Masters in Machine Learning in USA: Top Universities, Fees, Requirements, Eligibility & Scholarships

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Master of Professional Studies in Applied Machine Intelligence

Northeastern University, USA

DURATION
1 Year
FEES
INR 22.33L/yr
EXAMS
-
INTAKE SESSION
JUL 2025

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Masters of Computational Social Science (MACSS)

University of Chicago, USA

DURATION
2 Years
FEES
INR 40.29L/yr
EXAMS
-
INTAKE SESSION
SEP 2025

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Master of Science in Machine Learning Engineering (MSMLE)

Drexel University, USA

DURATION
1 Year 6 Months
FEES
-
EXAMS
-
INTAKE SESSION
SEP 2025

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MS in Machine Learning Engineering at Drexel University

Drexel University, USA

DURATION
Online:8 Months
On-campus:1 Year 3 Months
FEES
Online: INR 5,25,000
On-campus: USD 33,750

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MPS in Applied AI (Admission closing on 15th September)

Northeastern University, USA

DURATION
Online:8 Months
On-campus:1 Year 3 Months
FEES
Online: INR 5,25,000
On-campus: USD 36,754

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Highlights: Master’s in Machine Learning in USA

Feature	Details
Program Duration	1.5 – 2 years (Duration of MS in Machine Learning USA)
Intakes	Fall (Aug–Sep), Spring (Jan), some Summer options
Degree Type	MS, MEng, or MSc in Machine Learning / ML & AI
Avg Tuition (Top Unis)	$40,000–$60,000/year (₹33–₹50L)
Avg Salary After Graduation	$95,000–$130,000/year (₹80L–₹1.1Cr)
STEM Classification	Yes (eligible for up to 3 years OPT)
Medium of Instruction	English
Post-Study Work Visa	F-1 visa with OPT extension (12 + 24 months for STEM programs)

Curriculum for Master's in Machine Learning in USA

The Master’s in Machine Learning in USA teaches you how to build, test, and apply real ML systems. You’ll write code, build models, and work with real datasets in labs and internships. Most programs run for 1.5 to 2 years and follow a project-based or internship-heavy format.

Below is what you’ll study in the top ML programs in the US:

Curriculum Area	What You’ll Do
Core Subjects	Learn algorithms like regression, classification, SVMs, deep learning, and model evaluation
Programming Tools	Write ML code in Python, use TensorFlow, PyTorch, cloud APIs, and version control
Math for ML	Work through linear algebra, probability, statistics, and optimization from an ML lens
Electives	Choose from NLP, reinforcement learning, robotics, or ethical AI, based on your job goals
Capstone/Thesis	Build an ML solution or write a research paper. Required in most thesis-track universities
Internship Module	Work at a USA company or lab during summer or final semester. Helps with job placements
Hands-on Labs	Run GPU models, fine-tune networks, and collaborate with professors in ML or AI research labs

Top programs like CMU and Georgia Tech offer ML-AI dual degrees or electives in applied ML and data science. If you're targeting jobs after a Machine Learning master’s in USA, choose electives linked to your career—like NLP for tech firms or computer vision for healthcare.

Best Universities for MS in Machine Learning in USA (2025)

MIT, Carnegie Mellon, and UC Berkeley rank in the global top 5 for tech. Their machine learning programs are built around advanced research in deep learning, language models, and robotics. These universities lead hiring pipelines into Google, Meta, Nvidia, and research labs.

Best ML Universities in USA

University (City)	QS Data Science and Artificial Intelligence Ranking 2025	Avg Tuition Fees (USD/year)
MIT (Cambridge)	1	$53,000–60,000 (₹44–50 lakh)
Carnegie Mellon University (Pittsburgh)	2	$54,000–57,000 (₹45–47.3 lakh)
UC Berkeley (Berkeley)	4	$47,000–52,000 (₹39–43 lakh)
Harvard University (Cambridge)	6	$50,000–55,000 (₹41.5–45.6 lakh)
Yale University (New Haven)	9	$48,000–54,000 (₹39.8–44.8 lakh)
NYU (New York City)	=13	$45,000–50,000 (₹37.3–41.5 lakh)
University of Washington (Seattle)	=13	$42,000–47,000 (₹34.9–39 lakh)
Cornell University (Ithaca)	=15	$49,000–54,000 (₹40.7–44.8 lakh)
Georgia Tech (Atlanta)	=15	$40,000–45,000 (₹33.2–37.3 lakh)
UIUC (Champaign)	=21	$39,000–44,000 (₹32.4–36.6 lakh)
University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia)	27	$46,000–52,000 (₹38.1–43 lakh)

Specializations in Master's in Machine Learning in USA

Top MS in Machine Learning programs in USA let you pick a focus area that matches your career plan. Most ML programs offer specializations like NLP, robotics, or AI systems tailored to job roles.

Here are the most in-demand ML specializations offered by top ML universities in the US:

Specialization	What You’ll Learn	Career Outcomes
Deep Learning	Neural nets, CNNs, transformers (BERT, GPT), image/audio processing	AI R&D, medical AI, autonomous systems
Natural Language Processing (NLP)	Text mining, sentiment analysis, chatbots, LLM tuning	NLP engineer, language AI, search tech
Computer Vision	Object detection, facial recognition, video analysis	Robotics, surveillance AI, healthcare imaging
Reinforcement Learning	Model training via rewards and penalties; decision-making under uncertainty	Game AI, robotics, supply chain ML
Robotics + Perception	Sensor data, control systems, embedded AI	Robot design, automation, drones
AI Systems	Core AI, ethics, planning, intelligent agents	AI product teams, automation, edge AI
ML + Data Science	Business-focused ML, data pipelines, predictive analytics	ML engineer, data scientist, analytics lead
Master's in Deep Learning	Full degree track focused on scalable deep learning systems	Research labs, LLM roles, academic pathways

Intakes for Master's in Machine Learning in USA

Most Master’s in Machine Learning programs in USA have two main intakes: Fall (August/September) and Spring (January). Fall is the most popular intake, especially at top ML universities in USA.

Intake Timeline Overview for Master's in Machine Learning in USA

Intake	Application Timeline	Why It Matters
Fall	Apply between October to January	More programs open, more scholarships, full courses
Spring	Apply between July to September	Fewer options, but faster admissions
Rolling Deadlines	Some universities accept applications year-round	First-come-first-serve; good for late planners

You’ll often see application rounds for Master's in Machine Learning in USA:

Early Round: Closes by November. Increases chance of scholarship and seat availability.
Regular Round: Closes by January or February. Standard for most students.

Who Can Apply for a Master’s in Machine Learning in USA?

To get into a Master’s in Machine Learning in USA, you need a technical background, good grades, and coding experience. Most programs don’t need work experience but expect you to know math and programming.

Academic & Test Requirements for Master's in Machine Learning in USA

Requirement	Details
Academic Background	Bachelor's in CS, IT, ECE, Math, Statistics, or a related field
Minimum GPA	3.0/4.0 (65%+ for Indian students). Top ML programs may ask for 3.3+
Coding Prerequisites	Skills in Python, C++, or Java; some require data structures/algorithms
GRE Score	Many top schools require 310–325+; some waived post-2024
English Language Test	IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL iBT 90+ for non-native English speakers

Top ML universities in the USA also look at your SOP, LORs, and project work. Good profiles include GitHub ML projects, Kaggle rankings, or research papers.

Admission Process for Master's in Machine Learning in USA

To apply for a Master’s in Machine Learning in USA, you’ll need to submit your application through the university’s official portal and meet deadlines for Fall or Spring intake. Most programs ask for a technical undergraduate degree, GRE or IELTS/TOEFL scores, and proof of coding skills.

The process includes shortlisting universities, preparing documents like SOPs and LORs, paying the application fee, and tracking your decision status online. Admission decisions typically take 6–12 weeks.

Step-by-Step Admission Process for Master's in Machine Learning in USA

Step	What You Need to Do
1. Shortlist Universities	Choose based on fees, specializations, job outcomes
2. Prepare Documents	Resume, Statement of Purpose (SOP), 2–3 Letters of Recommendation (LORs), transcripts
3. Take Required Tests	GRE (if required), IELTS/TOEFL for English proficiency
4. Apply Online	Use the official university portal; pay application fees (~$75–$150)
5. Track Your Status	Use your dashboard or email updates for admission decisions
6. Get Offer Letter	Most offers arrive within 6–12 weeks
7. Accept and Pay Deposit	Pay the seat confirmation fee ($500–$1,000)

Cost of Studying Master's in Machine Learning in USA

Planning your budget is one of the most important steps before applying for a Master’s in Machine Learning in USA. Apart from tuition, you’ll need to account for living costs, insurance, visa fees, and travel. Universities and visa officers require proof of financial capacity to complete the program.

That’s why USA visa officers check your yearly financial capacity, which usually ranges between $40,000 to $85,000 (₹33–70 lakh) depending on location and university.

Cost Breakdown – Yearly Estimate for Master's in Machine Learning in USA

Expense Type	Cost (USD/year)	Approx. Cost in INR (yearly)
Tuition Fees	$25,000 – $60,000	₹21–50 lakh
Living Costs	$12,000 – $20,000	₹10–17 lakh
Health Insurance	$1,000 – $2,000	₹80,000 – ₹1.6 lakh
Student Visa (F-1)	$510	₹43,000
Books & Supplies	$1,000 – $1,500	₹80,000 – ₹1.2 lakh
Flights + Local Travel	$1,200 – $2,000	₹1–1.6 lakh
Total Yearly Estimate	$40,000 – $85,000	₹33 – ₹70 lakh

Most ML students work part-time on campus (20 hours/week) to offset living costs. Cities like Atlanta, Pittsburgh, and Austin are cheaper than San Francisco or New York.

Scholarships for Master's in Machine Learning in USA

The cost of a Master’s in Machine Learning in USA can cross ₹50 lakh per year at top universities. To make this more affordable, many schools offer merit-based scholarships, STEM grants, and international student funding. Indian students can also apply for government-backed or private scholarships.

Most scholarships for MS in Machine Learning USA universities are awarded at the time of admission. Some require a separate application, while others apply discounts automatically based on your academic record and SOP.

Machine Learning Scholarships USA

Scholarship Name	What It Covers	Offered By
Dean’s Merit Award	Partial tuition fee (10–50%)	Offered by most Top ML programs in US
STEM OPT Scholarships	Tuition support for eligible STEM degrees	Select USA universities
Fulbright-Nehru Master's Fellowship	Full tuition, living expenses, airfare	USIEF & USA State Dept.
Tata Scholarship (Cornell)	Full tuition for Indian students	Tata Education and Development Trust
AAUW International Fellowship	$20,000–$50,000 for women in STEM	American Association of University Women
Narotam Sekhsaria Scholarship	Interest-free loan scholarships (up to ₹20 lakh)	Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation

Career Scope and Salary After MS in Machine Learning in USA

A Master’s in Machine Learning in USA leads to high-paying roles across tech, healthcare, finance, and research. Top ML companies in the USA hire graduates as engineers, analysts, and specialists in artificial intelligence and deep learning. Due to high salaries and 3-year STEM OPT, ML degrees offer good career returns.

Most entry-level ML roles start between $90,000–$120,000/year (₹75–₹1 crore). Salaries go higher in cities like San Francisco, Boston, and Seattle or at companies like Meta, Apple, or OpenAI.

Career Outcomes After MS in Machine Learning in USA

Job Role	Average Salary (USD/year)	Top Employers
Machine Learning Engineer	$110,000 – $140,000 (₹91.3 – ₹1.16 crore)	Google, Meta, Amazon, Nvidia
Data Scientist (ML)	$100,000 – $130,000 (₹83 – ₹1.08 crore)	IBM, JPMorgan Chase, Tesla, healthcare startups
AI Researcher	$120,000 – $160,000 (₹99.6 lakh – ₹1.33 crore)	OpenAI, DeepMind, Microsoft AI, top university labs
Computer Vision Engineer	$105,000 – $135,000 (₹87.1 lakh – ₹1.12 crore)	Robotics firms, self-driving tech, surveillance systems
NLP Engineer	$95,000 – $125,000 (₹78.8 lakh – ₹1.03 crore)	Language AI startups, fintech companies, SaaS platforms
Deep Learning Specialist	$115,000 – $145,000 (₹95.5 lakh – ₹1.20 crore)	AI labs, medical imaging, audio/video intelligence firms

ML graduates are hired in tech, finance, healthcare, robotics, and government AI labs. Roles in healthcare, defense, and climate-tech also prefer candidates with AI + ML expertise.

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FAQs About Master's in Machine Learning in USA

What is the deadline to apply for Master’s in Machine Learning in USA for 2025?

Most MS in Machine Learning USA universities have application deadlines between December 2024 and March 2025 for the Fall intake. Some programs also offer Spring intake (deadline around September). Always check the university website for exact dates.

Is GRE required for Master’s in Machine Learning in USA in top universities?

Many top ML programs in USA still recommend the GRE. However, some universities have waived it, especially for 2025. MIT, Stanford, and UC Berkeley may keep it optional. Check individual department requirements.

Can I study Master’s in Machine Learning in USA without a computer science background?

Yes, but you must meet key Machine Learning master's requirements USA like programming skills (Python/C++), math foundations (linear algebra, calculus), and relevant coursework or experience. Some universities offer bridge courses.

What is the average salary after Master’s in Machine Learning in USA?

Jobs after Machine Learning master's USA pay well. Entry-level roles in 2025 average $95,000–$120,000 per year, with higher salaries at tech firms and AI startups. Experience and internship exposure increase this figure.

Which are the best specializations under MS in Machine Learning in USA?

Top specializations include deep learning, computer vision, NLP, AI systems, and reinforcement learning. Some colleges also offer an ML and AI dual degree USA to combine broader skills.

Are there fully funded Master’s in Machine Learning programs in USA?

Yes. While rare, some Machine Learning scholarships USA offer full tuition plus stipends—especially through research assistantships, university fellowships, or programs like Fulbright or DAAD (for dual-country MS).

What are the top universities for MS in Machine Learning in USA for Indian students?

Best ML colleges in USA for Indian students include:

MIT Machine Learning program
Stanford University
Carnegie Mellon (CMU)
Georgia Tech
University of Washington
UC Berkeley

Is Master’s in Machine Learning in USA better than MS in Data Science?

If you want to work on algorithms, models, and AI systems, Master's in Machine Learning in USA offers deeper technical focus. MS in Data Science covers broader tools and analytics. Choose based on your career goal.

Can Indian students get a scholarship for studying Machine Learning in USA?

Yes. Indian students can apply for Machine Learning scholarships USA like university-based RA/TA roles, government schemes, or private scholarships (e.g., Inlaks, JN Tata Endowment).

What programming languages should I know before applying for MS in ML in USA?

You should be fluent in Python, and comfortable with R, Java, or C++. Most top ML programs in USA expect applicants to have hands-on coding experience with libraries like NumPy, TensorFlow, or PyTorch.

How long can I stay in USA after completing a Master’s in Machine Learning?

As an international student on an F-1 visa, you get 12 months of OPT, extended to 36 months if your program is STEM-designated. Most Master's in Machine Learning in USA fall under STEM, allowing longer stay and H-1B transition.

What is the cost of studying MS in Machine Learning in USA for Indian students?

Machine Learning course fees in USA range from $30,000–$60,000 per year (₹25L–₹50L), depending on the university. Public universities are usually cheaper than private ones. Living costs are extra.

Do USA universities accept Indian 3-year degrees for MS in Machine Learning?

Some universities do, but most MS in Machine Learning USA universities prefer a 4-year degree (like B.Tech or B.E). If you have a 3-year degree (like B.Sc), consider adding a PG diploma or master’s to strengthen your application.

What are the job opportunities after Master’s in Machine Learning in USA in 2025?

In 2025, top roles include Machine Learning Engineer, AI Researcher, Data Scientist, Robotics Developer, and NLP Engineer. Tech hubs like California, New York, and Texas offer high salaries and visa-friendly employers.

How to get admission in USA for Master’s in Machine Learning without GRE?

Shortlist top ML programs in USA that waive the GRE—like Northeastern, NYU Tandon, and University of Arizona. Focus on building a well-written SOP, resume, and coding projects. Letters of recommendation also matter.

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