The United States of America (USA) is known as the land of opportunities in terms of high-quality education and better career prospects. The USA is home to some of the best colleges and universities in the world that offer Masters in Computer Science. An MS in computer science in the USAtakes 1-2 years and is available at many educational universities. To secure admission in MS in Computer Science program, international students should have a four-year undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline with good scores in the GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) and one of the English language proficiency tests.
Read More: Why study in USA
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Top Universities for MS in Computer Science in the USA
Here are the top universities in the USA for MS in computer science. The country is a major tech hub, home to leading conglomerates including Google, Amazon, Facebook, and Twitter, to name a few. Universities offering Masters in computer science in the USA are amongst the best in the world.
Here’s taking a look at some of them:
Name of Institution |
Programs Available |
Cost of Course |
Number of Years |
Stanford University |
M Sc. in Computer Science |
$69,674 (INR 51,58,934) |
2 |
University of California, Berkeley |
M Sc. in Computer Science |
$13,272 (INR 9,82,710) |
1 |
M Sc. in Computer Science |
$58,442 (INR 43,27,273) |
2 |
|
M.E in Computer Science |
$109,864 (INR 81,34,759) |
2 |
|
Princeton University |
M Sc. in Computer Science |
$120,080 (INR 88,91,191) |
2 |
M Sc. in Computer Science |
$60,540 (INR 44,82,617) |
1 |
|
M Sc. in Computer Science |
$117,460 (INR 86,97,196)
|
2 |
|
M Sc. in Computer Science |
$64,908 (INR 48,06,041) |
2 |
|
Cornell University |
M Sc Computer Science |
$117,172 (INR 87,15,855) |
2 |
University of Washington |
M Sc. in Computer Science Engineering |
$15,000 (INR 11,10,658) |
1 |
University of Michigan |
MSE in Computer Science and Engineering |
$52,960 (INR 39,21,364) |
2 |
University of Illinois- Urban Campaign |
M Sc. in Computer Science |
$34,648 (INR 25,65,473) |
2 |
University of Southern California |
M Sc. in Computer Science |
$51,590 (INR 38,19,924) |
2 |
M Sc Computer Science |
$40,000 (INR 29,61,756) |
1.5-2 |
|
M Sc. in Computer Science |
$50,432 (INR 37,34,181) |
2 |
|
M Sc. in Computer Science |
$141,000 (INR 1,04,40,189) |
2 |
|
MS Computer Science |
$64,214 (INR 47,54,654) |
2 |
|
New York University |
M Sc. in Computer Engineering |
$98,208 (INR 72,71,703) |
2 |
Boston University |
MS in Computer Science |
$58,560 (INR 43,36,010) |
2 |
M Sc. in Scientific Computing |
$113,572 (INR 84,09,313) |
2 |
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Reasons to Study MS in Computer Science in the USA
The reasons why students pursue MS in Computer Science in the USA are mentioned below:
- The USA offers a multicultural and friendly environment, being home to more than one million international students.
- USA’s top 15 universities consistently rank amongst the world’s top-50 universities for computer science, as per the 2022 QS World Rankings.
- The USA offers attractive salaries for computer science graduates with the increasing scope of research in emerging fields.
- High demand for skilled computer science professionals in various fields like gaming, software solutions, AI (artificial intelligence), robotics, and automation.
Eligibility Criteria to Study MS in Computer Science in the USA
To pursue MS in computer science in the USA for Indian students means complying with the requisite criteria. Here’s taking a look at the same:
- Candidates should have Bachelor’s or undergraduate degrees equivalent to Bachelor’s program in Computer Science in the USA. They may also have a degree in any technical discipline which is relevant. Aggregates of 3.0 GPA are a must out of 4.0 GPA. It means a minimum B grade with 83-86% of marks.
- Another MS in computer science in USA eligibility criteria pertains to the GRE score. Students need to score anywhere between 292-328 to boost their chances. Most universities accept GRE cut-offs in this segment. For example, Stanford University takes GRE 328, while GRE 292 is good enough for Harvard University. Carnegie Mellon University accepts scores of 316, while the University of Washington takes 300.
- Good scores are a must in English language proficiency tests like TOEFL or IELTS. The minimum IELTS cut-off is usually 7, although institutions like the University of Southern California may accept 6.5 scores while some like Carnegie Mellon University insist on IELTS 7.5 score.
Read More: Study Masters in USA without GRE
Application Deadlines for Admission to MS in Computer Science in the USA
Here’s taking a look at the deadlines for applying for MS in Computer Science in the USA (University-wise)
Name of Institution |
Deadline for Applying |
University of California, Berkeley |
December 8 |
University of California, Los Angeles |
December 1 |
Carnegie Mellon University |
December 9 |
Stanford University |
December 7 |
Princeton University |
December 15 |
Harvard University |
December 1 |
Columbia University |
November 7 |
New York University |
March 1 |
Georgia Tech |
February 1 |
University of Washington |
December 15 |
University of Illinois- Urban Campaign |
December 15 |
University of California – San Diego |
December 16 |
University of Pennsylvania |
March 1 or May 1 |
Yale University |
June 1 (Fall), October 1 (Spring) and March 1 (Summer) |
University of Southern California |
September 15 (Spring) and January 15 (Fall) |
Cornell University |
February 1 |
Boston University |
September 1 |
University of Texas, Austin |
December 15 |
University of Michigan |
January 15 |
Application Process for MS in Computer Science in the USA
You can directly apply through the official websites of selected universities to study abroad in the USA. International students need 16 years of official education to be eligible to apply. Here is what you should provide with the filled-up application form:
- GMAT or GRE score sheet.
- TOEFL or IELTS score sheet.
- SOP (Statement of Purpose)
- LORs (Letters of Recommendations).
- Certificates of Work Experience, if needed.
- Co-Curricular Activities as stated in the application.
- Passport Photocopies.
- Academic Transcripts in sealed envelopes, which should be stamped and signed by the Principals/HODs.
- Attested mark sheets of earlier examinations.
- Proof of funds, proven through bank statements of the last three months. You should show funds to cover tuition and living costs for at least one year.
- Health insurance documents.
Once all your documents have been submitted with your application and respective transcripts mailed in a sealed envelope, the university will evaluate your application. Once approved, you will be notified of the same through the official acceptance letter. Keep the admissions deadline in mind; some institutions have specific deadlines, while some take applications throughout the year.
It is pivotal to apply to study in USA, for proceeding with your application. The F-1 visa is the commonest option and you can find the application form on the website of the US Embassy. You should provide all documents and meet the eligibility criteria for getting your visa.
You will require a valid passport with the date extending to at least six months beyond the course tenure. A recent passport-size photograph is necessary along with the DS-160 confirmation page. You will also need Form I-20 along with paying the SEVIS application fee. You have to schedule your appointment at your nearest centre for submitting your biometric data and another appointment for your visa interview. Answer honestly and clearly at the interview in order to ensure your selection.
Read More: Salary After MS in USA
Job Opportunities After MS Courses in Computer Science in the USA
Computer science graduates in the USA get several job opportunities revolving around software, programming, and emerging fields like VR (virtual reality), AR (augmented reality), AI (artificial intelligence), ML (machine learning), big data, and its management and networking. As per several reports, average annual salaries hover around $118,000 (INR 87,37,180) and $114,000 (INR 84,41,004) for research scientists and hardware engineers in the field. The demand for trained computer science professionals will skyrocket over the next decade.
Successful graduates can work as artificial intelligence experts, network architects, android or iOS developers, blockchain developments, ERP project managers, C++ developers, and ethical hackers. They can also find employment as information security managers, network engineers, and lead developers. Average yearly salaries range between $75,000 (INR 55,53,292) and $117,000 (INR 86,63,136) across job positions and companies.
Fees for MS in Computer Science in the USA
The tuition costs for MS in Computer Science may range between $78,000 (INR 57,75,424) and $141,000 (INR 1,04,40,189) approximately. There are institutions like the University of California with reasonable fees of $13,500-$14,000 (INR 9,99,592-INR 10,36,614), while some charge upwards of $120,000-130,000 (INR 88,85,268-96,25,707). It is not just about the tuition fees; there are other costs as well.
These include:
- $510 (approx) in visa application charges or INR 37,762
- $200-$240 (approx) for TOEFL/IELTS examinations or INR 14,809-INR 17,771
- $190 for GRE examination or INR 14,068
- $180-$200 as SEVIS charges (J/F-Type visas) or INR 13,328-INR 14,809
- $500-$1,000 in travel expenses or INR 37,022-INR 74,044
Once in the USA, you will have to cover your costs of living as well. Here’s taking a brief look at the monthly expenditure:
- $600-$1,000 for accommodation (covering both on-campus and off-campus units) or INR 44,426-74,044
- $120-$160 in meals and grocery costs or INR 8,885- INR 11,847
- $450-$700 in health insurance or INR 33,320-INR 51,831
- $100-$300 for public transport or INR 7,404-INR 22,213
- $300-$600 to meet personal expenditure or INR 22,213-INR 44,426
Approximate yearly costs hover around $96,000-$112,000 (INR 71,08,214-INR 82,92,916) for international students in this field.
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Scholarships for MS in Computer Science
Living costs and tuition fees combine to make it a costly affair for international students, particularly those from nations with lower exchange rates. Hence, they often find it more convenient to apply for scholarships instead. If successful, these help in funding their educational costs, either partially or completely. Your success at obtaining a scholarship will depend upon your entrance examination results and factors like your academic scores, accomplishments, extra-curricular activities, and letters of recommendation.
Here are some of the scholarship choices available for international students:
Scholarship |
Criteria for Eligibility |
Scholarship Amount |
Students hailing from lower-income nations |
$30,000 (INR 22,21,317) |
|
Civil Society Leadership Award |
Good academic track record |
Coverage for tuition costs, monthly stipend and some living costs |
PEO International Peace Scholarship for Women |
Only applicable for global women aspirants |
$12,500 (INR 9,25,548) |
People from some countries, including India. At least 5 years of professional experience. |
Coverage for tuition costs, computer subsidies, monthly stipends, travel expenses and health insurance costs |
|
At least 55% in the UG course for doctoral or master’s programs |
Coverage for health insurance, travel costs, miscellaneous costs and tuition charges as well |
USA Work Permits-
After completing the educational course, a majority of international students seek employment opportunities in the country. You will need the H1-B visa after submitting your employment offer and filing the I-29 petition with the USA Citizen and Immigration Department.
Read More: F1 Visa Documents Checklist
Frequently Asked Questions
A- Candidates should have Bachelor’s or undergraduate degrees equivalent to Bachelor’s program in Computer Science in the USA. They may also have a degree in any technical discipline which is relevant. Applicants will have to appear for entrance examinations like GRE. They need scores in English language proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL. A- The USA is one of the best global destinations for studying computer science. It is the hub of the global technology sector, housing some of the world’s biggest technology companies and leading universities. The country also offers numerous job opportunities for computer science graduates. A- There are many destinations in the USA where MS in Computer Science is a popular course for international students. These include Austin (Texas), San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago, Washington DC, Ann Arbor (Michigan), Ithaca (New York) and Boston. A- Top branches for MS in the USA include Computer Science, Power Engineering, Embedded Systems, Management Information Systems (MIS), Wireless Communications, Petroleum Engineering, Game Design and Development, and Life Sciences. A- You should find suitable courses and institutions. Check out their official websites for eligibility criteria. Narrow down the list and appear for entrance examinations like GRE, GMAT, TOEFL, IELTS, SAT and ACT. Write your SOP (Statement of Purpose) and get your LORs (Letters of Recommendation). Apply to the institution where you fit the eligibility criteria.Q1. Which exam is required for MS in computer science in the USA?
Q2. Is the USA good for MS in CS?
Q3. Which state is best for MS in CS in the USA?
Q4. Which branch is best for MS in the USA?
Q5. How can I apply for MS in the USA?