Is there a chance to pursue a double master's degree now or is it not allowed in USA?
Yes, you can pursue a second or dual master's degree in the USA, but new immigration rules from 2026 make a second master's at the same level much harder on an F-1 visa, especially for OPT, so consider moving up to a doctoral program instead.
Yes, a second or dual master's degree is still possible in the USA, but you need to plan carefully because new immigration rules from 2026 make a second degree at the same academic level much harder for international students on an F-1 visa. The path you choose, simultaneous or sequential, changes what you are allowed to do.
Simultaneous vs Sequential Master's Degrees
| Path | What It Means | Where You Stand |
|---|---|---|
| Dual master's (simultaneous) | Two degrees earned together in one officially recognised dual program | Fully allowed, with shared credits and dual admission |
| Ad-hoc double degree | Two unrelated master's at two universities at once | Generally not permitted by institutional policy |
| Second master's (sequential) | A new master's after you already hold one | Academically allowed, but faces strict new visa scrutiny |
Why a Second Master's Got Harder
- A 2026 Department of Homeland Security rule removed Duration of Status for F-1 students, so new applications for a second degree at the same level face heavy scrutiny or denial.
- You cannot use a second round of Optional Practical Training if you already used your OPT for your first master's.
- Using a second master's purely for Day 1 Curricular Practical Training is no longer treated as a safe strategy.
- Because of this, many advisors now recommend moving up to a doctoral program, such as a PhD or Doctor of Business Administration, instead of repeating the master's level.
My Advice
Before you commit to a second master's, talk to an immigration attorney or your university's international student office about your exact I-20 timeline, since applications filed before the policy cutoff may still be treated more favourably. If your real goal is a longer stay and stronger visa standing, seriously weigh a PhD or DBA instead of repeating the same degree level.
Looking for a specific course in the USA?
We will find the universities that offer it, and whether you will get in.
More Universities & admissions questions
- What are some effective online German language classes for Indian students preparing to study in Germany?
- By when should my HEP point be completed, should it be this month to avoid delay in UK?
- If I apply to two courses at the same university, do I need separate letters of recommendation for each course or can I use the same letter for both?
- What are the chances of getting a conditional offer letter requiring IELTS even if I have a good 12th standard score?
- Is January 2027 intake possible for masters in business analytics in UK/UAE?
- Which universities in the USA offer MS Engineering Management for a B.Tech Automotive Engineering graduate, Duolingo 120 and ₹80 lakhs budget?
- Can I pursue an MBA abroad after completing a Bachelor of Science degree?
- Is it possible to study computer science with specialization in artificial intelligence in UK/New Zealand for a Master's?
More USA questions
- Can you track an Employment Pass application on the MOM portal when your employer files it?
- Can I apply for an education loan up to 30 to 35 lakhs or 30 to 40 lakhs budget?
- What are the visa application chances and procedures for USA compared to Australia?
- Is my daughter planning to settle down abroad with permanent residency or just study in Singapore/USA for a Master's?
- Is the scholarship available for the next intake in USA for a Master's?
- Which entrance exam should an average scoring 12th grade student prepare for to study abroad without family funding?
- What are the English language test options required for MBA applications?
- Will I be eligible for a post-study work permit after completing my master's degree in history in USA?