The USA is a popular destination for students seeking an MS degree. Did you know that over 260,000 international students in previous years chose to pursue their graduate studies in the US?
So, pursuing a Master's degree in the USA is a good choice due to the quality of education, research work in the course, and career prospects available in the country.
The USA is home to some of the world's top-ranked universities, offering various MS programs in various fields such as engineering, computer science, biotechnology, healthcare, and more.
The comprehensive academic curriculum, world-class faculty, and advanced facilities make studying for an MS in the USA an enriching experience.
Highlight Table:
| Parameters | Details |
| Number of MS Universities | 500+ |
| Top Specialisations |
|
| Course Duration | 2 years |
| Scholarships |
|
| Approximate Study Cost | USD 40,000 to USD 120,000 per year (INR 33L to 99L) |
| Approximate Cost of Living | INR 92K to 1L |
| Top Colleges for MS in USA |
|
Why study MS in USA?
The United States has long been established as a global leader in scientific research and technological innovation. As a result, pursuing an MS in the USA presents a compelling opportunity for ambitious students seeking to elevate their academic qualifications and professional prospects.
There are two main types of MS programs in the USA:
- Course-based (taught) master's degrees:
- Focus on structured coursework
- Conclude with a final exam or project
- Ideal for gaining broad knowledge in a specific field
- Research-based master's degrees:
- Emphasise completing a significant research project
- Supervised by a faculty advisor
- Suitable for developing research skills and preparing for a PhD
Studying in the USA offers many advantages, including:
- Renowned Universities and Faculty: The US boasts a concentration of world-renowned universities consistently ranked at the forefront of scientific research. Earning an MS in the USA from such institutions equips graduates with a globally recognised degree and the prestige associated with these esteemed academic centres.
- Diverse Range of Programs: US universities offer various MS programs encompassing various scientific disciplines. This extensive selection allows students to pursue specialised fields aligned with their career aspirations.
- Focus on Research and Innovation: A hallmark of US graduate programs is their emphasis on research and practical application. Half of their master's time is devoted to studying and conducting research. Students can engage in cutting-edge research projects alongside leading professors, fostering valuable research skills and practical problem-solving abilities.
- Career Advancement Potential: A Master's degree from a US university is highly sought-after by employers worldwide. Graduates can access multiple career opportunities and often command higher salaries within their chosen fields.
- Lively Campus Life and Cultural Exchange: Studying in the US enriches the cultural experience. Universities foster active and fun student communities, allowing international students to network with peers from across the globe and broaden their perspectives.
By undertaking a Master's degree in the USA (MS in the USA), you invest in your future, gaining the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to excel in a competitive globalised scientific landscape.
Top 10 Masters Universities in the USA
The United States has many universities, with over 3900 offering undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields.
More than 142 universities are ranked among the top 1000 by QS, known for their exceptional academic standards and innovative approaches to teaching and learning. This offers students vast options.
Did you know that UNESCO categorises the USA among the countries with a well-developed educational system?
Here is a list of the 10 top universities in the USA for MS according to the QS World Ranking 2024:
| MS Schools | QS Global Rankings 2024 | Average Tuition Fees per year |
| MIT | #1 | INR 20L to 50L |
| Harvard University | #4 | INR 18L to 54L |
| Stanford University | #5 | INR 25L to 45L |
| University of California, Berkeley (UCB) | #10 | INR 22L to 63L |
| University of Chicago | #11 | INR 30L to 50L |
| University of Pennsylvania | #12 | INR 16L to 30L |
| Cornell University | #13 | INR 17L to 49L |
| California Institute of Technology (Caltech) | #15 | INR 30L to 46L |
| Yale University | #16 | INR 25L to 40L |
| Princeton University | #17 | INR 43L to 46L |
Note: The amounts mentioned may vary depending on the currency exchange rate.
Top MS Specialisations in USA
If you plan to study MS in USA, you must know that each specialisation offers a unique path for intellectual growth and professional development. With its diverse range of MS programs, the US provides an unparalleled opportunity to pursue your scientific passion and contribute meaningfully to your chosen field.
Here is a list of the most in-demand areas of study, with their academic programs and the leading universities that offer them:
| Course | MS Offered | Top Universities |
| Engineering | Bio-Medical Engineering | Massachusetts Institute of Technology |
| Chemical Engineering | Stanford University | |
| Civil Engineering | Harvard University | |
| Computer Engineering | University of Pennsylvania | |
| Mechanical Engineering | Massachusetts Institute of Technology | |
| Aeronautical Engineering | Cornell University | |
| Business & Management | Business Analytics | Massachusetts Institute of Technology |
| International Management | New York University (NYU) | |
| Finance | Stanford University | |
| Marketing | University of Southern California (USC) | |
| Public Health | Environmental Health Sciences | University of Washington |
| Epidemiology | Massachusetts Institute of Technology | |
| Population, Family & Health | Johns Hopkins University | |
| Biostatistics | University of Pennsylvania | |
| Sciences | Biology | Yale University |
| Mathematics | Stanford University | |
| Physics | California Institute of Technology | |
| Data Science | University of Pennsylvania |
Masters in USA- Admission Requirements
Earning a Master's in the US is an enriching experience but requires careful preparation. Here's a breakdown of the MS in USA eligibility requirements:
General Requirements
- Undergraduate Degree: You'll need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field from an accredited institution. While some programs might accept degrees from marginally different fields, a strong connection to your desired MS specialisation is generally preferred.
- Minimum GPA: Most universities require a minimum GPA, typically around 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or the equivalent). However, competitive programs may require a higher GPA.
- Standardised Test Scores: Depending on your program, you might need to submit Graduate Record Examinations scores (300-340) for general science fields or GMAT scores (600-700) for business-related programs. Some programs might require specific subject GRE tests.
Documents Requirements
- Official Transcripts: Request official transcripts from your bachelor’s universities and others if you attended. These documents should be sealed and sent directly from the institutions to the universities you're applying to.
- English Language Proficiency Test: If English isn't your native language, you must submit scores from an English proficiency test like TOEFL (80-120) or IELTS (6.5-8.0).
- Statement of Purpose (SOP): This essay allows you to showcase your academic background, research interests, career goals, and reasons for choosing the specific program.
- Letters of Recommendation: Strong letters of recommendation from professors familiar with your academic abilities can significantly strengthen your application.
- Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV): Highlight your academic achievements, research experience, relevant work experience (if any), and any extracurricular activities demonstrating your skills and accomplishments.
Visa Requirements
- Obtaining a student visa (F-1 visa) is crucial for international students. The specific requirements and application process can vary depending on your nationality.
- You'll need proof of financial support demonstrating you can cover tuition and living expenses during your studies.
- The university will provide you with a document (I-20) to initiate the visa application process.
Work Permit
- There are limited work authorisation options for F-1 visa holders. On-campus jobs are generally permitted under certain conditions.
- Curricular Practical Training (CPT) allows for authorised internships related to your field.
- Under certain circumstances, students can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) to temporarily work in their field of study for up to one year after graduation.
- For long-term employment after graduation, you'll likely need an H-1B visa sponsored by your employer. This visa requires meeting specific qualifications and obtaining sponsorship from a US company.
These are general requirements; specific details may vary across universities and programs. Always refer to the official program website for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
Cost of studying MS in USA
The USA is slightly more expensive than other countries. Still, with enough research and early application, you can land an affordable university and cut the cost of an MS in the USA.
The cost of studying a Master of Science (MS) in the USA can vary significantly depending on several factors:
- Type of Institution: Public universities generally have lower tuition fees than private universities.
- Location: The cost of living varies greatly across the US. Studying in a major coastal city like New York or Los Angeles will be more expensive than attending a university in a smaller town or rural area.
- Program Specificity: Certain specialised programs, particularly those in high-demand fields, might have higher tuition fees.
Tuition Fees are the primary expense and can range from USD 40,000 to USD 120,000 per year (approximately INR 33L to 99L). Top-ranked universities and programs in specific fields will typically fall on the higher end of this range.
Below is a list of the top specialisations in MS and their associated costs of studying in the USA.
| MS Courses | Average Annual Fees (approx.) |
| Civil Engineering | INR 10L to 50L |
| Mechanical Engineering | INR 10L to 50L |
| Business Analytics | INR 20L to 50L |
| Medicine | INR 30L to 80L |
| Data Science | INR 15L to 40L |
| Environmental Studies | INR 12L to 20L |
Remember, the cost of your MS program can be managed through careful planning and exploring financial aid opportunities.
Cost of Living in USA
The United States is home to some of the best cities to live in the world. According to the US embassy and consulates in India, more than 2.6 lakh students from India are currently pursuing higher education in the USA.
The average cost of living in the USA for an Indian student can range from INR 92,000 (USD 1,100) to INR 1L (USD 1,200) per month without rent, depending on the city and lifestyle.
Here's a breakdown of the cost of living in the USA:
| Parameters | Costs |
| Average Transportation Cost (Monthly Pass) | INR 6,000 (USD 72) |
| Average Basic Utility Cost | INR 17,000 (USD 206) |
| Mobile Phone Monthly Plan Costs | INR 4,300 (USD 52) |
| Internet Plan Costs | INR 5,900 (USD 71) |
| Health Insurance (per year) | INR 58,000 (USD 700) - INR 92,000 (USD 11,00) |
| Visa Charges | INR 42,000 (USD 510) |
| Average Rent In the USA In City Centre | INR 1.47L (USD 1,768) |
Note: The above costs are approximate and fluctuate based on changing currency exchange rates.
Scholarships for Masters in USA
Tuition fees for international students in US universities vary based on factors such as the
- type of institution
- program of study
- and geographical location
Therefore, students must conduct thorough research and compare the costs of different universities and programs before deciding.
However, scholarship opportunities are available for international students, which can help reduce the financial burden of studying in the US.
Indian students, in particular, have access to scholarship resources that can help them pursue their academic goals more cheaply.
There are over 300 scholarships available for individuals pursuing a master's degree in the United States.
Here are some scholarships in the USA specifically designed for Indian students to help lessen the financial burden:
| Scholarships | Benefits (approx.) |
| SN Bose Scholarship | Indian students can receive financial support for a 10-12 week research internship in U.S. universities, including stipend, airfare, and health insurance. |
| Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship Program | Varies from INR 4L, 6L and 8L |
| Asian Development Bank/Government of Japan Scholarship Program | The scholarship covers full tuition fees, subsistence (including housing allowance), book allowance, medical insurance, travel, and research subsidies. |
| Inlaks Scholarship | INR 83L |
| National Overseas Scholarship | Provides an Annual Maintenance Allowance of USD 15,400 and a Contingency Allowance of USD 1500. Tuition and visa expenditure is covered. Medical insurance and Incidental Journey & Equipment Allowance are also given. |
Jobs after Masters in USA
A Master's in the USA equips you with specialised knowledge, advanced research skills, and a globally recognised credential, opening doors to exciting career opportunities.
We'll explore some of the most coveted jobs in the USA after MS, along with their earning potentials here:
| Job Roles | Salary per year |
| Software Engineer | USD 102,699 (INR 85L) |
| Electrical Engineer | USD 99,500 (INR 82L) |
| Chemical Engineer | USD 100,633 (INR 83L) |
| Data Scientist | USD 126,845 (INR 1.05 Cr) |
| Software Developer | USD 130,307 (INR 1.08 Cr) |
| Machine Learning Engineer | USD 92,077 (INR 76L) |
| Biomedical Engineer | USD 92,077 (INR 76L) |
| Research Scientist | USD 89,259 (INR 74L) |
| Pharmaceutical Scientist | USD 114,831 (INR 95L) |
| Management Consultant | USD 108,693 (INR 90L) |
Note: The amounts mentioned may vary depending on the currency exchange rate.
A Masters in the USA goes beyond just securing a high-paying job. It empowers you with:
- Advanced Skills: You'll gain in-depth knowledge and practical abilities in your chosen field, making you a valuable asset to potential employers.
- Networking Opportunities: Studying in the US allows you to connect with professors, industry professionals, and fellow students, building a strong network that can benefit your career.
- Enhanced Career Prospects: An MS degree opens doors to leadership positions and specialised career paths within your field.
- Global Recognition: A US degree holds international prestige, making you a competitive candidate in the worldwide job market.
Earning an MS in the USA is an investment in your future. With specialised skills, a globally recognised degree, and a wider range of career opportunities, you'll be well-positioned to impact your chosen field significantly.
