Universities for MS in USA

Latest Update: USA Masters Intake for 2025-2026: Spring Intake: Applications accepted from January to May. Summer Intake: Starts around May, with a limited selection of programs. Fall Intake: The largest intake, with applications typically due between September and December.

A Master's degree in the USA opens doors to remarkable career prospects and provides a globally recognized qualification. According to the National Association of Corrosion Engineers, individuals with a Master’s degree in engineering earn an annual salary of $98,036 (INR 83.7L), while those in business earn $87,976 (INR 75.1L). 

Top universities, such as Stanford, Harvard, and MIT, offer Master’s programs that integrate excellent academics with practical experience, preparing students for leadership roles in their industries. 

If you choose to study in the USA, you will gain access to leading business networks, internships, and career opportunities across various industries. The cost of a Master's program in the USA typically ranges from $20,000 (INR 17L) to $40,000 (INR 34.1L) /per year, depending on the university and program chosen.

Now, let’s explore the top universities and programs available in Best Universities for Masters in USA.

Best Universities for Masters in USA: Overview

Masters in the USA offer world-class education and provide graduates with numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth. U.S. universities are renowned for their advanced research, strong industry connections, and diverse student communities. 

Studying a Master's degree in the USA not only enhances your knowledge but also opens doors to global career prospects. 

Below is an overview of Best Universities for Masters in USA:

Parameter	Details
Duration	1-2 years
Main Intakes	Fall (August) Spring (January)
Course Level	Postgraduate
Top Universities	University of Pennsylvania (Wharton) Northwestern University (Kellogg) Stanford University Yale University Baylor College of Medicine
Average Annual Tuition Fee	$20,000 (INR 17L) to $40,000 (INR 34.1L) /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 Analyst Software Engineer Healthcare Administrator Data Scientist Academic Researcher
Popular Specializations	Business Engineering Computer Science Law Medicine Education

Before exploring the Best Universities for Masters in USA, let’s discuss the benefits of pursuing this qualification in the US.Why Pursue in Best Universities for Masters in USA?

A Master's degree from the USA, particularly in top MS courses, offers exceptional career opportunities and a globally recognized qualification. U.S. universities provide a mix of excellent academics, practical experience, and access to industry leaders, making it an ideal destination for students aiming to advance their careers in fields like engineering, business, and technology.

Here’s why you should pursue a Masters in USA:

• Top-Ranked Universities: Harvard, ranked #1 globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025, offers a leading program in environmental engineering.
• World-Class Education: U.S. programs blend theoretical learning with hands-on experience, equipping graduates for successful careers in environmental engineering.
• Strong Job Growth: The number of Master's degrees is projected to increase by 16.5% by 2030, reflecting the growing demand for advanced qualifications in various fields.
• High Career Demand: Fields such as data science, cybersecurity, and healthcare are experiencing significant job growth, offering strong career prospects for Master's graduates.
• Industry Connections: Studying a Masters in the USA gives students access to valuable internships, networking opportunities, and collaborations with leading companies, enhancing future job prospects.

Now that you’ve seen the benefits of studying in Best Universities for Masters in USA, let’s check out the top universities offering this program.

Best Universities for Masters in USA: Top Universities & Fees

The education system in the USA is renowned for its academic excellence, innovative teaching methods, and strong ties to industry. With 17 universities ranked within the top 30 globally, the U.S. offers unparalleled opportunities for students to gain knowledge, enhance their skills, and connect with influential professionals. 

These institutions provide diverse Master's programs, preparing students for successful careers and leadership roles in various industries.

Here are the Best Universities for Masters in USA:

University	Program	Tuition Fees	Duration & Deadline
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	MEng in Advanced Manufacturing and Design, Climate, Environment, and Sustainability, Civil and Environmental Engineering.	$85,960 (INR 73.4L)	1-2 years Deadline: November 1, 2025
Stanford University	LLM in Corporate Governance and Practice, Environmental Law and Policy, International Economic Law, Business and Policy, and Law, Science and Technology.	$77,454 (INR 66.1L)	1 year Deadline: February 14, 2025 (Closed)
Harvard University	Residential Master's in Education, Doctor of Education Leadership and Doctor of Philosophy in Education	$62,244 (INR 53.1L)	1-2 years Deadline: July 7, 2025 (Closed)
University of Pennsylvania (Wharton)	MBA in Corporate Finance, Technology, Leadership, Accounting and Macroeconomics	$92,820 (INR 79.2L	2 years Deadline: September 3, 2025
University of California, Berkeley	MEng in Aerospace Engineering, Bioengineering, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences, and Engineering Science.	$ 19,931.75 (INR 17L)	1 years Deadline: December 2,2025
Northwestern University (Kellogg)	MBA in Corporate Finance, Strategy, Accounting and Marketing	$119,996 (INR 1Cr)	1-2 years Deadline:  December 10, 2025
Yale University	LLM in International Law, Comparative Law and Constitutional Law	$$76,636 (INR 65.4L)	1 year Deadline: December 1, 2025
Georgia Institute of Technology	MS in Aerospace Engineering, Bioengineering, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Biomedical Engineering.	$32,510 (INR 27.7L)	1.5 -2 years Deadline: October 15, 2025
Baylor College of Medicine	M.S in Biomedical Sciences, Physician Assistant, and Genetic Counselling, MD	$135,532 (INR 1.1Cr)	1-3 years Deadline:  January 1, 2025 (Closed)
Case Western Reserve University	M.S. in Applied Anatomy, Bioethics and Medical Humanities, Biomedical and Health Informatics.	$107,044 (INR 91.4L)	9-21 months Deadline:  July 15, 2025

In addition to top universities, you can also explore other popular institutions that offer  Masters in USA. Let’s discuss them in detail.

Popular Universities for Masters in USA

In addition to renowned institutions like Harvard and Stanford, several other prestigious universities in the USA, such as the University of Chicago and Dartmouth College, offer exceptional Master's programs. 

These universities are known for their excellent academics, experienced faculty, and strong industry connections, providing students with the skills and network necessary to excel in their respective fields. 

Here are the popular universities Best Universities for Masters in USA:

University	Program	Semester Tuition Fees	Duration & Deadline
University of Chicago (Booth)	MBA in Financial Accounting, Economics, Sociology, and Statistics.	$128,658 (INR 1Cr)	21-27 months Deadline:  April 3, 2025
Johns Hopkins University	MSc in Nursing	$1,937 (INR 1.6L)per credit	2 years Deadline: November 1, 2025
University of Michigan--Ann Arbor	M.A. in TESOL and Reading Specialist, Leading Educational Innovation and Transformation, and Educational Leadership and Policy.	$29,468 (INR 25.1L)	1-2 years Deadline:  March 1, 2025 (Closed)
Dartmouth College (Tuck)	MBA in Financial Accounting, Management Communication, Managerial Economics.	$84,250 (INR 71.9L)	2 years Deadline: September 15, 2025
Emory University (Woodruff)	MS in Nursing (MSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)	$29,960 (INR 25.5L)	1.5-2 years  Deadline: September 1, 2025

Now, let’s look at the eligibility criteria for studying in Best Universities for Masters in USA.

Best Universities for Masters in USA: Eligibility Criteria

To study a Master's degree in the USA, you must meet specific academic, language, and visa requirements. Universities typically look for a strong academic record and, in some cases, relevant work experience. 

International students are also required to demonstrate English language proficiency level through tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Additionally, securing an F-1 US student visa is a crucial step for studying in the USA.

Here are the eligibility criteria for Best Universities for Masters in USA:

Criteria	Sub-Criteria	Details
Academic Requirements	Educational Qualification	Undergraduate degree or equivalent from a recognized institution.
	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 100
	Duolingo English Test	Minimum score of 135
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: MBA courses in USA: Top Universities & Fees

After covering the eligibility criteria, let’s explore the application process in Best Universities for Masters in USA.

Application Process for Best Universities for Masters in USA

The application process for Master's programs in the USA typically involves submitting academic records, standardized test scores, and other supporting documents to evaluate your eligibility and fit for the program. 

In addition to academic transcripts and test scores such as GRE or TOEFL, you’ll often be required to submit a personal statement that outlines your career objectives and reasons for choosing a Master's degree in the USA.

Here’s a step-by-step process to apply for Masters 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-size photographs
  • SEVIS fee payment confirmation

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

Course details in Best Universities for Masters in USA

The course structure for Master's programs in the USA is designed to provide students with a well-rounded education that combines both theoretical foundations and practical experience. 

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 Digital Marketing, finance, or entrepreneurship. 

Many programs also incorporate internships, co-op programs, and capstone projects, which give students hands-on experience and enhance their job readiness.

Below is the course structure in the Best Universities for Masters in USA:

Course Type	Programs
Core Subjects	Business Engineering Computer science Healthcare Law
Electives or Specialization	Marketing  Data science Artificial Intelligence Finance International relations
Other Offerings	Internship: Gaining practical experience by working with industry organizations to apply classroom knowledge. Co-op program: Paid work placements offering professional experience while studying. Capstone Project: A final project that applies learning in real-world settings, often in collaboration with industry partners.

Also read: Top Universities in USA for Masters – Ranking, Fees & Jobs

Now, let’s find out how much it costs to study in the best Universities for Masters in USA.

Best Universities for Masters in USA: Cost of Studying

The cost of studying for a Master's degree in the USA can vary widely based on the university, location, and specific program. On average, tuition fees for most Master's programs range from $20,000 (INR 17L) to $40,000 (INR 34.1L) per year. 

In addition to tuition, students must also budget for living expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and health insurance, which can vary depending on the city and lifestyle.

Here is the breakdown of cost of living in the USA in Best Universities for Masters 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	$216	INR 18.6K

Note: The 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.

Best Universities for Masters in USA: Scholarships for Students

Studying in the USA can be expensive, but there are numerous scholarships available to help ease the financial burden. Both internal scholarships, offered by universities, and external scholarships, provided by organizations, can significantly reduce tuition costs. 

In fact, more than 1.7 million fellowships and private scholarships are awarded each year in the United States, with 25% of college students receiving funding through scholarships and grants.

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 education costs. These scholarships are typically awarded based on academic performance, financial need, or specific eligibility criteria like the field of study.

For instance, UC Berkeley’s Graduate Student Instructor (GSI) & Graduate Student Researcher (GSR) scholarships provide a minimum of $36,000 (INR 30.7L) in support.

Here are some internal scholarships for students: 

Scholarship	Type	Details
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.
Dean's REACH Scholarship Award Program	Need-based	Eligibility: Incoming MD students at Harvard who show resilience, excellence, and a commitment to underserved communities. Benefits: Four-year need-based scholarship, contingent on financial need and available funds.
Stanford University Scholarship	Need-Based	Eligibility: Offered to international students pursuing Master's and PhD studies. 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 are offered by organizations, foundations, and government bodies. Notable examples include the Fulbright Scholarship, which provides significant financial aid for graduate studies in the USA.

 Another opportunity is the Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship, offering generous funding for exceptional students pursuing higher education abroad.

Here are some external scholarship options.

Scholarship	Type	Details
#YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarship	Non-governmental	Eligibility: Open to international students at participating U.S. colleges. Benefits: Financial aid and support for encouraging cultural exchange.
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
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

Also read: Top Scholarships to Study in USA for Indian Students

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

Best Universities for Masters in USA: Job Opportunities

Upon completing a Master’s degree in the USA, graduates gain access to numerous job opportunities across various high-demand sectors. Jobs in the USA, particularly in industries such as technology, healthcare, data science, and engineering, continue to experience growth, driving the need for skilled professionals. 

U.S. job markets offer competitive salaries, growth potential, and a wealth of career advancement opportunities, making it an attractive destination for Master's degree holders.

Here are some potential job roles and their average annual salaries for Masters graduates:

Job Role	Average Annual Salary (USD)	Average Annual Salary (INR)
Data Scientist	$127,643	INR 1Cr
Software Engineer	$124,214	INR 1Cr
Business Analyst	$86,572	INR 73.9L
Healthcare Administrator	$96,098	INR 82L
Financial Analyst	$80,666	INR 68.8L

Source: Indeed

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

Now, let’s take a look at some top companies hiring graduates in Best Universities for Masters in USA.

Best Universities for Masters in USA: Top Recruiters

Graduates with a Master's degree in the USA have access to a wide range of full-time and part-time jobs across various sectors. Leading companies actively recruit Master’s graduates, offering roles in high-demand fields such as technology, finance, healthcare, and consulting. 

These top recruiters provide competitive salaries and excellent career progression opportunities, making them ideal employers for those looking to advance their careers.

Here are some top recruiters hiring Master’s graduates:

Top Recruiter	Job Role	Average Annual Salary
Google	Data Scientist	$165,414 (INR 1.4Cr)
Amazon	Software Engineer	$143,040 (INR 1.2Cr)
Goldman Sachs	Financial Analyst	$80,277 (INR 68.5L)
Pfizer	Healthcare Administrator	$72,685 (INR 62L)
Deloitte	Business Consultant	$102,822 (INR 87.8L)

Source: Indeed

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

Studying in Best Universities for Masters 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 Best Universities for Masters in USA?

Studying abroad presents exciting opportunities, but handling the application process, visa requirements, and financial planning can be challenging. upGrad makes the entire experience easier by providing expert support at every step.

Here’s how upGrad can assist you:

• Personalized Mentorship: Get personalized guidance throughout the process, helping you make confident and informed choices.
• Visa and Scholarship Support: Receive expert assistance with visa applications and discover scholarship options to reduce financial pressure.
• English Language Test Coaching: Benefit from focused coaching for IELTS, TOEFL, and other exams to ensure you perform at your best.
• Career Counseling and Resume Assistance: Strengthen your job applications with professional advice and detailed resume reviews.
• Post-Graduation Support: Get help finding internships, part-time roles during your studies, and full-time employment after graduation.

Start your journey today by booking a free 1:1 consultation with upGrad’s experts and take the first step toward achieving your academic and career goals!