MS in USA: Overview

Every year, over 300,000 Indian students head to the US to pursue their MS, and it’s easy to see why. With globally ranked universities, cutting-edge research, flexible programs, and countless specialisations, the US offers an academic experience that’s hard to match. Sure, the price tag can be steep, but the career boost and ROI often make it more than worth the investment. In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about doing an Master's in the USA, from top universities and costs to scholarships, eligibility, and how to apply.

Key Highlights:

  • Top universities to pursue MS in USA are MIT (Computer Science), Harvard University (Engineering, Business), and Stanford (CSE, Sciences)
  • The cost of Master's in USA ranges from USD 40,000 to USD 80,000 (INR 34 lakhs to INR 68 lakhs) per year.
  • To be eligible for a Master's program in USA, you need a relevant bachelor’s degree, a GPA above 3.0, a GMAT score of 700+ or GRE 320–330 (program-dependent), and valid English proficiency scores.
college finder banner

Why Study MS in USA?

The USA is a global centre of knowledge and hosts around 8 lakh graduate students every year. The US is a top choice for an MS. It offers a diverse range of specialisations, a cultural environment for foreign students, and state-of-the-art facilities that not only help you build your career but also help you grow as an individual. 

Here are the top reasons for you to pursue your Master's in the US:

Top Student Cities

Cities like New York, Boston, and San Francisco are bustling with student life and academic fervour. Top universities like Columbia, BU, Harvard, and Stanford populate these cities, making them academic hubs for students.

Training Opportunities

As a student, you get many training opportunities in the US, including apprenticeships and specialisation programs, which helps you gain experience and skills to develop your career.

Higher Earning Potential

After a master’s from a top US university, you can expect a salary ranging from USD 80,000 to USD 12,000 (INR 68.4 Lakhs - INR 10.2 Lakhs), which is much higher than the average salary from other top countries. Your eventual ROI will also be much higher after graduating from the US.

Diversity & Networking

The US is a melting pot of cultures. The US hosts over a million international students, creating tremendous networking opportunities for you. It helps you with finding jobs, getting referrals, and an overall good experience studying abroad. 

MS in USA: Admission Intakes for 2025-26

The USA has a definite timeline and intakes for admission to Master's in USA. Usually, there are 2 intakes for MS - Spring & Fall. The Fall intake is more popular among international students, but the Spring intake is not without advantages. 

Let’s check out the two admission intakes for MS in the US:

Fall Intake 2025

The Fall intake in the USA begins in August or September, and it is the most popular and preferred choice for Indian students. Since most Indian universities wrap up their final exams by May or June, Fall aligns perfectly with your academic timeline, without any delays. The Fall intake offers maximum course availability, scholarship opportunities, and on-campus jobs. 

Here are a few benefits of the Fall intake:

  • More availability: Most U.S. universities open admissions for almost all MS programs in the Fall.
  • More scholarships: Since funding budgets are fresh in the Fall, you’ll have better chances to grab financial aid.
  • More time on campus: You'll start with the full cohort, meaning more events, better networking, and smoother integration.

Spring Intake 2026

The Spring intake in the USA will typically start in January 2026 and offers a second opportunity for students who miss the Fall intake. While not as popular or expensive as Fall, Spring is still a strategic option for pursuing your Master's in USA. If you need more time to prepare GRE, TOEFL, or IELTS, or if you're applying late in the academic year, the Spring intake is a great alternative to the Fall intake. You’ll still have access to top universities and programs, although some specializations or courses may have limited availability.

Here are a few benefits of the Spring intake:

  • More prep time: Ideal if you need a few extra months after graduation for GRE/IELTS, SOPs, or LORs.
  • Less crowded: Fewer applicants mean you might find it easier to secure admission and on-campus housing.
  • Flexible start: Great option if you’ve taken a gap year or are switching fields and need time to upskill.

Top Universities for MS in USA

Top universities for MS in the US include Caltech, UC Berkeley, and Yale. Over 600 universities in the US offer MS programs in various specialisations, out of which multiple rank among the top 100 universities under the QS world rankings. Most of these universities have Fall intakes, but some universities like UPenn also offer Spring intakes. 

Let’s look through the top 10 universities for MS in the US:

University Name

QS World University Ranking 2025

Times Higher Education Ranking 2025

Acceptance Rate

Top Courses

Application Deadlines 

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

1

2

6.7%

Aeronautics and Astronautics,
Chemical Engineering,
Building Technology, 

Dec 1 - Jan 15

Harvard University

4

3

4.92%

Bioethics, Data Science, Biotechnology: Life Sciences

December 1

Stanford University 

6

6

4.34%

Aeronautics and Astronautics,
Applied Physics, Bioengineering, Computer Science

December 2- December 16

California Institute of Technology

10

7

8%

Aeronautics, Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering

November 21 - December 15

University of Pennsylvania

11

14

10%

Architecture, Biostatistics, Criminology,  

Feb 1

University of California Berkeley(UCB)

12

8

17%

Architecture, Electrical Engineering & Computer Sciences, Computer Science

Dec 9 - Jan 3

Cornell University

16

20

15%

Biostatistics and Data Science, Health Informatics

Health Policy and Economics

Sep 1 - Dec 1
July 15 - Sep 1

University of Chicago

21

14

7.9%

Applied Data Science, Biomedical Sciences, Computational Analysis, and Public Policy

July 2

Princeton University

22

4

6.5%

Computer Science, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering

Nov 17 - Jan 2 

Yale University

23

10

7%

Computer Science, Biomedical Engineering, Environmental Management

Dec 1- Jan 2

Best Courses and Specialisations for MS in USA

The best courses to pursue your MS in the USA are Computer Science, Data Science, and Finance. The US is the top destination for these specialisations, with world-class universities offering these specialisations, cutting-edge research, and a thriving technology industry, making up to 9% of the total US GDP. 

Let’s check out how much you need to invest in pursuing these courses in the top US universities:

Course

University 

Fees 

Computer Science

  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology
  • Carnegie Mellon University (CMU),
  • Stanford University,
  • University of California, Berkeley

INR 38 - INR 61 lakhs (USD 45,000 - USD 72,000)

Engineering

  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT),
  • Stanford University,
  • Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech)
  • University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

INR 34 - INR 51 lakhs (USD 40,000 - USD 60,000)

Data Science 

  • University of California
  • Berkeley, Carnegie Mellon University (CMU)
  • University of
  • Washington, Columbia University

INR 32 - INR 51 lakhs (USD 39,000 - USD 62,000)

Business Analytics 

  • MIT (Sloan School of Management)
  • University of Southern California (USC - Marshall)
  • University of Texas at Austin (McCombs)
  • University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA -Anderson)

INR 32 - INR 74 lakhs (USD 39,000 - USD 90,000)

MS in Finance 

  • Princeton University
  • New York University
  • University of Chicago
  • University of California, Berkeley 

INR 23 - INR 72 lakhs (USD 28,000 - USD 85,000 )

Application Deadlines for MS in USA

The US usually has 3 application deadlines - Fall, Spring, and sometimes the Summer intake. Fall (August to September) is the most popular, with deadlines ranging from November to February. Spring intake deadlines usually fall between July and September of the previous year. Applying early gives you a better shot at scholarships and assistantships

Here are some top universities for MS in USA and their application deadlines:

University 

Deadline 

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

December 11, 2025

Harvard University

December 1, 2025

Stanford University 

December 2- December 16, 2025

California Institute of Technology

November 21 - December 15, 2025

University of Pennsylvania

November 21 - December 15, 2025

University of California, Berkeley(UCB)

Feb 1, 2026

Cornell University

Dec 9, 2025 - Jan 3, 2026

University of Chicago

Sep 1 - Dec 1, 2025

Princeton University

July 2, 2025

Yale University

Nov 17, 2025- Jan 2, 2026

Eligibility Requirements to Apply for Master's in the USA

To study Master's in the US, you must fulfil specific requirements:

  • A bachelor's degree or equivalent in a relevant subject with a minimum score of 60% in most universities.
  • An IELTS score of 6.5 - 7.5 or a TOEFL score of 88 - 100, mandatory for all international students.
  • A GMAT score of 600 - 740 and a GRE score of 318 - 329, though not mandatory for all courses.
  • A minimum of 2 to 3 years of work experience is required for some courses.
  • A valid passport and a US student visa.

Let's learn about each of them in detail now,

1. Undergraduate Degree

The first eligibility requirement to study a master's in the USA is a bachelor's degree or equivalent in a relevant subject. Although the scores differ across courses and universities, a minimum score of 60% in a bachelor's degree is required by most universities. 

2. Language Requirement

The English proficiency test is mandatory for all international students to get admission to an MS in USA for Indian students. Minimum scores as per the tests are:

3. GMAT/GRE

Doing MS in USA in subjects like Finance, Management, etc. requires a GMAT or GRE score. While for some courses it is a must to have a decent GMAT score, for others it is not compulsory. Ideally, the GMAT score for master's prograMS in USA ranges from 600 to 740, and for GRE it is 318 to 329.

4. Work Experience

A minimum of 2 to 3 years of work experience is required for doing an MS in USA. However, some courses do not ask for work experience as a mandatory requirement.

5. Passport and Student Visa

A valid passport and student visa are a must for an MS in USA for Indian students. Do keep in mind to apply for your visa at least 3 months before the expected travel date. 

Suggested: Everything About DS-160 Form for US Student Visa

Documents Required to Study MS in USA

Admission to colleges for an MS in USA for Indian students requires a set of documents. Some of the common document requirements 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

MS in USA: Cost of Studying for Indian Students

The average cost of studying an MS in USA is USD 40,000 to USD 80,000 (INR 34 lakhs to INR 68 lakhs) per year. This includes the tuition fees and living expenses. Let’s break down both and discuss them in detail:

Tuition Fees 

The average tuition fees for an MS in the US are around USD 30,000 to USD 70,000 (INR 25 lakhs to INR 60 lakhs). IVY League universities like UPenn and Harvard usually cost much more due to high demand and exceptional facilities, in comparison to other top public universities like UC Berkeley. 

Here are some of the top MS universities in the US and their tuition:

University 

Tuition (Annually)

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

USD 62,000 / INR 52.70 lakhs

Harvard University

USD 57,330 / INR 48.75 lakhs 

Stanford University 

USD 63,540 / INR 54 lakhs 

California Institute of Technology

USD 65,700/ INR 55.8 lakhs

University of Pennsylvania

USD 73,440/ INR 62 lakhs

University of California, Berkeley (UCB)

USD 12,760/ INR 10 lakhs 

Cornell University

USD 72,000 / INR 62 lakhs 

University of Chicago

USD 50,000 / INR 43 lakhs 

Princeton University

USD 65,210 / INR 56.2 lakhs 

Yale University

USD 51,250 / INR 44.2 lakhs 

Cost of Living

The cost of living in the US as an international student can range from USD 1000 to USD 1500 per month (INR 86,000 to INR 1.3 lakhs). The biggest chunk of expenses goes to accommodation (around USD 700 to USD 1200 on average), followed by food, transportation, and other miscellaneous costs. 

Try to get off-campus shared accommodations, which can cost between USD 400 to USD 700 per month (INR 34,000 to INR 60,000). This is much more affordable than on-campus housing. This is one of your best budgeting options as an international student. 

Let’s look at the cost of living in the US as an Indian student:

Expense

Cost (USD)

Cost (INR)

Rent

714 - 1,252

63,000 - 1.10 lakhs

Transport

52 -  74

4,500 - 6,500

Groceries

250 -  450

22,100 - 39,800

Miscellaneous

390 - 854

37,400 -  82,000

Total

1,406 -  2,740

1.24- 2.42 lakhs 

Student Visa Cost for the US

The total cost to apply for an F-1 student visa to the USA is USD 510. This includes two key payments: the visa application fee and the SEVIS fee. These are mandatory for all Indian students planning to study in the United States.

The breakdown of US Student Visa Fees for an Indian student is as follows:

  • Visa Application Fee (DS-160): This is the standard non-refundable fee (USD 160) you must pay when submitting the DS-160 form, which is your official visa application. You can pay it online before booking your visa appointment at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
  • SEVIS Fee (Form I-901): The SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee (USD 350) is required once you receive your Form I-20 from a SEVP-approved U.S. university. This fee supports the tracking system used by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to manage student records.

Once you receive your I-20 form from a SEVP-approved university, pay the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee. This supports the U.S. government’s system that tracks international students. After that, complete the DS-160 form online and pay the visa application fee before scheduling your interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

 

Admission Process for MS in USA in 2025

The admission process for US universities can be completed online with all the required documents and information. It is advised to check the respective university deadlines to complete your application process on time.

If you are still confused about how to pursue an MS in USA, here we have discussed the admission process for an MS in USA for you to have a better idea:

  • Step 1: Finalize the course you want to pursue and look for the best university offering that course.
  • Step 2: Visit the official university websites and gather information about requirements, eligibility criteria, admission process, and fees. 
  • Step 3: Start the application process and fill in all the required information. Upload the required documents in order for your application to be reviewed. This may include your video essay, academic transcripts, IELTS, TOEFL, GMAT, GRE test scores, CV, LOR, SOP, etc.
  • Step 4:Once you have completed filling out your application and uploading all documents, you may then pay the fee.
  • Step 5: Wait for the university to revert. Once selected, you may apply for your I-20 visa through which you can acquire your F-1 student visa to study in the US as an international student.

Suggested: Low Tuition Fee Universities in USA for MS

MS in USA Without GRE & Work Experience

GRE and work experience are among the two most significant eligibility criteria for MS in USA for Indian students. While one tests your analytical ability and critical thinking, the latter helps in having an in-depth understanding of your course. GRE scores are highly regarded by universities abroad for admission. The same is the case with work experience. After having practical exposure, students are in a position to bring more to the classes, which makes the learning process more enriching.

While both these requirements are asked by most universities for an MS in the US, universities are offering certain courses that do not require them as a mandatory requirement. However, they do ask for an alternative like a high GPA, GMAT score, valuable internships, and so on. 

Hence, if you wish to pursue an MS in the US, do not get disheartened if you do not have a GRE or work experience. 

Top Scholarships to Study MS in USA

With government-funded programs like Fulbright and university-specific scholarships, you can get your full tuition, travel costs, and living expenses covered while pursuing your MS in USA. Some of these scholarships, like Stanford Knight Hennessey, offer full funding, and to receive them, you should have an outstanding academic record, commitment to community, and work experience. 

Let’s take a look at the top available scholarships for an MS in USA:

Scholarship

Eligibility 

Award 

Great Minds in STEM Scholarship

Full-time graduate students in STEM; minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale

USD 500 to USD 15,000 (INR 42,000 to INR 1.2 lakhs)

Fulbright Foreign Student Program

International students with strong academic records pursuing a master’s degree

Varies (Full/Partial)

Stanford Knight-Hennessy Scholars

Exceptional leadership, academic excellence, and commitment to community; open to all graduate fields

Full funding

Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarships 

Excellent academic records, genuine financial need, and relevance of the field of study to AKDN’s focus areas.

50% is a grant, and 50% is a loan concerning tuition fees and living expenses.

Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships 

Outstanding Indian students with at least three years of professional work experience to pursue master’s degree programs at selected US universities. 

Provides J-1 visa support, airfares, tuition fees funding, living costs, and accident and sickness coverage per U.S. Government guidelines

Average Salary After MS in USA

The average salary after completing an MS in USA ranges from USD 90,000 to USD 10,000 (INR 77 lakhs to INR 86 lakhs). As we’ve discussed in this blog, the US is the top destination for an MS in the world. That should come with added benefits, right? The US has one of the best salary packages for tech, business, and medical careers. After graduating from a top MS course, 

Let’s look at the top specialisations and the average salary after a Master's in the USA:

Specialisations 

Job Roles

Salary 

MS in Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical Engineer, Systems Engineer, and Design Engineer

USD 100,000 to USD 130,000
/ INR 85 lakhs - 1.10 crore

 

MS in Computer Science 

Software Engineer, Data Scientist, IT Manager

USD 100,000 to USD 150,000 / INR 85 lakhs- 1.27 crore

MS in Finance

Financial Manager, Investment Banker, and Actuary

USD 120,000 to USD 200,000 / INR 1.02 - 1.7 crore

MS in Business Administration

Business Development Manager, Management Consultant

USD 80,000 to USD 150,000 / INR 68 lakhs - 1.27 crore

MS in Healthcare 

Doctor/Physician, Surgeon, Specialist 

USD 200,000 to USD 400,000 / INR 1.7- 3.4 crore

MS in Civil Engineering

Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, and Geotechnical Engineer

USD 85,000 to USD 120,000 / INR 72 lakhs - 1.02 crore

Things to Know Before Coming for MS in the USA for 2025-26

Before you book your flight for an MS in the USA, take time to plan beyond academics. According to students on Reddit, many underestimate how expensive daily life can get. In big cities, expect to pay around $600 per month for a shared room, with groceries, health insurance, and utilities adding a good chunk on top. While on-campus jobs offer some relief, they’re limited to 20 hours a week during classes, and most internships open only after your first year.

Reddit users also highlight how competitive the job market is. Many students apply to hundreds of internships before landing even a few interviews. Companies have become more selective about sponsoring H-1B visas, so having a strong network and a standout resume really matters.

This is where planning ahead helps. As a trusted study abroad consultant, here’s what can help you succeed:

  • Start early: Work on your CV and LinkedIn profile before you fly out.
  • Research companies in advance: Shortlist target employers and understand their hiring timelines.
  • Build connections: Reach out to alumni and current students for referrals - these can open doors when online applications don’t.
  • Prepare for cultural changes: Homesickness, roommate issues, or subtle discrimination may occur. Stay connected with community groups and support networks.
  • Use our guidance: Our experts will help you shortlist the best-fit universities, plan a realistic budget, and settle into your new environment confidently.

Yes, an MS in the USA is a big financial and emotional commitment,  but with proper planning and the right support, it can become one of the best investments for your future. Stay informed, stay prepared, and make the most of this life-changing experience!

Things to Know Before Coming for MS in the USA for 2025-26

Before you book your flight for an MS in the USA, take time to plan beyond academics. According to students on Reddit, many underestimate how expensive daily life can get. In big cities, expect to pay around $600 per month for a shared room, with groceries, health insurance, and utilities adding a good chunk on top. While on-campus jobs offer some relief, they’re limited to 20 hours a week during classes, and most internships open only after your first year.

Reddit users also highlight how competitive the job market is. Many students apply to hundreds of internships before landing even a few interviews. Companies have become more selective about sponsoring H-1B visas, so having a strong network and a standout resume really matters.

This is where planning ahead helps. As a trusted study abroad consultant, here’s what can help you succeed:

  • Start early: Work on your CV and LinkedIn profile before you fly out.
  • Research companies in advance: Shortlist target employers and understand their hiring timelines.
  • Build connections: Reach out to alumni and current students for referrals - these can open doors when online applications don’t.
  • Prepare for cultural changes: Homesickness, roommate issues, or subtle discrimination may occur. Stay connected with community groups and support networks.
  • Use our guidance: Our experts will help you shortlist the best-fit universities, plan a realistic budget, and settle into your new environment confidently.

Yes, an MS in the USA is a big financial and emotional commitment,  but with proper planning and the right support, it can become one of the best investments for your future. Stay informed, stay prepared, and make the most of this life-changing experience!

From the Desk of Yocket

Pursuing an MS in USA is more than just securing admission. It’s about safeguarding your future as a global professional. From choosing the right university and course to understanding visa rules and job prospects, every step matters. But you don’t have to navigate it alone.

At Yocket, we’ve helped 30,000+ students get into top US universities through personalised counselling, SOP guidance, visa prep, and much more. With Yocket Premium, you get 1:1 expert support tailored to your goals, whether that’s a scholarship at Stanford or a research role at MIT. 

FAQs About Pursuing Master's in the USA

What is the duration for MS in USA?

What is the medium of instruction for MS in USA?

What are the most in-demand courses for MS in USA?

How to apply for MS in USA 2025?

What is the cost of an MS in the USA?

What are the eligibility criteria for an MS in the USA?

Can I work while pursuing an MS in the USA?

What are the best MS programs in the US?

What exams do you need to take for an MS in the US?

Can I get funding for an MS in the US?

What kind of visa do I need for an MS in the US?