MBA in Finance in USA: Top Universities & Fees

An MBA in Finance in US is a globally recognized credential for leadership in banking, finance, and consulting. Harvard experienced a 20.9% increase in MBA applications for the last academic year. Graduates from top B-schools earn median salaries exceeding USD 200,000 (INR 1.66 Cr).

Demand for finance MBAs is rising globally, with U.S. MBA applications up 13.2% in the last year. Top schools, such as Booth and other M7 schools, report growing global interest. This surge reflects the increasing complexity of international financial markets.

More than 1.1 million international students choose to study in the USA each year. Notably, 331,602 students from India enrolled, marking a 23-35% increase in the best universities in the USA for MBA, such as the University of Pennsylvania, with students from over 60 countries exemplifying this diversity.

MBA in Finance in USA: Overview

An MBA in Finance in the United States typically lasts 1.5 - 2 years and combines advanced finance training with leadership development. The MBA at the University of Chicago offers fully STEM-certified courses in the USA, enabling international graduates to extend their OPT by an additional 24 months. 

Below is a table summarizing key aspects of the MBA in Finance in the USA:

Before exploring universities, costs, or job prospects, it’s essential to understand why pursuing an MBA in Finance in the USA stands out globally for career growth, innovation, and long-term return on investment.

Why Pursue an MBA in Finance in USA?

Pursuing an MBA in Finance in the USA offers global prestige, strong return on investment (ROI), and positive exposure. Over 1.05 million international students chose the U.S. for higher education, citing top-ranked faculty, career outcomes, and a unique Education system in the USA. 

Graduates from U.S. B-schools report median salaries exceeding USD 200,000 (INR 1.66 Cr), with access to world-class alumni networks and international employers.

Here are the key reasons why international students prefer the Top university for an MBA in Finance in USA:

• Global Recognition and Prestige: U.S. MBAs are highly valued worldwide, particularly from Ivy League and M7 schools, offering unmatched career mobility.
• High Earning Potential: Top finance MBA grads earn USD 150K - USD  200K (INR 1.24 Cr - INR 1.66 Cr) in median salaries post-MBA, with significant signing bonuses.
• Access to Top Recruiters: Firms like McKinsey, Goldman Sachs, and Amazon actively recruit on U.S. campuses through structured pipelines.
• STEM-Designated Programs: Many finance MBA programs now hold STEM status, allowing international students to pursue up to 3 years of OPT.
• Hands-On Learning Environment: The curriculum blends theory and practice through case studies, simulations, international internships, and capstone projects.
• Networking & Alumni Advantage: Top schools offer global alumni networks, opening doors to opportunities in finance, consulting, and entrepreneurship.
• Strong Student Life & Resources: Clubs, case competitions, speaker events, and access to career coaches support holistic development.
• Location & Industry Exposure: Being near Wall Street, Silicon Valley, or Chicago provides students with real-time market insights and access to job opportunities.
• Availability of Scholarships: Top schools offer generous aid, fellowships, and assistantships for qualified international students.
• Career Services Support: Dedicated career centers provide resume help, interview prep, and direct connections to employers.

Now that you have an overview of what a Top university for an MBA in Finance in USA entails, let’s explore the Top university for an MBA in Finance in USA  that offers this prestigious program.

Top Universities Offering MBA in Finance in USA

An MBA in Finance from top U.S. universities delivers exceptional returns: Wharton and HBS rank #2 and #3 in the QS Global MBA Rankings 2025, reflecting their global prestige. The top Business courses in US offer a strong return on investment (ROI) through elite finance education and exceptional career outcomes.

Below is a helpful comparison of leading MBA-in-Finance programs and their key metrics:

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

The United States is home to several globally ranked Business Schools offering MBA programs with finance specializations. Below are some of the most popular universities that consistently attract international finance aspirants.

Popular Universities to Study MBA in Finance in USA

An MBA in Finance in the USA is a strategic investment in your future; top schools attract international candidates. For example, universities such as the University of Pennsylvania, Chicago Booth, Columbia, and MIT Sloan consistently report high returns on investment (ROI) and global placement.

Below is a snapshot of leading universities offering an MBA in Finance, detailing program structure, semester fees, and key timelines:

Now that you know where to apply, it’s essential to understand the eligibility criteria for pursuing an MBA in Finance in the USA, so you can prepare a competitive application that meets top universities’ standards.

Eligibility Criteria for MBA in Finance in USA

Admission to an MBA in Finance in the USA is competitive, with top schools like Booth reporting an average GMAT of 729 and Harvard’s mid-80% range at 540-790. TOEFL 109+ or IELTS 7.5+ is recommended for non-native speakers. Most programs also require 2-3 years of work experience and strong academic records.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the key eligibility categories:

Note: Specific programs or universities may have additional or slightly different requirements. 

Once you meet the eligibility criteria, the next step is to guide the application process for a Top university's MBA in Finance program in the USA, which involves several key stages, from test scores to interviews.

Application Process for MBA in Finance in USA

MBA applications in finance follow a structured, multi-stage process. For example, Harvard requires a written admission essay, interview, and final reflection, while Booth provides admissions decisions 4-6 weeks after a complete submission. Fees vary but are typically between USD 200 and USD 275 (INR 16.6K and INR 22.8K), with waivers often available. 

Here is a step-by-step process:

1. Submit University Admission Application
   • Create an account and complete the online form with your personal, academic, and professional details.
2. Upload Financial Documents
   • Provide income proof, tax returns, or sponsor letters (for need-based fee waivers or visa requirements)
3. Submit Additional Documents (Transcripts, Test Scores, Essays, LORs)
   • Submit unofficial transcripts early; official sealed ones are required if admitted.
   • Include GMAT/GRE scores, essays, resume, and 2-3 recommendation letters.
4. Attend Interview
   • Interviews are conducted by invitation only (via Zoom or on campus), lasting 30 minutes.
5. Check Application Status
   • Booth typically provides decisions within 4-6 weeks of a complete application, while Harvard notifies by set round dates.
6. Apply for a Student Visa for USA
   • Upon admission, use your I‑20 to begin the F‑1 visa process; note that STEM-designated programs like Booth allow 36 months of OPT.

After understanding the application process, it's essential to explore what the program entails. Let’s examine the MBA in Finance course structure, core subjects, and available specializations offered by top U.S. universities.

MBA in Finance in USA: Course Details & Specialization

An MBA in Finance blends foundational management courses with specialized financial training. Wharton offers over 200 electives, including advanced finance courses such as Master's in Financial Engineering and Portfolio Management. Columbia’s core and finance-specific classes, like Foundations of Valuation and Corporate Finance, equip students with essential valuation and analytics skills.

Below is a comparison of finance MBA course structures, specializations, and experiential offerings at top U.S. universities:

Now that you have explored the curriculum and specializations, let’s break down the cost of pursuing an MBA in Finance in the USA, including tuition, living expenses, and other key financial considerations.

Cost of Pursuing an MBA in Finance in USA

An MBA in Finance is a significant investment, especially when considering the cost of living in the USA, which can substantially impact overall expenses. For instance, Harvard estimates a total cost of attendance for a single student at USD 118,854 (INR 98.65L) per year (including housing, food, transportation, and fees).

To help you plan financially, here’s a breakdown of the typical monthly cost for studying in the USA for Indian students:

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

Financing an MBA can be challenging, but numerous scholarships are available to ease the financial burden. Let’s explore the top scholarships offered for pursuing an MBA in Finance in the USA.

Scholarships for pursuing an MBA in Finance in USA

Pursuing an MBA in Finance in the United States is a significant financial decision, but scholarships can substantially reduce the cost. Top business schools, such as Harvard, Booth, and Wharton, offer both need-based and merit-based awards, including fully funded scholarships. 

At Harvard, 50% of MBA students receive aid, with some receiving full tuition support. Booth and Wharton also award top-performing candidates up to USD 150,000 (INR 1.24 Cr).

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

Internal Scholarships

Pursuing an MBA in Finance in the USA is a significant investment, but internal scholarships offered by top MBA programs can meaningfully reduce costs. 

For instance, the University of Chicago Booth offers merit-based scholarships. Awards include Distinguished Fellows (full), Harper (USD 25K \  INR 20.75L), and Carlton (USD 15K \ INR 12.45L).

Here’s a comparison of top internal  scholarships to study at USA universities for an MBA in Finance:

Now, let’s explore some external scholarship options for students pursuing an MBA in Finance in the USA.

External Scholarships

Financing an MBA in Finance in the USA can be substantially eased with external scholarships, many of which provide full tuition and living stipends. The Fulbright Scholarship supports around 4,000 international graduate students annually, covering tuition, living, travel, and insurance.

Below is a table summarizing notable external scholarships available for MBA candidates in the U.S.:

After getting a scholarship to study abroad in top universities, let’s explore the most in-demand job roles and top recruiters hiring MBA finance graduates in the USA.

Job Opportunities After an MBA in Finance in USA

An MBA in Finance gives access to some of the most in-demand jobs in the USA, featuring prestigious roles. The average total compensation for MBA finance professionals is USD 232,706 (INR 1.93 Cr) per year (approximately INR 1.93 Cr). 

Demand for the roles continues to grow as companies increasingly rely on financial strategy to gain a competitive advantage.

Here are the top career options in MBA Finance in the USA, complete with salary insights:

Source: Glassdoor

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

With these roles offering competitive salaries, it's also essential to know which companies are hiring MBA talent like managers, marketing specialists in the USA.

Top Recruiters

An MBA in Finance opens doors at top recruiters that offer some of the highest-paying jobs in the USA. McKinsey, Bain, BCG, Goldman Sachs, and JP Morgan routinely top the list of recruiters from MBA programs, with average total compensation ranging from USD 2.5 L to USD 3 L (INR 2.07Cr - INR 2.49Cr). 

Many of these firms also offer internships and part-time jobs in the USA that are ideal for MBA students.

Here’s a snapshot of top recruiters and roles for MBA Finance graduates, complete with salary insights:

Source: Glassdoor

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

Pursuing an MBA in Finance in the United States can be complex, from shortlisting universities to guidance for visa processes. Here’s how upGrad’s expert-driven services simplify every step of your global MBA journey.

How upGrad Can Help You Study an MBA in Finance in USA?

upGrad offers end-to-end guidance, from shortlisting top universities to visa application support. The expert counselors help align programs with your goals and background. Personalized mentorship ensures the development of strong SOPs, letters of recommendation (LORs), and timely applications.

upGrad also provides tailored GMAT and IELTS/TOEFL prep support and assists with scholarship applications. Post-admit services include education loan assistance, student visa preparation, and relocation guidance.

Exploring an MBA in Finance in the USA? Schedule a free 1:1 counseling session with upGrad experts to discover the best-fit universities, application strategy, scholarship opportunities, and high-growth career paths, tailored specifically to your goals.