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.

MS in USA (2025): Top Universities, Fees & Eligibility for Indian Students
MS in USA: Overview
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.

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 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 |
2 |
6.7% |
Aeronautics and Astronautics, |
Dec 1 - Jan 15 |
|
4 |
3 |
4.92% |
Bioethics, Data Science, Biotechnology: Life Sciences |
December 1 |
|
6 |
6 |
4.34% |
Aeronautics and Astronautics, |
December 2- December 16 |
|
10 |
7 |
8% |
Aeronautics, Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering |
November 21 - December 15 |
|
11 |
14 |
10% |
Architecture, Biostatistics, Criminology, |
Feb 1 |
|
12 |
8 |
17% |
Architecture, Electrical Engineering & Computer Sciences, Computer Science |
Dec 9 - Jan 3 |
|
16 |
20 |
15% |
Biostatistics and Data Science, Health Informatics Health Policy and Economics |
Sep 1 - Dec 1 |
|
21 |
14 |
7.9% |
Applied Data Science, Biomedical Sciences, Computational Analysis, and Public Policy |
July 2 |
|
22 |
4 |
6.5% |
Computer Science, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering |
Nov 17 - Jan 2 |
|
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 |
|
INR 38 - INR 61 lakhs (USD 45,000 - USD 72,000) |
Engineering |
|
INR 34 - INR 51 lakhs (USD 40,000 - USD 60,000) |
Data Science |
|
INR 32 - INR 51 lakhs (USD 39,000 - USD 62,000) |
Business Analytics |
|
INR 32 - INR 74 lakhs (USD 39,000 - USD 90,000) |
MS in Finance |
|
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 |
---|---|
December 11, 2025 |
|
December 1, 2025 |
|
December 2- December 16, 2025 |
|
November 21 - December 15, 2025 |
|
November 21 - December 15, 2025 |
|
Feb 1, 2026 |
|
Dec 9, 2025 - Jan 3, 2026 |
|
Sep 1 - Dec 1, 2025 |
|
July 2, 2025 |
|
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.
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:
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) |
---|---|
USD 62,000 / INR 52.70 lakhs |
|
USD 57,330 / INR 48.75 lakhs |
|
USD 63,540 / INR 54 lakhs |
|
USD 65,700/ INR 55.8 lakhs |
|
USD 73,440/ INR 62 lakhs |
|
USD 12,760/ INR 10 lakhs |
|
USD 72,000 / INR 62 lakhs |
|
USD 50,000 / INR 43 lakhs |
|
USD 65,210 / INR 56.2 lakhs |
|
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
|
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?
The Master's courses in USA range from 1 to 2 years. However, 1-year course certificates may not be accepted in all countries.
What is the medium of instruction for MS in USA?
The MS universities in USA have English as their medium of instruction.
What are the most in-demand courses for MS in USA?
Some of the top MS in USA courses are Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science & Engineering, Cyber Security & Data Science.
How to apply for MS in USA 2025?
The application process for MS in USA is to be completed in online mode. Refer to the official websites of respective universities for more details.
What is the cost of an MS in the USA?
The cost of studying an MS in the USA ranges from USD 30,000 to USD 70,000 (INR 25 lakhs to INR 60 lakhs) per year.
What are the eligibility criteria for an MS in the USA?
A Bachelor's degree with a strong GPA, proof of English language proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS), and a GRE/GMAT score, depending on the program
Can I work while pursuing an MS in the USA?
Yes, you can work up to 20 hours a week under your F1 student visa.
What are the best MS programs in the US?
Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering and Public Health offer much prestige and significant remuneration.
What exams do you need to take for an MS in the US?
GRE and GMAT exams are mostly optional and program-specific; however, an English proficiency test score is necessarily required. (IELTS 6.5 band + or TOEFL 90+ score.)
Can I get funding for an MS in the US?
Yes, various scholarships, assistantships, loans and other means of financial aid are available. You can decrease your financial load by applying for the Fulbright Foreign Student Program and the Stanford Knight-Hennessy Scholars, etc.
What kind of visa do I need for an MS in the US?
For Master’s courses, students need to apply for the F-1 visa to attend accredited US colleges or universities for academic studies.