Jaya, an ambitious young professional from India, steps into the bustling campus of a prestigious American business school. From intense classroom discussions to networking events with industry leaders, her days were filled with opportunities to grow and learn. She thrived in a multicultural environment, developing her business acumen and global perspective while pursuing MBA in the USA.
She navigated through rigorous coursework, innovative projects, and dynamic internships. Her experience epitomized the essence of pursuing an MBA in the USA for Indian students – a blend of academic excellence, diverse experiences, and unparalleled career prospects.
Just like her, if you are seeking a global exposure with an MBA in the USA, then choosing the right B-school is paramount.
Learn about the average MBA fees in the USA, top MBA universities in the USA, costs involved & more with us.
Trivia: Poets&Quants analyzed data from the U.S. News & World Report's annual ranking of the top US B-schools – 27 of 36 top US B-schools report 20% or more Indian students.
MBA in USA Highlights
Number of B-Schools
500+ colleges
MBA Specialization
MBA in Marketing, MBA in General Management, MBA in Finance, MBA in Human Resource Management
Admission Requirements
Average GPA- 3.4
TOEFL iBT Score- 70
Average 5 years of Work Experience
Average Tuition Fees
USD 73,472.70
Average Salary
USD 86,020
Top Recruiters
Google, HCL, Amazon, Deloitte among others
Why Study MBA in USA
1. Prestigious Institutions and High-Quality Education
The USA is home to some of the world’s top business schools, including Stanford, Harvard, and Wharton, with 5 of the top 10 programs globally according to the 2024 QS Global MBA Rankings. These institutions offer rigorous academic programs and are renowned for their distinguished faculty and cutting-edge research.
2. Career Advancement & High Earning Potential
Graduates from top US business schools often see significant salary increases. For example, Harvard MBA graduates earn an annual average of $210,000 three years post-graduation. Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) reports that the median base salary (annual) for new MBA hires in the US is $115,000 in 2023, far higher than for those with only a bachelor’s degree.
3. Post-Graduation Work Opportunities
International students can work in the USA for up to 12 months under the OPT program, which is extendable to 36 months for STEM graduates. This offers immersive learning opportunities to international students.
4. Networking Opportunities
US business schools have extensive and influential alumni networks. Wharton's network, for instance, includes over 100,000 members globally. According to a GMAC survey, 88% of MBA alumni from US schools found their alumni network helpful in advancing their careers.
5. Diverse Specializations and Flexibility
Many US MBA programs offer a wide range of specializations. For example, Stanford provides finance, marketing, and social innovation pathways. The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) reports that 92% of US business schools offer multiple MBA concentrations, allowing students to tailor their education to specific career goals.
6. Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
The USA is home to a vast number of venture capital firms, angel investors, and crowdfunding platforms. Also, US B-schools often have dedicated entrepreneurship centers. For instance, the Harvard Innovation Labs (i-lab) and MIT's Martin Trust Center for MIT Entrepreneurship provide resources and mentorship for students to develop their business ideas.
7. Access to Cutting-Edge Technology & Resources
US business schools are well-funded and equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. For instance, MIT Sloan benefits from MIT’s extensive tech resources. The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) shows that US institutions spent over $83 billion on research and development in 2022, greatly benefiting business schools.
8. Internship & Practical Experience
US MBA programs typically include mandatory internships. At Harvard, 100% of MBA students complete a summer internship. A 2023 GMAC survey (Enrolled Students Survey) indicated that 80% of MBA graduates from US programs felt their internship experience significantly enhanced their employability.
9. Cultural Diversity and Global Perspective
US MBA programs attract a diverse student body, enhancing the learning environment. At Columbia Business School, 44% of the Class of 2023 is international. The IIE reports over 200,000 international students enrolled in US business programs in 2022-2023.
10. Comprehensive Curriculum
US MBA curricula are comprehensive and dynamic, covering core business disciplines and electives. Schools like Kellogg and Tuck have restructured their programs to meet market demands, with the AACSB noting that 89% of US business schools have updated their curricula in the past five years.
11. Strong Emphasis on Soft Skills
US MBA programs emphasize leadership development and soft skills. Stanford’s MBA program, for instance, includes leadership labs and personalized coaching. A GMAC survey reveals that 94% of employers highly value teamwork and communication skills in MBA graduates.
A full-time MBA program is a two-year classroom program. In the first year, you will have exposure to business subjects. In the second year, the students need to take up one or two majors or specializations based on their grades or interests.
Moreover, the first year will be common for all, but the classes will be divided as per the specialization in the second year. In the second year, students will have to do various training and internships with different brands. A full-time MBA program is meant for regular students.
Part-Time MBA
A part-time MBA is for individuals who are already employed and working. They take classes only on the weekends. Hence, the course duration may exceed from two to four years.
Executive MBA
This course is designed for senior positions like managers. It focuses on leadership, monitoring, teamwork, and communication skills. Companies organize executive MBA programs for existing employees or management officials to help them upskill.
Online MBA
Online MBA is done through the digital mode of study. There are no fixed tenure and timings for the classes. Students can take the course from different countries without being physically present.
Top MBA Specializations in USA
Specializations
Description
MBA in General Management
An MBA in General Management not only gives you a chance to build your general management skills but also covers different aspects such as operations, digitalization, and people management.
MBA in Marketing
If you are looking to make an appealing career in marketing, then an MBA in Marketing is an ideal choice that fortifies the knowledge of the aspirant on topics like massive data, consumer behavior, marketing analytics, pricing strategy, and brand management.
MBA in Consulting
An MBA in Consulting helps you develop a fair understanding of business operations and people management.
MBA in Entrepreneurship
Students wishing to establish themselves as an entrepreneur can opt for this specialization.
MBA in Operations Management
This specialization focuses on planning, handling, and managing production to produce efficient results.
Top Universities/Colleges for MBA in USA
As discussed, there are several prestigious B-schools in the US. Let us check out some of the globally ranked top MBA colleges in the USA for Indian students:
University/ School
QS Global MBA Ranking 2024
Eligibility Criteria
Stanford Graduate School of Business
1
A bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution GMAT/GRE test scores English language proficiency test scores (TOEFL) Updated resume Statement of Purpose Three recommendation letters
Wharton School of Business
2
A bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution GRE/GMAT scores English language proficiency test scores (TOEFL or PTE) Educational transcripts Two essays Two recommendation letters Updated resume
Harvard Business School
3
Minimum four-year bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution GMAT/GRE test scores English language proficiency test scores (if your undergraduate program’s MOI was not English) IELTS: 7.5 TOEFL: 109 PTE: 75 Educational transcripts Two recommendation letters Updated Resume
MIT Sloan School of Management
4
A bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution GRE/GMAT scores Educational transcripts English language proficiency test scores IELTS: 7 TOEFL: 577 PBT/90 IBT Three recommendation letters Updated Resume
Columbia Business School
5
A bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution GRE/GMAT scores Essays Updated Resume Recommendation Letter IELTS: 7.5 TOEFL: 105 Duolingo English Test: 125
The University of California, Berkeley (Haas)
7
Minimum four-year bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution GRE/GMAT scores English language proficiency test scores IELTS: 6.5 TOEFL: 80 Duolingo English Test: 115
UCLA Anderson School of Management
9
A four-year bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution GRE/GMAT scores Educational transcripts English language proficiency test scores IELTS: 7.0 TOEFL: 560 Two recommendation letters Essay
Yale School of Management
10
A four-year bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution GRE/GMAT scores Educational transcripts Two recommendation letters Two essays Updated Resume
Detailed Analysis of Some of the Top Universities in USA for MBA
1. Stanford University
GMAT Score Eligibility: 750 or higher
GRE Score Eligibility: Verbal = 164, Quantitative = 165
Minimum IELTS Score: 7
Tuition Fees for MBA Program: $82,455
Employment Rate: 89%
Top Specialization: Entrepreneurship, Management, Finance, Accounting
Acceptance Rate: 4%
2. University of Pennsylvania (Wharton)
GMAT Score Eligibility: 728 or higher
GRE Score Eligibility: Verbal = 162, Quantitative = 162
Minimum IELTS Score: 7
Tuition Fees for Management Program: $79,800
Employment Rate: 83.9% employed at graduation
Top Specialization: Accounting, Business Analytics, Entrepreneurship
Acceptance Rate: 31%
3. Harvard University
GMAT Score Eligibility: There is no minimum requirement
GRE Score Eligibility: There is no minimum requirement
Minimum IELTS Score: 7
Tuition Fees for Business School: $76,410
Employment Rate: 80% of the applicants accepted the job offer
Top Specialization: Management, International Relations, Entrepreneurship
Acceptance Rate: 3%
4. University of Chicago (Booth)
GMAT Score Eligibility: There is no minimum requirement
GRE Score Eligibility: There is no minimum requirement
Minimum IELTS Score: There is no minimum requirement
Tuition Fees for MBA Program: $84,198
Employment Rate: 96.4%
Top Specialization: Finance, Management, Executive MBA
Acceptance Rate: 36%
5. Columbia Business School
GMAT Score Eligibility: Submit a self-reported valid GMAT score
GRE Score Eligibility: Submit a self-reported valid GMAT score
Minimum IELTS Score: Scorecard accepted
Tuition Fees for MBA Program: $84,496
Employment Rate: 91.2%
Top Specialization: Real Estate, Finance, International Relations
Acceptance Rate: 4%
6. University of California (Berkeley)
GMAT Score Eligibility: 710 to 750
GRE Score Eligibility: Verbal = 159 to 168, Quantitative = 159
Minimum IELTS Score: 6.5
Tuition Fees for School of Business: $42,236 in-state, $40,036 out-of-state
Employment Rate: 98.70%
Top Specialization: Economics, Space Sciences, Computer Sciences
Acceptance Rate: 11%
7. Northwestern University (Kellogg)
GMAT Score Eligibility: 724 or higher
GRE Score Eligibility: Verbal = 160, Quantitative = 154
Minimum IELTS Score: 7
Tuition Fees for School of Business: $231,174
Employment Rate: 74% in various fields like consultancy and finance services
Top Specialization: Accounting, Finance, Economics
Acceptance Rate: 33.3%
8. Yale School of Management
GMAT Score Eligibility: No minimum GMAT score is required to apply to Yale
GRE Score Eligibility: No minimum GRE score is required to apply to Yale
Minimum IELTS Score: 7 or higher
Tuition Fees for School of Management: $85,400
Employment Rate: 96.1%
Top Specialization: Social Sciences, Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Computer and Information Sciences
Acceptance Rate: 5%
Business Schools Waiving GMAT Scores in 2024
Business School
Eligibility Criteria for GMAT Waiver
University of Michigan- Ross School of Business
Candidates having at least eight years of professional post-college job experience may use the Executive Assessment (EA) instead of the GMAT or GRE.
Georgetown University- McDonough School of Business
MIM applicants having a GPA of 3.2 or above
are eligible for a GMAT waiver.
UNC Kenan-Flager Business School
Applicants having a GPA of 3.2 or above in a Business, Economics, Analytics or STEM fields
Earned an advanced degree in MD,
JD or a PhD or MS degree within a business economics or STEM field.
CPA, CFA, or international equivalent
More than five years of professional experience in a quantitative or analytical field
Cornell University
Candidates who have demonstrated analytical and/or quantitative abilities via their work experience, academics, etc.
Kelley School of Business
Undergraduate or graduate academic record
Work experience related to analytical and quantitative fields.
Intake for MBA in USA
There are majorly three admission intakes in the USA:-
Spring Intake
Fall Intake
Summer Intake
However, the major semesters are Fall and Spring and a few colleges offer summer intakes.
How to Get Admission to MBA in USA
Start by researching various MBA programs to find the ones that align with your career goals, preferred location, and other personal preferences. Post that, you should check the admission requirements of the university. Also, pass standardized and language proficiency tests. Some of the common ones are listed in the next section.
Exams and Their Test Scores Requirement for MBA in USA
The admissions requirements for MBA in USA for international students can vary from university to university. However, some of the common admission requirements are listed below.
Average GPA - 3.4
TOEFL iBT Score - 70
Average 4 years of Work Experience
Eligibility for MBA in USA
A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
Applicants must submit scores from either the GMAT or GRE, depending on their field of study.
MBA in USA eligibility also includes English proficiency test scores.
Documentation Needed for MBA in USA
Students need to produce all kinds of necessary documents to process admission in the USA. Here are some of the most important documents for admission in MBA programs:-
All past academic qualifications and transcripts. It includes high school, graduation, post-graduation, and all relevant certificates.
Minimum two Letters of Recommendation (LORs) from faculty or past employers
Updated copies of resume
Statement of Purpose
USA study visa
TOEFL or IELTS test scores
GRE or GMAT scores
Work experience certificate
Passport-size photographs
Visa Requirements for MBA in USA
For academic purposes, students are granted an F-1 student visa that allows them to pursue degree programs at both graduate and undergraduate levels. The student must obtain the I-20 form from the enrolled university, and they can work part-time jobs while studying in the US. Only 20 hours per week is permissible for working on campus.
The cost of pursuing an MBA in USA for international students would vary from B-school to B-school and the type of MBA they choose to pursue. Here is an average that can help you to make a choice.
The types of MBA courses spread across USA universities are:-
MBA Courses
Lowest Average Fees (Per Year)
Full-Time MBA
$73,000
Part-Time MBA
$13,000
Online MBA
$10,000
Executive MBA
$89,000
Early Career MBA
$26,000
MBA Fees in USA for Indian students
For Indian students, getting an MBA from the USA is a dream. However, on average, an MBA in the USA costs around 70 lakhs a year. It is just the fee, and you will have to pay seven-eight lakhs for the living cost too. It can be difficult to manage for many deserving students.
Taking note of this, we have listed down the cheapest MBA colleges in the USA for Indian students. The average tuition fees of these range from USD 12,000- USD 22,000.
University at Buffalo: USD 12,195
Lamar University: Less than USD 16,000
Iowa State University: USD 16,983
California Miramar University: USD 22,815
Apart from managing the cost of studying, you would also have to manage cost of living in USA.
Given below is the average cost of living in USA that should be considered while planning to study there:-
Eating out
$75
Groceries
$110.99
Transportation
$72
Utilities
$206.26
Mobile phone
$52.04
Internet
$71.09
Sports and Leisure
$84.46
Rent (1 bedroom)
$1768.43
Total
$2439.28
Source: Numbeo
Cheapest MBA Options for Students
A few universities for an MBA in the USA provide relatively cheapest MBA in the USA for Indian students. It should be noted that these institutions don’t forego the quality and crux of imparting education to offer an affordable course structure.
University
Annual Tuition Fees
Bridgewater State University
$17,444
Jackson State University
$9,445
Worcester State University
$17,366
University of South Dakota
12,768
University of Central Arkansas
$17,258
California State University-Channel Islands
$7,144
Financial Aid and Scholarships for MBA in USA
To manage the cost of studying for an MBA in the USA, you can also look for scholarship options that will keep you covered.
Scholarship Name
Description/ Benefits
Wharton Academic Excellence Scholarship
International students studying MBA at Wharton Business School and achieve the highest academic performance (GPA) during their second and third semesters qualify for it.
Amount/Benefit: $10,000
Dr. Bruce I. Jacobs Scholars in Quantitative Finance
MBA students at Wharton Business School with high GPA majoring in Quantitative Finance during their second year.
They must complete nine credits in the first year of their MBA.
Amount/ Benefit: $25,000
J. N. Tata Endowment Awards
One-time loan scholarship to Indians offered at the beginning of an academic year for full-time Ph.D./ postgraduate/ postdoctoral/ research fellowships studies, in all fields.
Amount/ Benefit: $10,000
The International Peace Scholarship
It is a merit-based scholarship for female international students looking to study any course including MBA at UCLA Anderson School of Management.
Amount/ Benefit: $10,000
How to Study MBA in USA for Free
Pursuing an MBA in the USA can be a rewarding experience, and there are ways to minimize the financial burden. Many business schools across the US offer fully-funded scholarships for their MBA programs, fellowships, and assistantships. These programs aim to attract talented and diverse students who may need more financial means to pay for the program independently.
Here are some top MBA programs that offer total funding:-
1. Harvard University
The university of harvard will cover 100% of the finances if the student is qualified. The remaining is paid through a grant-based scholarship, which is not to be repaid.
2. Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program at Stanford University is a highly competitive scholarship program that offers total funding for master’s degree programs in any field of study.
3. Yale Scholarship
The Yale Scholarship is a financial aid given to Yale undergraduates, fully- funded by the University itself, and is awarded purely based on economic necessity.
4. Wharton Scholarship
Various scholarships are based on different criteria awarded to candidates who want to pursue an MBA in the USA. To name a few scholarships that are fully funded are:-
Prism Scholarship
Emerging Economy fellowship
Forte fellowship
Work Permit after MBA in USA
After completing an MBA in the USA, international students become eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT). Here are the key details:-
OPT Duration
MBA graduates can stay and work in the USA for 12 months under OPT. Optional Practical Training (OPT) provides temporary employment authorization for F-1 students in degree programs. It allows them to gain practical job experience directly related to their major field. F-1 students can avail 12 months of OPT for each educational degree level (e.g., bachelor's, master's, doctorate). However, students in non-degree programs are not eligible for any form of off-campus work authorization.
Documents Required for OPT and CPT
When applying for OPT or Curricular Practical Training (CPT), you’ll need the following documents:-
Form I-20: This is issued by your Designated School Official (DSO) and confirms your eligibility for CPT or OPT.
Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization): CPT and OPT applications are required.
Passport: Valid passport with a valid F1 visa.
I-94 Arrival/Departure Record: Printout of your electronic I-94 record.
Job Opportunities after the MBA program in the USA
According to the Corporate Recruiters Survey of 2020, MBA graduates in the USA are paid around 115,000 USD to 145,000 USD perannum. Listed below are some of the available jobs after an MBA in the USA:-
Operations Manager
Project Manager
IT Manager
Executive Director
System Engineer
Human Resource Manager
Sales Manager
IT Consultants
Chief Financial Officer
Business Development Director
Senior IT Manager
Account Manager
Accounting Manager
Finance Manager
Financial Analyst
HR Director
Data Analyst
Sr Product Manager
Business Development Manager
Office Manager
Marketing Manager
Management Consultant
Conclusion
In conclusion, pursuing an MBA in the USA unlocks a world of unparalleled opportunities for career growth and personal development. With a rigorous curriculum and a diverse, dynamic cohort, you'll gain invaluable skills and networks that position you for global success.
An MBA in the USA isn't just an academic achievement-it's a transformative journey that opens doors to limitless possibilities. Invest in your future and watch as new horizons unfold before you.
FAQs on MBA in USA
Is GMAT compulsory for an MBA in the USA?
Yes, the GMAT is a compulsory entrance examination for the top MBA programs in the USA. The minimum score required is 600. However, it varies from one university to another. The top three universities have high GMAT score requirements. Some universities do not require a GMAT score. Some of them are the University of Hull, Ross School of Business, Florida International University, Pace University, and Boston University. To waive off the GMAT score requirement, one needs to have a high GPA or work experience.
Is studying for an MBA in the USA worth it?
Doing an MBA from the most developed economy has its benefits. An MBA degree offers strong knowledge about business development, administration, and leadership and helps build a strong network and explore lucrative opportunities. On the better side, an MBA done from the USA is completely worth every penny invested. The students get international exposure with top-notch brands, a flexible education system, the best faculties, and a ranked MBA degree.
What is the duration of an MBA in the USA?
Generally, an MBA is a two-year program in the USA. However, some universities also offer one-year MBA programs in the country. upGrad Abroad has partnered with top universities in the USA to offer an MBA program wherein the students can study the initial part of their program online from India and move directly to the campus to complete the course.
Which are the highest paying jobs after an MBA in the USA?
MBA can be pursued in various specializations, and an MBA degree from the USA not only holds value but also opens doors for better career prospects.
Here are some of the career options to choose from after an MBA:-
Management Consultant
Investment Banker
Information Technology (Director)
Human Resource Professional
Marketer
Who is eligible for an MBA in the USA?
All applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree to be eligible to enroll in an MBA program. Applicants admitted to the Carey JD/MBA Program are accepted for the fall semester on a full-time basis only. All applicants must take the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) or the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT).
Is an MBA in the USA demanding?
It can be pretty challenging to pursue an MBA in the USA, but it is also rewarding. Balancing academics, work, and personal life can be challenging. However, the potential for career advancement and higher salaries makes it worthwhile.
Can I do an MBA without a bachelor's degree in the USA?
Some schools (like Dartmouth) accept MBA students without undergraduate degrees. Exceptions are often celebrities or exceptional talents. Executive MBA (EMBA) programs are popular for accomplished executives with nontraditional backgrounds.
How long does it typically take to complete an MBA program in the USA?
Traditional full-time MBA programs usually take about two years to complete. Part-time options allow flexibility, extending the duration to four or five years.
How can Indian students enhance their chances of admission into a top MBA program in the USA?
Indian students can boost their chances by:-
Maintaining a competitive GPA.
Prepare well and aim for high GMAT/GRE scores.
Gain relevant experience before applying.
Showcase leadership roles and involvement.
Connect with alumni, attend events, and engage with industry professionals.
Craft a compelling Statement of Purpose (SOP) and secure strong letters of recommendation.
Understand each program’s strengths and how they fit with your goals.
Are there any specific preparation courses recommended for GMAT/GRE tests?
Enrolling in the GMAT/GRE test is recommended to score well. Consider enrolling in GMAT or GRE prep courses to improve your test scores. These courses provide structured study materials and practice tests to enhance your performance.
What is the significance of networking during an MBA in the USA?
The connections you establish during an MBA program significantly influence your career path after graduation. Building a strong network is crucial; it shapes your future and impacts various aspects of your life. Quality career opportunities can be enhanced through these connections, as employers highly value recommendations from trusted business professionals and alumni.
What are the common challenges Indian students face in MBA programs in the USA, and how can they be addressed?
Cultural Adjustment: Adapting to a new environment can be challenging. Engage in cultural exchange activities and seek support.
Communication Skills: Enhance English language proficiency for effective communication.
Academic Rigor: Be prepared for rigorous coursework and time management.
Career Shift: Understand the job market and align your goals with the program’s offerings.
Financial Planning: Budget wisely and explore scholarships and financial aid.
What is the typical age of MBA students in the USA?
MBA students in the USA vary widely in age. Full-time programs often have younger students (mid-20s to early 30s), while EMBA programs cater to mid-career professionals (30s to 40s).
How does an MBA in the USA enhance job prospects in India?
An MBA from a top US business school enhances job prospects globally, including in India. It provides a strong brand value, network, and skills that employers value.
Akansha Semwal is a content marketer at upGrad and has also worked as a social media marketer & sub-editor. Experienced in creating impressive Statement of Purpose, Essays, and LOR, she knows how to captivate the attention of Admissions Committee. Her research-driven;study-abroad articles helps aspirants to make the prudent decision. She holds a bachelor's & master's degree in Literature from the University of Delhi.
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