Bachelor's in Finance USA: Top Universities, Programs & Fees

A Bachelor's in Finance in USA provides international students with direct access to Wall Street recruiters, Fortune 500 firms, and a 3-year work visa (STEM OPT). 

This is a key advantage over the UK (2 years) or Canada (1-2 years). Top programs like UPenn Wharton, NYU Stern, and MIT Sloan place 35-45% of finance grads in investment banking, with median starting salaries of $87,528 (INR 75L) at Wharton and $84,200 (INR 72L) at Stern.

In 2025, finance ranks #4 for undergraduate employability, with 91.3% of graduates hired within six months. Best public universities in the USA, such as the University of Michigan, cost $57,273 (INR 49L) per year for international students, while the University of Texas Austin ranks #5 for finance ROI.

This blog will explore top programs and universities, assisting you in your plan to study in the US.

Bachelor's in Finance USA: Overview

Earning a Bachelor's in Finance USA typically takes 4 years, with prominent intakes in Fall (August) and Spring (January). The program can lead to a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) or Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), depending on the university. 

You'll need to meet English proficiency requirements through tests such as the TOEFL or IELTS. Career prospects are strong, with opportunities available in fields such as investment banking, corporate Finance, and financial analysis.

Below is an overview of the average cost of a bachelor's degree in the US.

Before exploring the details of the top universities and programs, let's first understand why studying a bachelor's in finance in the USA can be beneficial.

Why Pursue Bachelor's in Finance Courses in the USA?

With schools like the University of Massachusetts reporting 72% of undergraduates securing full-time jobs within six months and the University of Michigan offering 99.6% job placement, your career prospects are up-and-coming. These are one of the primary reasons why study in the USA is so popular among international students.

Here's why a Bachelor's in Finance in the USA can be beneficial.

• High Earning Potential: Graduates of finance programs in the U.S. can start their careers with an average salary of $49,200 (INR 42L), with mid-career earnings reaching $71,000 (INR 60.6L). These salaries are competitive across various industries, including banking, investment, and corporate finance.
• Top Choice for International Students: The U.S. continues to be the top destination for international students, hosting over 1.1 million students from abroad.
• Strong Job Market: International students contribute to around 368,000 jobs within the U.S. economy each year.
• Cultural Experience: Studying in the U.S. offers exposure to a diverse environment. Beyond education, students gain skills in cross-cultural communication, global finance, and international trade.
• Networking Opportunities: U.S. universities have extensive alumni networks and industry connections. These networks offer students valuable access to mentorship, internships, and career opportunities.

After understanding the basics and the most common reasons for studying a bachelor's in Finance in the USA, let's check out the top universities offering this program.

Top Universities Offering Bachelor's in Finance in the  USA

The top-ranking U.S. universities offering a Bachelor's degree in Finance include prestigious institutions such as Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Harvard University, and Stanford University, with tuition fees ranging from $57,731 (INR 58L) to $86,916 (INR 74L) per year. These programs typically span 4 years and have competitive application deadlines.

Below, you'll find a detailed list of top universities, their finance-related programs, tuition fees, and deadlines for your consideration.

In addition to these top 10 universities, other institutions also have reputable programs for this degree.

Popular Universities for Bachelor's in Finance in the  USA

When considering a Bachelor's in Finance in the USA, universities offer a variety of programs with different tuition fees and deadlines. 

Some universities, such as Northern Arizona University and the University of Wisconsin-Madison, offer multiple intake options, while others, like Endicott College, have closed their application deadlines for 2025.

Below, you'll find a detailed list of popular universities for a Bachelor's in Finance, including their tuition, duration, and application deadlines.

Before applying to one of the top Bachelor's in Finance in the USA, you need to check the eligibility criteria.

Eligibility Requirements for Bachelor's in Finance in the USA

To apply for a Bachelor's degree in Finance in the USA, you must meet academic requirements. These include a GPA of 3.8 or higher. 

Additionally, standardized test scores, such as the SAT (1500+) and the ACT (34+), are also considered. You'll also need to demonstrate English proficiency with a TOEFL or an IELTS. 

Here are the eligibility criteria for Bachelors in Finance in the USA.

As you have explored the eligibility requirements, let's find out how to apply for a Bachelor's in Finance USA.

Application Process to Apply for Bachelors in Finance USA

The best universities and colleges in the USA, such as Harvard University and MIT, have competitive undergraduate acceptance rates, typically around 3-4% and 5%, respectively, making it crucial to present a strong application. Please note that application fees for these universities usually range from $75 to $100 (INR 6.5K-8.5K). 

Below is a detailed breakdown of the application process.

Step 1: Research & Choose Universities

Research universities offering the best finance programs and choose those that match your academic interests, budget, and geographical preferences. Use resources like QS Rankings or US News Reports to narrow down universities that are known for strong finance programs.

Step 2: Check University Requirements

Each university has its own set of admission criteria for international students. Make sure you meet the following:

• GPA: A minimum of 3.8 or higher (average requirement at top universities).
• Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT scores. Some universities might also require SAT Subject Tests in Mathematics.
• English Proficiency: TOEFL (score of 100+) or IELTS (7.0+).
• Supporting Documents: Letters of recommendation, personal statement, and application fee.

Tip: If your GPA is slightly lower, work on improving standardized test scores or highlighting extracurricular activities in your application.

Step 3: Prepare for Standardized Tests

Take the SAT or ACT and focus on preparing for the math and reading sections. Both tests are critical for admission.

Tip: Start preparing 6-9 months in advance. Focus on improving your math skills, as it's the key to a good score for finance programs.

Step 4: Get Your Documents Ready

Gather all the required documents for your application:

• Transcripts: Have your Class 12 marksheets, official academic transcripts, and a list of completed courses ready.
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Get 2-3 LORs from teachers or mentors who know you well and verify your academic abilities.
• Personal Statement/Essays: Write a personal statement explaining why you want to study finance and your future goals.
• Standardized Test Scores: Ensure that you send official scores from the SAT/ACT and TOEFL/IELTS.
• Pain Point: Writing an impactful personal statement and collecting strong LORs can be time-consuming.

Step 5: Fill Out the Application Form

Complete the online application form for each university you are interested in. This will include your details, academic background, test scores, and documents like LORs and personal statements.

Step 6: Pay Application Fees

Most U.S. universities charge an application fee. Fees range from $75 to $100 (INR 6.5K-8.5K) for each application.

Step 7: Wait for Admission Decisions

After submitting your applications, wait for the universities to review them and send out their decisions. The process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months.

Tip: Use this time to prepare for visa applications and consider backup options in case you are not admitted to your top-choice university.

Step 8: Receive Admission Offer and Decide

Once you receive the acceptance, review the offer carefully. You'll need to accept the offer and confirm your place at the university.

Tip: If you receive multiple offers from universities, consider factors such as overall cost, proximity to home, campus life, and long-term career prospects.

Step 9: Apply for Student Visa (F-1)

After accepting your admission offer, apply for an F-1 student visa. This requires:

• I-20 Form from the university.
• Visa interview at the U.S. Embassy in India.
• Visa application fee and SEVIS fee.

Step 10: Prepare for Travel and Arrival

Once your visa is approved, book your flight and begin preparing for your arrival in the U.S. You will also need to secure housing and establish necessities, such as health insurance, bank accounts, and mobile phone services.

Next, you’ll explore the course structure to understand the subjects and specializations available in the Bachelor's in Finance programs in the USA.

Bachelor's in Finance USA: Course Structure & Specialization

The Bachelor's in Finance USA offers a solid foundation in core subjects such as Financial Accounting, Investment Management, and Corporate Finance. You can specialize in areas such as Risk Management, Investment Banking, and Behavioral Finance. The program also provides practical exposure through internships and industry projects, enhancing leadership skills.

The table below outlines the course structure and available specializations.

Now, let's find out how much it costs to study for a Bachelor's in Finance in the USA.

Cost of Studying a Bachelor's in Finance USA

Tuition fees typically range from $25,000 to $50,000 (INR 21L - 43L) per year, with additional expenses for accommodation, food, and books. 

For example, the average annual cost of studying for a Bachelor's degree in Finance at the University of Colorado Boulder is approximately $70,060 (INR 60L). This includes tuition fees of $50,832 (INR 43.5L), along with additional expenses such as on-campus accommodation and meals, which cost around $18,504 (INR 16L) annually.

Below, you'll find a detailed breakdown of all the costs involved in your studies.

Note: The INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate. 

Undergraduate students can apply for internal and external scholarships to help manage their educational costs and living expenses in the U.S. Let's discuss this in more detail.

Scholarships & Financial Aids for Pursuing Bachelor's in Finance USA

Scholarships and financial aid can help reduce the cost of studying a Bachelor's in Finance in the USA. Internal scholarships, like the Regents' and Chancellor's Scholarship at UC Berkeley, offer full tuition, housing, and meal plans to outstanding international students.

On the other hand, external scholarships, such as the Cornell University Tata Scholarship, offer substantial financial support specifically to Indian students. 

Below is a breakdown of internal and external scholarships to study in the USA for Indian students.

Internal Scholarships

Many universities offer fully funded scholarships in the USA to international students studying for a Bachelor's degree in Finance. Some of the most popular internal scholarships are the Regents' and Chancellor's Scholarship at UC Berkeley and the Stamps Scholarship at the University of Michigan. 

Below, you'll find a detailed list of available scholarships, their eligibility criteria, and benefits.

Apart from these, Indian students can also apply for external scholarships offered by both the US and Indian governments, as well as several other organizations.

External Scholarships

External scholarships, such as the Cornell University Tata Scholarship and the Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships, provide significant financial support for Indian students. 

Additionally, the Fulbright scholarship and Mpower Financing Global Citizen Scholarships help cover expenses, ranging from tuition to living costs, for both graduate and undergraduate students.

Below, you'll find a detailed list of these scholarships, along with eligibility criteria and benefits.

Note: Eligibility criteria and benefits are subject to change. It's advisable to visit the respective scholarship websites for the most current information.

Done with the scholarship part, let's focus on what type of job opportunities you will get after studying for a Bachelor's in Finance in the USA.

Career Opportunities After Completing a Bachelor's in Finance USA

Upon completing a Bachelor's in Finance in the USA, you can find high-paying roles such as Credit Analyst, Private Equity Associate, and Finance Manager. 

Salaries for these positions typically range from $55,000 (INR 47L) to over $150,000 (INR 1.3Cr), depending on the job role and level of experience. Some of the top recruiters are JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Morgan Stanley.

The table below lists some of the top in-demand jobs in the USA. 

Source: Indeed, Glassdoor, & Payscale

Note: The INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate. 

Which companies will hire you after completing a bachelor's in Finance in the USA? Let's find out.

Top Recruiters Hiring Graduates with a Bachelor's in Finance USA 

Top recruiters like JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Morgan Stanley offer lucrative jobs in the USA for Indian freshers after completing a bachelor's in Finance. 

The top 3 roles are Investment Banking Analyst, Financial Analyst, and Risk Analyst. These companies offer competitive salaries ranging from $70,000 to $120,000 (INR 60L - 1Cr) annually, depending on the role and experience. Financial Analyst remains the most in-demand position.

Below, you'll find a list of the top recruiters and their corresponding salary ranges for the Financial Analyst role.

Source: Indeed, Glassdoor, & Payscale

Note: Salaries are approximate and can vary based on location, experience, and specific role within the company.

Enrolling in a Bachelor's in Finance in the USA requires careful planning and expert guidance. Let's understand how upGrad can assist your study abroad journey.

How Can upGrad Help You Study a Bachelor's in Finance in the USA?

Studying a Bachelor's in Finance USA offers numerous career opportunities, but the process can be complex. From selecting the right program to securing funding and managing the application process effectively.

upGrad simplifies this journey by providing expert guidance at every step. From helping you choose the top business schools in the USA and assisting with your application, to finding scholarships and offering career counseling, upGrad ensures you're well-prepared for your graduate journey.

Ready to enroll for a Bachelor's in Finance in the USA? Schedule a career counseling session with upGrad experts today, and let us help you achieve your dreams of studying abroad smoothly!