Masters in USA: Best Universities for MS, Eligibility, Fees & Rankings

Pursuing a Master's in the USA is a top choice for students seeking world-class education and global career opportunities. Whether it's an MS in USA or a specialized field like Masters in Computer Science, US universities offer dynamic programs designed for the global job market. There’s an option for every aspirant, from top-ranked MS programs to affordable choices for Indian students.

Explore top universities in the USA for MS and understand the associated fees including tuition, living expenses, and costs for international students. Our guide will help you navigate the application process and select the best university for your MS program, opening doors to exciting career prospects.
 

Why Pursue a Masters in the USA?

• World-Class Universities: US institutions offer high-quality programs and state-of-the-art research facilities.

• Career Growth: A US Master's degree is globally recognized and boosts employability, with high salaries and quality of life.

• Research & Innovation: US universities lead in research and development, contributing to global innovation.

• Cultural Diversity: Interact with students from diverse backgrounds, enhancing learning and global perspectives.

• Support for International Students: US universities provide financial aid, scholarships, visa assistance, and academic counseling.

Start your journey to a Master's in the USA today!

➤ Are you looking to study in the USA? Y-Axis is here to guide through the entire process!

Best Universities in USA for MS

These top universities in USA for MS are renowned for their academic excellence, cutting-edge research opportunities, and global recognition. These institutions offer world-class programs across various fields, including engineering, business, software/IT, and arts/humanities.

Below is a list of the top 10 universities in USA that provide exceptional MS programs in these fields, ensuring that students receive the best education and prepare for successful careers.
 

Rank	University Name	Field of Study	Location	Eligibility	Fees (Approx.)
1	Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	Engineering, Computer Science, Business, etc.	Cambridge, MA	4-year Bachelor’s, GRE/GMAT, TOEFL/IELTS, SOP, LOR	$50,000 - $85,960/year
2	Stanford University	Engineering, Business, Computer Science, etc.	Stanford, CA	4-year Bachelor’s, GRE/GMAT, TOEFL/IELTS, SOP, LOR	$55,000 - $70,000/year
3	Harvard University	Engineering, Business, Arts, Humanities, etc.	Cambridge, MA	4-year Bachelor’s, GRE/GMAT, TOEFL/IELTS, SOP, LOR	$50,000 - $70,000/year
4	University of California, Berkeley	Engineering, Computer Science, Business, etc.	Berkeley, CA	4-year Bachelor’s, GRE/GMAT, TOEFL/IELTS, SOP, LOR	$45,000 - $65,000/year
5	California Institute of Technology (Caltech)	Engineering, Computer Science	Pasadena, CA	4-year Bachelor’s, GRE, TOEFL/IELTS, SOP, LOR	$50,000 - $70,000/year
6	Carnegie Mellon University	Engineering, Computer Science, Business	Pittsburgh, PA	4-year Bachelor’s, GRE/GMAT, TOEFL/IELTS, SOP, LOR	$50,000 - $70,000/year
7	University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign	Engineering, Computer Science, Business	Urbana-Champaign, IL	4-year Bachelor’s, GRE, TOEFL/IELTS, SOP, LOR	$40,000 - $55,000/year
8	University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)	Engineering, Business, Arts, Humanities	Los Angeles, CA	4-year Bachelor’s, GRE/GMAT, TOEFL/IELTS, SOP, LOR	$45,000 - $65,000/year
9	University of Michigan, Ann Arbor	Engineering, Computer Science, Business, etc.	Ann Arbor, MI	4-year Bachelor’s, GRE/GMAT, TOEFL/IELTS, SOP, LOR	$45,000 - $60,000/year
10	University of Texas at Austin	Engineering, Computer Science, Business	Austin, TX	4-year Bachelor’s, GRE, TOEFL/IELTS, SOP, LOR	$40,000 - $55,000/year

This table provides a comprehensive overview of top universities, eligibility, and estimated fees for Indian students pursuing MS in USA. 
 

Top 10 Universities for IT in the USA

The table given below lists the top 10 universities in the US for IT and software, their respective QS rankings as of 2025, and average fee per year:

Universities in the US	QS World Rankings 2025	Average fee per year ( In USD)
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	#1	$85,960
Harvard University	#4	$63,620
Stanford University	#6	$49,900
University of California, Berkeley	#12	$31,000
Cornell University	#16	$68,380
Carnegie Mellon University	#58	$57,500
University of Texas--Austin	#66	$60,000
University of Illinois, Urbana - Champaign	#69	$38,270
University of Washington	#76	$37,940
Georgia Institute of Technology	#114	$31,180

Top 10 Universities for Engineering in the USA

The table given below lists the top 10 universities in the US for engineering, their respective QS rankings as of 2025, and average fee per year:

Universities in the US	QS World Rankings 2025	Average fee per year (In USD)
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	#1	$83,400
Harvard University	#4	$63,600
Stanford University	#6	$57,800
University of California, Berkeley	#12	$42,400
California Institute of Technology (Caltech)	#10	$65,700
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)	#42	$36,200
Carnegie Mellon University	#58	$60,000
University of Illinois, Urbana - Champaign	#69	$37,500
Purdue University	#89	$30,000
Georgia Institute of Technology	#114	$31,100

Top 10 Universities for Business in the USA

The table given below lists the top 10 universities in the US for business, their respective QS rankings as of 2025, and average fee per year:

Universities in the US	QS World Rankings 2025	Average fee per year ( In USD)
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	#1	$84,300
Harvard University	#4	$76,900
Stanford University	#6	$82,400
University of Pennsylvania (Wharton School)	#11	$84,800
University of California, Berkeley	#12	$85,400
University of Chicago	#21	$80,900
Yale University	#23	$87,800
Columbia University	#34	$88,300
New York University (NYU)	#43	$86,900
Northwestern University (Kellogg School)	#50	$81,000

Top 10 Universities for Arts and Humanities in the USA

The table given below lists the top 10 universities in the US for arts and humanities, their respective QS rankings as of 2025, and average fee per year:

Universities in the US	QS World Rankings 2025	Average fee per year ( In USD)
Harvard University	#4	$55,650
Stanford University	#6	$65,900
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	#1	$61,900
University of California, Berkeley	#12	$51,000
Yale University	#23	$49,500
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)	#42	$36,290
New York University (NYU)	#43	$62,700
Columbia University	#34	$56,270
Princeton University	#22	$62,400
University of Chicago	#21	$67,400

Top 10 Affordable Universities for Masters in the USA

The table given below lists the top 10 affordable universities in the US for Masters, their respective QS rankings as of 2025, and average fee per year:

Universities in the US	QS World Rankings 2025	Average fee per year ( In USD)
University of Texas, Austin	#66	$63,000
Purdue University	#89	$48,000
University of Florida	#215	$37,000
University of Houston	NA	$33,000
University at Buffalo, New York	#466	$37,000
University of South Florida	NA	$30,160
Michigan Technological University	NA	$57,700
University of Wisconsin	#116	$42,000
Arizona State University	#200	$37,000
Texas A&M University	#154	$36,500

Masters in USA cost: 

For students who wish to pursue a Masters in the US, understanding the cost of education, including tuition fees, living expenses, and others, is essential for budgeting and planning. The total cost of the Masters program varies depending on the university, course, course duration, and location of the university.

Tuition fees by University and Program

The tuition fee for your MS program in the US depends on whether you are studying at a public or private university.

Ivy League Universities (Private)

• The average tuition fee for the MS program ranges from $60,000 to $90,000, depending on the program.
• Despite the high cost, world-renowned universities with high academic standards, world-class faculties, and a strong alum network make the Ivy League universities a preferred destination for many.
• Eight universities include Brown University, Cornell University, Harvard University, University of Pennsylvania, Columbia University, Dartmouth University, Princeton University, and Yale University.

Public or State Universities

• The average tuition fee for the MS program ranges from $30,000 to $60,000, depending on the program.
• State universities offer numerous MS programs at more affordable rates.
• Popular universities include the University of Texas, Arizona State University, Michigan Technological University, etc.

Living costs in major cities in the USA

The cost of living varies from city to city in the US, with New York, San Jose, and San Francisco being the most expensive cities. At the same time, Decatur, Illinois, and Harlingen are the most affordable cities. The average yearly living cost for cities varies depending on lifestyle, family size, and other factors.

• Generally, a single person may require $50,000 - $70,000 per year, and families may need $70,000 -$ 100,000 per year to live in major cities like New York and San Francisco.
• In affordable cities like Illinois and Harlingen, a single person may require $40,000 or less to live, while for families, it may range between $50,000 and $70,000.

Scholarships and financial aid in the USA

Numerous universities in the US offer scholarships, financial aid, and assistantships for international students.

Scholarships and Financial aid

There are different types of scholarships and financial aid offered by US universities. They are as follows:

• Merit-based scholarships based on academic excellence
• Fulbright program
• University-specific scholarships for international students
• Scholarships provided by external organizations like IEFA and EducationUSA
• Need-based limited financial aid for international students
• Private student loans for international students

Assistantships

Graduate students can assist faculty with research or teaching responsibilities while continuing their studies. There are two types of assistantships:

• Research Assistantship: Assist faculty with research projects
• Teaching Assistantship: Assist faculty with teaching duties

Tips to reduce expenses in the USA

There are plenty of ways where students can reduce the cost of living by following a few tips, such as:

• Live off-campus: Housing is cheaper off-campus when compared to university dorms
• Self-cooking: Eating out in the US is expensive. Students can opt to cook at home to reduce living cost
• Do part-time work: Students can do part-time work on or off campus to manage their living expenses
• Use public transportation for commutation
• Students can also apply for multiple scholarships to reduce their financial burden

Masters in the USA for Indian Students

The requirements for a Masters program in the US depend on the university and the course that you have opted for. However, the general requirements are as follows:

Admission Requirements for Masters in the USA

• The A bachelor's degree or equivalent from a recognized university
• GRE/GMAT tests are required depending on the university
• Non-native English speakers must provide English proficiency tests like TOEFL or IELTS
• An ideal score of 80-100 for TOEFL and 6.6-7 for IELTS
• A well-structured Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining academic and career goals
• A minimum of 2-3 Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
• Official transcripts from all previously attended universities
• A well-formatted resume highlighting relevant skills and experience

Visa Requirements for Masters in the USA

For an Indian student to study in the US, an F-1 visa is required. The general F-1 visa requirements to study in the US are as follows:

• I-20 form issued by the university for the visa application
• Proof of funds to support yourself
• Academic transcripts and proof of English proficiency
• Apply for admission at a SEVP-approved institution

*Want to apply for an F1 visa? Y-Axis is here to assist you!

Steps to apply for a Masters Program in the US

The steps to apply for a masters program in the US are as follows:

Step 1: Research and identify the Masters program

Step 2: Check eligibility for the Masters program

Step 3: Gather all relevant documents required, such as GRE/GMAT test scores, English Proficient test scores, SOP, LORs, academic transcripts, and a well-formatted resume

Step 4: Submit all the documents to the identified school or university

Step 5: After review, universities will accept the application and issue the I-20 form required for processing student visa

Scholarships and financial aids for Indian students

The table below lists the general and university-specific scholarships available for Indian students to pursue a Masters in the US:

General scholarships	University-specific scholarships
Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowship	Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship
AAUW International Fellowship	Cornell University Tata Scholarship
Aga Khan Foundation Fellowship	Yale University Scholarship
Rotary Foundation Ambassadorial Scholarship	Scholarship
Humphrey Fellowship Program	Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship
Narotam Sekhsaria foundation scholarships

Work Opportunities After Masters in the US

There are plenty of job opportunities in the US after you complete your master’s program. Sectors like IT, healthcare, business, finance, accounting, and STEM hire talented individuals who have completed their master’s from a university in the US.

For students who completed their master’s degree, the pathway to working and staying in the US involves Optical Practical Training (OPT), an H-1B visa, and eventually becoming a Green Card holder.

Optical Practical Training (OPT)

• OPT is a temporary work permit for F-1 Student visa holders
• Allows students to work for 12 months
• Students in the STEM field can work up to 36 months
• The average annual salary for OPT jobs is $34,400

H-1B Visa

• Allows US employers to hire skilled foreign workers in specialized occupations
• H-1B visa has an annual cap of 65,000, with an additional 20,000 for applicants with US Master’s degree
• Students with Master’s degree in the US has higher chances of receiving H-1B visa
• The average annual salary for an H-1B visa holder ranges from $141,000 to $206,500, depending on the job role and the industry

*Want to apply for an H-1B Visa? Y-Axis is here to assist you through the process!

Green Card Holders

• H-1B visa is a pathway to Green Card in the US
• An H-1B visa may not guarantee a Green Card. It is subjected to further requirements
• The USCIS ( U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services) is responsible for processing H-1B visa and Green Card
• A recognized US employer must sponsor employment

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the frequently asked questions on Masters program in the US:

When should I start working on my applications?

Deadlines depend on the universities and courses you have opted for. For fall programs, admissions open around August/September of the previous year. Students can submit applications before early December. It is important that students regularly check the official bulletin of the university to stay updated on important dates.

What all are required before I start my online application?

The general requirements include a well-formatted resume, GMAT/GRE, IELTS/TOEFL scores if applicable, academic transcripts, SOP and LORs.

What is the duration of Masters degree in the USA?

The duration of the masters degree depends on the course you have opted for. The standard duration is two years for full-time students. There are numerous one-year programs offered in the US, while courses in the medical field take 4 years to complete.

Is it possible to work while studying in the USA?

International students with F-1 visa can work on-campus and may be able to work off-campus after completing one academic year, subject to conditions.

Are scholarships available to help fund my studies in the USA?
There are plenty of scholarships available in the US for masters programs, some of which are university-specific and some general scholarships offered by universities, government agencies, and private organizations.

How can Y-Axis help you study in the USA?

Y-Axis is your one-shop stop to advise you on study in the USA. At Y-Axis we offer:

• Y-Path to choose your ideal course
• Y-Axis Coaching Centre for IELTS, TOEFL, GRE and GMAT to boost your scores
• Visa guidance for student visa and H-1B
• Guidance and assistance in writing unbiased SOPs and LORs for students