Bachelors in Business USA: Must-Know Facts Before You Apply

A Bachelors in Business USA offers a solid academic foundation in core areas like finance, marketing, accounting, and management, blending theoretical knowledge with practical training, case studies, and internships. These programs often include concentrations such as international business, entrepreneurship, and supply chain management.  

According to NCES data, U.S. colleges awarded 375,400 bachelor’s degrees in business, representing about 19% of all bachelor’s degrees.

This blog offers a detailed overview of the course structure, top universities in the USA, eligibility criteria, tuition costs, and career paths for those planning to study in the USA.

Bachelors in Business USA: Overview

A Bachelor’s in Business in the USA is a four-year undergraduate degree blending concepts in management, finance, marketing, accounting, and entrepreneurship. Programs admit students based on academic performance, English proficiency, and sometimes SAT/ACT scores. 

Graduates secure entry-level roles in finance, marketing, consulting, and operations, with strong salary potential. Average starting pay is around $65,000 (INR 54 L), rising to $80,920 (INR 69 L) for experienced business and financial roles.

Here's a quick overview of the key details you need to know about pursuing a bachelor's in business in the USA:

Now that you know what the program covers, let's look at why so many students choose to study this degree in the USA.

Why Study a Bachelors in Business USA?

The U.S. remains the top destination for students pursuing a bachelor's in business, especially those eyeing careers in high-demand sectors like banking, consulting, finance, and technology. American business schools are known for their strong industry ties, experiential learning models, and access to global internship opportunities. 

Here's why studying abroad in the USA is a smart move for your education and career:

• High Salary Potential:
  The median annual wage for business and financial occupations was $80,920 (INR 64 L), notably above the U.S. median of $49,500 (INR 41.1 lakhs).
• Stable Job Outlook:
  BLS projects about 963,500 openings per year in business and finance roles from 2023–2033
• Wide Career Paths:
  Graduates pursue roles such as financial analyst, management consultant, accountant, marketing manager, and operations manager, with median salaries ranging from $67,650 to $156,100 (INR 56.1 lakhs to INR 1.3 crore)
• Broad Applicability:
  With 13.5 million business degree holders in the U.S., 54% hold roles needing at least a bachelor's; the degree also supports careers beyond traditional business, like education and tech.
• Income Difference With High School Graduates:

According to BLS, bachelor's degree holders, including business majors, earn a median $92,260 (INR 76.6 lakhs), compared to $46,610 (INR 38.7 lakhs) for high school graduates.

Now that you know the benefits of studying in the U.S., it's time to explore the top universities for business.

Top Universities for Bachelors in Business in the USA

The United States is home to some of the world's most respected undergraduate business programs. Institutions like Wharton, Ross, Stern, and Haas offer globally recognized BBA degrees, hands-on internships, strong alumni networks, and access to Fortune 500 recruiters. 

These programs are known for flexibility in electives and career-focused learning, making them ideal for students planning to build a global business career.

Here are some of the best universities offering a Bachelor's in Business in the USA, along with tuition fees and application deadlines:

Some universities may not top the rankings, but are still great choices thanks to their strong programs and industry-ready curriculum. Here are a few you should consider.

Popular Universities for Bachelors in Business in the USA

Universities like Brigham Young University, Baruch College, and the University of South Florida are gaining steady traction among students for their practical approach to business education, smaller class sizes, and affordability. 

Tuition for these programs typically ranges from $15,000 to $42,000 (INR 12.5L to INR 34.8L) per year, with several colleges offering rolling admissions and generous financial aid options.-

Here's a curated list with program details, tuition costs, and deadlines:

After shortlisting your universities, it's important to know the eligibility criteria you'll need to meet.

Eligibility Criteria for Bachelors in Business in the USA

To pursue a Bachelor's in Business in the USA, most universities expect you to have a strong academic background and proficiency in English. 

While some institutions have gone test-optional, around 55% of students at business-focused schools still submit SAT or ACT scores, with an average SAT range of 1200–1400.

In addition, international students must provide proof of English language proficiency through tests like the TOEFL (minimum 80), IELTS (6.5), or Duolingo (115), depending on the university. 

Here's the full list of eligibility criteria:

Once you meet the basic requirements, the next step is to focus on building a strong application.

Application Process for Bachelors in Business USA

Over 159,810 international students were enrolled in Business and Management programs across U.S. universities, making it the second most popular field of study among international students after STEM-related disciplines.

The application process typically starts 10–12 months before enrollment and includes several mandatory steps. Average application fees range from $75 (INR 6,225) to $90 (INR 7.4K), and most deadlines fall between November and January for Fall intakes.

Here's a  step-by-step application process

• Step 1: Research & Shortlist Programs
  Identify target programs (e.g., BBA, BSBA) at universities that align with your goals, review deadlines, and application formats like Common App, Coalition, or school-specific portals.
• Step 2: Document Preparation
  Gather transcripts (unofficial for initial review, official sealed after acceptance), test scores (if applicable), 2–3 letters of recommendation, resume, and your Statement of Purpose (1–2 pages detailing academic and career intentions.
• Step 3: Academic & Language Tests
  Submit SAT/ACT scores if required (typically SAT 1200–1400 or ACT 25–30). Submit English proficiency tests: TOEFL 80+, IELTS 6.5+, or Duolingo 100+, depending on the university.
• Step 4: Application Submission
  Complete the Common App or university portal, pay fees ($75–85 or ~INR6.2–7.0K), upload documents, and submit supplementary essays if required.
• Step 5: Interviews & Additional Review
  Some universities may require interviews (especially for selective programs) or portfolio submissions; a small percentage conduct alumni/student interviews.
• Step 6: Offer of Admission & Visa Prep
  After receiving an acceptance letter, submit official transcripts, arrange for Form I-20, complete DS‑160, pay the SEVIS fee (~ US$350 / INR 29K), and book the F‑1 visa interview.

This step-by-step guide helps you meet all the application requirements and stand out to top computer engineering programs.

Bachelor’s in Business in the USA: Course Details

A typical BBA or BSBA program in the U.S. spans four years and totals around 120 credit hours, covering foundational coursework, electives, and hands-on business experience. Students can choose from a variety of concentrations depending on the university's offerings and industry focus.

Here's a detailed breakdown of the course structure:

Planning your studies gets easier when you know the curriculum, but don't forget to consider the financial side of things.

Cost of Studying a Bachelor’s in Business USA

The total cost of earning a bachelor's in business in the U.S. typically ranges from $40,000 to $85,000 (INR 33L to INR 70L) per year, depending on the university type (public or private), location, and available financial aid. 

Beyond tuition, international students must also account for monthly living expenses; housing, food, transport, insurance, and other personal costs, especially in metro areas like New York, Boston, or San Francisco, where these expenses are significantly higher. 

Here's a breakdown to help you plan more accurately. 

Note: INR conversions are based on the current exchange rate.

You can apply for various scholarships and funding options to help pay for your education.

Scholarships for Bachelors in Business USA

Bachelor's in Business in the USA can cost between $30,000–$85,000 (INR 25L–INR 71L) per year, including tuition, housing, and living expenses. 

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, over 85% of first-time undergraduate students at 4-year institutions received some form of financial aid, including scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities.

Here is a selection of both internal and external scholarships designed to provide financial assistance.

Internal Scholarships

Internal scholarships are funded and awarded by universities, often as part of their admission process. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition fees, with awards ranging from $5,000 (INR 4.2L) per year to full-tuition coverage.

Here's a look at institution-specific scholarships to study in the USA that can directly lower your tuition costs:

Students may also explore financial assistance through government-funded and private external scholarships. Here’s an overview of the available options.

External Scholarships

External scholarships are provided by independent organizations, foundations, and government bodies, offering broader access to financial support beyond a specific institution. 

A report states that over 1.7 million private scholarships and fellowships are awarded annually in the U.S., distributing more than $7.4 billion (INR 6,20,000 Cr) to students.

These scholarships often focus on academic merit, leadership, financial need, or background (e.g., nationality, ethnicity, first-generation status). 

Here's a list of external scholarships:

Now that you've arranged your funding, it's time to explore the career opportunities after your bachelor's degree.

Career Options after a Bachelors in Business USA

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, business and financial occupations recorded over 10 million jobs in 2023, with a median annual wage of $80,920 (INR 67.1 L) and projected 963,500 job openings per year through 2033. 

Graduates now enter roles spanning finance, analysis, HR, IT, and project management, each offering competitive salaries and varied career trajectories.

Here are some of the most common career paths after earning a bachelor's in business:

Source- U.S. Bureau of Labor

These jobs are in high demand across industries. Let's see which top companies are hiring computer engineering graduates.

Top Recruiters for Business Professionals in the USA

Graduates with a bachelor's degree in business are in high demand across the U.S., with employers spanning sectors like consulting, finance, banking, and tech. 

Entry-level salaries typically range from $70,000 to $110,000 (INR 58.1 lakhs to INR 91.3 lakhs) per year, depending on the role and employer.

Here's a list of the top recruiters and their compensation for key positions:

Source- Indeed

If you’re aiming to work with top companies like these, upGrad can help you get started with the right support.

How Can upGrad Help You Study Bachelors in Business in USA?

Studying for a bachelor’s in business in the USA is a major decision, and upGrad simplifies the journey with expert, personalized support. 

From shortlisting top universities like Michigan Ross to guiding you through SOPs, resumes, and application packages, upGrad ensures you're well-prepared. You'll also get help with test prep for exams like the SAT and IELTS, scholarship applications, and visa procedures.

Schedule a 1:1 session with upGrad experts and build a clear, personalised roadmap to your dream business school in the USA.