Pursuing an engineering degree in the United States is a transformative decision for international students. With its renowned universities, cutting-edge research, and diverse specialisations, the US remains a popular destination among engineering aspirants seeking a strong academic foundation and promising career prospects. Here’s everything you must know before pursuing engineering in the USA.
Key highlights:
- Benefits of pursuing engineering in the USA
- Popular specialisations to consider
- Best engineering universities in the USA
- Factors to consider while choosing engineering colleges in the USA
- Eligibility criteria for engineering in the US
Benefits of pursuing engineering in the USA
Quality education
The US is home to globally renowned engineering institutions known for their rigorous academic programmes, innovative research, and state-of-the-art facilities. These institutions offer students a solid foundation in engineering principles and provide access to advanced laboratories, cutting-edge technology, and unique learning experiences. Engineering programmes in the US emphasise hands-on learning and foster critical thinking, giving students a practical and immersive education that sets them apart in the global job market.
Diverse specialisations
US universities offer a range of engineering specialisations, from traditional fields like civil and electrical engineering to rapidly growing areas like robotics, biomedical engineering, and environmental engineering. Students can tailor their studies to align with their passions and career aspirations. Moreover, many programmes support interdisciplinary studies, enabling students to blend engineering with fields such as business, healthcare, or environmental science to expand their skill sets and increase their employability across multiple sectors.
Employment prospects
The demand for engineers in the US spans industries like technology, manufacturing, and healthcare. You can opt for Optional Practical Training(OPT), which is a temporary employment that is related to your chosen area of specialisation. Both pre-completion and post-completion OPT options are available. You can opt for one year of post-OPT and get an extension of 24 months for STEM courses.
Also Read: Detailed Information on a US Student Visa
Popular specialisations to consider
| Petroleum Engineering | Computer Hardware Engineering | Aerospace Engineering | Chemical Engineering | Nuclear Engineering |
| Electronics Engineering | Materials Engineering | Marine Engineering | Health and Safety Engineering | Mining and Geological Engineering |
Best engineering universities in the USA
Here’s a look at the top engineering institutes in the US as per the Quacquarelli Symonds(QS) World University Rankings and Times Higher Education (THE) University Rankings.
- QS category: QS World University Rankings by subject 2024: Engineering & Technology (USA-specific)
- THE category: World University Rankings 2024 by subject: Engineering (USA-specific)
| Sr. No. | Universities | QS rankings | THE rankings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Massachusetts Institute of Technology(MIT) | 1 | 3 |
| 2 | Stanford University | 2 | 2 |
| 3 | University of California, Berkeley (UCB) | 3 | 4 |
| 4 | Harvard University | 4 | 1 |
| 5 | California Institute of Technology (Caltech) | 5 | 5 |
| 6 | Georgia Institute of Technology | 6 | 7 |
| 7 | Carnegie Mellon University | 7 | 11 |
| 8 | University of California, Los Angeles(UCLA) | 8 | 8 |
| 9 | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign | 9 | 12 |
| 10 | University of Texas at Austin | 10 | 15 |
Other popular engineering colleges in the USA for Indian students
- Princeton University
- Yale University
- University of Michigan - Ann Arbour
- Columbia University
- Cornell University
- Northwestern University
- Purdue University
- University of California, San Diego (UCSD)
- Texas A&M University
- University of Pennsylvania
Factors to consider while choosing engineering colleges in the USA
Choosing from the best engineering colleges in the US will require careful consideration. Evaluating the following factors can help you make the right decision.
Specialisations offered
Check if your prospective institution offers programmes in your chosen specialisation. Selecting a university that excels in your area of interest will ensure access to advanced coursework and specialised faculty.
Faculty expertise
Look into faculty profiles to understand their expertise. A strong and experienced faculty can offer mentorship, guide research projects, and even open doors for career opportunities.
Campus facilities and infrastructure
Evaluate the quality of laboratories, libraries, and technology resources on campus. Modern infrastructure will support advanced learning and allow you to work with cutting-edge technology.
Also Read: Why is the USA a Popular Study Abroad Destination
Eligibility criteria for engineering in the US
You must meet the following eligibility criteria to pursue a post-graduate engineering course in the US:
- Bachelor’s degree from a recognised university in a related field
- Standardised exams such as Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)
- English language proficiency tests like International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
- Academic transcripts
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Letter of Recommendation (LOR)
- Resume or CV
You also require a valid F-1 student visa. While applying for the visa, you must submit your admission paperwork.
Pursuing an engineering degree in the US can be a transformative journey. However, financing your ambitions can seem overwhelming. Instead of relying on family savings, you can consider opting for a loan for study abroad programmes. At Avanse Financial Services, we provide education loans that cover the holistic cost of education, from tuition fees to living expenses. Additionally, we will help you calculate the EMI for the education loan remember we are just a call away.
