Providing access to top-tier education, state-of-the-art research and employment prospects worldwide, pursuing a Masters in USA is a dream for numerous Indian students. More than 200,000 Indian students study in the USA, making them the country's second-largest international student population. According to the Institute of International Education (IIE), in 2023, almost half of all Indian students in the U.S. were enrolled in graduate-level courses. Students in science and technology fields are permitted to work for a maximum of 3 years post-graduation, thanks to the STEM OPT extension, which in turn enhances employment opportunities at international technology firms like Microsoft, Amazon, and Google. With an average income of $80,000–$120,000 following graduation and a vast array of scholarship possibilities, the USA continues to be a favored option for aspiring Indian students striving for academic and professional success.
Why study Masters in USA?
An MS in USA offer access to a varied, cutting-edge ecosystem where one can improve their abilities, establish worldwide contacts, and open doors to a lucrative, successful career. One should think about pursuing a Masters degree in USA for the reasons mentioned below:
- Top-Notch Education: Students pursuing Masters courses in USA have access to world-class universities with innovative instructional methods and resources.
- Multiculturalism: Study with students from across the globe, broadening your global outlook.
- State-of-the-art Research: Studying in USA offers students the chance to work with industry experts on innovative research
- Employment Prospects: Robust employment market with opportunities for internships, work placements, and high-income potential.
- Linkages with Industry: Networking with experts and learning about the most recent market trends.
- Post-Graduation Employment Opportunities: Extended work permits (like OPT) that enable overseas students to acquire practical experience.
Popular Masters courses in USA
Mentioned below are the popular Masters courses in USA:
- Master of Business Admnistration (MBA): Offers specializations in Marketing, Operations, Finance, HR, etc.
- Master of Public Health (MPH): Focus areas include healthcare management, epidemiology, health policy.
- Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence: Offers specializations in robotics, machine learning, neural networks.
- Master of Science in Marketing: Focus areas include brand management, digital marketing, consumer behavior.
- Master of Fine Arts (MFA) with specializations in Visual Arts, Film, Creative Writing, Theatre.
- Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS): Focuses on Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Software Engineering.
The other master degree in USA for international students include:
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
- Master of Science in Electrical Engineering
- Master of Science in Economics
- Master of Arts in Psychology
- Master of Science in Data Science
- Master of Science in Finance
- Master of Science in Information Technology
- Master of Education (M.Ed)
- Master of Engineering (Meng)
Best Universities in USA for MS
Masters in USA for Indian students provides access to modern technology, cultural exposure, and international professional experience, thereby molding them into professionals. The best universities in USA for MS are as under:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Stanford University
- Harvard University
- California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
- University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley)
- Carnegie Mellon University
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC)
- University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
- University of California, San Diego (UCSD)
- Princeton University
- Georgia Institute of Technology
- University of Washington, Seattle
- Columbia University
- University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
- Cornell University
These universities are renowned for their solid academic courses, faculty, and research possibilities.
Cost of MS in USA
Depending on the institution, program, and location, the Master degree cost in USA differs to a great extent. Typically, Masters tuition fees in USA for international students range from $20,000 - $60,000 annually, with renowned universities such as Ivy League schools or leading research institutions frequently charging higher fees. Moreover, depending on the city, living expenses, including food, housing, and transit, can cost an additional $10,000 to $20,000 per year. Although scholarships, assistantships, and other funding opportunities may help alleviate these expenses, it is important to take into account both tuition and living costs when evaluating the overall cost of a Masters in USA.
Scholarships to study MS in USA
MS in USA for Indian students fees can be considerably lowered through scholarships and other funding opportunities. The different scholarships to study Masters in USA are:
- Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program
- Fulbright Foreign Student Program
- University-specific Scholarships
- Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship
- AAUW International Fellowships
- The Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholarships
- Tata Scholarship
- PepsiCo Foundation Scholarship Program
- Edison International STEM Scholarship
- Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
Eligibility Criteria to pursue Masters in USA
Masters in USA for international students requires them to fulfill the eligibility criteria mentioned below:
- The student needs to hold a 3–4-year undergraduate degree which is comparable to a U.S. bachelor’s degree.
- Submission of official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions previously attended.
- He/she needs to have secured a minimum GPA of 3.0 (differs depending on the institution and program).
- Based on the program, GRE or GMAT test scores may be required.
- Non-native English speakers need to prove their fluency in English through appearing for English language proficiency tests like the IELTS or TOEFL.
- Pertinent professional experience or research background may be required by certain programs.
- The student needs to submit an essay highlighting his/her academic and professional objectives.
- Submission of 2-3 letters of recommendation from instructors or managers.
- A resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV) outlining your educational background, work experience, and extracurricular pursuits.
- Evidence of adequate funds to pay for tuition and living expenses.
- Pay the non-refundable application fee (varies by institution).
FAQs
What is the average cost of pursuing an MS in USA for Indian students?
Based on the university and location, the average overall cost of pursuing a Masters in USA (covering tuition and living expenses) ranges from $30,000 - $90,000 annually.
Do overseas students pursuing a Masters degree in USA have access to scholarships?
Yes, merit-based scholarships, research assistantships, and teaching assistantships are offered by a number of universities to overseas students pursuing Masters courses in USA. These can assist in alleviating the tuition costs or even cover the full expense of your education.
How can students reduce the cost of MS in USA?
Students can reduce their Master degree cost in USA by:
- Applying for scholarships and assistantships.
- Searching for jobs on-campus.
- Selecting universities in budget-friendly cities.
- Thinking about living in shared housing or with roommates.
Can international students work while pursuing a Masters in USA?
Yes, overseas students holding an F-1 visa and pursuing an MS in USA are permitted to work part-time for a maximum of 20 hours per week on-campus during the academic term and full-time for a maximum of 40 hours per week during scheduled breaks.
When opting for an MS in USA, what supplementary expenses should Indian students take into account?
Besides tuition, students opting for a Masters in USA should also set aside money for books, travel, living expenses, and health insurance.

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