10 Best Courses in USA for International Students in 2025

Over 3 lakh Indian students are studying in the USA in 2025. Many dream of going there because the USA has some of the world’s top universities. And why wouldn’t it? The country offers awesome labs, well-experienced teachers, and strong research facilities. 

But it’s not just about going to the best universities in the USA. You also have to pick the right course. A good course should match your interests, help you grow your skills, and give you a good return on your money. Some courses are more popular than others because they offer great job chances and high salaries after graduation.

In this blog, we’ll help you find the top 10 courses in the USA for Indian students. You’ll also learn how much they cost, what scholarships you can get, and why studying in the USA could be the best choice for your future. 

Indian students love studying in the USA because it offers many exciting courses with great job opportunities. Among the top choices, Computer Science, MBA, and Engineering stand out the most. Here are the top 10 courses Indian students choose in the USA:

• Computer Science & IT
• MBA (Master of Business Administration)
• Engineering
• STEM
• Data Science and Business Analytics
• Medicine and Health Sciences
• Finance
• Biotechnology
• Law and Legal Studies
• Media

But there’s more! Let’s dive deeper into each of these top 10 courses to help you choose the one that’s perfect for your future.

Avg Tuition Fee: USD 40,000 to USD 70,000 per year (INR 33 L to 58 L)
Salary Potential: USD 90,000 to USD 130,000 per year (INR 74 L to 1.07 Cr)

The demand for skilled software engineers, data scientists, cybersecurity experts, and software analysts has soared with the increase in digitalisation around the world. In the US, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024 data), employment in computer and IT occupations is projected to grow 15% from 2021 to 2031, adding about 682,800 new jobs over the decade. This makes Computer Science one of the most competitive programs in the US because it offers exposure to many top-notch companies and cutting-edge research.

Some of the states in the USA, like California and its Bay Area, offer a wealth of work opportunities for Computer Science graduates. Silicon Valley is the place to be if you are a computer enthusiast, home to giants like Apple, Facebook, Google, Microsoft, and many more. 

Many universities also have strong connections with these tech hubs, helping students land internships and jobs even before they graduate. Many CS students qualify for OPT, allowing them to work in the U.S. for 12 months after graduation. STEM OPT can extend this by an additional 24 months, letting them work for up to 3 years in their field.

Eligibility to Study Computer Science & IT in the USA

Before applying to Computer Science and IT courses in the USA, students must meet both academic and test-related requirements. Here are a few things to keep in mind before applying for Computer Science and IT courses in USA:

Academic Requirements: 

• For undergraduate courses: Completion of 10+2 with strong grades (at least 60% or A grade) in Maths, Physics, and Computer Science (if available).
• For master’s courses: A four-year bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, IT, Software Engineering, or a closely related subject with a GPA of 3.0/4.0 or equivalent.
• Standardised Tests (SAT/ACT): Required for undergraduate applicants. SAT scores above 1200 or ACT scores above 25 are generally considered competitive for top universities.
• GRE/GMAT Scores: GRE is often required for master’s programs in Computer Science or IT. A good GRE score would typically fall in the range of 310-325.
• English Language Proficiency: All international students must submit TOEFL or IELTS scores. Minimum accepted scores: TOEFL iBT 80-100 or IELTS 6.5-7.5.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) and Letters of Recommendation (LORs): SOP should clearly explain your interest in Computer Science or IT, your academic journey, and career goals. You usually need 2-3 strong LORs from academic or professional references.

Top Universities to Pursue Computer Science & IT in the USA

Many top universities in the USA teach Computer Science and IT. MIT and Stanford are two of the best in the whole world. Carnegie Mellon has many special programs, like Computational Design. Harvard is special because it mixes computer science with the arts. MIT and Stanford often cost more because they are very famous and have lots of great labs and teachers.

Career Prospects for Computer Science & IT

Computer Science and IT jobs pay well in the USA. Jobs like software developer, data scientist, and AI engineer are in high demand. Many of these roles pay over USD 100,000 (INR 82 L) each year, with AI and ML engineers getting some of the highest salaries.

Avg Tuition Fee: USD 70,000 to USD 120,000 per year (INR 58 L to 1 Cr)
Salary Potential: USD 120,000 to USD 160,000 per year (INR 98 L to 1.31 Cr)

An MBA in the USA is one of the highest-paying jobs in the corporate world. The course helps you build deep knowledge in areas like finance, marketing, operations, entrepreneurship, and various growing fields like sustainability and tech management.

According to the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) 2024 report, nearly 92% of US companies planned to hire MBA graduates, with median base salaries of over USD 125,000. This is significantly higher than salaries for graduates without an MBA.

Top MBA colleges in USA stand out for their case-study learning, leadership labs, networking events, and some solid consulting projects. Many universities also partner with top global firms. This offers students live projects and internships that often lead to full-time jobs.

Some programs also allow STEM designations, which means international students can work in the US for up to 3 years post-MBA without needing H-1B sponsorship immediately. This makes the US MBA even more attractive for Indian students aiming for global careers.

Eligibility to Study MBA in the USA

Top institutions for MBA look for leadership qualities, clarity of career goals, and professional achievements. Here are a few eligibility criteria to study an MBA in the USA:

• Bachelor’s Degree: A 3 or 4-year undergraduate degree in any stream from a recognised university. A GPA of 3.0/4.0 or equivalent (60% or higher) is usually expected.
• Work Experience: Most top-tier MBA programs require at least 2-5 years of full-time work experience. Leadership roles, promotions, and career progression are strong plus points.
• GMAT or GRE Scores: A competitive GMAT score between 680 and 740 is preferred by top business schools. Some universities accept GRE scores as an alternative.
• English Language Proficiency: Required for all international students. A TOEFL iBT score of 90-105 or an IELTS score of 6.5-7.5 is generally accepted.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP): Should clearly state your professional background, career goals, and reasons for pursuing an MBA in the USA.
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs): You need 2-3 LORs from professional supervisors or academic professors. These should speak to your leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
• Resume or CV: A well-structured professional resume highlighting key achievements, leadership, community involvement, and project outcomes.
• Interviews or Video Essays: Many top MBA programs conduct personal interviews or ask for video essays to assess your communication and motivation.

Top Universities to Pursue MBA in the USA

Harvard, Stanford, and Wharton are all top-ranked. They are known for strong teaching and job placements. Stanford and Harvard are among the top 5 in the world in the QS Rankings 2026. 

Career Prospects for MBA

People who finish their MBA from top US universities get amazing jobs. Private Equity and Investment Banking jobs pay the highest salaries, even more than 1.5 crore rupees a year. Marketing and Product Management jobs pay a bit less but are still very good. 

Avg Tuition Fee: USD 45,000 - USD 75,000 per year (INR 37 Lakh to 61.5 Lakh)
Salary Potential: USD 80,000 - USD 120,000 per year (INR 66 Lakh to 98 Lakh)

Engineering is one of the most versatile and high-demand fields for Indian students in the USA. Whether it’s designing new machines, developing sustainable fuels, building software systems, or creating medical devices, engineering has something for everyone.

Different engineering branches have unique career paths and salary levels. Let us break down each engineering stream for you here:

• Mechanical Engineering
  This subject is focused on designing and manufacturing machines, engines, vehicles, and robotics. ME has a big demand in industries like aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing.
• Chemical Engineering
  This deals with turning raw materials into usable products like fuels, medicines, or plastics. Chemical engineers often work in oil & gas, pharmaceuticals, or green energy.
• Electrical Engineering
  It involves designing and maintaining electrical systems, power grids, electronics, and communication networks. It’s crucial in tech, renewable energy, and robotics.
• Civil Engineering
  This is all about building infrastructure like bridges, buildings, highways, and water supply systems. US cities invest heavily in smart infrastructure projects.

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics says engineering jobs in the USA will keep growing until 2032 and pay more than many other jobs. States like California, Texas, and Massachusetts are hotspots for engineering careers due to the presence of major tech, manufacturing, and research hubs.

Eligibility to Study Engineering in the USA

Check out the overall eligibility requirements for studying engineering in the USA:

• Academic Background
  - For undergraduate: High school education with strong grades in Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry.
  - For master’s: A bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Technology, or a related field with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 (or equivalent 60-65%).
• SAT/ACT Scores (For UG Programs): Some schools are going test-optional, but scores above SAT 1300 or ACT 27 are considered competitive.
• GRE Scores (For PG Programs): Many universities are now test-flexible, but a GRE score of 310+ is generally recommended.
• English Language Proficiency: A TOEFL score of 90+ or an IELTS score of 6.5-7.0 is typically needed for both UG and PG levels.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP): Must explain your technical interests, motivation to study engineering, career plans, and reasons for choosing the USA.
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Usually 2-3 LORs from teachers, professors, or project supervisors who can vouch for your academic and technical ability.
• Work Experience or Research (For PG): Not mandatory, but useful for master’s applicants. Prior internships, research projects, or relevant job experience in the engineering domain can strengthen your application.

Top Universities to Pursue Engineering in the USA

Many top universities in the USA offer great Engineering programs in many fields, like Mechanical, Chemical, and Computer Engineering. MIT and Stanford are always among the highest-ranked for Engineering, while places like Caltech, though small, are very famous for science and engineering.

Career Prospects for Engineering

Engineers in the USA can work in many areas, like machines, chemicals, computers, and building big structures. Some jobs, like Computer Engineer or Chemical Engineer, pay higher salaries than others.

Avg Tuition Fee: USD 40,000 - USD 70,000 per year (INR 33 Lakh to 57.8 Lakh)
Salary Potential: USD 75,000 - USD 130,000 per year (INR 62 Lakh to 107.5 Lakh)

STEM course stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. It’s one of the most popular fields for Indian students because it covers a huge range of subjects. Everything from computer science and biotech to environmental science and AI.

A STEM degree opens doors to high-paying jobs and allows international students to stay in the USA for a longer period after graduation. Well, it is because of the STEM OPT extension. This can give you up to 36 months of work experience on your US F-1 visa.

While studying STEM, students gain skills in coding, data analysis, designing new technologies, problem-solving, and research. After graduation, many work as software engineers, researchers, data scientists, or design engineers. They often join top companies like Google, Microsoft, Tesla, Pfizer, Meta, Amazon, or NASA. Over time, they can move into senior technical roles, lead projects, or even become managers and tech entrepreneurs.

Eligibility to Study STEM in the USA

Check this list to know what you need if you want to study STEM in the USA:

• Academic Background
  - For undergraduate: A strong performance in high school-level Maths, Physics, Chemistry, and/or Biology, depending on the chosen STEM major.
  - For postgraduate: A bachelor’s degree in a STEM field like Engineering, Computer Science, Life Sciences, or Mathematics, with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 60-65% in Indian terms.

• SAT/ACT Scores (For UG Students): A competitive SAT score (1300+) or ACT score (27+) boosts your chances. Some universities are test-optional.
• GRE Scores (For PG Students): A GRE score of 310+ is considered good. Some schools have waived this requirement.
• English Proficiency Tests: TOEFL (90+), IELTS (6.5 or 7.0), or Duolingo (115+) accepted by most universities. Required for both UG and PG levels.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP): A well-written SOP should talk about your academic interests, your motivation to study in a STEM field, and your plans.
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Usually 2-3 LORs from science or maths teachers, professors, or research supervisors who can vouch for your technical strengths and dedication.
• Research Projects or Internships (For PG): Prior experience in labs, coding projects, published papers, or internships can give you an edge, mostly in fields like Data Science, AI, or Biotechnology.
• Relevant Skills and Portfolio (Optional but Useful): For fields like Computer Science or Data Science, showcasing programming skills (Python, Java, MATLAB) or GitHub/portfolio work can help strengthen your profile.

Top Universities to Pursue STEM in the USA

MIT and Stanford are very famous for STEM courses. Some schools like Carnegie Mellon are special for subjects like Robotics or Machine Learning. These places offer lots of choices, like learning about robots, space, or how to help the environment.

Career Prospects for STEM

STEM jobs in the USA pay good money and let people work on exciting things like robots, new medicines, or saving the planet. Software Engineers and Data Scientists usually earn the highest salaries, while Environmental Scientists help protect nature.

Avg Tuition Fee: USD 35,000 - USD 65,000 per year (INR 28.9 Lakh to 53.6 Lakh)
Salary Potential: USD 85,000 - USD 140,000 per year (INR 70.3 Lakh to 115.8 Lakh)

Companies today run on data-driven decisions, you all know that well. With every business decision backed by data and the forecasting being analysed on all data points, Data Science and Business Analytics are now closing in on the front seat of being the most famous course in the US.

Data Science and Business Analytics are growing very fast in the USA and are great choices for Indian students. An MS in Data Science & Business Analytics teaches you how to use numbers, coding, and business ideas to find useful information from big data. 

The USA has lots of tech companies and startups that need people with these skills, offering good salaries and chances to stay and work after graduation.

Eligibility to Study Data Science & Business Analytics in the USA

Here is all you should know before applying for data science and business analytics courses in the USA:

• Bachelor’s Degree: You need an undergraduate degree in a related field like Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, Statistics, Economics, or Business. Most universities expect at least 60-65% in your bachelor’s degree or a GPA of 3.0/4.0.
• Coursework or Certifications for Programming Skills: You must be comfortable with maths and statistics. You should also know programming languages like Python, R, or SQL.
• GRE Scores: A score above 310 is usually seen as competitive. Other universities may waive it if your academics are strong.
• English Language Scores: You need high TOEFL (above 90), IELTS (6.5 or 7.0), or Duolingo (115+) scores to prove you can understand and speak English well.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP): You must write an SOP that clearly explains why you want to study Data Science or Analytics and your background.
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Most universities need 2-3 LORs from professors, research supervisors, or employers.
• Work Experience or Projects: Prior internships, projects, Kaggle competitions, or work experience in data handling or business analysis will strengthen your application.
• Portfolio (Optional but Helpful): Having a GitHub or project portfolio that shows your data analysis or machine learning work can give you an edge in such competitive programs.

Top Universities to Pursue Data Science & Business Analytics in the USA

Many top universities in the USA teach Data Science and Business Analytics. MIT and Stanford are super famous for these courses. Columbia and NYU also offer great programs for people who want jobs working with numbers, computers, and big business ideas. 

Career Prospects for Data Science & Business Analytics

Machine Learning Engineers earn the highest salaries from this field, reaching up to USD 140,000 (INR 115.8 Lakh). Business Analyst roles offer lower starting salaries compared to other data roles, but they’re a common first step into the industry. Jobs like Data Scientist and Data Engineer sit in the middle. 

Avg Tuition Fee: USD 40,000 - USD 70,000 per year (INR 33 Lakh - INR 57.8 Lakh)
Salary Potential: USD 150,000 - USD 250,000 per year (INR 1.23 Cr - INR 2.06 Cr)

Medicine and health sciences remain one of the top choices for Indian students who dream of studying in the USA. The entry requirements and process of getting into medical schools in the USA are very tough but equally rewarding. Graduates in this field are always in high demand all over the world; therefore, there is no dearth of opportunities for them.

A medical degree in the US, especially MD, is one of the most sought-after postgraduate courses in the USA for international students. Students studying medicine here get the best access to technology, unparalleled quality of education, and intensive research opportunities.

Doctors, surgeons, and specialists trained in the US are highly respected and find ample job opportunities worldwide. Apart from practicing medicine, many graduates with an MD in USA also go into research, teaching, healthcare management, and public health leadership roles.

Eligibility to Study Medicine & Health Sciences in the USA

Please check these requirements before you apply for medicine and health sciences subjects in USA:

• Bachelor’s Degree (Pre-Med Track): The USA does not offer direct MBBS after high school. You must first complete a bachelor’s degree, usually in Biology, Chemistry, or another science subject. This is often called a "pre-med" track.
• Required Subjects: You must study subjects like Organic Chemistry, Physics, Biology, English, and Mathematics during your undergraduate degree. These are needed before applying to medical school.
• High GPA: Most top medical schools expect a GPA of at least 3.5 on a 4.0 scale. A GPA above 3.7 gives you a better chance.
• MCAT Scores: A strong MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) score is necessary. A score above 510 is considered good for top universities.
• English Proficiency: You must show proof of English skills through TOEFL (above 100), IELTS (7.0 or higher), or Duolingo English Test (120+), depending on the university’s requirement.
• Letters of Recommendation: Most schools need 2-3 LORs from your professors, research guides, or doctors you’ve worked with. 
• Personal Statement: You need to write a strong personal statement that explains why you want to become a doctor and what motivates you.
• Clinical or Volunteer Experience: Prior experience in a hospital, clinic, or health-related NGO helps your profile stand out. Shadowing doctors or volunteering shows your commitment to the field.
• Health Sciences Courses (Other than Medicine): Courses like Public Health, Nursing, Pharmacy, or Biomedical Science usually have slightly easier entry rules. Many accept students after high school or with basic science backgrounds. GRE scores (range of 300-320) may be needed for some master’s courses.
• CASPer Test (for Some Schools): Some universities ask for the CASPer test. It is an online test that checks your personal qualities, ethics, and decision-making skills.

Top Universities to Pursue Medicine & Health Sciences in the USA

Harvard offers one of the broadest selections of medical and public health programs. UCSF stands out for its focus on global health and biomedical sciences. Students interested in research-heavy careers normally choose universities like Stanford and the University of Pennsylvania. As it offers many dual-degree options.

Career Prospects for Medicine & Health Sciences

Surgeons earn the highest salaries, it goes up to USD 300,000 (INR 2.47 Cr), while public health roles start from around USD 70,000 (INR 57.4 Lakh). Physician and nurse practitioner roles also show strong earning potential.

Avg Tuition Fee: USD 35,000 - USD 65,000 per year (INR 28.7 Lakh to 53.3 Lakh)
Salary Potential: USD 70,000 - USD 150,000 per year (INR 57.4 Lakh to 1.23 Cr)

If you are looking for the best postgraduate courses in the USA, an MS in Finance is the best way to go. Many universities in the US offer students an MS in Finance course, which is STEM-designated. This course typically prepares graduates for careers in corporate finance, investment banking, and investment management.

International Students consider an MS in Finance in USA the best course because of the unique STEM designation, and the heart of the stock exchange and Investment Banking hubs, New York City, has it all for an MS in Finance graduate - the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq. 

Finance professionals from the US are highly valued worldwide for their technical knowledge, analytical skills, and understanding of global markets. Pursuing a PhD in Finance in the USA allows you to explore long-term academic or research careers. It offers deeper specialization than a master's degree.

Eligibility to Study Finance in the USA

These are a few eligibility criteria to get into the finance stream of any top university:

• Bachelor’s Degree: You must have a 4-year undergraduate degree in Finance, Business, Economics, Commerce, or a related subject.
• Good GPA: Most universities prefer a GPA above 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. A higher GPA increases your chances.
• GMAT or GRE Scores: A competitive GMAT score for finance universities typically falls between 600 and 720. For GRE, it is usually between 305-325 (Verbal + Quant).
• English Language Test: You need to show your English skills using TOEFL (above 90), IELTS (6.5 or higher), or Duolingo (minimum 110-120), depending on the school.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP): You must write an SOP explaining why you want to study finance, your career goals, and what you hope to learn.
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Most programs ask for 1-3 LORs. These should come from professors or employers who know your academic or work skills.
• Work Experience (Optional): Work experience is not always required, but it helps. Having internships or a job in finance, banking, or accounting makes your profile stronger.

Top Universities to Pursue Finance in the USA

MIT Sloan and Wharton are among the most prestigious. Columbia and NYU provide both MS and MBA pathways in finance. Schools like Boston College and USC offer focused master’s degrees. It gives students multiple options for pursuing finance careers.

Career Prospects for Finance

Corporate Finance Managers command the highest salaries in this list, potentially earning up to USD 150,000. Financial Analysts generally start on the lower end of the pay scale. FinTech Product Manager roles stand out as modern additions.

Avg Tuition Fee: USD 30,000 - USD 60,000 per year (INR 24.6 Lakh - INR 49.2 Lakh)
Salary Potential: USD 65,000 - USD 120,000 per year (INR 53.3 Lakh - INR 98.4 Lakh)

After the recent COVID-19 outbreak, the US used its world-class research facilities to help develop vaccines and treatments that saved millions of lives. This has put Biotechnology in the spotlight more than ever. The pandemic accelerated growth and funding in biotech industries, making it one of the most promising fields for students seeking impactful careers.

Generally, students who take up an MS in Biotechnology in the USA go into the research field because of the course structure and their interest. Biotechnology, Biomedical, and Bioinformatics are the fields that have numerous career opportunities. 

The US is home to biotech giants like Amgen, Genentech, Gilead, and Biogen, creating strong job prospects for graduates. Many top universities for Biotechnology in the USA offer excellent skills needed for successful careers in this growing field

Eligibility to Study Biotechnology in the USA

Always check the eligibility criteria before applying to any of the famous universities in USA for biotechnology:

• Bachelor’s Degree: You need a 4-year undergraduate degree in Biotechnology, Biology, Life Sciences, Chemistry, Biomedical Sciences, or a similar field.
• GPA Requirement: A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is preferred. Higher scores improve your chances at top universities.
• GRE Scores: An ideal GRE score is usually between 305-320 (combined Verbal and Quant). Some universities may ask for GRE scores. Others may not. Always check the university’s website.
• English Language Test: You must show your English skills through TOEFL (minimum 90), IELTS (6.5+), or Duolingo (typically 110+).
• Statement of Purpose (SOP): Your SOP should clearly explain your research interests, long-term goals, and why you want to study biotechnology.
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Usually, 2-3 LORs are required. They should come from academic mentors or research supervisors.
• Research or Lab Experience: Having prior experience in labs, research projects, or internships makes your application much stronger.

Top Universities to Pursue Biotechnology in the USA

MIT and Harvard both offer MS programs in Biotechnology. These have a strong focus on the biotech field. UCSD uniquely combines Biotechnology with Bioinformatics in its offerings. Johns Hopkins stands out for pairing Biotechnology studies with Regulatory Science.

Career Prospects for Biotechnology

Quality Assurance Managers earn the highest salaries, going up to USD 120,000, while Bioinformatics Analysts earn the lowest starting salaries from USD 65,000. Most roles offer salaries above USD 70,000. It is indeed a promising career for aspirants out there:

Avg Tuition Fee: USD 40,000 - USD 70,000 per year (INR 32.8 Lakh to 57.4 Lakh)
Salary Potential: USD 80,000 - USD 200,000 per year (INR 65.6 Lakh to 164 Lakh)

Studying Law and Legal Studies in the U.S. gives you exposure to one of the world’s most advanced legal systems, top-tier education, and global professional networks. Whether you choose a JD (Juris Doctor) or LLM, you’ll have vast opportunities for career growth and specialization. Understanding how to write a strong LOR for the LLM can give your application a real edge.

The US has several legal specialties in high demand, such as corporate law, intellectual property, technology law, environmental law, international law, and human rights. If you're considering this route, check the full list of law schools accepting GRE scores for your application.

An LLB in the USA is also possible through select undergraduate pathways. These programmes help you build a strong foundation before moving into JD or LLM-level study.

Eligibility to Study Law and Legal Studies in the USA

JD is the main law degree in the USA for becoming a lawyer. You can apply after finishing any undergraduate degree. The academic requirements for a Juris Doctor (JD) in USA are:

• Bachelor’s Degree Requirement: You must complete a 4-year bachelor’s degree in any subject (arts, science, commerce, or law).
• Undergraduate GPA: Top law schools prefer a GPA of 3.5 to 4.0 on a 4.0 scale. Mid-tier schools may accept 3.0 to 3.4.
• LSAT (Law School Admission Test): Most US law schools need LSAT scores. A good LSAT score is 155-170+ out of 180. The higher the ranking of the school, the higher your LSAT score should be.
• English Language Proficiency (for international students): For TOEFL iBT it is 100+, IELTS is 7.0+, and Duolingo is 120+ (only accepted at some law schools).

LLM is a 1-year specialised law degree for students who already have a law degree from their home country. For an LLM in the USA, the eligibility criteria are:

• Law Degree Requirement: You must hold an LLB, JD, or equivalent professional law degree from a recognised university.
• Academic Performance / GPA: Top universities look for a GPA of 3.3 or above (or first-class/upper second-class honours). Some may accept a slightly lower GPA with strong experience or publications.
• Legal Work Experience (Preferred): Many top schools like NYU, Columbia, and Harvard prefer candidates with 1-3 years of legal work, practice, or internships.
• Interview (Optional): Some universities may invite shortlisted applicants for a virtual or in-person interview.

Top Universities to Pursue Law and Legal Studies in the USA

Harvard and Yale consistently hold the highest global ranks and offer the broadest legal programs. NYU School of Law is notable for its strength in tax law and international human rights. Berkeley stands out for its environmental and social justice law specialisations.

Career Prospects for Law and Legal Studies

Corporate Lawyers have some of the highest salaries, reaching up to USD 200,000. Human Rights Lawyers earn less on average but work in globally impactful roles. Compliance Officers also earn solid salaries.

Avg Tuition Fee: USD 25,000 - USD 55,000 per year (INR 20.5 Lakh - INR 45.1 Lakh)
Salary Potential: USD 45,000 - USD 100,000 per year (INR 36.9 Lakh - INR 82 Lakh)

Media is a dynamic field in the US. It provides amazing opportunities for creative thinkers, storytellers, and professionals in tech. The US is home to Hollywood, major news networks, digital content companies, and global media conglomerates. 

The field covers diverse areas like journalism, film production, digital marketing, advertising, broadcasting, PR, and emerging media technologies like VR storytelling. Students gain not only creative skills but also technical and analytical expertise required in today’s fast-changing media industry.

Eligibility to Study Media in the USA

If you are interested in the Media in the USA, check out these eligibility criteria for some guarantee: 

• Undergraduate (UG) Programs: Completion of Class 12 with at least 70-80% marks or equivalent GPA. SAT scores are optional for many media schools, but can boost your application.
• Postgraduate (PG) Programs (Master’s): A bachelor's degree in media, communication, journalism, or a related field. The minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is generally expected.
• GRE or GMAT: Not mandatory for all media programs. If required, top programs expect GRE scores between 300-320 or GMAT scores between 550-650.
• Portfolio: For creative programs (film, digital media, journalism), a portfolio of writing samples, videos, design work, or photography is often required.
• English Proficiency Tests: Most universities require either a TOEFL score of 90-100 or an IELTS score of 6.5-7.0. Some institutions may accept Duolingo English Test results, typically requiring a minimum score of 110 or higher.
• SOP and LORs: A clear Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining your media interests and goals. 2-3 Letters of Recommendation from academic or industry professionals.
• Experience: Internships or freelance work in journalism, film, PR, or social media help strengthen your profile but are not mandatory.

Top Universities to Pursue Media in the USA

USC Annenberg and NYU Tisch stand out for programs in film, TV, and digital production. Columbia and Northwestern focus more on journalism and media analysis. NYU and Columbia hold top QS ranks, so you know what decision to make here: 

Career Prospects for Media

Film Producers and Digital Marketing Specialists rank among the highest earners in media careers, while roles like Journalism tend to start lower.

Studying in the USA is a significant financial investment for international students. On average, tuition fees in the USA range from USD 20,000 to USD 60,000 per year (INR 16.4 Lakh to 49.2 Lakh), depending on the course and university. 

Along with tuition, students spend an average of USD 12,000 to USD 25,000 per year (INR 9.8 Lakh to 20.5 Lakh) on living expenses (accommodation/groceries/stationery/etc).

Average Tuition Fees in the USA

Tuition fees in the USA vary widely. It depends by the type of university (public or private), program of study, and even the campus location:

• Public universities often charge between USD 20,000 to USD 40,000 (INR 16.4 Lakh to 32.8 Lakh) per year for international students. These are often more affordable but still offer excellent programs, especially for STEM courses.
• Private universities generally range from USD 35,000 to USD 60,000 (INR 28.7 Lakh to 49.2 Lakh) or more annually. Ivy League and other elite schools can go even higher for specific programs.
• Some community colleges provide affordable pathways, charging around USD 8,000 to USD 20,000 (INR 6.6 Lakh to 16.4 Lakh) per year, ideal for the first two years of study before transferring to a university.
• MBA programs and specialized professional degrees can cost upwards of USD 70,000 (INR 57.4 Lakh) per year at top business schools like Harvard or Wharton.
• Programs in fields like Medicine, Law, and Engineering can also command higher tuition due to advanced labs, clinical experiences, or specialized faculty.
• Some universities offer lower fees for satellite campuses in smaller cities, which can be a smart way to save costs while earning the same degree!

Cost of Living in the USA

The average cost of living in the USA for international students ranges between USD 1,000 and USD 2,500 per month (INR 82,000 to 2.05 Lakh). This depends significantly on where you live and your lifestyle choices.

Big cities like New York and San Francisco cost over USD 2,500 (INR 2.05 Lakh) monthly, mainly due to high rent. Houston or Atlanta can be as low as USD 1,000 to USD 1,500 (INR 82,000 to INR 1.23 Lakh). Moderate cities like Chicago fall in between at around USD 1,500 to USD 2,200 (INR 1.23 Lakh to INR 1.8 Lakh).

Here’s a breakdown of average monthly living costs in the USA:

Indian students looking to study in the USA have many scholarship opportunities to ease their financial burden. Top scholarships in the USA, like the Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowship, the Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship, and the JN Tata Endowment Loan Scholarship, help cover tuition fees, living expenses, and even travel costs. 

Here’s a list of top scholarships in the USA you should explore, along with their eligibility criteria and benefits:

Studying in the USA offers the advantage of programs like Optional Practical Training (OPT), allowing students to gain up to three years of work experience after graduation. Silicon Valley and Wall Street are the country’s major tech and finance hubs. These create excellent opportunities for international students to start global careers.

These are a few reasons why one should think about studying in the USA:

Access to STEM OPT Extension

Students in STEM programs can work for up to 3 years after graduation through the STEM OPT extension, offering crucial work experience and a pathway to higher earnings. As of 2024, nearly 50% of Indian students in the US were enrolled in STEM programs, reflecting how strongly this benefit drives choices.

Highest Average Salaries Post-Graduation

According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), the average starting salary for graduates in the US was around USD 60,000 (INR 49 L) in 2024, with tech and business fields exceeding USD 80,000 (INR 65.6 L). This salary range is significantly higher than many other popular study destinations.

Hub of Global Industries

US cities like New York, San Francisco, and Boston are home to major global companies. For instance, Silicon Valley alone hosts over 30,000 technology companies. It provides unmatched opportunities for internships and job placements during and after studies.

Innovation and Start-up Ecosystem

The USA leads in innovation. It has filed over 600,000 patent applications in 2023 alone. Universities like MIT and Stanford often incubate start-ups right on campus. This definitely offers Indian students funding and mentorship to launch their ventures.

Global Recognition of Degrees

US degrees are highly recognised by employers worldwide. Over 75% of Fortune 500 companies actively recruit from US universities. This is making American degrees powerful assets for careers globally.

Generous Scholarships for International Students

In 2023, US universities gave more than USD 10 billion (INR 8.2 Lakh Cr) in scholarships to international students, including many options just for Indian students based on merit and financial need.

Flexible Curricula and Double Majors

Many US universities let students mix different subjects in their degrees. For example, you can study both Computer Science and Business, or combine Biotechnology with Data Analytics. This helps you prepare for special career paths that employers value.

Research Funding Opportunities

The US spends more than USD 600 billion annually on research and development, much of it within universities. International students often get paid research assistantships, significantly reducing living costs while gaining professional experience.

It’s a dream for many aspirants like you to study at the best foreign destination there is - the USA. And for the fruition of all the efforts you put in, picking the best course definitely becomes the top priority. The courses that are listed above are the ones that have been chosen by many international students, be it out of inclination, out of trend, or out of the high ROI. However, there are many more courses that the universities in the USA offer students, including their world-class Engineering courses, like Life Sciences courses, and in fact, the Liberal Arts courses too!

Like in the earlier parts of this read, making sure which course best suits you and sticking to it does half of your work! And if you are still not sure which is the best way to go, you are already at the right place. Yocket Premium comes with a dedicated counsellor for you, guiding you to the best universities in the US with a course that suits you the best. As a Premium Yocketer, you get the counselling that is curated JUST FOR YOU.