Masters in Statistics in the USA: Top Universities & Programs

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According to Lehigh University's Department of Mathematics, there are more than 130 universities in the U.S. offering graduate programs in the statistical sciences. The field of statistics has maintained steady interest over the past 15 years.

A Master's in Statistics in the USA gives Indian students access to world-class education and strong career prospects. For instance, Stanford University’s Statistics program ranks #1 in US News World Report, leading to students finding jobs in sectors such as government, academia, public health, technology, and other science fields.

Tuition fees range from $40,000 (INR 34.57L) to $71,000 (INR 61.37L) per year. Despite the investment, graduates in the U.S. enjoy high employability. As of May 2024, the median annual wage for statisticians was $103,300 (INR 89.30L), with job growth projected at 11% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.

This blog covers top universities in the US, fees, and career options to help you plan your master's degree in the USA.

Masters in Statistics in the USA: Overview

A Master’s in Statistics course in the USA takes 1 to 2 years, covering areas like probability theory, statistical inference, data analysis, and statistical computing. Graduates are prepared for roles such as data scientist, biostatistician, and quantitative analyst across various industries.

This growth, coupled with competitive salaries and diverse career opportunities, makes studying in the USA a compelling choice for Indian students.

Here's a quick overview of key details about Statistics courses in the USA:

Parameter	Details
Duration	1 - 2 years
Intakes	Fall Intake: August/September (Primary intake) Spring Intakes: January (Secondary intake) Summer (May/June)
Course Level	MS in Applied Statistics MSc in Applied Mathematics & Statistics MS in Pharmaceutical Statistics
Top Universities	Stanford University Carnegie Mellon University University of California, Berkeley Harvard University University of Chicago
Average Annual Tuition Fee	$40,000 to $71,000 per year) (INR 34.57L - INR 61.37L)
Entrance Exams Required	TOEFL: 100 IELTS: 7.0 on a 9-point scale GRE: 330 or higher
Eligibility Criteria	GPA: 3.0 on a 4.0 scale Bachelor's degree with a strong foundation in mathematics.
Career Opportunities	Senior Data Analyst Statistician Pharmaceutical Statistician Biostatistician
Popular Specializations	Biostatistics Data Science Financial Statistics Survey Methodology

If you’re considering a career as a data scientist or a statistician, the United States stands out as a leading destination for this education. Here's why:

https://grad.berkeley.edu/admissions/steps-to-apply/requirements/#panel-roficiency1-3

https://joinhandshake.com/blog/students/data-analyst-salary/

https://statistics.berkeley.edu/academics/masters/applying

https://money.usnews.com/careers/best-jobs/statistician/salary

Why Pursue Masters in Statistics in the USA?

The USA has some of the world's best institutions, like Stanford University, Columbia University, among others, for studying Master’s in Statistics programs. These institutions are well-known for their strong, research-driven programs. Graduates who pass out from these top universities can easily earn a median salary of $78140 (INR 85.30L) to $104,110 (INR 22.22L), with the best states for higher salaries being Washington and California.

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

Top-tier Education and University Rankings: The U.S. boasts prestigious institutions like Stanford (#2 in the U.S.), MIT (#1 in QS Rankings), and Harvard University (#1 & #3 in U.S. News), offering top-notch education in the field of statistics.
Diverse Master’s Programs: The USA offers a wide range of MS programs across disciplines such as computer science, engineering, and finance. This allows students to combine fields and gain a competitive edge in the job market.
Professional Networking: U.S. universities have strong ties with industries, like Google and Meta, offering opportunities for internships and networking, helping students secure employment post-graduation.
Global Exposure and Cultural Diversity: The multicultural environment in the U.S. provides students with a broader perspective, preparing them for international careers through student visa programs that support educational growth.
Lucrative Career Prospects: Graduates of U.S. institutions are well-positioned in the job market, earning an average of $94,000 (INR 81.44 L) annually, particularly in fields like data analysis and technology.
Post-Study Work Opportunities: International students enjoy up to 36 months of work authorization (OPT/STEM OPT) with high employment rates (over 90%) and clear pathways to permanent residency.

After discussing the benefits of a masters in statistics in the USA, let’s check out the top universities offering this program.

Top Universities for Masters in Statistics in the USA

Choosing the right university is key to shaping your education, career prospects, and research opportunities. According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, 20 U.S. universities are in the global top 100, highlighting the country's excellence in education system.

Refer to the table below for a comparison of tuition fees, programs, and duration at the Best Universities and Colleges in the USA offering Master's in Statistics.

University	Program Name	Annual Tuition Fees (USD/INR)	Duration & Application Deadline
Stanford University	M.S. in Statistics	$61,950 (INR 53.67 L) per year	1.5-2 years January 15, 2025 (Closed)
Harvard University	A.M. in Statistics	$57,328 (INR 49.67 L) per year	1-2 years December 1, 2025
University of California, Berkeley	M.A. in Statistics	$27,864 (INR 24.14 L) per year	1 year September 2025
Columbia University	M.A. in Statistics	$71,100 (INR 61.60 L) per year	1 year Deadline varies
University of Chicago	M.S. in Statistics	$61,656 (INR 53.42 L) per year	1-2 years January 4, 2025 (Closed)
Duke University	M.S. in Statistical Science	$62,620 (54.25 L) per year	2 years January 6, 2025 (Closed)
Carnegie Mellon University	M.S. in Statistics and Data Science	$64,392 (55.79 L) per year	9 months January 15, 2025 (Closed)
University of Michigan	M.A.S. in Applied Statistics	$49,120 (INR 42.56 L) per year	1.5-2 years Rolling admissions
Rice University	Master of Statistics (MStat)	$58,128 (INR 50.36 L) per year	1-2 years; Application deadlines vary by semester
Yale University	M.S. in Statistics and Data Science	$50,900 (INR 44.10 L) per year	1.5-2 years December 1, 2025

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

Popular Universities for Masters in Statistics in the USA

There are nearly 6,000 colleges and 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 the University of Pennsylvania are well-known for their reputable Masters programs in Statistics.

Below are some popular universities offering Statistics in the USA.

University	Program	Tuition Fees (INR/USD)	Duration & Deadline
University of Pennsylvania	MA in Statistics and Data Science	INR 45.53 L/year $52,667	3 years January 5, 2025
Western Illinois University	MS in Data Science	INR 31.2 L/year $36,091	2 years April 1 for Fall Semester
University of Texas at Austin	MS in Statistics	INR 16.03 L/year $18,543	1 year August 2025
Minnesota State University	MS in Applied Statistics	INR 14.22 L/year $16,449	2 years Rolling admissions
Penn State University	MS in Statistics	INR 20.42 L/year $23,621	2 years Rolling admissions
DePaul University	MS in Data Science	INR 31.35 L (Total) $36,264	2 years NA
University of North Dakota	MS in Applied Statistics	INR 18.14 L/year $20,983	Duration: 3 years NA
Sacred Heart University	MS in Data Science	INR 19.75 L/semester $22,846	Duration: 2 years August 2025

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

Eligibility Criteria for Masters in Statistics in the USA

To apply for Statistics courses in the USA, candidates must fulfill the academic qualifications, standardized test scores, like a minimum GPA of 3, and language proficiency levels. These criteria are typically established by the regulatory bodies within the education system in the USA.

Below is a detailed breakdown of the top requirements for studying in the USA.

Requirement	Details
Academic Qualifications	A Bachelor's degree with a strong foundation in mathematics, including Multivariable Calculus and Linear Algebra
Academic Transcripts	Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended. A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, with 8 term courses over 2 semesters
English Language Proficiency (ELP)	All International students or Non-native English speakers must provide proof of English language proficiency. TOEFL: 100 on the Internet-based & 600 on the paper-and-pencil test IELTS: 7.0 DET: 110-120
Competitive Exams	GRE: 330 or higher GMAT: NA
Additional Documents	Statement of Purpose Letters of Recommendation Resume/CV Proof of funds Copy of passport
Visa requirements	Passport: Must be valid for at least 3 months after the visa duration.
	Must have an official admission letter (Form I-20) from a U.S. university certified by SEVP.
	Proof of Funds: $18,000 (INR 15.47L) for the first year
	Health Insurance: Mandatory coverage during studies, in line with state or university policies.
	Visa Application: Complete the DS-160 form and schedule a visa interview at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
	Visa Fee (F & M Visa types): $535 (INR 45,991K)

Note: The application fee for the Master’s program is $155 (INR 13K) for International students and $135 (INR 11K)for US citizens or current Permanent residents.

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

Application Process for Masters in Statistics in the USA

Universities like Stanford have a highly competitive acceptance rate, where around 7.75% of MS applicants were admitted in 2025, which is way higher than the 5.5% acceptance recently. To increase your chances, it is essential to understand the requirements in advance.

Applicants should also hold a Bachelor’s in mathematics, including courses in multivariable calculus, linear algebra, and introductory programming.

Below are the steps to apply for a Master's degree in Statistics in the United States.

Step 1: Research and Program Selection: Before starting your application, it’s essential to thoroughly research the Master of Arts (MA) in Statistics at your preferred university. The program is a 1 year, full-time, on-campus program and does not require a thesis. Review the curriculum and faculty research areas.

Step 2. Prepare Application Documents: Once you decide to apply, you’ll need to gather the necessary materials.

A bachelor’s degree in mathematics or a related field.
A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (some universities 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.
Three Letters of recommendation from professors or employers who can attest to your qualifications and abilities.
Official transcripts from all previous educational institutions.

Step 3. Submit the Application: Once you have prepared all required documents, you can submit your application through the University Graduate Application Portal. Make sure to fill out the application form, upload all necessary documents, pay the application fee of $155 (INR 13K) for International students and $135 (INR 11K )for US citizens or current Permanent residents.

Note: If you are a California resident and have completed your undergraduate studies at a UC or CSU, you automatically qualify for a fee waiver.

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.

The admissions committee looks for candidates who have a strong foundation in mathematics, demonstrate a clear interest in statistics, and are prepared for the rigorous nature of the program.

Step 5: Acceptance and Visa Documentation: Once you are admitted to the program, you will receive an official offer of admission from the University. Afterward, you must apply for a US student visa.

Form I-20: After acceptance, the University will issue you Form I-20, which is a necessary document for applying for an F-1 student visa.
F-1 Student Visa: With the Form I-20, you can apply for an F-1 student visa at your nearest U.S. consulate. The F-1 visa allows you to enter the U.S. for educational purposes.
Proof of Funds: You will need to demonstrate financial capability by providing proof of sufficient funds to cover your tuition, living expenses, and other costs (approx $18,000 (INR 15.47L) for the 1st year
SEVIS Fee: Before applying for the F-1 visa, you must pay the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee, which is required for all F-1 visa applicants. This fee can be paid online, and you will need the payment receipt for your visa interview.

Step 6. Enrollment and Orientation: Once you’ve confirmed your intent to enroll, there will be additional pre-arrival documentation and steps to complete.

Most universities, such as the University of California, Berkeley, organize a New Graduate Student Orientation for all incoming students, which helps you familiarize yourself with campus resources, academic policies, and community standards.

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

Masters in Statistics in the USA: Course Details

A Masters course will cover core subjects like Statistical Inference and Linear Models, helping you gain deep knowledge.

Apart from these, Universities like Columbia implement a comprehensive track system starting Fall 2026, where students complete 3 core statistics courses, 6 required electives with at least 3 from the statistics department, and a capstone project and internships.

Below are the course details for a Master's in Statistics in the United States.

Course Type	Details
Core Subjects	Probability Theory Statistical Inference Linear Models Design of Experiments Bayesian Statistics Stochastic Processes Multivariate Analysis Time Series Analysis
Electives or Specializations	Biostatistics Data Science Financial Statistics Survey Methodology
Other Offerings	Programs generally require between 30 to 36 credit hours for completion. Students must complete a minimum of 24 units of courses and pass an examination, with optional 3rd semester including summer internship and graduate student instructor responsibilities. No thesis requirement, but students must submit an approved Master's Program Proposal signed by their advisor and maintain a 3.0 GPA overall.

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

Cost of Studying Statistics 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 INR1.2L to INR 2L).

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

Expense Category	Annual Cost (USD)	Annual Cost (USD)
Tuition Fees	$40,000 to $71,000	INR 34.57L - INR 61.37L
Books, Course Materials, Supplies, and Equipment	$530	INR 45K
Transportation	$1,600	INR 13.8L
Medical Insurance	$3,112	INR 26.9L
Living Expenses	$15,060	INR 13.01L
Personal Expenses	$4,578	INR 39.5L
Student Activity Fee	$375	INR 32K
Student IT Fee	$135	INR 11K

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 scholarships to make your journey more affordable. Let’s explore the details.

Masters in Statistics in the USA: Scholarships for Students

There are numerous scholarship opportunities for students pursuing a Master's degree in Statistics in the United States. There are over 1400 scholarships for international students pursuing a Master's in Statistics in the US, with an average of 72% of undergraduates receiving some form of financial aid.

Below is a detailed overview of some notable scholarships in each category.

Internal Scholarships

Internal scholarships are funded through the university’s resources and endowments. For a Master's in Statistics, you can apply for scholarships like the MA in Statistics Opportunity (OPP) Scholarship, which covers full tuition fees along with additional benefits.

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

Scholarship	University	Type of Scholarship	Eligibility & Benefits
MA in Statistics Opportunity (OPP) Scholarship	Columbia University	Need-Based	Eligibility: U.S. citizens or permanent residents from underrepresented groups in the discipline. Benefits: Provides financial assistance to students who demonstrate financial need and contribute to educational diversity.
Presidential Fellowship	Carnegie Mellon University	Merit-Based	Eligibility: Open to students across all disciplines, including statistics. Benefits: Offers a $50,000 (INR 43.22L) scholarship to one incoming student each year based on academic excellence
Betty Scott Excellence Scholarship	University of California, Berkeley	Merit-Based	Eligibility: Open to all applicants, with a focus on STEM fields and a commitment to public service. Benefits: Recognizes and supports students with partial to full tuition coverage based on Merit

Now, let’s explore some external scholarship options for students pursuing a Master's in Statistics 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.

Scholarship	Type of Scholarship	Details
Fulbright Foreign Student Program	Fully Funded Government Scholarship	Eligibility: Non-U.S. citizen, Bachelor's degree or equivalent. Benefits: Full tuition fees, airfare, living stipend, health insurance.
Biopharmaceutical Section Scholarship	Merit-based academic award	Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree and enrolled in a master’s program in statistics or biostatistics. Benefits: Annual award of $1,000 (INR 86K) for 5 Students
AAUW International Fellowships	Merit-Based Fellowship for Women	Eligibility: Woman, non-U.S. citizen, pursuing full-time graduate or postdoctoral studies, commitment to women’s empowerment. Benefits: $20,000 (INR 17.25L) for Master’s, $25,000 (INR 21.57L) for Doctoral, $50,000 (INR 43.14L) for Postdoctoral, funding for tuition & living expenses

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

Job Opportunities After Masters in Statistics in the USA

Graduates holding an MS in Statistics can expect broad career opportunities, driven by the increasing reliance on data-driven decision-making across various sectors.

As of May, there are approximately 34,800 statistician roles, with the median annual salary for statisticians standing at $103,300 (INR 89.30L). The demand for data scientists salaries in the US has also surged, with job growth increasing to 19%, and the average annual salary reaching $127,618 (INR 1.10 Cr).

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

Job Role	Average Annual Salary (USD)	Average Annual Salary (INR)
Data Scientist	$127,618	INR 1.10 Cr
Data Analyst	$83,105	INR 71.92L
Senior Data Analyst	$100,997	INR 87.41L
Statistician	$89,215	INR 77.21L
Pharmaceutical Statistician	$115,000	INR 99.53L
Biostatistician	$104,838	INR 90.73L

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 Statistics in the USA.

Top Recruiters Hiring Masters in Statistics in the USA for Graduates

The USA is recognized for its thriving industries in technology, finance, and data science. It hosts leading companies such as J.P. Morgan Chase & Co., Meta (Facebook), Google, and Visa, all of which actively seek skilled professionals in statistics-related fields.

After completing your Master’s in Statistics, you can join these top companies like for instance, the average data analyst salary in the US for a fresher is $83,105 (71.84L), according to Indeed.

Here are the top recruiters hiring graduates after completing a Master’s in Statistics in the USA, along with salary information for various roles.

Top Recruiter	Job Role	Average Annual Salary
J.P. Morgan Chase & Co.	Data Analyst	$80,719 (INR 67.77L)
Booz Allen Hamilton	Statistician	$162,201 (INR 1.40Cr)
The Hartford Financial Services	Data Scientist	$133,760 (INR 1.15Cr)
Meta (Facebook)	Data Scientist	$173,894 (INR 1.50Cr)
Visa Inc.	Data Scientist	$150,793 (INR 1.30Cr)
Google	Data Scientist	$168,095 (INR 1.45Cr)

Source: Glassdoor

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 Statistics in the USA.

How Can upGrad Help You Study Masters in Statistics in the USA?

Master's in Statistics courses 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 statistics.

Ready to take the next step? Book a 1:1 session with upGrad experts, apply with confidence, and begin your master's journey at a top university in the USA!

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