MBA in USA for Indian Students: Top Universities, Cost & Eligibility

Top 10 MBA Colleges in the USA: QS World Rankings 2025

The USA has some of the best MBA universities in the world that are highly ranked and accredited. The list of the top 10 MBA colleges in the USA for international students as per QS World Rankings 2025 are mentioned below:

Suggested: Executive MBA in USA 

Cost of MBA in USA: Tuition Fees & Living Expenses 

MBA colleges in the USA require considerable financial investment. But the benefits an MBA in the US yields for your career are worth every penny. The overall cost of studying for an MBA in USA comes under two categories: the USA MBA fees for Indian students and the living cost of an MBA in USA. 

Tuition Fees of MBA Universities in USA

MBA tuition fees at top US universities typically range from $50,000 to $100,000 per year. (INR 3,816,290 to INR 7,618,500 per year). The MBA fees vary by the university, program, and specialisation you choose. Hence, check the official university websites to get the exact information. 

MBA programs in the USA are generally completed in 1 to 2 years. Full-time programs usually take 2 years, while some schools offer accelerated programs that can be completed in 1 year.. You will incur quite a lot of expenses during this time, one being the cost of living. The cost of living for international students in the USA typically ranges from $10,000 (INR 8,33,800) to $20,000 (INR 16,67,600) per year. 

Cost of Living in the USA 

A detailed cost of living for an MBA in USA for Indian students as well as other international students is mentioned below:

Student Visa Cost for the USA

The US government offers opportunities for Indian students to study in the country, but you must first obtain a student visa. The type of visa you need depends on your age and the study you wish to pursue in the US. Below is an overview of the different types of US student visas and their application requirements.

The US government provides three types of student visas:

1. F-1 Student Visa: For studying at an accredited US college or university or learning English at an English language institute. The F1 Student Visa will cost USD 185 (INR 15.550).
   
2. J Exchange Visa: For participation in exchange programs, including high school and university study. The J Exchange Visa will cost USD 300 (INR 25,050).
   
3. M Student Visa: For non-academic or vocational study or training in the US. The M Student Visa will cost USD 300 (INR 25,050).

As an applicant from outside the US, you must pay a USD 160 application visa fee. There is a USD 350 SEVIS fee for F and M visa applications and a USD 220 fee for most J Visa applications. This fee covers the cost of the computer system (SEVIS) used to track your stay in the United States.

Popular MBA Courses in the USA

The USA has a wide range of MBA courses and specialisations. The most popular MBA specialisations in the USA for Indian students are discussed below:

1. MBA in Accounting 

The MBA in Accounting in the USA aims to provide students with financial knowledge and skills to exercise ethical organizational leadership and sound decision-making in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. 

Popular universities to pursue an MBA in accounting in the USA are:

• Stanford University
• Pace University
• Fitchburg State University

2. MBA in Finance 

MBA in Finance in the USA is the most sought-after MBA specialisation. The comprehensive curriculum here seeks to advance complex phenomena involving risk and provide students with a rich and broad program of study. It uses valuation, econometric, and empirical approaches to examine financial phenomena and policy issues.

Popular universities to pursue an MBA in finance in the USA are:

• Stanford University
• New York University
• Cornell University

3. MBA in Information Systems 

An MBA in information systems in the USA helps to understand the impact and implications of information and technology on business strategy, organizational efficiency, and public policy. This program aims to make a better world using tools from data analysis, computer science, economics, philosophy, machine learning, and organizational behavior.

Popular universities to pursue an MBA in information systems in the USA are:

• University of Florida
• University of Buffalo
• University of Michigan 

4. MBA in Marketing 

An MBA in marketing in the USA focuses on insights and methods from psychology, anthropology, economics, and computer science to understand how market factors and social context influence customer perceptions, decisions, and actions, and drive marketing programs and plans.

Popular universities to pursue an MBA in marketing in the USA are:

• University of Pittsburgh
• University of South Dakota
• Suffolk University

5. MBA in Business Analytics 

An MBA in Business Analytics in the USA specializes in systematic data analysis to reach valid conclusions and decisions. The data here is generated through business operations or statistical sources to evaluate efficiency, cost, and results. Pursuing this specialisation enhances your leadership, technical, and analytical skills.   

Popular universities to pursue an MBA in business analytics in the USA are:

• University of Arizona
• Pace University
• Gannon University

Eligibility Criteria for MBA in USA

Fulfilling all eligibility criteria is necessary to pursue an MBA in the USA for Indian students. While the basic requirements remain the same, varying eligibility criteria arise from differences in university-specific admission standards, program specialisations, and institutional priorities. The majority of MBA colleges in the USA require the following for MBA admission:

• Undergraduate Degree
• Language Requirement
• GMAT/GRE
• Work Experience
• Passport and Visa

1. Undergraduate Degree

The first eligibility requirement to study an MBA in USA is a bachelor's degree or equivalent in a relevant subject, typically requiring 16 years of education. Although different universities have set different qualifying scores based on their programs, most universities ask for a minimum score of 50% in undergraduate degrees.

2. Language Requirement

The English proficiency test is mandatory for all international students to get admission to an MBA in USA for Indian students. Minimum scores as per the tests for top MBA universities in the US are mentioned below:

• IELTS: 6.5 - 7.5
• TOEFL: 88 - 109
• PTE: 70 - 75

3. GMAT/GRE Scores

A GMAT or GRE score is required to get admission into the best MBA colleges in the US.  The average GMAT score for an MBA in the US ranges from 550 to 730. For GRE you must have a minimum score of 310 to 315. 

4. Work Experience

A minimum of 3 years of work experience is required to study MBA in the US. However, some courses like Executive MBA ask for more years of work experience as a mandatory requirement. On the other hand, there are also universities in the USA offering MBA without experience, making them accessible to recent graduates

5. Passport and Visa

A valid passport and student visa are required for all international students to study any course at any university in the USA. Apply for your visa at least 3 months before the expected travel date. 

Documents Required for MBA in USA

Several documents are required to prove your eligibility for an MBA in USA. Some of the common document requirements for MBA colleges in the USA are mentioned below:

• Transcripts of all educational qualifications
• CV or Resume
• LOR or Letter of Recommendation
• SOP or Statement of Purpose
• Scorecards of IELTS/ TOEFL/ GMAT/ GRE
• Work experience certificate (if applicable)
• Proof of funds

Suggested: How to Write an SOP for an MBA in USA?

Test Scores & Admission Requirements for MBA in USA

In addition to academic qualifications, you must achieve qualifying scores in entrance exams to study MBA in USA. Common requirements for an MBA include entrance tests such as GMAT, GRE, IELTS, or TOEFL.

Scholarships for MBA in USA 

There are many ways to fund your MBA in the US like federal student aid, state student aid, student loans, saving plans, scholarships, etc. There are plenty of scholarships to study MBA in the US offered by schools, employers, individuals, private companies, communities, religious groups, and organizations (social and professional). They are mostly merit-based, need-based, or diversity-oriented. Some popular MBA scholarships offered by top universities in the USA for international students are discussed below:

How to Apply for MBA in USA?

You may complete your application for an MBA in the US by following the steps mentioned below: 

Step 1: Finalize the MBA course that you want to pursue and check for the best university offering that course.

Step 2: Visit the official university website and collect all data relating to eligibility and the admission process.

Step 3: Upload scanned copies of all the required documents (transcripts, CV, IELTS/TOEFL, GMAT/GRE scorecards)

Step 4: Fill out the desired application form and pay the fee.

Step 5: Go through an interview with the respective university directors. This is a great opportunity to display your soft skills and presence of mind.

Step 6: Once you receive the conditional offer letter after clearing your interview, you may book your seat at the particular university.

Step 7: Pay your deposit by agreeing to the terms and conditions of the university. The deposit here is non-refundable.

Average Salary & Jobs After MBA in USA

MBA in the US offers a wide range of courses and specialisations that are up-to-date with the current trends in business, management, and technology. After completing your MBA in the   USA, you will be capable enough to take up responsible and high-paying jobs in different sectors. Keeping in mind the worldwide reputation of MBA colleges in the USA, graduates are highly sought after by top companies like Apple, Microsoft, Google, HCL, Amazon, Deloitte, etc.

Some of the top jobs after an MBA in the US and their salaries are:

• MBA in Information Systems: Graduates specializing in IT Management often secure positions as IT Managers, earning between $57,000 and $92,000 (INR 47,52,670 to INR 76,70,980). Prominent companies like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon frequently hire for these roles.
• MBA in Finance: Those specializing in finance may become Senior Financial Analysts, with salaries ranging from $67,000 to $125,000 (INR 55,86,470 to INR 1,04,22,530), or Financial Analysts, earning between $51,000 and $88,000 (INR 42,52,390 to INR 73,37,460). Top employers include Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase, and Morgan Stanley.
• MBA in Business Analytics: An MBA in Business Analytics can lead to roles such as Business and Data Analysts, with annual salaries ranging from $40,000 to $90,000 (INR 33,35,210 to INR 75,04,220). Companies like IBM, Deloitte, and Accenture often seek these professionals.
• MBA in Human Resources: Specializing in Human Resources prepares graduates for roles like Human Resources Specialist, earning between $40,000 and $75,000 (INR 33,35,210 to INR 62,53,520). Leading firms such as PwC, EY, and KPMG commonly recruit for these positions.
• MBA in Systems Management: Those with an MBA in Systems Administration can work as Systems Administrators, with salaries ranging from $46,000 to $92,000 (INR 38,35,490 to INR 76,70,980). Companies like Cisco, Oracle, and Dell are top employers in this field.

Suggested: Jobs and Salaries after MBA in USA

How to Study MBA in USA Without GMAT and Work Experience?

The GMAT is a key requirement for many MBA programs in the USA but some colleges offer alternatives. Similarly, certain institutions do not require work experience for admission. To increase your chance of admission without GMAT or work experience focus on below things:

• Maintain a strong academic record during your undergraduate studies.
• If you don’t have work experience, aim for a high GMAT or GRE score to bolster your application. 
• Craft a compelling Statement of Purpose to enhance your chances of admission.
• Secure strong Letters of Recommendation to enhance your chances of admission. 

Top 3 colleges for MBA in USA without GMAT 

• Florida International University
• University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
• New York Institute of Technology

Top 3 colleges for MBA in USA without work experience

• New Jersey Institute of Technology
• Seton Hall University
• Gannon University 

Suggested: MBA in USA Without GMAT 

Types of MBA in USA

Apart from the traditional MBA that is of 2-year duration, MBA colleges in the US offer different types of MBAs that you can choose depending on your need, convenience, and affordability. MBA in the US can be divided into 5 categories. Let us have a detailed look at each of them:

Full-time MBA: It is for students willing to leave their jobs and dedicate their full time to weekday classes.

Part-time MBA: This is for those who want to enhance their career by acquiring managerial skills while remaining employed. It is also known as the Evening or Weekend MBA program as the classes are held on weekends. Also, the part-time MBA fees in the USA are less than the full-time MBA cost in the USA.

Executive MBA: It is designed for experienced and working executives, managers, entrepreneurs, and other business leaders.

Global MBA: It aims at providing international business experience to its students. The classes are conducted in different classroom environments and sometimes in various countries and cultures.

Dual MBA: It involves adding another Masters degree to the MBA course.

Work Permit after MBA in USA

International students often find it challenging to leave the United States after graduation due to its vibrant environment, rich culture, and abundant opportunities. The US government's student-friendly policies make obtaining a post-graduate work visa easier. With a valid F1 visa, you can stay in the USA. Use temporary employment opportunities through the OPT (Optional Practical Training) or CPT (Curricular Practical Training) programs. 

From the Desk of Yocket

MBA is one of the most popular courses pursued by international students. Over the years, the USA has been a prominent choice for many reasons. Out of 250,389 students studying for an MBA worldwide during the 2020-2021 academic year, 155,996 are at U.S. business schools. 

Even though you are fully informed about the MBA in USA, its eligibility criteria, and the costs involved, juggling everything alone might get overwhelming. Reach out to our Yocket professionals and resolve all your queries, alongside receiving a thorough profile evaluation and end-to-end assistance on everything studying abroad. Book A 15-minute Consultation Call Today!