MS in USA: A Comprehensive Guide - Top Specializations, Universities, Deadlines, Eligibility & Fees
- Bhargava Krishna Marripati
- Jan 27
- 10 min read
Updated: Jan 28
The USA is undoubtedly one of the most sought-after study destinations among international students. Numerically speaking, in the academic year 2023-2024, nearly 502,291 international graduate students moved to the country for higher education.
The high-ranked Universities, work-integrated courses, ground-breaking innovations, umpteen scholarships and thriving job markets have led the finest minds to opt for this country.
If you plan to enrol in one of the top-notch universities in the USA for your master’s degree, then you are at the right place and this article is a must-read for you. Keep reading to find out all the essential information regarding the top universities, cost to study, eligibility requirements and a lot more.
Table of Content
Acceptable Scores of Standardized Tests:
Acceptable English Proficiency Test Scores:
Exemptions for Masters in the USA
High-Ranked Universities in USA Accepting 3-year Bachelor’s Degrees
Study Duration for a Masters in USA
Top Universities for Masters in USA
Top Universities for MBA in USA
Cost of Studying Masters in USA
Financial Aid Options
Visa Process for Studying in the U.S
FAQs
Why Study in USA?
Academic excellence:
The US has many top universities in the world, including Harvard and MIT.
These universities offer access to world-class faculty, cutting-edge facilities, and a variety of programs.
Career opportunities:
US institutions have strong industry connections and prepare students for the global job market.
Graduates have the skills, experiences, and networks to excel in their careers.
Cultural diversity
US universities are diverse and inclusive, with students from many different cultures, beliefs, and ideas.
Students learn about different cultures and feel more comfortable and confident in their interactions with others.
Research opportunities
US universities offer opportunities for students to engage in research projects and work with professors.
Personal growth
Studying in the US can help students develop independence, resilience, and adaptability.
Popular Master's Specializations
While the USA offers a broad range of Master's programs, some are particularly popular among international students:
Computer Science & Engineering: "MS in Computer Science & Engineering is among the popular specializations" and the average salary for a Master of Science in Computer Engineering degree is USD 103,000 per year, and USD 112,000-USD 135,000 per year for a MS in CS.
Data Analytics: "USA is home to 250+ universities offering MS in Data Analytics in USA for international students."
Finance: Several top universities offer highly regarded MS in Finance programs.
Other popular specializations: Biology, Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Information Systems, Statistics and Biomedical Engineering.
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) courses are widely opted for due to demand and the potential for a 24-month work visa extension post-graduation.
Admission Requirements & Eligibility for Masters in USA
Educational Background
Generally, a bachelor's degree in a relevant field or one with significant relevant coursework is necessary. "International students willing to apply for admission to Masters in USA in 2023 need 16 years of education."
GPA
A strong GPA is essential, with an average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (80%) or above often required.
Standardized Tests
GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is often required, but some universities or programs may waive it, it is not universally required.
GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is required for MBA programs.
The specific score requirements vary by university and program. For example: Stanford University requires a GRE score of 328 and a TOEFL score of 100.
English Proficiency: International students from non-English speaking countries must demonstrate English proficiency.
Commonly accepted tests include TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, and Duolingo.
"Most universities will look for at least 7.5 on the IELTS test" and a score of 100 or more on the TOEFL.
Other tests that may be considered are the iTEP and the Cambridge English C1 Advanced/C2 Proficiency.
Other factors: Some universities also consider factors such as "work experience" for certain programs.
These are all the required information that you must know if you are planning for your masters in the upcoming academic intake. To know more about the admission process, the right time to start the preparation and for assistance with application processes you can consult BK OVERSEAS EDUCATION CONSULTANCY'S Experts virtually or in person. We are here to make studying in USA for international students a smooth sail.
Top Universities for Masters in USA
According to QS World University Rankings 2025, 4 Universities in the USA rank among the top 10 in the world. Some of these leading universities in the USA are listed below:
1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
2. Stanford University
3. University of California, Berkeley
4. California Institute of Technology
5. Georgia Institute of Technology
6. Maryland University
7. Carnegie Mellon University
8. University of Texas-Austin
9. Yale university
10. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
While this isn’t an exhaustive list, they are exceptionally famous for their MS in USA. If you have a business acumen or an entrepreneurial mindset then we have something for you ahead, let’s have a quick glance at the top-notch business schools.
Top Universities for MBA in USA
Consistently ranked among the world’s best, the business schools in the country are celebrated for their academic excellence and entrepreneurial spirit.
1. The University of Chicago Booth School of Business
2. Stanford Graduate School of Business, Stanford University
3. Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University
4. Harvard Business School
5. The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania
6. Tuck School of Business, Dartmouth College
7. Columbia Business School - Columbia University
8. MIT Sloan School of Management
9. Samuel Curtis Johnson Graduate School of Management, Cornell University
10. Stephen M. Ross School of Business, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
Beyond these universities, many leading US universities consider a three-year bachelor's degree for admission in MS or other master’s courses.
Study Duration for a Masters in USA
The duration for all the master's degrees in the US is generally 2 years. Whether you want to pursue Masters in Science (MS), Masters in Engineering (MEng), Masters in Business Administration (MBA) or Masters in Arts (MA), the duration will be 2 years. But courses like Masters in Management, Masters in Business Analytics, LLM etc. may be of one year duration.
Some programs, like an MS in Finance, might be 18 months, while others, like MS in Financial Engineering can be as short as 10 months.
Now that you have an idea of the course duration, it’s time to understand the monetary requirements of pursuing a masters in the USA.
Cost of Studying Masters in USA
Tuition Fees
Can range from $10,000 to $50,000+ per year depending on the institution.
Public Universities: Generally lower tuition fees for in-state students; out-of-state students may pay higher rates.
Private Universities: Typically higher tuition fees, but may offer more financial aid options.
Living Expenses
Typically range from $10,000 to $20,000 per year depending on the location.
Accommodation: Dormitories or off-campus apartments, with costs varying by city.
Food and Transportation: Costs depend on lifestyle and location (urban vs rural).
Health Insurance
Health insurance is required for most international students, costing approximately $500 to $2,000 per year.
Some universities offer health plans, or students may need to buy insurance separately.
Books and Supplies
Estimated at around $1,000 to $2,000 per year depending on the program of study
Miscellaneous Expenses
Includes personal items, entertainment, and travel costs, typically $2,000 to $4,000 per year.
Financial Aid
Scholarships, grants, and work-study options are available.
International students may apply for merit-based scholarships or assistantships.
Some universities offer financial aid packages specifically for international students.
Additional Costs
Application Fees: Universities typically charge an application fee ranging from $50 to $100.
Visa and SEVIS Fees: These are additional costs for obtaining a student visa, with SEVIS fee around $350.
Don't Miss this: Masters in USA under 25Lakhs
Financial Aid Options
Scholarships:
Many universities offer merit-based scholarships to international students, some of which can be substantial. "Average scholarship offered is 10,000 USD for one year to students pursuing an MS in USA".
There are numerous scholarships available from universities and external organizations, including:
New York University Wagner Scholarship (USD 25,000-47,000)
Fulbright Student Program (grants for tuition, airfare, living stipend, and health insurance)
Clark University Scholarships (USD 20,000-25,000)
Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship.
Grants:
Grants are awarded based on financial need.
Assistantships:
For students pursuing a master’s degree, scholarships are generally limited in numbers. However, students can check for tuition fee waivers in the form of Assistantships like
Research Assistantship
Teaching Assistantship
Graduate Assistantship
Teaching Assistantships (TAs) and Research Assistantships (RAs) provide stipends. "Students can earn 500 USD to 1,200 USD monthly if they work part-time as a TA" and "research assistants can earn up to 1,500 USD as a stipend every month."
Most universities offer financial aid, and one should research this.
Application for scholarships should occur at the same time as the applications to universities, if not earlier.
They can also check for Part Time On Campus Jobs or Off-Campus Employment through
Curriculum Practical Training (CPT)
Optional Practical Training (OPT)
Also, there are certain options that offer work-study programs, and some Universities allow students to work full-time even when the sessions are on. Classes are held in the evening or at the weekends so that students can work full-time during the day.
After knowing so many important aspects of studying masters in the USA, it is now time to get into the specifics. Read ahead to know more about the general eligibility requirements to study here.
Visa Process for Studying in the U.S
Step 1: Acceptance into a U.S. Institution
Apply to a U.S. college or university and receive an acceptance letter.
Step 2: SEVIS Fee Payment
Pay the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee to register your information in the U.S. government system.
Step 3: Obtain Form I-20
Your U.S. school will issue Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status), which you need to apply for the F-1 visa.
Step 4: Schedule Visa Interview
Schedule an appointment at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for your visa interview.
Step 5: Complete DS-160 Form
Fill out the DS-160 form, the online application for a U.S. visa.
Step 6: Pay Visa Application Fee
Pay the non-refundable visa application fee (usually around $160).
Step 7: Attend Visa Interview
Attend the interview with the U.S. consulate. Be prepared to provide the following documents:
Valid passport
Form I-20
Form DS-160 confirmation page
Visa application fee receipt
Passport-sized photographs
Proof of financial support to show you can afford tuition and living expenses.
Academic transcripts, test scores, and other relevant documents.
Step 8: Visa Approval or Denial
After the interview, your visa will either be approved or denied. If approved, the visa will be stamped in your passport.
Step 9: Visa Issuance and Travel
Once approved, you will receive your F-1 visa, which allows you to travel to the U.S.
Step 10: Enter the U.S.
You can enter the U.S. up to 30 days before your program begins, using your F-1 visa.
These are the essential steps to follow when applying for a student visa to study in the U.S.
Student Visas
International students require either an F-1 (academic) or J-1 (exchange program) student visa.
The J-1 visa requires sponsorship.
The process includes: getting an I-20 form, paying the SEVIS fee, completing the DS-160 application, and attending a visa interview.
Post-Graduation Opportunities
The US offers excellent job prospects for graduates, especially in STEM fields.
STEM courses offer a 24-month work visa extension, enabling more job search time for international graduates.
MS graduates can find positions with good median salaries; for example, statisticians earn around USD 84,060 annually, while software developers earn USD 103,560.
Other fields, like IT management can earn USD 139,220, while a Computer and Information Research Scientist can earn USD 114,520 per year.
Important Considerations for International Students:
Acceptance Rates: Many top US universities have low acceptance rates (below 6% on average), making admission competitive. Some universities like MIT have an acceptance rate of around 7%.
Research and Development: The US government invests significantly in research and development (2.7% of its GDP), which means that pursuing an MS in the USA improves chances for research and related funding.
University Location: Consider whether you prefer a city or campus environment, as well as regional cultural differences. There are many options for MS programs in the USA with many programs in places like California (73 programs), New York (69 programs), Massachusetts (41 programs) and Texas (38 programs).
Experiential Learning: The USA offers a "large international student body" as well as "research opportunities" and "experiential learning opportunities including...cooperative education programs."
Cultural Experience: The USA has "a vast range of other specialised institutions [offering] unique postgraduate training opportunities in almost every field imaginable."
Conclusion:
Pursuing a Master's degree in the USA offers numerous academic and career advantages. However, it requires careful planning, thorough research, and financial preparation. International students should carefully evaluate their options, keeping in mind factors like university rankings, program specializations, costs, and funding opportunities in order to choose the correct program. By considering all these aspects, they can maximize their chances of success in their MS journey in the USA.
This document is intended as a general overview and should be supplemented with more detailed information specific to the individual's circumstances and target institutions.
FAQs
1. How to choose the right master's program in the USA?
Consider factors such as program curriculum, faculty expertise, research opportunities, location, cost, and alignment with your career goals. Visiting campuses virtually, attending information sessions, and speaking with current students or alumni can provide additional insights.
2. What is the difference between a Master of Science (MS) and a Master of Engineering (MEng) degree?
An MS degree focuses on research and may require a thesis, preparing students for doctoral studies or research positions. An MEng degree is often more practice-oriented, emphasizing coursework and practical skills for professional engineering careers.
3. What housing options are available for master’s degree students in the USA?
Housing options include on-campus graduate housing, off-campus apartments, and shared housing. Universities often provide resources to assist students in finding suitable accommodations.
4. What career services are available to master's students in the USA?
Universities offer career services such as resume workshops, interview preparation, job fairs, networking events, and alumni connections to support students in their job search and professional development.
5. Can I work while studying for my master's degree in the USA?
International students on F-1 visas can work on-campus up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks. Off-campus employment requires prior authorization, such as Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT).
6. What is the application process for master's programs in the USA?
The process involves submitting an online application, academic transcripts, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a resume. Some programs may also require interviews or portfolio submissions.
To know more about such affordable study opportunities students can reach out to us at
BK Overseas Education . We have been a trusted name in the study abroad industry. we offer end-to-end guidance to help students make informed decisions.
So, visit our branch office in madhapur or take virtual counseling to fulfill your dreams of studying in the USA.
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