoing-appeals-process\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em> <\/em><em>CUPA-HR: $100,000 fee ruling<\/em><\/a><em>,<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/manifestlaw.com\/news\/opt-fee-oira-clearance-09-14-2026\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em> <\/em><em>Manifest Law: OPT fee review<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Counselor insight:<\/em><\/strong><em> None of these changes removes STEM OPT today. The real risk is cost and timing, so keep a plan B, such as a cap-exempt university employer.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Choosing_STEM_Courses_in_USA_Decision_Framework_for_Indian_Students\"><\/span><strong>Choosing STEM Courses in USA: Decision Framework for Indian Students<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>If you are a Class 12 PCM student writing boards in February-March 2027:<\/strong> Target a STEM bachelor&#8217;s in CS, engineering or data science, and check each college&#8217;s SAT\/ACT policy now.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>If you are a final-year BTech student graduating May 2027:<\/strong> Apply for Fall 2027 STEM degrees in USA such as an MS in CS, data science or ECE. Your 4-year degree meets the 16-year norm.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>If you are a BCom or BBA graduate:<\/strong> Target MS Business Analytics, Actuarial Science, or a STEM MBA after work experience. Check the 3-year degree policy first.<a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/questions\/given-my-bachelor-of-commerce-and-a-strong-85-gpa-which-specialized-masters-programs-in-the-usa-would-be-most-suitable-for-my-academic-background-and-interests-in-finance-marketing-business-analytics-supply-chain-management-or-international-business\"> Read expert answers on master&#8217;s options for commerce graduates in the USA<\/a>, or compare an<a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/colleges-mba-in-usa-without-work-experience\/\"> MBA in USA without work experience<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>If you are a working professional with 3 to 5 years of experience:<\/strong> A 1-year STEM MS or a full-program STEM MBA gives the fastest return; Fulbright-Nehru is also open to you.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"STEM_Courses_in_USA_Application_Calendar_for_Fall_2027\"><\/span><strong>STEM Courses in USA Application Calendar for Fall 2027<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-palette-color-5-background-color has-background has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Month<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Master&#8217;s applicants<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Class 12 applicants<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Sep-Oct 2026<\/td><td>Shortlist, confirm CIP codes, take GRE\/TOEFL\/IELTS<\/td><td>Finalize college list, take SAT\/ACT<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Nov 2026<\/td><td>Request transcripts and LORs<\/td><td>Early-round applications<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Dec 2026-Feb 2027<\/td><td>Submit applications; many priority rounds close<\/td><td>Regular-round applications<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Feb-Mar 2027<\/td><td>Interviews; semester exams<\/td><td>Class 12 board exams<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Mar-Apr 2027<\/td><td>Compare admits; arrange loan sanction<\/td><td>Compare admits and aid<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>May-Jul 2027<\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/what-is-i20-form-in-usa-fees-and-sample\/\">I-20<\/a>, SEVIS, F-1 interview; provisional certificate<\/td><td>I-20, F-1 interview; final marksheet<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Aug 2027<\/td><td>Travel; 2027-28 classes begin<\/td><td>Travel; orientation<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>For intake-wise deadlines, see<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/fall-admissions-in-usa-deadline-intake\/\"><em> <\/em><em>Fall admissions in USA<\/em><\/a><em>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_STEM_Course_Plans_in_USA_Go_Wrong\"><\/span><strong>When STEM Course Plans in USA Go Wrong<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Your I-20 shows a non-STEM CIP code: <\/strong>Ask the department whether a STEM concentration or track exists within the same program. If it does not, decide before the add\/drop deadline whether to switch programs, because the code on your I-20 decides your STEM OPT eligibility.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Your 3-year degree is rejected: <\/strong>Shortlist universities that publish a clear 3-year degree policy, such as Syracuse. If your target schools insist on 16 years, a 1-year PG diploma or the first year of an Indian master&#8217;s can close the gap.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Your final-year results are delayed: <\/strong>Email admissions before the deadline. Most universities accept a provisional certificate or a college letter confirming expected completion, with the final marksheet sent later.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Your F-1 visa is refused under 214(b): <\/strong>\u00a0Fix the reason before reapplying: usually weak ties to India or unclear funding.<a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/questions\/if-i-get-rejected-once-for-the-us-visa-will-my-chances-improve-on-a-second-attempt\"> See what our counselors say about a second US visa attempt<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>You are close to missing the OPT filing window: <\/strong>You can file up to 90 days before your program ends and no later than 60 days after. Get your DSO recommendation early in your final semester.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Your OPT job search runs long: <\/strong>Track your unemployment days in the SEVP Portal. The 150-day cap covers OPT and STEM OPT combined.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Counselor insight:<\/em><\/strong><em> The costliest mistakes happen before arrival, not after. Confirm the CIP code and your degree&#8217;s eligibility in writing before you pay any deposit.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Key_Takeaways_on_STEM_Courses_in_USA\"><\/span><strong>3 Key Takeaways on STEM Courses in USA<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Confirm the CIP code of every shortlisted STEM course in USA against the DHS list before you pay a deposit.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Match your background to the right route: BTech to MS, BCom to Business Analytics or STEM MBA, 3-year degree to universities that accept it.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Start Fall 2027 applications this September, and track the D\/S case, OPT rule and H-1B fee proposals.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Verified by:<\/em><\/strong><em> LeapScholar&#8217;s USA counselling team, with hands-on experience guiding Indian students through US STEM admissions, F-1 visas and OPT planning.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Have questions about STEM courses in USA?<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/webflow_progressive_form?utm_source=blog&amp;utm_medium=in-content-cta&amp;utm_campaign=counselling\"><em> <\/em><em>Book a free session with a LeapScholar counselor.<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions_About_STEM_Courses_in_USA\"><\/span><strong>Frequently Asked Questions About STEM Courses in USA<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<ul class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<li id=\"faq-question-1790164356607\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h5 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>Which courses are STEM in USA?<\/strong><\/h5>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>STEM courses in USA are programs whose CIP code appears on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List. This includes all Engineering (14), Biological Sciences (26), Mathematics and Statistics (27) and Physical Sciences (40) codes, plus related fields like Computer Science (11.0701), Data Science (30.7001) and Business Analytics (30.7102).<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"faq-question-1790164385648\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h5 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>Is MBA a STEM course in USA?<\/strong><\/h5>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>A standard MBA (CIP 52.0201) is not STEM. Many US business schools code their MBA or specific MBA majors under Management Science (52.1301), which is on the DHS list. Kellogg designates its full-time MBA as STEM, while Wharton limits STEM status to selected majors. Check the code for your exact track.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"faq-question-1790164401558\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h5 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>Can commerce students do STEM courses in USA?<\/strong><\/h5>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Commerce students can enter STEM courses in USA through MS Business Analytics, Actuarial Science, Business Statistics or quantitative economics programs. Strong Class 12 and graduation-level maths helps. Most BCom degrees are 3 years, so check each university&#8217;s 3-year degree policy before applying.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"faq-question-1790164416936\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h5 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>How do I check if my course is STEM designated?<\/strong><\/h5>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Find the 6-digit CIP code on the program page or on page 1 of your Form I-20, under &#8220;Program of Study&#8221;. Match it against the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List PDF. If the code is not listed, the program does not qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"faq-question-1790164436493\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h5 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>Is MPH a STEM degree in USA?<\/strong><\/h5>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Public Health, General (51.2201) is not on the DHS STEM list. MPH concentrations coded as Epidemiology (26.1309), Biostatistics (26.1102) or Environmental Health (51.2202) do qualify as STEM programs in USA. Johns Hopkins designates its full-time on-campus MPH as STEM, so confirm the code school by school.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"faq-question-1790164456723\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h5 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>What is the cost of STEM courses in USA for Indian students?<\/strong><\/h5>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>For 2026-27, annual tuition runs from about $29,194 (\u20b927.94 lakh) for international graduate students at Purdue to $66,720 (\u20b963.86 lakh) at MIT. At MIT, housing and food add about $24,930 (\u20b923.86 lakh) for nine months. Budget another $535 (\u20b951,205) for SEVIS and the visa application, plus a possible $250 (\u20b923,928) Visa Integrity Fee<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"faq-question-1790164474139\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h5 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>Which is the best STEM university in USA?<\/strong><\/h5>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>MIT is ranked first in the world in the QS World University Rankings 2027. Among the top STEM universities in USA, Stanford, Harvard and Caltech follow. The best STEM university for you depends on your major, budget and admit odds, so cross-check QS subject rankings.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"faq-question-1790164489431\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h5 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>How long can I work in USA after a STEM degree?<\/strong><\/h5>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>F-1 graduates get 12 months of post-completion OPT, and a STEM degree adds a 24-month extension, for up to 36 months in total. The extension requires an E-Verify employer, and unemployment is capped at 150 days across OPT and STEM OPT.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"faq-question-1790164505649\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h5 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>Is OPT ending in 2026?<\/strong><\/h5>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>OPT and STEM OPT remain in place as of September 2026. DHS has a practical training rule (RIN 1653-AA97) on its agenda and an OPT fee proposal awaiting publication, but neither has changed current eligibility. Track DHS and USCIS notices before graduation.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p><span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\"><\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 11<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">min read<\/span><\/span>\u26a1 Quick Read STEM status is set by the CIP code on Form I-20 Up to 36 months of US work after a STEM degree 3-year Indian degrees accepted at some universities only MIT graduate tuition: $66,720 (\u20b963.86 lakh) for 2026-27. ? Best for: Indian Class 12 graduates and professionals choosing US STEM degrees What [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":69,"featured_media":84412,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[6,5],"tags":[3493,3494,3500,3502,3498,2684,3496,3497,3499],"class_list":["post-2123","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-courses","category-study-in-the-us","tag-stem-courses-in-usa-2027","tag-stem-courses-in-usa-for-indian-students","tag-stem-courses-in-usa-for-masters","tag-stem-courses-usa-fees","tag-stem-degrees-in-usa","tag-stem-opt","tag-stem-opt-extension","tag-stem-programs-in-usa","tag-stem-universities-in-usa"],"blocksy_meta":{"styles_descriptor":{"styles":{"desktop":"","tablet":"","mobile":""},"google_fonts":[],"version":6}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2123","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/69"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2123"}],"version-history":[{"count":16,"href":"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2123\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":84413,"href":"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2123\/revisions\/84413"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/84412"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2123"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2123"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2123"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}