MS in USA – Fees, Eligibility, Application, Colleges
Home to the Ivy League schools, the USA is among the few countries in the world with well-developed education systems. The USA promises many opportunities for personal and professional growth, due to which it attracts millions of international students every year.
According to the Open Doors 2023 Report, in the 2022-23 academic year, the United States hosted over a million international students from more than 210 locations globally. The same year also saw a record-breaking increase of 21% in the number of international students enrolled in doctorate, Master’s, and professional programs.
A Master’s (MS) degree is one of the top choices among international students to study in the USA. This two-year program is offered by more than 70% of universities in the USA. Factors like cutting-edge technology, research opportunities, and top-rated specialisations entice many students to study master’s in the USA.
MS in USA: Key Highlights
MS is an abbreviation for Master of Science degree, which is mainly awarded for courses offered in the fields of science, engineering, and medicine. Top universities, eligibility criteria, fees, job profiles, etc., differ from course to course. The table below will help you have a general overview of all the important information related to studying MS in the USA.
| Particulars | Description |
| Degree | Master in Science (MS) |
| Courses | MS in Data Science, MS in Finance, MS in Computer Science, MS in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, etc. |
| Top Universities | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Harvard University, Stanford University, UC Berkeley, Yale University, etc. |
| English Proficiency Test Requirements | IELTS – 7
TOEFL – 100 |
| Duration | 2 years |
| Average Cost/Fees | INR 25L – 71L ($30,000 – ($84,830) |
| Average Salary after MS | $80,000 – $120,000 |
Benefits of Pursuing MS in USA
There are numerous advantages to studying master’s in the USA. However, the main reason has to be the potential of the ‘American dream,’ which is propelled by the quality of education and standard of living available in the USA. Some of the benefits associated with pursuing a master’s in the USA are discussed below.
1. Chance to Build a Great Network
The United States is a prime destination for Masters, offering significant networking opportunities. US universities make it easier for students to establish and maintain professional networks.
With extensive alumni networks spanning multiple years, students can connect with former graduates at events and conferences, fostering long-lasting relationships that can advance their careers.
2. Flexibility in Choosing Academic Options
Universities in the US offer MS degrees in a diverse array of fields and specializations. While fields like Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, and Automobile Engineering are well-established, others are emerging with promising futures.
Another key reason why a master’s degree in the USA is highly regarded is the academic flexibility these programs offer.
Students have the freedom to tailor their courses to align with their academic objectives and can actively propose research ideas in their chosen areas of interest.
3. Amazing Job Opportunities
One key reason the USA is a popular destination for MS studies is the access it provides to excellent post-degree work opportunities.
While pursuing master’s at US universities, students have the chance to attend workshops and events designed to help them secure the best positions in their chosen fields.
Graduates from US universities, particularly those who excel, are often recruited by reputable companies through the university’s placement services. Additionally, many STEM courses offer an extended visa validity period, giving students extra time to search for jobs.
As a result, most students find well-paying positions and can recover the cost of their education within 3 to 4 years.
4. Quality-Driven Education
The United States’ academic leadership is fueled by its dynamic education system, which attracts nearly 30% of international students each year.
At the Master’s level, the emphasis on developing subject matter expertise is paramount. With highly qualified instructors committed to fostering well-rounded development through both theoretical and practical learning, the USA stands out as an appealing choice.
US universities are recognized for employing distinguished faculty and prioritizing experiential learning, which involves applying theoretical knowledge to real-world situations.
5. Great Research Opportunities
The USA has consistently prioritized research and development, offering opportunities that Indian students might not easily find in universities back home.
The advantage of pursuing a Master’s degree in the USA, particularly for Indian students, lies in the superior quality of education available. Research-focused Master’s programs in the US often provide unique opportunities, including internships and post-study work options that might be harder to come by in Indian universities.
Moreover, another compelling reason for Indian students interested in research to choose the USA is the cost. Research degrees in the USA can be more affordable compared to those in other countries, making it an attractive option for those seeking high-quality education at a reasonable price.
6. Experience Diverse Cultures
The USA is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines from across the globe, providing Indian students with rich exposure to diverse cultures.
Every university, whether top-tier or mid-range, boasts a diverse student population. This cultural diversity in the USA allows students to engage with different cultures, which is crucial for developing a global outlook.
In addition to experiencing new cultures and meeting people from various backgrounds, students gain a broader perspective on global issues. This helps Indian students become more open-minded and appreciative of different countries and their viewpoints.
Moreover, one of the advantages of pursuing an MS in USA is the presence of a significant Indian community. This ensures that Indian students can enjoy a sense of familiarity while still stepping outside their comfort zone
7. Chance to Study at the World’s Top-Ranked Universities
One key requirement for international students is that their Master’s degree must come from a recognized university, especially if it marks the final stage of their education. This is a major factor that attracts students from around the world to US universities year after year.
Every university in the USA strongly emphasises securing accreditation from global education councils, ensuring that its degrees are recognized worldwide.
This global recognition adds significant value to these degrees, making the decision to pursue a Master’s in the USA even more compelling, particularly when further education or employment opportunities require a recognized qualification.
8. Availability of Support Facilities for International Students
University students in the USA can readily access support and assistance for a variety of needs, including food, accommodation, visa extensions, scholarships, and internship opportunities.
Colleges go to great lengths to ensure that students from all backgrounds have a smooth transition to life in the US.
Most US universities have an international student office dedicated to helping foreign students acclimate to their new environment. These offices are available to address any questions or concerns, whether they are academic, social, or related to adjusting to the new lifestyle.
Top Universities and Cost to Study MS in USA
The USA is home to the top-ranked universities in the world that offer MS degree programs. The table below contains a list of these universities and their average fees.
| University Name | Fees |
| California Institute of Technology | INR 45 L – 51 L |
| Princeton University | INR 44 L – 50 L |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | INR 44 L – INR 70 L |
| Harvard University | INR 42 L – INR 72 L |
| Stanford University | INR 32 L – 51 L |
| University of California Berkeley | INR 22 L – INR 63 L |
| Cornell University | INR 18 L – INR 25 L |
Cost of Living in the USA
The cost of living is generally high compared to the rest of the world. This is because components like housing, healthcare, and education are comparatively expensive in the USA. The average monthly cost of living in the USA can vary depending on various factors like lifestyle, location, etc. The table below contains details about various expenses and their average monthly cost in USD respectively:
| Expenses | Average Cost Monthly (in USD) |
| Transportation (public transit, gas, insurance) | $100 – $300 |
| Dining out | $150 – $300 |
| Utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) | $150 – $300 |
| Groceries | $300 – $500 |
| Rent (1-bedroom apartment) | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Health insurance | $200 – $600 |
| Clothing | $50 – $150 |
| Internet and phone | $80 – $150 |
| Entertainment | $100 – $300 |
| Miscellaneous | $100 – $200 |
Affordable State and Colleges to Study MS in USA
Studying in the USA can turn out to be quite hefty, considering both the cost of studying and living there. Students wanting to study at US universities should research the fees in order to ensure that it aligns with their budget. There are many universities in the USA that offer affordable education, which is especially great for students struggling with financial constraints. The table below contains details about some of these universities:
| University | Location | Average Tuition Fee (in INR) | Average Tuition Fee (in USD) |
| University of Nebraska – Kearney | Kearney, Nebraska | 12.25 lakh | 14,610 |
| Coppin State University | Baltimore, Maryland | 10.03 lakhs | 11,955 |
| Truman State University | Kirksville, Missouri | 7.37 lakhs | 8,784 |
| Monroe University | Bronx, New York | 5.47 lakhs | 6,529 |
| University of Akron | Akron, Ohio | 4.02 lakhs | 4,800 |
| Southern Illinois University – Carbondale | Carbondale, Illinois | 8.08 lakhs | 9,638 |
| South Dakota State University | Brookings, South Dakota | 9.87 lakhs | 11,772 |
| Southeast Missouri State University | Cape Girardeau, Missouri | 11.10 lakhs | 13,237.02 |
| Minnesota State University | Mankato, Minnesota | 12.77 lakhs | 15,218 |
Eligibility Criteria to Study MS in USA
The eligibility criteria to study MS in USA may vary depending upon the college, university and the program a student opts for. Mentioned below are the general eligibility criteria to study MS in USA:
- The student must have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in the relevant field.
- Some universities may ask for work experience of 2 to 3 years to pursue MS in USA.
- To study certain MS courses in the USA, a student is required to clear entrance exams. For instance, for subjects like Finance and Management, universities may ask for GMAT or GRE scores. The table below contains benchmarks for good test scores to study MS in USA:
| Test Name | Minimum Score |
| GRE | 310 – 315 |
| GMAT | 700 and above |
- To prove proficiency in English, the candidate needs to take an English proficiency exam like TOEFL, IELTS, PTE or Duolingo. The minimum score requirements to study MS in USA are –
| Test Name | Minimum Score Required |
| PTE | 65 – 75 |
| IELTS | 6.5 – 7.5 |
| TOEFL | 90 – 100 |
Jobs and Salaries After Completing MS in USA
Just like in any other country, the salary after studying MS in the USA is dependent on factors like industry, field of study, experience, location and qualifications. The table below contains information about popular career options after completing MS in the USA and the median salaries offered in the respective job profiles.
| Job Profile | Salary |
| Financial Manager | $127,990 |
| Software Engineer | $105,590 |
| Management Consultant | $83,610 |
| IT Manager | $146,360 |
| Data Scientist | $105,590 |
| Business Development Engineer | $100,000 |
| Marketing Manager | $135,030 |
| Doctor or Physician | Varies according to the speciality |
FAQs
- Does the USA accept 1 year Master’s?
Yes, there are many universities now in the USA that offer accelerated master’s programs that can be completed in just 12 months. Universities have started offering these programs because of the increase in students’ demand for fast-paced courses.
- How much gap is accepted for MS in USA?
A one-year gap is acceptable to secure a USA study visa. However, if the gap is more than a year, the student must explain the reason behind it to avoid being rejected by the visa embassy or university.
- How long can I work in the USA after my Master’s?
Under the Post-Completion OPT (Optional Practical Training) benefit, a recent graduate can work in the USA for 12 months. Students can apply for this benefit after completing their studies.
- Can I get PR after MS in USA?
The easiest route to securing a PR after completing a master’s in the USA is to sign up for the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. After gaining valuable work experience for 12 to 36 months in the field, the chances of getting a PR increase.
- What is the best age to study MS in USA?
The best age to study master’s in USA is considered to be from the late 20s to early 30s. However, it’s never too late to take a leap of faith and do this, even if you are in your 60s.