Master’s in the USA for international students can be a prudent choice. You can access the world’s top-ranked universities, diverse programme options, and cutting-edge research opportunities and facilities. Studying in the US can lay a solid foundation for global career growth and success. Let’s explore what you need to know before heading to the US for your master’s course.
Key highlights:
- Top benefits of pursuing a Master’s in the USA
- Master’s degree courses in the USA – Course overview
- Top universities to pursue a Master’s degree in the USA
- Eligibility for master’s courses in the USA
- Cost of a Master’s in the USA
Top benefits of pursuing a Master’s in the USA
World-class education and renowned universities
Studying in the US means learning at some of the world’s top-ranked institutions known for their rigorous academic standards and global recognition. Earning a degree from these prestigious universities will give you a competitive edge and open career opportunities worldwide.
Work opportunities
With a valid student visa, you can work part-time for up to 20 hours per week on campus during your academic session. This will enable you to support your lifestyle abroad. Also, post-completion of your studies, you can opt for Optional Practical Training (OPT). Post-completion OPT will allow you to work part-time or full-time for up to 20 hours per week. If you complete STEM education, you can opt for an OPT extension of 24 months.
Also Read: What You Must Know About Education Loans for MS in the USA
Master’s degree courses in the USA – Course overview
Course duration
Most US master’s programmes can be completed within 1-2 years. The exact duration will depend on the programme type, format, and whether students choose a thesis or non-thesis route:
- Full-time programmes can be typically completed in 1-2 years, allowing students to immerse fully in their studies.
- Part-time programmes will offer flexibility for working professionals but may take longer to complete, depending on the course content.
- Accelerated programmes are 1-year master’s programmes in the USA that can be ideal for students who want to transition to their career quickly.
Course structure
Master’s programmes in the US are known for their flexibility and student-centred approach. The curriculum will include core courses that will lay a strong foundation and elective courses that will allow you to pick up your specialisation.
Course structure
| Master of Science in Power Engineering | Master of Science in Education | Master of Science in Marketing |
| Master of Science in Healthcare Administration | Master of Science in Public Health | Master of Science in Information Technology |
Popular 2-year master’s courses in the US for international students
| Master of Science in Computer Science Engineering | Master of Science in Mathematics | Master of Science in Electrical Engineering |
| Master of Science in Chemistry | Master of Science in Civil Engineering | Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering |
Also Read: Everything About Artificial Intelligence Masters in the USA
Top universities to pursue a Master’s degree in the USA
Here are the best universities in the US as per the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings and Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings.
- QS category: QS World University Rankings 2025 - Top global universities - (USA-specific)
- THE category: World University Rankings 2025 - (USA-specific)
List of top USA universities for master’s courses
| Sr. No. | Universities | QS ranking | THE ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 1 | 1 |
| 2 | Harvard University | 2 | 2 |
| 3 | Stanford University | 3 | 4 |
| 4 | California Institute of Technology(Caltech) | 4 | 5 |
| 5 | University of Pennsylvania | 5 | =8 |
| 6 | University of California, Berkeley(UCB) | 6 | 6 |
| 7 | Cornell University | 7 | 13 |
| 8 | University of Chicago | 8 | =8 |
| 9 | Princeton University | 9 | 3 |
| 10 | Yale University | 10 | 7 |
Eligibility for master’s courses in the USA
Students are eligible to pursue a master’s in the US as long as they meet the following criteria:
- A bachelor’s degree in a related field
- Graduate Record Examination (GRE) for all master’s degree programmes, including business management courses or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) for management studies
- 2-3 Letters of Recommendation (LOR)
- A well-crafted Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- English language proficiency exams such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
Also Read: What You Must Know Before Pursuing a Master’s in CS in the USA
Cost of a Master’s in the US
The cost of tuition will vary significantly between universities and programmes. Students can expect to pay anywhere from ~INR 17 lakhs to ~INR 70 lakhs annually for their tuition fees. Additionally, learners must evaluate the cost of living in their chosen city and budget accordingly.
Given the high cost of a master’s in the US, some young students end up pursuing the cheapest master’s degree in the USA. Instead of giving up or compromising on your dreams, you can consider an education loan. At Avanse Financial Services, we provide loans for study abroad courses. You can also try our EMI education loan calculator to plan your student loan repayment journey. If you have any queries, please feel free to connect with us.
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