Masters In USA: Eligibility, Top Universities, Specializations, Visa & Scholarships

MS in USA for Indian students is one of the most coveted choices for every student who wants to fly abroad for higher studies. Its universities and the quality of education it imparts to its students put it at the top of the list of countries for master's programs. More than 570 universities offer a master's in USA.

Studying MS courses in USA helps one gain good academic exposure and assists students in finding professional opportunities. Keep reading with The Student Helpline to learn more about pursuing a master's in USA.

Why Masters In USA For International Students?

The USA welcomes over one million international students every year-almost as many heading for Europe as a whole. International students are attracted to the US universities for MS, the opportunity to learn in the world's largest global cities, and influence and association with leading businesses and technology innovators.

Top 10 universities in USA for MS continue to lead in global rankings, laying claim to seven of the top ten spots, including the top three making them a first choice among students for world-class Master's courses in USA. The appeal lies in academic excellence, further coupled with an opportunity to experience a culturally influential nation.

• Over 4,300 universities to explore: If you wish to study MS in USA, you will find a wide range of study programs, extensive academic programs, as well as a variety of campus settings. Whatever your major is, there will be an excellence center waiting for you.

• America is a very diverse country: It was built by migrants, and that shapes the nation today. Depending on where you will be studying master's courses in USA, you will see influences from all over the world. If you want to experience a true melting pot of global diversity, nowhere is better than America.

• The world leaders in many sectors are found within America: Name any industry that comes to your mind, and you probably will name an American or rather a worldly center. Starting from New York for finances, LA for entertainment, San Francisco is thought of for technology. If one intends to be at the doorstep of the world's best in almost any category, head to pursue MS courses in USA.

• About geography: The USA is one of the most contrastive and vivid countries in the world. America offers a wide range of experiences, from the modern skyscrapers of New York to the stunning Grand Canyon, and from the icy deserts of Alaska to the surf-friendly beaches of Hawaii. This includes high-quality master courses in the USA.

What Are The Top 10 Universities In USA For MS?

You might think that the Ivy League offers the best universities in USA for MS, but while they are good, rankings like QS show just how good American universities are. Below, you can find top 10 universities in USA for MS, and incredibly, all of them feature in the world's top ten.

Top Students Hub To Study Masters In USA

New York is, unsurprisingly, one center, boasting dozens of colleges and universities to study masters in USA, including Cornell and Columbia, nestling in one of the world's most exciting cities.

Not all named places are in England, for instance, there is Cambridge, Massachusetts, named after the University of Cambridge to which it is now home - along with Harvard and MIT among other top places for MS study in USA. Durham, in North Carolina, is home to Duke and North Carolina Central University and forms one corner of the research triangle that contains the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill.

However, it does seem that everyone is in the race to study masters in USA, and with numerous students, both domestic and international, it's tough finding an American city that isn't a student hub!

What Is The Cost Of Studying MS In USA For Indian Students?

The cost of studying MS in USA for Indian students perspective is said to be $20,000 to $60,000 per year from the university and the program which includes tuition, living expenses, and other incidentals. Scholarships, assistantships, and financial aid options can compensate for many of these costs.

The following table provides an idea regarding the tuition fees that a person has to pay to study MS in USA, along with an approximate cost of living for a few good universities.

Much cheaper are the state institutes for masters in USA, funded by the government. To the non-state residents, they are mostly around $20,000-$25,000 per year. Students from the same state pay even less. They cover an approximate of $10,000 per year.

Living Expenses: Besides paying the fees for MS in USA, the students have to bear the living expenses. For one year, this can be around INR 11 lakh or more.

Top 10 Specializations To Study MS In USA

The best universities in US for MS offer several options for International students. Computer Science & Engineering is one of the popular specializations within the country for International students, however, there are other MS specializations like MS in Computer Science, MS in Biology (sciences), etc. In the following section, let's look at the top Specializations for MS study in USA for Indian students:

Student Visa Types With Cost For Pursuing Masters In USA

All international students need a USA Student Visa to study master's in USA. The student visas are divided into F1 and J1 visas.

1. J-1 Visa:

• The J-1 Visa, or the J-student visa, is specifically designed for international students admitted to participate in exchange programs in the United States. J1 Visa applicants are international students who must have sponsorship.

• J-1 Visa Fee: It depends upon the specific program and sponsor. For instance, the SEVIS fee for the J-1 visa is $220 (INR 18,260).

• Duration: It could vary on the type of exchange, for instance,

• Student Program: validity could be during the period of the academic program plus a 30-day grace period at the end of it.

• Exchange Visitor Program: These include internships, research scholars, etc., which go on for months or even years depending on the respective program and sponsorship.

2. F-1 Visa:

• The F1 Visa is designed for full-time academic study. One would be required to have Form I20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.

• F-1 Visa Fee: $185 (INR 15,355)

• F1 Visa duration for MS in USA: The F1 visa is usually valid for the total course duration for which a student (like MS duration in USA) is enrolled along with a grace period of 60 days. The duration of the visa will depend on how long you enroll in your study program.

Both cases permit extensions or changes in visa status are subject to approval and depend on specific conditions but are subject to the rules under U.S. immigration.

Eligibility For MS In USA For Indian Students In 2024-25

For those students who would like to pursue an MS in US, the following requirements are to be completed:

• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• GRE score of 290 or above
• 2-3 letters of recommendation (LOR)
• It should have an average 3 to 4-year bachelor's degree in the specific field with an average GPA required for masters in USA of 3.0 or above (may even vary depending on the university the student is applying for).
• Proof of English language proficiency: IELTS or TOEFL test scores.

Are There Scholarships Available For MS In USA?

The cost of pursuing a Master's in U.S. is high, and one will always find various scholarships for Indian students to manage those costs. Here is the list of some of the best options for MS in USA with scholarships for Indian students:

Study And Work Permit While Pursuing Masters In USA

The F-1 Visa does allow international students pursuing masters in USA to work in America, but only with very strict limitations.

• Work hours of International students pursuing masters in US are restricted to only 20 hours a week during terms. However, during vacations, full-time work is allowed if you are enrolled to continue your studies the following semester.

• Second, and probably more of a limitation, you are only permitted to work in jobs on your university campus. This means that you have to find the best MS university in USA with an appropriate job and that allows you to work in it.

• While there is supposed to be a wide variety of jobs, from working in stores through technical roles in departments to possibly even working as tutors if you are studying for a higher degree like MS study in USA, there will undoubtedly be a lot of competition for relatively few jobs.

• The only exception to this which would mean you can work off campus is if it's for practical training with your masters in US. But that must be authorized by US Citizenship and Immigration Services and may only be done once you've completed at least one year of study.

• There are even restrictions on volunteering which means you can't, for example, take part in internships in non-educational settings while studying MS courses in USA.

Why Study Masters In USA? Final Verdict

MS study in USA is typically one of the most diverse educational landscapes on earth, immersed for two years in the vibrancy and excitement of cutting-edge facilities and state-of-the-art research facilities unparalleled opportunities for both academic growth and professional and cultural development, besides preparing graduates with high levels of specialized knowledge and expertise, from which the global alumni of Harvard can deliver future career opportunities.

This is where The Student Helpline, the best college finder for MS in USA, comes in to guide you step by step. It might be that program or financial aid you need. Their dedicated team is there to make sure that you can focus on your academic and career goals with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions About Masters In USA

What Is the Cost of Studying MS in the USA for Indian Students?

The cost of studying MS in USA for Indian students ranges between $20,000 and $50,000 per year, depending on the university and location. The student would be required to bear tuition fees, living expenses, and other additional costs. For detailed guidance about expenses, refer to The Student Helpline, where you would receive expert advice and guidance.

What Exams Are Required for MS in the USA?

Most frequently, students applying to masters in the USA need to take the GRE along with TOEFL or IELTS for tests of English proficiency, if not waived by certain programs. Check program requirements with the universities directly you are applying to for further details. The Student Helpline can be of further assistance and guidance.

How Many Years Is an MS in the US?

Most MS programs in the US take 1 to 2 years to complete. It depends on the program chosen and how fast the students go through it. Most programs are designed to be completed within 2 years. For more details on program duration and options, please consult The Student Helpline.

How Many Semesters Are There in a Master's Program in the USA?

An average MS in USA duration is four semesters. Each semester lasts for six months, so a total two-year period. There may be some acceleration or part-time programs. You can consult The Student Helpline if you need advice on which might suit you best.

What Is the Eligibility for MS in the USA for Indian Students?

Eligibility for MS in USA for Indian students include an undergraduate degree from a place like India, a good GRE score, and proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS). Each university has more stringent requirements, so for more particular eligibility criteria and application support, contact The Student Helpline.

Can Indian Students Get Jobs in the USA After Completing an MS?

Yes, Indian students can secure jobs after completing their MS in USA. International students can get OPT for up to 12 months from the field they have studied. Read more about OPT and ways of job search by visiting The Student Helpline.

How Much Does an MS Cost in the USA for Indian Students?

For Indian students, MS in USA costs around $20,000 to $50,000 per year-including tuition and living expenses in the USA. The Student Helpline has proved very resourceful in providing insights for scholarship opportunities and financial planning. Reach out to them today.

Are There Scholarships Available for MS in the USA?

Yes, There are thousands and thousands of institution-based as well as outside body scholarships for MS in USA. Scholarships may significantly help to bring the total costs down. For advice on where to search for and how to apply for scholarships, contact The Student Helpline.

What Are the Top Universities in the USA for an MS?

The best universities in USA for MS are MIT, Stanford, Harvard, and UC Berkeley. Best universities in the USA are known for their rigorous academic programs. For a more extensive list and application help, contact The Student Helpline.

How Do I Apply for an MS in the USA?

To seek admission into an MS course in the USA, one will need to fill out an application form, submit GRE scores and transcripts, and evidence of sufficient proficiency in the English language. The different universities and departments have individual requirements as well. For specific application advice, you can contact The Student Helpline.