Master of Science (MS) in USA is a two-year program offering students an advanced post-graduate degree to the students. USA provides world-class research opportunities, a job-oriented course, and renowned faculty members to impart quality education.

Most international students traveling to USA for education opt for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs, including computer sciences, data science, accounting and management, computer engineering, and more. However, some of the biggest concerns that usually hold aspirants back are how to study MS in USA from India, how much it costs to study MS in USA, the requirements to study MS in USA, and more.

This article would give you a brief idea about all the information required to pursue MS in USA. Read on. 

Highlights of MS in USA

Pursuing a master’s in US is the goal for several international students. However, I feel everyone must know the details of their intended program before moving forward.

Why Study MS in USA?

More than 80,000 students travel to USA annually to obtain a master’s degree in various specializations. Reasons to study MS in USA include:

World’s Best Universities for MS in USA

The Ivy League universities in USA are famous for being the best worldwide. A degree from an Ivy League institution or one of the best-ranked universities can help you get a significant head-start in your career. More than 50 USA universities are in the top 100 in the world list. Some of the best institutes to study MS in USA are-:

• Harvard University
• Johns Hopkins University
• Columbia University
• Northern Arizona University
• Washington State University, and more.

Wide Specialization Options in MS in USA

There are over 200 master’s programs in USA to specialize in. So, you have multiple options to choose from. Some of the top MS degrees in USA are offered in the following streams:

• Computer Science,
• Wireless Communications,
• Pharmacy
• Life Sciences,
• Medicine,
• Law,
• Engineering, and more.

Highly Accredited Faculty

Universities in USA are famous and valued for employing renowned professors to help students complete their degrees successfully and become industry-ready to face real-life challenges.

Quality of Education

The US hosts a significant number of top-ranked universities globally. According to QS World University Rankings 2025, around 196 US institutions like MIT, Stanford, and Harvard consistently top the charts.

Advanced Research Facilities

The United States' R&D expenditure increased from $72 billion in 2021 to $789 billion in 2022. This means the country is at the forefront of technological and scientific advancements and, hence, offers state-of-the-art research facilities for aspiring MS students.

Global Networking

The current employment rate in the US is 62.5%. Hence, studying in the country provides students with the opportunity to build a global network for career advancement.

Employment Opportunities

The OPT (Optional Practical Training) program allows international students to work in the country for up to three years after graduation. This means they can seek employment at any time after completing their courses.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Numerous scholarships and financial aid options are available to international students. For instance, the Fulbright Foreign Student Program helps offset the high cost of education.

Innovation and Entrepreneurship

The US has the largest tech market in the world, which was worth $1.8 trillion (approx.) in 2023. Hence, the country promotes an entrepreneurial spirit and offers numerous opportunities for startups and innovation.

Top Master’s Courses in US

Here is a list of master’s courses in the US that you must know about before deciding to get your education abroad. 

Source: Official University Website

Top Universities for MS in USA

Given below are the list of the top 10 universities for the MS in USA:

Source: *topuniversities.com

Top Universities for MS in USA by Acceptance Rate

More than 90 percent of universities in USA offer MS courses. Many students wish to enroll in some of the top universities in USA, like Stanford University, Harvard University, Yale, and other Ivy League institutions. However, these universities have a low acceptance rate, as the average acceptance rate for the MS in USA in top universities is just 6 percent. 

Below is the list of the top universities for MS in USA by acceptance rate.

Source: *University official website

Popular MS Specializations MS in USA

Source: * Official University website

Admission Requirements & Eligibility Criteria for Masters in USA

Eligibility Criteria for MS in USA

A significant aspect you need to keep in mind while applying for MS in USA is that you must have an undergraduate degree in the subject relevant to your MS field. 

You must also meet these eligibility requirements to study MS in USA-

1.   An undergraduate degree in the relevant field
2.   A score of at least 65% in graduation. 
3.   IELTS score of at least 6.5 or as per university requirement. 
4.   GRE score above 250 or as required by your institution of choice
5.   Statement of Purpose (SOP)
6.   2 Letter of Recommendation (LORs)
7.   Published Research Papers (if any)
8.   Volunteering Certificate (if any)
9.   Internship projects or research projects (if any)

Standard Tests Required for Applying MS in USA

Here are the commonly required tests and their score requirements:

1. Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): Non-native English speakers must submit TOEFL scores. Most universities require a minimum score of 70–100.

2. International English Language Testing System(IELTS): An alternative to TOEFL, with a minimum score requirement of 6.5–7.0.

Admission Process for MS in USA

The admission process for USA universities can be conducted online. Students should check the university deadlines to complete their applications on time.

If you are still confused about how to pursue MS in USA, here we have discussed the admission process for MS in USA for a better idea:

1. Select the course you want to pursue and look for the best university offering that course.
2. Visit the official university websites and gather information about requirements, eligibility criteria, admission process, and fees. 
3. Start the application process and fill in all the information asked. Upload the required documents for your application to be reviewed. This may include your video essay, academic transcripts, IELTS, TOEFL, GMAT, GRE test scores, CV, LOR, SOP, etc.
4. Once you have completed filling out your application and uploading all documents, you may pay the fee.
5. Wait for the university to revert. Once selected, you may apply for your I-20 visa to acquire your F-1 student visa to study in USA as an international student.

MS in USA Admission Deadlines:

Application Cycle 1

• Autumn/Fall Intake: Applications open in late September or early October and are accepted till December’s second week. 
• Spring Intake: The application deadline for the spring intake usually hovers between mid-November to mid-December. 
• Summer Intake: The application deadline for the intake is somewhere in April. 

Admission Cycle 2

• Fall Intake: Classes begin in mid-August or early September and go on till the beginning of December. 
• Spring Intake: The session begins in January and concludes in April.
• Summer Intake: The session starts in May and ends in August. 

Essential Documents for MS in USA

The admission process in USA can be exhaustive. A set of documents are required from international students to become eligible for admission. Here is the list-

•   UG Marksheets
•   UG Transcript signed by Head of Department (HoD)
•   Statement of Purpose (SOP)
•   Two Letters of Recommendation (LOR)
•   Updated CV

Duration of MS Courses in USA

The duration of an MS course in USA Usually ranges between 1.5 to 2 years.

Cost of Studying MS Degree in USA

One needs to consider some factors when calculating the cost of studying MS in USA. They are:

•   Entrance exam fee
•   Application fee
•   Airfare
•   Insurance
•   College tuition fee
•   Cost of living

MS in USA Without GRE/GMAT & Work Experience

GRE and work experience are among the two most crucial eligibility for MS in USA for Indian students. GRE tests your analytical ability and critical thinking, while your work experience helps you understand your course in-depth. Many universities in USA offer specific courses that do not require GRE or work experience as a mandatory requirement. However, they ask for an alternative like a high GPA, GMAT score, valuable internships, etc. 

Some universities and programs also offer GRE or GMAT waivers under specific conditions:

• Relevant Work Experience: Extensive professional experience in the field of study can sometimes substitute for test scores.
• Strong Academic Background: A high GPA from a reputable undergraduate institution may allow a waiver.
• Specific Programs: Certain programs might not require GRE/GMAT scores. Examples include courses in public health, social work, and education. 

So if you wish to pursue MS in USA, there are many universities USA that enroll students without GRE; some of them are given below:

• Purdue University
• Virginia State University
• Northeastern University
• University of Colorado
• Long Island University

Universities for MS in USA without work experience are

Work experience can help but is not mandatory for most of the MS programs in the US. Academically brilliant individuals who excel in their college courses and co-curricular activities stand a strong chance of getting into such programs. This applies especially if they have taken courses in the subject area. 

These students must also have realistic and well-defined career goals. However, specific fields, like business management, may encourage having some practical experience.

• Yale University
• Princeton University
• Brown University
• University of Washington
• Duke University

Scholarships and Financial Aid to study MS in USA: 

Scholarships come a long way in managing the living and tuition costs in USA. But how do one gets scholarship to study MS in USA? It is best to begin the scholarship hunt with thorough research and check if you meet the eligibility criteria. Another essential thing that one must not miss is applying for the scholarship before the deadlines.  

Here are some scholarships that are available for Indian students wanting to pursue MS in USA: 

Here are some other notable scholarships for MS in USA:

Types of Visas:

1. F-1 visa: This is for students migrating to USA to complete higher education. F-1 visa holders cannot take up full-time jobs. Part-time work is allowed. The visa is granted to those enrolled in a program that culminates in a degree, diploma, or certificate. It is also crucial that USA government must authorize your chosen institute to accept international students.

2. F-2 visa: This is for F-1 visa dependents.

3. F-3 visa: This is for Canadians and Mexicans. F-3 visa holders are not allowed to work part-time or full-time.

Know more: What Is F2 and F3 Visa?

4. J-1 visa:  This is for exchange students.

5. M-1 visa: It is given to non-immigrants visiting to pursue non-academic or vocational courses. They are not allowed to work off-campus.

Post-Study Work Visa Options

There are three types of visas that allow the students to stay in the USA after completing their studies: M-1, J-1, and F-1. If one manages to get a job related to the field of study within 90 days after completing the course, one can get a permit to stay for a year. This permit can be extended for two more years. 

Now that you have unlocked the best MS courses, start your USA study journey with the best assistance. Book your free counseling session now.

Career Opportunities after MS in USA

As observed, masters in STEM offer high-salaried jobs. Here are some sought-after career opportunities after completing a master’s in science:

Source: Payscale

The average salary after an MS course in USA is $73,900