Masters in Electrical Engineering in USA: Top Universities, Fees, Requirements, Eligibility & Scholarships

For students aiming to excel in power systems, electronics, and renewable energy, a Masters in Electrical Engineering in USA or MS in Electrical Engineering in USA provides advanced technical training and research opportunities. Top universities include MIT, Stanford, University of California–Berkeley, and Georgia Tech. Tuition ranges from $50,000–$80,000 (₹42–68 lakh) per year, and students can study Electrical Engineering in USA with scholarships and research assistantships to gain practical experience.

Do You Know? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there are currently 287,800 electrical and electronics engineers employed in the U.S., with approximately 19,000 job openings by 2033.

Studying Masters in Electrical Engineering in the USA, where it is home to over 1.58 million international students, with nearly 27% hailing from India, showcases America’s enduring appeal for higher education seekers. Among these scholars, 79% pursue graduate courses, reflecting the premium placed on advanced study and specialized expertise.

For those considering a Master’s in Electrical Engineering, the U.S. offers unparalleled opportunities. The field is projected to grow by 13% in the coming years, with an average annual salary of $80,049 (INR 69L) for graduates. Moreover, over 40,000 job openings are anticipated, reflecting the high demand for skilled professionals.

This blog covers top universities in the US, fees, and career options to help you plan your masters study in the USA.

Masters in Electrical Engineering in the USA: Overview

A Master's in Electrical and Electronics Engineering in the USA typically takes 1 to 2 years, covering areas like circuit design, power systems, signal processing, and renewable energy. Graduates are prepared for roles such as electrical design engineer, systems engineer, and R&D specialist across various industries.

Before exploring the program details, let's take a brief overview of pursuing a Master's degree in Electrical Engineering in the USA.

Now, let’s discuss the benefits of pursuing a Masters in Electrical Engineering in the USA.

Why Pursue Masters in Electrical Engineering in the USA?

Master’s in Electrical Engineering abroad is a transformative choice for students seeking world-class education, career prospects, and access to cutting-edge research. Graduates can earn a median salary of $98,880 (INR 85.30L), with only $25,762 (INR 22.22L) in average debt, reflecting one of the best debt-to-income ratios among engineering disciplines. 

U.S. universities also provide unmatched opportunities for networking and industry partnerships, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for leadership roles in global tech sectors. 

Here are some compelling reasons for pursuing EE in the  USA.

• Exceptional Return on Investment: Electrical Engineering master’s degrees offer one of the best ROIs; graduates see a 20% salary boost and average salary of $98,880 (INR 85.30L), within 2 years of leaving school.
• Strong Job Market & Growth: The field expects 9% job growth (19,000 openings/year) through 2033, with top employers including Tesla, Intel, and GE, with 50,381 active jobs in electrical engineering.
• Cutting-Edge Research & Facilities: US universities invest millions in advanced labs and receive federal funding for semiconductor, quantum, and grid research, keeping students at the forefront of technology.
• Extensive Industry Networking: Top Universities in the US partner with Boeing, Honeywell, and more, hosting networking events and corporate talks that help students connect with top professionals and employers.
• Post-Study Work Opportunity: International students get up to 36 months of work authorization (OPT/STEM OPT) with high employment rates (over 90%) and clear pathways to PR.

After discussing the benefits of a master's in electrical engineering in the USA, let’s check out the top universities offering this program.

Top Universities for Masters in Electrical Engineering in USA

Selecting the right university plays a crucial role in shaping your learning experience, career opportunities, and exposure to research. As per the QS World University Rankings 2025, 20 U.S. universities are ranked among the global top 100, showcasing the country's high standards in the education system.

Refer to the table below for a quick comparison of tuition fees, programs, and duration at the top U.S. universities offering a Master's in Electrical Engineering.

In addition to these universities, there are other popular institutions offering a Masters in electrical engineering in the USA.

Popular Universities for Masters in Electrical Engineering in the USA

There are close to 6000 colleges & universities in the US. Knowing these alternatives expands your options and helps you select the best fit based on your personal preferences and goals. For example, universities like Yale University are well-known for their reputable Masters programs in Electrical Engineering. 

Below are some popular universities offering a Masters in Electrical Engineering in the USA.

After exploring the top universities offering a Masters in Electrical Engineering, let’s look at the eligibility criteria for applying.

Eligibility Criteria for Masters in Electrical Engineering in the USA

Eligibility criteria are essential for students to avoid delays by ensuring all requirements are fulfilled ahead of time. Typically, you will need a minimum GPA of 3, academic documents, and proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL).

Here are the key eligibility requirements for pursuing a Master's in Electrical Engineering in the USA.

Now that you’ve seen the admission requirements to study a Masters in Electrical Engineering in the US, let’s check out the application process.

Application Process for Masters in Electrical Engineering in the USA

Universities like Carnegie Mellon University have a highly competitive acceptance rate of around 19.1%. To increase your chances, it is essential to understand the requirements in advance.

The application process involves submitting your application through the university portal with documents like academic transcripts and English language proficiency level proof. If selected, apply for a US student visa with documents like your passport. 

Below are the steps to apply for a Master's in Electrical Engineering in the USA.

Step 1: Research and Choose the Right Program
Start by thoroughly researching universities that offer Master's programs in Electrical Engineering. Focus on institutions certified by SEVP and consider factors such as curriculum, faculty expertise, location, facilities, and tuition costs. 

Step 2: Review Admission Requirements
Most U.S. universities require the following for admission to Electrical Engineering Management Master’s programs:

• A bachelor’s degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (some programs may require higher GPAs).
• A Statement of Purpose that outlines your academic achievements, career objectives, and reasons for pursuing the degree.
• A resume/CV that includes your academic background, relevant projects, work experience, and technical skills.
• Letters of recommendation (typically 2-3) from professors or employers who can attest to your qualifications and abilities.
• Official transcripts from all previous educational institutions.

Step 3: Submit Your Application
Each university has its own application timeline, but Fall admissions typically require submission between December and February. For Spring admissions, deadlines are often set from September to October. Be mindful of each program's specific deadlines and ensure all required documents are submitted before the cutoff.

Step 4: Monitor Your Application Status
After submitting your application, monitor its status through the university’s online portal. Check for updates on any additional documentation requests and ensure timely submission of all required materials.

Step 5: Accept the Admission Offer
If accepted into a program, you will receive an official offer from the university. Review the terms of your offer, confirm your acceptance, and follow the necessary steps outlined by the university to secure your place in the program.

Step 6: Apply for a Student Visa
After receiving your acceptance letter, international students must apply for a U.S. student visa (F-1). The steps are as follows:

• Obtain Form I-20: The university will issue this form, which confirms your eligibility to study in the U.S.
• Review the I-20 form to ensure the information is accurate.
• Pay the SEVIS fee (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) and keep the receipt for your visa interview.
• Schedule a visa interview at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

Step 7: Prepare for Departure
Once your visa is approved, make your travel arrangements to the U.S., ensuring you arrive in time for your program's start date. Arrange for accommodation (on-campus or off-campus) and secure health insurance, which most universities require for international students.

By following these steps and carefully preparing your application documents, you can complete the process of applying for a Masters in Electrical Engineering in the US.

Let’s now take a closer look at the details of the program.

Masters in Electrical Engineering in the USA: Course Details

A Masters course will cover core subjects like Advanced Circuit design and Power Systems, and Masters in Renewable Energy, helping you gain practical skills in areas like circuit design and energy systems.

Apart from these, you can specialize in emerging fields like robotics, communications, and control systems. US universities also offer practical experience through capstone projects and internships, allowing you to collaborate with leading companies like Texas Instruments (TI), Tesla and Siemens.

Below are the course details of a Master's in Electrical Engineering in the USA.

Now that you’ve explored the courses and specializations, let’s discuss the costs involved in studying for a Masters in Electrical Engineering in the USA.

Cost of Studying Master’s in Electrical Engineering in the USA

Understanding the cost of studying in the USA is essential for better financial planning. Beyond tuition fees, you'll need to account for housing, meals, textbooks, and daily expenses. 

In larger cities like Boston, the cost of living in the USA can be higher, whereas in smaller cities like San Diego (home to the University of California, San Diego), you may spend between $1,186 and $2,326 per month (approximately INR 1.2L to INR 2L).

Below is a breakdown to help estimate your yearly expenses for a Master’s in Electrical Engineering in the USA.

Note: Currency conversions are approximate and reflect the current exchange rate. 

Studying in the USA can be financially challenging. However, you can apply for both internal and external scholarships to make your journey more affordable. Let’s explore the details.

Masters in Electrical Engineering in the USA: Scholarships for Students

Scholarships like the Fulbright Foreign Student Program offer graduate students, young professionals, and artists from around the world the opportunity to study and conduct research in the United States. 

Every year, Scholarships are given to students from more than 160 countries, with approximately 4,000 international students getting benefits annually. 

Below is a breakdown of internal and external scholarships available for students.

Internal Scholarships

Internal scholarships are funded through the university’s resources and endowments. For a Master's in Electrical Engineering, you can apply for scholarships like the MIT Presidential Scholarship, which covers full tuition fees (including health insurance), along with additional benefits.

Here are some scholarships for MIT USA, and other internal scholarships that are highly revered among international students. 

Now, let’s explore some external scholarship options for students pursuing a Master's in Electrical Engineering in the USA.

External Scholarships

In US universities, students can also apply for external scholarships funded by the government or foundations. You can apply for scholarships like the Fulbright Foreign Student Scholarship, which covers full tuition fees and provides placement services to candidates. 

Below are some top scholarships in the USA for Indian students.

After a detailed look at scholarships, let’s explore the job opportunities available for graduates with a Masters in Electrical Engineering in the USA.

Job Opportunities After Masters in Electrical Engineering in the USA

The United States remains a top destination for aspiring electrical engineers. As reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there are currently 287,800 electrical and electronics engineers working in the U.S. California leads the nation in the number of electronics engineers, followed by Texas, Colorado, and Florida. 

The BLS anticipates a 9% growth in employment for these positions by 2033, significantly higher than the average 4% growth rate for all occupations.

Explore the jobs in the USA for fresher graduates below, along with their average annual earnings, to guide your next move.

Source: Indeed

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

Now, let’s take a look at the top recruiters hiring graduates with a Masters in Electrical Engineering.

Top Recruiters Hiring Masters in Electrical Engineering in USA for Graduates

The USA is well-known for its strong industries in aerospace and renewable energy. It is home to top companies like, Tesla, Siemens and Lockheed Martin. After completing your Masters in Electrical Engineering, you can join leading companies like Siemens for roles such as Senior Application Specialist or Senior Electrical Engineer. 

Here are the top recruiters hiring graduates after a Masters in Electrical Engineering in the US.

Source: Indeed

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

After exploring potential job roles, let’s see how upGrad can assist you in pursuing a Masters in Electrical Engineering in the USA.

How Can upGrad Help You Study Masters in Electrical Engineering in the USA?

Pursuing a Master's in Electrical Engineering in the USA can be challenging due to the detailed application processes, visa requirements, and financial planning. upGrad simplifies the entire process by providing expert guidance, making your journey smoother and more manageable.

upGrad offers personalized mentorship, visa and scholarship assistance, English test preparation, and career counseling. With upGrad’s support, you can confidently embark on your study abroad journey and build a successful future in electrical engineering.