Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering in USA: Top Universities & Programs

A bachelor in mechanical engineering in USA opens doors to a field with strong demand and long-term stability. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, around 19,800 job openings for mechanical engineers are projected every year through 2033. The degree equips you with the skills to design, analyze, and manufacture mechanical systems that power everything from transportation to robotics.

If you plan to study in the USA, you’ll find some of the best universities and colleges in the USA offering cutting-edge programs in mechanical engineering. These institutions combine theory with hands-on experience, preparing you for global careers aCross industries.

Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering in USA: Overview

A bachelor in mechanical engineering in USA takes 4 years to complete, with multiple intakes aCross Fall, Spring, and Winter. The curriculum builds your foundation in both theory and application, spanning topics like mechanics, thermodynamics, and design.

Here's an overview of bachelor's in mechanical engineering in USA

Now that you have an overview of bachelor in mechanical engineering in USA, let’s understand the specific reasons students choose this program in the USA.

Why Pursue Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering in USA?

A bachelor in mechanical engineering in USA prepares you for a field growing faster than the national average, with an 11% job growth rate projected between 2023 and 2033. You also gain access to internships and industry-specific training, helping you enter the job market faster.

Here are the key reasons students choose this degree in the USA

• Strong job growth: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an 11% inCrease in mechanical engineering employment from 2023 to 2033, which is well above the 4% growth average aCross all occupations.
• Significant job demand: Approximately 19,800 openings for mechanical engineers are expected annually over the next decade.
• High median salary: The median annual wage for mechanical engineers was $105,220 (INR 90.17L). The 90th percentile earned $157,470 (INR 1.35Cr).
• Engineering outpaces other fields: Median wage for all engineers is $91,420 (INR 78.31L), nearly double the national median of $48,060 (INR 41.22L) for all jobs.
• Versatile industry presence: Mechanical engineers work in manufacturing, R&D, aerospace, energy, and automation, with industry-specific median wages such as $93,900 (INR 80.41L) in machinery manufacturing and $126,220 (INR 1.08Cr) in R&D services.
• Accelerated entry into workforce: Nearly 60% of graduates secure full-time mechanical engineering roles within months of graduation, based on early-career job placement rates.

Now that you understand why this degree is in demand, explore the top universities offering a bachelor in mechanical engineering in USA.

Top Universities For Studying Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering in USA

A bachelor in mechanical engineering in USA typically costs between $28,794 (INR 24.67L) and $65,000 (INR 55.71L) per year, depending on the university. All top programs run for 4 years, with application deadlines ranging from October to February. These schools offer cutting-edge labs, industry ties, and internship support.

Here’s a curated list of top universities for pursuing bachelor in mechanical engineering in USA.

Now that you’ve seen the top-ranked universities, look at other popular universities that also offer strong bachelor in mechanical engineering programs in USA.

Popular Universities Offering Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering in USA

Many reputed institutions offer quality programs with strong industry connections and lower competition than Ivy League schools. Tuition fees at these universities range from $21,250 (INR 18.20L) to $72,270 (INR 61.94L) per year, and all programs follow a 4-year duration. Most deadlines fall between November and January, with a few extending to April.

Here’s a list of popular universities offering bachelor in mechanical engineering in USA.

Now that you’ve explored popular options, take a closer look at the eligibility Criteria for bachelor in mechanical engineering in USA.

Eligibility Criteria for Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering in USA

To get into a bachelor in mechanical engineering in USA, you need strong academic performance, English proficiency, and the right set of documents. 

Top universities often look for a GPA of 3.7 or above, along with good scores in math and science. English test scores and financial documentation are also essential for international applicants.

Here’s what most universities require for admission to bachelor in mechanical engineering in USA.

Once you know the eligibility Criteria, the next step is understanding how to apply for a bachelor in mechanical engineering in USA.

Application Process for Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering in USA

Applying for a bachelor in mechanical engineering in USA involves multiple steps, from shortlisting universities to submitting your final documents. Most universities accept applications through platforms like Common App or their own portals. You'll also need to track deadlines, test policies, and visa timelines carefully.

Follow the steps below to complete your application correctly and on time.

• Step 1: Research and shortlist universities
  • Use official university websites to check program offerings, rankings, ABET acCreditation
  • Confirm availability of desired engineering majors (e.g., Mechanical, Electrical, Civil)
  • Note application deadlines, test policies, and international student requirements
• Step 2: Prepare academic and exam documents
  • Official high school transCripts with certified English translations (if needed)
  • Standardized tests: SAT/ACT (if required)
  • English proficiency levels
• Step 3: Complete the application form
  • Apply through the Common App, Coalition App, or university portal
  • Select the intended engineering major (some schools may ask for a second-choice major)
• Step 4: Upload supporting documents
  • Letters of Recommendation (usually 1–2 from math/science and one counselor)
  • Personal Essay or Statement of Purpose (based on prompts)
  • Resume or Activity List (optional but recommended at top schools)
• Step 5: Pay the application fee or request a waiver
  • Application fees typically range from $65 (INR 5.57K) to $90 (INR 7.71K).
  • Fee waivers available for eligible students through official request processes
• Step 6: Track application and respond to additional requests
  • Use applicant portal to confirm document receipt and interview invitations (if applicable)
  • Submit financial aid forms like the CSS Profile if applying for aid
• Step 7: Await decision and prepare for enrollment
  • Admission results typically released between March and April
  • Confirm acceptance, pay deposit, and start student visa application (I-20 issuance begins post-confirmation)

Now that you know how to apply, it's time to understand the curriculum structure for a bachelor in mechanical engineering in USA.

Curriculum Details for Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering in USA

The curriculum for a bachelor in mechanical engineering in USA combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience. You begin with math and science fundamentals, move into core mechanical engineering subjects, and then specialize through electives and design projects. 

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll study during the course of the program. 

Now that you know what the curriculum includes, it's important to evaluate how much it costs to study bachelor in mechanical engineering in USA.

Cost of Pursuing Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering in USA

The total cost of studying in the USA for a bachelor in mechanical engineering typically ranges from $10,000 to $40,000 (INR 8.5L to 34.2L) per year in tuition alone. Add to this the cost of living in the USA, which includes housing, food, insurance, and personal expenses averaging around $37,500 (INR 32L) annually.

Here’s a detailed estimate of the cost of pursuing bachelor in mechanical engineering in USA.

Note: INR Conversions are approximate and are subject to change. 

With the cost structure clear, now see how scholarships can reduce your financial burden while studying bachelor in mechanical engineering in USA.

Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering in USA: Scholarships for Students

Top institutions and private organizations, like MIT, offer study-abroad scholarships to help reduce the high cost of mechanical engineering programs. Awards like the Georgia Tech Promise cover full tuition and mandatory fees, while others, like the Stamps Scholars Program, also support research and study abroad.

Here are the types of scholarships you can apply for as an international student pursuing a bachelor in mechanical engineering in the USA

Internal Scholarships

U.S. universities offer fully-funded scholarships that cover tuition, fees, and living expenses for international students pursuing a bachelor in mechanical engineering in USA. For instance, MIT’s median award reaches $66,663, and Cornell meets 100% of demonstrated financial need through grants and merit aid.

Below are examples of internal scholarships you can apply for while studying bachelor in mechanical engineering in USA.

Now that you’ve seen internal funding options, explore external fully-funded scholarships available for international students in mechanical engineering.

External Scholarships

If you're looking for fully-funded scholarships in USA from outside the university, several government and private sources offer extensive support. For example, the Fulbright Foreign Student Program covers full tuition, airfare, and a living stipend, while the Stamps Scholars Program includes enrichment funds for study abroad or research.

Here are some external scholarships available for students pursuing a bachelor in mechanical engineering in USA.

With scholarship options explored, it's time to understand the job market you’ll enter after completing a bachelor in mechanical engineering in USA.

Job Opportunities After Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering in USA

Mechanical engineering offers access to some of the highest-paying jobs in the world. In the USA, salaries range from $95,000 (INR 81.42L) to $127,000 (INR 1.09Cr) per year, depending on the role and industry. Specializations like manufacturing and automotive engineering provide top-tier pay along with long-term career potential.

Here’s what you can expect to earn after completing a bachelor in mechanical engineering in USA.

Source: Glassdoor

Note: INR Conversions are approximate and are subject to change. 

Now that you know the salary range, explore the top companies hiring graduates with a bachelor in mechanical engineering in USA.

Top Recruiters for Mechanical Engineering Graduates in USA

Top companies in the U.S. hire mechanical engineering graduates for specialized roles with high earning potential. Firms like Tesla and General Motors offer annual salaries above $125,000 (INR 1.09Cr). Many of these employers also support international internships during your studies, giving you early exposure to industry-grade projects.

Below are some of the top reCruiters for graduates with a bachelor in mechanical engineering in USA.

Source: Glassdoor

Note: INR Conversions are approximate and are subject to change. 

Now that you’ve seen the job market and reCruiters, here’s how upGrad can support your study journey in the USA.

How upGrad Can Help You Study Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering in USA?

Getting into a bachelor in mechanical engineering in USA takes more than just good grades. You need to prepare for competitive exams, compare universities, write strong SOPs, and complete visa paperwork accurately. Without proper guidance, these steps can lead to costly mistakes or missed deadlines.

upGrad simplifies the process with end-to-end support for university selection, document preparation, visa filing, and scholarship applications. You also receive career counseling, entrance test prep, and help with international internships that improve job outcomes after graduation.

Want to study mechanical engineering in the USA without delays or confusion? Book a 1:1 session with upGrad experts and apply confidently to top universities today.