Home to the Ivy League schools, USA is among the few countries in the world with well-developed education systems. USA promises many opportunities for personal and professional growth due to which it attracts millions of international students every year.
As per 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.
Are you planning to study MS in USA and unsure about the eligibility criteria? If the answer is yes, then this blog will help you greatly. Keep reading further to know more!
MS is an abbreviation for Master of Science degree, mainly awarded for courses offered in science, engineering and medicine studies. 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 USA.
| Particulars | Description |
| Degree | Masters 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 |
There are numerous advantages of studying masters in the USA. However, the main reason is 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 masters in the USA are discussed below.
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.
Universities in US provide MS degrees in a diverse array of fields and specializations. While fields like MS in 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.
One of the key reasons why the USA is a popular destination for MS studies is the access it provides to excellent post-degree work opportunities.
While pursuing masters 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.
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. US universities are recognized for employing distinguished faculty and prioritizing experiential learning, which involves applying theoretical knowledge to real-world situations.
USA is home to top-ranked universities in the world that offer MS degree programs. The table below contains the list of these universities and average fees charged by them.
| 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 |
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:
| Test Name | Minimum Score |
| GRE | 310 – 315 |
| GMAT | 700 and above |
| Test Name | Minimum Score Required |
| PTE | 65 – 75 |
| IELTS | 6.5 – 7.5 |
| TOEFL | 90 – 100 |
To complete the application process, certain documents are required which a student should keep ready beforehand to avoid any hassle. Mentioned below are the general documents required for MS in USA:
Application Cycle of MS in USA
The table below contains details related to application cycle of MS in USA:
| Intake | Application period | Deadline |
| Autumn / Fall | Late September or early October | Typically accepted until the second week of December |
| Spring | Usually starts in mid-November | Usually starts in mid-November |
| Summer | N/A | Applications are usually due in April |
Admission Cycle of MS in USA
The following table contains important details related to admission cycle of MS in USA:
| Intake | Classes Begin | Classes End |
| Fall | Mid-August or early September | Beginning of December |
| Spring | January | April |
| Summer | May | August |
Tuition cost for an MS degree in the U.S. varies widely based on several factors. Some of the factors that affect the cost are discussed in detail below:
Since the price is often determined per credit hour, the total amount of tuition is determined by the number of credits needed. The minimum for an MS program typically consists of 30 credit hours, though this might change.
Tuition fees for some programs may be costlier than for others, especially those in highly sought-after sectors like business or engineering. This is a result of the program’s higher than expected expenses or perceived value.
Remember that extra costs can greatly increase the overall cost. These costs include fees, books, materials, and perhaps living expenses.
With average costs ranging from $30,000 to $120,000, it’s a good idea to research individual programs to know more precise estimates and to see if there are any alternatives for financial help.
Yes, there are many universities now in the USA that offer accelerated masters programs which can be completed in just 12 months. Universities have started offering these programs because of the increase in demand for fast-paced courses by students.
A one-year gap is acceptable to secure a USA study visa. However, if the gap is over a year, the student must justify the reason to avoid getting rejected by the visa embassy or university.
As per the Post-Completion OPT (Optional Practical Training) benefit, a recent graduate can work in USA for 12 months. A student can apply for this benefit after completing their studies.
The easiest route to secure a PR after completing masters in USA is by signing up for the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. After gaining valuable work experience for 12 months in the field, the chances of getting PR increases.
The best age to study masters in USA is 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.
