Explore Courses

Best Universities for MBA in the USA

Do You Know?

  • The average salary for MBA graduates in the USA ranges from $115,000 (INR 98.2L) to $175,000 (INR 1.4Cr) per year.
  • Graduates from top MBA programs can earn salaries and bonuses exceeding $200,000 (INR 1.7Cr) annually, as per U.S. News data.

An MBA in the USA provides excellent career opportunities and a respected qualification. On average, 80% of full-time MBA graduates secure employment within three months of completing their degree, reflecting the high demand for skilled professionals. This quick transition into the workforce highlights the strong career support offered by business schools across the country.

Top universities in the USA, such as Stanford and Harvard offer MBA programs that combine theoretical education with hands-on experience. 

If you choose to study in MBA colleges in USA, you will gain access to leading business networks, internships, and career opportunities across various industries. The cost of studying an MBA typically ranges from $45,000 (INR 38.4L) to $90,000 (INR 76.8L) per year, depending on the institution and specialization.

Now, let’s explore the top universities and programs available for MBA Colleges in USA.

MBA Colleges in USA: Overview

An MBA in the USA is a valuable qualification, providing students with the skills and knowledge needed for leadership roles in business. These programs combine theoretical learning with practical experiences, making them an excellent choice for those looking to advance their careers. 

Graduates often benefit from high employability rates and access to top-tier global business networks.

Below is an overview of MBA Colleges in USA:

Parameter Details
Duration  1 to 2 years
Main Intakes 
Course Level  Postgraduate
Top Universities 
  • University of Pennsylvania (Wharton)
  • Northwestern University (Kellogg)
  • Stanford University
  • University of Chicago (Booth)
  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Average Annual Tuition Fee
  • $45,000 (INR 38.4L) to $90,000 (INR 76.8L) per year
Eligibility Criteria
  • High school diploma or equivalent, strong academic record in science subjects.
  • SAT/ACT scores, English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS for international students)
Career Opportunities
  • Business leadership
  • Management consulting
  • Marketing
  • Finance
  • Entrepreneurship
Popular Specializations 

Before exploring the top MBA Colleges in USA, let’s discuss the benefits of pursuing this qualification in the US.

Why Pursue an MBA in USA?

An MBA from the USA offers unmatched career opportunities, with world-class education and a strong network of global business leaders. U.S. universities provide a blend of academic excellence, practical experience, and access to top employers, making it an ideal destination for aspiring business professionals.

Here’s why you should pursue an MBA Colleges in USA:

  • Top-Ranked Universities: Harvard University, ranked 4th in the QS World University Rankings 2025, offers an MBA program with extensive industry exposure and access to influential global business networks.
  • High ROI: According to Bloomberg Businessweek’s ROI calculator, the average annual ROI for MBA programs in the U.S. is around 12.7%, translating to an additional $662,290 (INR 5.6Cr) over a ten-year period.
  • High Employability: On average, 80% of full-time MBA graduates secure employment within three months, highlighting the high demand for skilled professionals.
  • Strong Starting Salary: The median starting salary for MBA graduates in the U.S. is approximately $120,000 (INR 1Cr), reflecting the lucrative nature of the degree.
  • Global Recognition: U.S. MBA degrees hold global prestige, increasing your job prospects both in the U.S. and internationally.

Now that you’ve seen the benefits of studying in MBA Colleges in USA, let’s check out the top universities offering this program.

MBA Colleges in USA: Top Universities

The education system in the USA is renowned for its excellent curriculum, innovative teaching approaches, and strong industry ties. U.S. universities offer highly regarded MBA programs that combine academic learning with practical business experience. 

These institutions provide students with unparalleled opportunities for networking, leadership, research, and career advancement, making them the top choice for aspiring business leaders.

Here are the top MBA Colleges in USA:

University Program Tuition Fees Duration & Deadline
Stanford University MBA in Finance, Strategy, Accounting and Marketing $85,755 (INR 73.2L)

2 years

Deadline:

December 10, 2025

University of Pennsylvania (Wharton) MBA in Corporate Finance, Technology, Leadership, Accounting and Macroeconomics $92,820 (INR 79.2L)

2 years

Deadline:

September 3, 2025

 

Harvard University

 

MBA in Corporate Finance, Business Analytics, Accounting and Strategy $90505 (INR 77.2L)

2 years

Deadline

September 3, 2025

Massachusetts Institute of Technology MBA in Finance, Business Analytics, Accounting and Marketing $89,000 (INR 75.9L)

2 years

Deadline:

September 29, 2025

Columbia University

 

MBA in Corporate Finance, Accounting and Managerial Statistics $91172 (INR 77.8L)

2 years

Deadline:

September 3, 2025

Northwestern University (Kellogg) MBA in Corporate Finance, Strategy, Accounting and Marketing $119,996 (INR 1Cr)

1-2 years

Deadline

December 10, 2025

 

University of Chicago (Booth) MBA in Finance, Economics, Accounting and Marketing $87,354 (INR 74.5L)

2.5-3 years

Deadline:

April 3, 2025 (Closed)

Yale University

 

MBA in Asset Management, Technology. $88300 (INR 75.4L)

2 years
Deadline:

September 10, 2025

Dartmouth College (Tuck)

 

MBA in Corporate Finance, Business Analytics, Accounting and Management Communication $84250 (INR 71.9L)

2 years

Deadline

September 25, 2025

New York University (Stern)

 

MBA in Business Analytics, Accounting and Digital Marketing $86916 (INR 74.2L)

2 years

Deadline:

October 15, 2025

In addition to top universities, you can also explore other popular MBA Colleges in USA. Let’s discuss them in detail.

MBA Colleges in USA: Popular Universities for MBA

In addition to globally recognized institutions like Harvard and Stanford, several other prestigious universities in the USA such as University of California, Berkeley offer excellent MBA programs. 

These universities provide a blend of excellent academics, experienced faculty, and strong ties to industry, ensuring students gain the knowledge and connections needed to succeed in the competitive business world.

Here are the popular MBA Colleges in USA:

University Program Semester Tuition Fees Duration & Deadline
University of California, Berkeley (Haas) MBA in Finance, Technology, Leadership, Accounting and Marketing $85,406 (INR 72.9L)

2 years

Deadline

December 11, 2025

University of Michigan--Ann Arbor (Ross)

 

MBA in Finance, Strategy, Accounting and Marketing $78,030 (INR 66.6L)

years

Deadline:

December 5, 2025

Duke University (Fuqua)

 

MBA in Finance, Leadership, Accounting and Marketing $80438 (INR 68.6L)

1.5 -2 years 

Deadline:

November 12, 2025

University of Virginia (Darden)

 

MBA in Finance, Entrepreneurship, Leadership, Accounting and Marketing $84,598 (INR 72.2L)

21 months

Deadline:

October 15, 2025

Cornell University (Johnson)

 

MBA in Business Fundamentals $86,596 (INR 73.9L)

2 years

Deadline: 

October 15, 2025

 

University of Texas--Austin (McCombs) MBA in Finance, Accounting and Marketing $53,818 (INR 45.9L) 1-2 years
Deadline:
May 15, 2025 (Closed)
Emory University (Goizueta) MBA in Finance, Accounting and Marketing $153,800 (INR 1.3Cr)

1-2 years

Deadline:

October 1, 2025

Now, let’s look at the eligibility criteria for studying in MBA Colleges in USA.

Eligibility Criteria for MBA Colleges in USA

To study an MBA in the USA, you must meet specific academic and visa requirements. Universities generally expect candidates to have a strong educational background and relevant work experience. 

In addition to holding an undergraduate degree, international students must demonstrate English language proficiency level through tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Obtaining an F-1 US student visa is also essential for studying in the USA.

Here are the eligibility criteria for MBA Colleges in USA:

Criteria  Sub-Criteria Details 
Academic Requirements Educational Qualification A relevant undergraduate degree, preferably in business, engineering, or related fields.
Academic Transcripts Official transcripts from previous education institutions.

Standardized Tests

(Varies by University)

GRE Minimum score of 300
GMAT Minimum score of 600
English Language Proficiency IELTS Minimum score of 7.5
TOEFL Minimum score of 109
Duolingo English Test Minimum score of 145
Visa requirements Passport Must be valid for the duration of your studies.
Letter of Acceptance Confirmation of selection from a recognized university in the US.
Proof of Funds Bank statements to prove you have sufficient financial resources. 
Academic Transcripts Official documents from previous courses and grades.
Visa Application Form Completed DS-160 form for the F-1 visa.
Visa Fee $535 (INR 46.1K) including MRV and SEVIS fees or F-1 visa.
Miscellaneous  Statement of Purpose A well-written SOP explaining your goals and motivation.
Letter of Recommendation Typically, 2-3 letters from professors or employers.
Resume/CV Current resume/CV with details of education and experience.
Work Experience  Relevant experience preferred but not always mandatory.

Also read: Universities in the USA for MBA Without Work Experience: Your Ultimate Starter Guide

After covering the eligibility criteria, let’s explore the application process for MBA Colleges in USA.

Application Process for MBA Colleges in USA

The application process for MBA colleges in USA  typically requires a combination of academic records, standardized test scores, and supporting documents to assess your eligibility and suitability for the program. 

Along with your academic transcripts and test scores like GRE or TOEFL, you’ll need to submit a personal statement that outlines your career goals and reasons for studying an MBA in USA.

Here’s a step-by-step process to apply for a MBA Colleges in USA:

  • Step 1: Submit University Application: Complete and submit your application to the university, including personal details, academic records, and any required forms or essays.
  • Step 2: Provide Additional Documents: Submit the following documents if required:
    • Academic transcripts
    • Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL)
    • Letters of recommendation
    • Statement of Purpose (if required)
    • Resume or CV (if required)
  • Step 3: Attend an Interview: An interview may be required by universities such as Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), so be prepared to discuss your background, goals, and motivations.
  • Step 4: Check Application Status: Regularly monitor your application status on the university’s portal. Respond promptly to any additional requests for documents.
  • Step 5: Apply for Student Visa: Once accepted, apply for the F-1 student visa by submitting the following:
    • Copy of the university's acceptance letter
    • Completed visa application form (DS-160)
    • Proof of financial support
    • Visa application fee of $535 (INR 46.1K)
    • Passport-sized photographs
    • SEVIS fee payment confirmation

After covering the application process, let’s determine the course structure for MBA in USA.

Course details for MBA Colleges in USA

The course structure for an MBA in the USA is designed to offer students a comprehensive blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience in business management. 

These programs typically include a range of core subjects, along with electives or specializations that allow students to personalize their education to specific interests such as marketing, finance, or entrepreneurship

Additionally, many programs offer internshipsco-op programs, and capstone projects, giving students real-world business exposure and improving their career prospects.

Below is the course structure for MBA Colleges in USA:

Course Type Programs
Core Subjects
  • Finance
  • Marketing
  • Operations
  • Leadership
  • Economics
  • Accounting
Electives or Specialization
Other Offerings
  • Internship: Practical experience gained by working with industry organizations, allowing students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings.
  • Co-op program: Paid work placements that provide students with the opportunity to gain professional experience while completing their studies.
  • Capstone Project: A final project that integrates learning with practical application, usually conducted in collaboration with industry partners.

Also read: One Year MBA Programs in USA: Fast-Track Your Career in Just 12 Months

Now, let’s find out how much it costs to study in MBA Colleges in USA.

MBA Colleges in USA: Cost of Pursuing MBA

The cost of studying an MBA in the USA can vary significantly depending on the university, location, and program specifics. On average, tuition fees for MBA programs range from  $45,000 (INR 38.4L) to $90,000 (INR 76.8L) per year. 

In addition to tuition, students must account for living expenses such as housing, food, transportation, and health insurance, which can differ based on the city and lifestyle.

Here is the breakdown of cost of living in the USA for MBA Colleges in USA:

Purpose Monthly Expenses (USD) Monthly Expenses (INR)
Housing  $300 - $600 INR 25.8K - INR 51.7K
Food  $250 - $600 INR 21.5K - INR 51.7K
Books & Course Material $285 per year INR 24.5K
Transport  $45 - $100 INR 3.8K - INR 8.6K
Health Insurance $1,500 - $2,500 INR 1.2L - INR 2.1L
Miscellaneous Cost (Eg: Phone bills, Internet charges etc.) $216 INR 18.6K

NoteThe INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate. 

Students can apply for scholarships to help reduce their costs in the U.S. Let’s discuss this in detail.

MBA Colleges in USA: Scholarships for Students

Each year, over 1.7 million scholarships are awarded to students studying higher education in the United States. These scholarships, provided by universities, private organizations, and government agencies, help make education more accessible for both domestic and international students. 

With a wide range of opportunities, these scholarships can significantly ease the financial burden of studying an MBA in the USA.

Below is a breakdown of internal and external scholarships to study in the USA for Indian students.

Internal Scholarships

Many U.S. universities provide internal scholarships to help students manage their educational expenses. These scholarships are typically awarded based on factors such as academic achievement, financial need, or specific eligibility requirements, including the field of study. 

For example, the HBS Scholarship is offered to incoming students to help cover the cost of their first year’s tuition.

Here are some internal scholarships for students: 

Scholarship  Type  Details 

HBS Scholarship

 

Merit-based

Eligibility: Available for both domestic and international students.

Benefits: Average award of $46,000 (INR 39.2L) per year. Approximately 50% of students receive it.

UC Berkeley Graduate Student Instructor (GSI) & Graduate Student Researcher (GSR) Merit-based

Eligibility: Open to all graduate students. 

Benefit: Minimum support of $36,000 (INR 30.7L) through GSI, GSR, fellowships, and other awards.

Stanford University Scholarship Need-Based

Eligibility: Offered to international students pursuing graduate programs. Applicants must meet academic requirements set by the university.

Benefits: Covers full tuition fees, travel allowance, living allowance, and academic expenses.

Apart from internal scholarships, you can also apply for external scholarships offered by organizations such as foundations. Let’s explore these options.

External Scholarships

External scholarships, provided by foundations, organizations, and government entities, offer valuable financial support to students. The Fulbright Scholarship is a prestigious award that helps students pursue graduate studies in the USA. 

Additionally, the Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship assists Indian students with funding for postgraduate studies at top universities abroad.

Here are some external scholarship options.

Scholarship  Type  Details 
The Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans Merit-based 

Eligibility: Immigrants and children of immigrants pursuing graduate school in the U.S.

Benefits: Financial grant of  $90,000 (INR 77.3L) over two years, covering tuition and living expenses

#YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarship

Non-governmental

 

Eligibility: Open to international students at participating U.S. colleges.

Benefits: Financial aid and support for encouraging cultural exchange.

Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship Merit-based

Eligibility: Indian citizens under 30 with a first-class undergraduate degree from an Indian institution.

Benefits: Covers tuition, living expenses, and one-way travel up to USD 100,000 (INR 85.9L).

Nehru - Fulbright Scholarship Merit-based 

Eligibility: Indian bachelor's degree holders, minimum 55% marks, and at least three years of work experience.

Benefits: Covers tuition, living expenses, airfare, and health insurance

Scholarships help ensure you can study abroad with a reduced financial burden. Now, let’s explore the potential career opportunities in MBA Colleges in USA.

MBA Colleges in USA: Job Opportunities

Upon completing an MBA in the USA, graduates have access to a wide range of job opportunities across various industries. The demand for skilled business professionals remains high, driven by the continuous growth of sectors such as finance, marketing, and technology. 

Jobs in the USA offer attractive salaries with an average salary of $80666 (INR 68.6L) and promising career prospects, making it an appealing destination for MBA graduates.

Here are some potential job roles and their average annual salaries after a MBA in USA:

Job Role  Average Annual Salary (USD) Average Annual Salary (INR)
Management Consultant $91717 INR 78.3L
Financial Analyst $80666 INR 68.6L
Marketing Manager $80426  INR 68.6L
Operations Manager $79,371 INR 67.7L
Business Development Manager $87,695 INR 74.8L

SourceIndeed

NoteThe INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate. 

Now, let’s take a look at some top companies hiring graduates with MBA in USA.

MBA Colleges in USA: Top Recruiters 

Graduates with an MBA from U.S. universities are in high demand  by leading companies worldwide, with numerous opportunities available in both full-time and part-time job  roles across diverse industries

These recruiters offer roles in sectors such as finance, consulting, technology, and marketing, providing competitive salaries and significant career growth potential. 

The demand for MBA professionals continues to grow, with many companies actively seeking skilled business leaders.

Here are some top recruiters hiring graduates of MBA Colleges in USA:

Top Recruiter Job Role Average Annual Salary (USD/INR)
McKinsey & Company Management Consultant $145,956 (INR 1.2Cr)
Goldman Sachs Investment Banker $115,398 (INR 98.5L)
Amazon Operations Manager $101,946 (INR 87L)
Google Product Manager $170,286 (INR 1.4Cr)
Boston Consulting Group Strategy Consultant $184,758 (INR 1.5Cr)

SourceIndeed

NoteThe INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate. 

Studying in MBA Colleges in USA requires knowledge of programs and processes. Let’s explore how upGrad can assist you in this journey.

How Can upGrad Help You with MBA Colleges in USA?

Studying abroad presents amazing opportunities, but managing the application process, visa requirements, and financial planning can be challenging. upGrad streamlines every step, providing expert support to make the entire journey smooth and stress-free.

Here’s how upGrad can assist you:

  • Personalized Mentorship: Receive tailored guidance at every stage to make informed and confident decisions.
  • Visa and Scholarship Assistance: Get expert help with visa applications and discover scholarship options to ease financial burdens.
  • English Language Test Preparation: Access focused coaching for IELTS, TOEFL, and other exams to help you perform at your best.
  • Career Counseling and Resume Review: Strengthen your job applications with professional advice and comprehensive resume reviews.
  • Post-Graduation Support: Receive guidance on securing internships, part-time jobs during your studies, and full-time roles after graduation.

Take control of your future today! Book your free 1:1 consultation with upGrad’s experts and start your journey towards success.

 

...Read more

Discover Your Dream Universities Abroad!

16 results found
  • Level of study
  • Streams
  • Cities
  • Fees
  • Exams Accepted
  • Course Duration
Stanford University

Stanford University

Stanford, USAPrivate

  • Courses offered 122 courses
  • Avg Living CostINR 1853459
Check Eligibility
View details
University of Pennsylvania

University of Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania, USAPublic

  • Courses offered 68 courses
  • Avg Living CostINR 1256960
Check Eligibility
View details
Yale University

Yale University

New Haven, USAPrivate

  • Courses offered 131 courses
  • Avg Living CostINR 2086463
Check Eligibility
View details
Cornell University

Cornell University

New York, USAPrivate

  • Courses offered 138 courses
  • Avg Living CostINR 2702164
Check Eligibility
View details
Columbia University

Columbia University

New York, USAPrivate

  • Courses offered 13 courses
  • Avg Living CostINR 834846
Check Eligibility
View details
Northwestern University

Northwestern University

Evanston, USAPrivate

#32
QS Top Universities
  • Courses offered 20 courses
  • Avg Living CostINR 1257642
Check Eligibility
View details
University of California - Los Angeles

University of California - Los Angeles

Los Angeles, USAPublic

#44
QS Top Universities
  • Courses offered 29 courses
  • Avg Living CostINR 1223505
Check Eligibility
View details
Duke University

Duke University

Randolph County, USAPrivate

#61
QS Top Universities
  • Courses offered 87 courses
  • Avg Living CostINR 1792532
Check Eligibility
View details
University of Texas Austin

University of Texas Austin

Austin, USAPublic

#72
QS Top Universities
  • Courses offered 211 courses
  • Avg Living CostINR 2789935
Check Eligibility
View details
Indiana University Kokomo

Indiana University Kokomo

Kokomo, USAPublic

  • Courses offered 50 courses
  • Avg Living CostINR 1253673
Check Eligibility
View details

Discover Universities Based on Average Study Costs in USA

< 20 Lakh20-40 Lakh40-60 Lakh60-80 Lakh> 80 Lakh
University of Southern California

University of Southern California

Southern California, USAPrivate

#134
QS Top Universities
  • Courses offered 330 courses
  • Avg Living CostINR 1795848
Check Eligibility
View details
Arizona State University

Arizona State University

Tempe, USAPublic

  • Courses offered 345 courses
  • Avg Living CostINR 1660609
Check Eligibility
View details
The University of Texas at Dallas

The University of Texas at Dallas

Richardson, USAPublic

#Top 530
QS Top Universities
  • Courses offered 100 courses
  • Avg Living CostINR 1217656
Check Eligibility
View details
Southern Methodist University

Southern Methodist University

Dallas, USAPrivate

#Top 1000
QS Top Universities
  • Courses offered 1 courses
  • Avg Living CostINR 1259401
Check Eligibility
View details
Brigham Young University

Brigham Young University

Provo, USAPrivate

#Top 1200
QS Top Universities
  • Courses offered 1 courses
  • Avg Living CostINR 1259456
Check Eligibility
View details

Lost in Your University Search?

Let Us Guide You to Your Ideal Destination!

Counselor
University of California Irvine (Division of Continuing Education)

University of California Irvine (Division of Continuing Education)

Irvine, USAPublic

  • Courses offered 60 courses
  • Avg Living CostINR 1255651
Check Eligibility
View details
Disclaimer

All information provided on this page is for general use and upGrad Abroad is not responsible for any errors or omissions. The Universities involved in this Program are accredited/recognized in the countries where they are established. Relevant terms and conditions apply.Any action taken upon the information found on this website is strictly at your own risk.

upGrad
Study Abroad Important Blogs