Do you want to study a Master’s in the USA? The USA is the best place to pursue an MS. Every year, many students apply to US universities for MS programs. An MS program in the USA usually takes 2 years to complete, and the average cost of an MS in the USA ranges between $28,000 and $65,000 (approximately) per year. However, it depends on the tuition fees and living expenses in the USA.
However, you may be wondering if is it worth pursuing an MS in the USA from India. So, in this blog, we will discuss the cost of MS in the USA for Indian students, popular MS programs and the best universities for pursuing MS in the USA.
Is It Worth to Study MS in the USA?
It’s worth to study MS in the USA. The USA is the best place for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Management) courses. Top CEOs like Satya Nadela and Sundar Pichai are all examples of how an MS program in the USA can change your life. Studying for an MS in the USA can be a great investment for many students, but it depends on your career goals, financial situation, and personal preferences. Here are some key reasons why it could be worth it:
- Career Opportunities: Graduates with an MS from the USA are often highly regarded by employers worldwide. STEM graduates, in particular, can benefit from up to 3 years of stay-back through the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, providing ample time to gain work experience.
- Research and Innovation: US universities are leaders in research and innovation, providing students with access to state-of-the-art facilities, funding opportunities, and exposure to groundbreaking research projects.
- Networking and Industry Connections: Many programs in the USA include internships, co-op programs, and strong industry ties, helping students gain hands-on experience and build professional connections that can lead to job opportunities.
- Cultural Diversity: Studying in the USA exposes you to diverse cultures, experiences, and perspectives, enhancing your overall learning and personal growth. Universities in the US host students from around the globe, making it a melting pot of cultures.
- Financial Support and Scholarships: Many universities in USA offer scholarships, grants, and assistantship opportunities for international students. Graduate assistantships can also help reduce tuition costs and provide valuable work experience.
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Cost of MS in the USA for Indian Students
The average cost of studying for a master’s degree (MS) in the USA is around Rs.30 lakh per year. This includes Rs.20-23 lakh as the first-year tuition fee and Rs.7-10 lakh for living expenses in the first year. The cost can vary based on the university, state, and field of study.
Tuition fees for a master’s in the USA generally range between $18,000 and USD 65,000 per year (about Rs16.5 to Rs 53.6 lakh). In addition to tuition, students need to cover living expenses, which can range from $10,000 to USD 20,000 annually (around ₹8.2 to ₹16.5 lakh), depending on the location.
So, the total cost of MS in USA, including tuition and living expenses, can be anywhere from $30,000 to $85,000 USD per year. Keep in mind that these costs can change, so it’s essential to check the university’s official website for the most accurate fee details for your desired course.
Breakdown of Total Cost to Study MS in the USA
Previously we have discussed the cost of MS in USA for Indian students. Given below is the detailed version of how the cost of MS in USA looks like, including costs incurred in India and costs incurred in USA:
| Cost Factors | Cost in USD (approx) | Cost in RS (approx) |
| GRE | 205 | 17,240.96 |
| TOEFL | 170 | 14,297.38 |
| Applications | 1,100 | 92,512.46 |
| VISA Fee | 160 | 13,456.36 |
| SEVIS Fee | 200 | 16,820.45 |
| Tuition Fee | 18,000 | 15,13,840.28 |
| Living Expenses | 10,000 | 8,41,022.38 |
| Total = | 29,835 | 25,09,190.27 |
Cost of MS in USA (Pre-arrival)
There are usually two types of costs that will occur if you study in the USA with an MS program. One is pre-arrival cost and the other is post-arrival cost. The pre-arrival cost of MS in USA includes.
- GRE Requirements
- English Language Tests
- US University Application
- Student Visa Application
- Airfare
GRE Requirements
This is usually the first step in your journey to pursuing an MS in the USA. Think of it like a crucial game no one knows if it will make or break your chances, which is why it’s so important. A solid GRE study plan is essential. The exam fee is USD 205.
English Language Tests
You can skip GRE requirements to study in the USA, however, TOEFL is a mandatory requirement for a USA student visa. Proving English language proficiency is mandatory for a student visa in the USA. The cost of the TOEFL exam is 170 USD.
US University Application
The cost of university applications in the USA ranges between 50 USD to 100 USD. However, it depends on the university.
Student Visa Application
Once you receive your I20 Form, you need to pay the student visa application fee in the USA which is 160 USD followed by the SEVIS fee which is 200 USD.
Airfare
Single-way airfares in economy class vary between 500-750 USD depending on your city, destination, and airline.
Cost of MS in USA (Post-arrival)
The post-arrival cost of MS in USA is the actual cost as it includes the tuition fees living expenses and other things for staying in the USA. Such as-
- Tuition Fees
- Living Expenses
- Missaleneous
US University’s Tuition Fees
Tuition fees for a master’s in the USA generally range between USD 18,000 and USD 65,000 per year (about Rs 15,13,840 to Rs 54,66,645 lakh).
Living Expenses in the USA
Living expenses in the USA for Indian students range between USD 10,000 to USD 20,000 per year (about Rs 8,41,022 to Rs 16,82,044).
Missaleneous
The miscellaneous cost of MS in USA fees includes books and supplies, transportation, meals, recreational expenses, and other miscellaneous expenses. On average students tend to spend between 500 USD to 1100 USD per month which includes everything.
Affordable Universities to Study MS in USA
MS courses in the US are very popular among international students. These programs are in high demand because they offer valuable learning experiences and open doors to well-paying jobs. By completing a two-year MS at US universities in various specialisations, international students can gain knowledge and better career opportunities in the future. However, here are some affordable universities to study MS in USA.
- Webster University
- Drew University
- George Mason University
- Hofstra University
- Illinois State University
- Montclair State University
- Oregon State University
- Saint Louis University
- Suffolk University Boston
- The University of Alabama at Birmingham
- The University of Arizona
- University of Massachusetts Amherst, etc.
Popular MS Programs in the USA
The USA offers many options for Master of Science (MS) programs, so it’s important to choose your field carefully. Not all programs offer the same salary or reputation. Since you have a wide variety to pick from, look for programs that have good job prospects, competitive salaries, and other benefits. Here are some popular MS programs in the USA.
- Bio-Medical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Aeronautical Engineering
- Business & Management
- Business Analytics
- International Management
Affordable Cities to Live in the USA
Are you looking for affordable cities to live in the USA? Some cities in the USA offer available jobs to make it affordable to bear the living cost of USA. Let’s explore some affordable cities to live in the USA-
- Huntsville, AL
- Green Bay
- Springfield, Missouri
- Oklahoma City
- Harlingen, Texas
- Edwardsville, Illinois
- Hickory, North Carolina
- Fort Wayne
- Anniston, Alabama
- Knoxville, etc.
Scholarship to Study MS in the USA
USA universities offer different scholarships for Indian students for Masters. Scholarships usually helps to reduce the cost of MS in USA. Let’s explore the popular US scholarships for Indian students.
- Fulbright Scholarship
- AAUW International Fellowship
- Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship
- Rotary Peace Fellowship
- Humphrey Fellowship Program
- Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation
- ACI Foundation Scholarship
- New York University Wagner scholarship, etc.
Final Words
Studying MS in the USA is an excellent opportunity for Indian students to build expertise and practical skills in the field of their choice. The USA presents a significant number of job opportunities for students after post-graduation. However, in this blog, we have mentioned the approximate cost of MS in USA. If you have any questions regarding studying abroad in the USA, you can contact AIMS Education.
FAQ
Is it worth doing MS in the USA for Indians?
Ans: It’s worth to study MS in the USA. The USA is the best place for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Management) courses. Top CEOs like Satya Nadela and Sundar Pichai are all examples of how an MS program in the USA can change your life.
Is studying Masters in the USA expensive?
Ans: The cost of studying for an MS in the USA can vary a lot depending on the university and state. On average, tuition fees for an MS program range from around $18,000 to $65,000 per year. The cost depends on whether the university is public or private and how well-known the program is.
Is the USA expensive for Indian students?
Ans: Tuition fees for a master’s in the USA generally range between USD 18,000 and USD 65,000 per year (about Rs 15,13,840 to Rs 54,66,645 lakh).
Can I do a masters in the USA for free?
Ans: Yes, some universities in the USA offer full-tuition scholarships, allowing students to study for free. A few well-known tuition-free universities include Berea College and College of the Ozarks.
