Study Masters in the USA in 2026
*T&C Apply. Deduction under Section 129 of the Income Tax Act, 2025 (erstwhile Section 80E of the Income Tax Act, 1961) is available only under the old tax regime and shall not be applicable if the taxpayer opts for the new tax regime. Customers are advised to consult their tax advisors for applicability.
The United States hosts one of the largest postgraduate education systems in the world, with many institutions offering Master's degree programmes across a wide range of disciplines. Programmes span one to two years, covering fields such as Engineering, Computer Science, Business Administration, Data Science, Public Health, Law, and the Social Sciences. The medium of instruction is English throughout. For Indian students considering postgraduate education abroad, understanding the costs, visa process, and post-study work options is important for planning early, including exploring an education loan for USA studies if required.
Why Consider the USA for a Master's Degree?
- Curriculum and Industry Exposure: Master's programmes in the USA typically combine taught coursework with research components and applied projects, with many universities maintaining industry partnerships that provide access to workshops and professional networks.
- Wide Range of Programmes: Institutions offer a broad selection of specialisations, and students can typically choose between academic/research-oriented degrees and professional degrees depending on their career direction.
- Post-Study Work — OPT and STEM OPT: F-1 students are typically eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT) up to 12 months of work authorisation after completing their degree. Students with a degree in an eligible STEM field may apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, providing up to 36 months of post-study work authorisation in total.
- On-Campus Work During Studies: F-1 students are generally permitted to work on campus for up to 20 hours per week during the academic term.
Source: https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/students-and-exchange-visitors/optional-practical-training-opt-for-f-1-students | https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/stem-opt-hub/additional-resources/stem-opt-extension-overview
Universities Offering Master's Programmes in the USA
The USA has a wide range of public and private universities. Tuition fees vary considerably between institution type, state, and subject.
| University | Type | Known For |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | Private | Engineering, Computer Science, Sciences |
| Stanford University | Private | Technology, Business, Engineering |
| University of California, Berkeley | Public | Engineering, Social Sciences, Public Policy |
| University of Michigan | Public | Engineering, Business, Public Health |
| Carnegie Mellon University | Private | Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering |
| University of Texas at Austin | Public | Business, Engineering, Liberal Arts |
| Arizona State University | Public | Wide range of disciplines; large international intake |
| Purdue University | Public | Engineering, Technology, Agriculture |
Source: https://www.idp.com/india/study-in-usa/masters/
Eligibility Criteria for Masters in the USA
Requirements vary by university and programme. The following are typically needed:
- A bachelor's degree from a recognised institution, typically with a strong academic record
- GRE scores are typically required for most Master's programmes; GMAT is typically required for MBA and management programmes (some universities have moved to test-optional policies — this should be verified with each institution)
- TOEFL (typically 80–100 iBT) or IELTS (typically 6.5 or above) scores are typically required for non-native English speakers
- Statement of Purpose (SOP), 2–3 Letters of Recommendation, and an updated CV/Resume are typically required
- Academic transcripts and undergraduate degree certificate
- Valid passport
- Work experience is typically required for MBA and some professional Master's programmes; it is not typically required for most academic Master's and MS programmes
Cost of Studying in the USA
| University | Approx. Tuition Fee (USD / Year) | Approx. Tuition Fee (INR / Year) |
|---|---|---|
| University of California, Berkeley | USD 19,900 – 26,545 | ₹19,05,022 – ₹25,42,485 |
| University of San Francisco | USD 14,210 – 53,280 | ₹13,61,434 – ₹51,03,158 |
| Northeastern University | USD 19,700 – 64,625 | ₹18,85,866 – ₹61,89,388 |
| Drexel University | USD 0 – 60,975 | ₹0 – ₹58,39,585 |
| Florida Atlantic University | USD 12,290 – 43,010 | ₹11,77,136 – ₹41,19,298 |
| Princeton University | USD 44,000 | ₹42,14,320 |
| Harvard University | USD 5,500 – 33,000 | ₹5,26,790 – ₹31,60,740 |
| University of Chicago | USD 13,500 – 39,500 | ₹12,93,030 – ₹37,83,310 |
| Yale University | USD 22,000 – 46,000 | ₹21,07,160 – ₹44,05,880 |
| Columbia University | USD 23,000 – 59,000 | ₹22,02,940 – ₹56,51,020 |
Disclaimer: All USD to INR conversions are based on currency rates as of May 2026. Exchange rates vary over time, so check the latest rates before making any financial decisions.
F-1 Student Visa Requirements
International students pursuing a full-time Master's degree in the USA typically require an F-1 student visa. The key steps and documents involved are:
- Acceptance from an SEVP-certified institution and receipt of Form I-20 from the Designated School Official (DSO)
- Payment of the SEVIS I-901 Fee (USD 350 / approx. ₹33,523)
- Completion of the DS-160 online visa application form
- Payment of the MRV visa application fee (USD 185 / approx. ₹17,719)
- In-person visa interview at the nearest US Embassy or Consulate in India
- Proof of financial means to cover tuition and living expenses (bank statements or education loan sanction letter)
- Valid passport, passport-sized photographs, and academic documents
F-1 visas may be issued up to 365 days before the programme start date. Students may enter the USA no earlier than 30 days before the start date listed on their Form I-20.
Source: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/study/student-visa.html | https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/students/prepare/students-and-the-form-i-20
How to Apply for a Master's in the USA
- Research universities and programmes, shortlisting based on subject, location, tuition, and fit with your academic profile.
- Prepare for and sit required standardised tests — GRE/GMAT, and TOEFL/IELTS.
- Gather documents: SOP, letters of recommendation, CV, transcripts, and degree certificate.
- Submit applications through each university's official portal, typically between September and January for a Fall (August/September) start.
- Review admission offers and confirm acceptance; pay any required deposit.
- Receive Form I-20 from the institution and pay the SEVIS I-901 fee.
- Apply for the F-1 visa at the US Embassy or Consulate — allow 3–4 months for processing.
- Arrange accommodation, health insurance, and finances, including activating an education loan for USA if applicable.
Source: https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/guide/f-1/f-1-postsecondary | https://www.idp.com/india/study-in-usa/masters/
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Disclaimer: Deduction under Section 129 of the Income Tax Act, 2025 (erstwhile Section 80E of the Income Tax Act, 1961) is available only under the old tax regime and shall not be applicable if the taxpayer opts for the new tax regime. Customers are advised to consult their tax advisors for applicability.
#Under the old tax regime. Please consult your Chartered Accountant or Tax Advisor for information specific to you.
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