Master’s Degree in the USA
Studying Master’s degree in the USA requires fulfilling the following conditions:
- High GPA from previous academic year
- Having a language certificate
- Participating in university entrance exams
- Having a letter of recommendation
- Sufficient means to pay tuition fees
The USA, due to having world-class universities such as Harvard University and Stanford, has always been a popular destination for students eager to study. Pursuing a Master’s degree in the USA will cost students between 30,000 to 120,000 dollars, and of course, students can apply for scholarships such as Harvard or Toronto scholarships, which are awarded based on the applicants’ resumes.
If you still have any ambiguities or wish to assess your conditions for studying in the USA and in various levels or other countries, you can contact the experts of MalekPour Institute for a free phone consultation.
Application Conditions for a Master’s Degree in the USA
When applying to study for a Master’s degree in the United States, there are several key conditions that applicants must meet to increase their chances of acceptance. Here is a comprehensive explanation of the conditions that a Master’s degree applicant in the USA must fulfill:
- Submit a valid bachelor’s degree
- A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
- IELTS or TOEFL score of 6.5 or higher
- Passed entrance exams
- Letters of recommendation and motivation
- Statement of purpose
Having these conditions and preparing a comprehensive application can significantly increase your chances for acceptance into a Master’s program in the USA. For immigration to the USA, carefully reviewing the admission requirements and deadlines for each institution and program you’re interested in is essential to ensure a smooth application process.
Steps to Apply for Master’s Degree in the USA
U.S. universities can provide the best possible environment for international students with student visas to pursue a Master’s degree in the USA. This is evident from their high rankings, which make studying for a Master’s degree in the USA valuable. The country’s educational system provides the most comprehensive lessons with equal emphasis on practical and theoretical learning for students.
Applying for a Master’s degree in the USA requires certain conditions and documents. The steps to apply for studying in America at the master’s level are as follows:
- The first step is to obtain admission from one of the universities in the USA, which usually should be done before the months of December and January.
- In the next step, you need to complete the necessary forms to obtain a visa and pay the related fees.
- Subsequent steps include selecting the American consulate or embassy, obtaining and completing the DS-160 form, scheduling an interview at the embassy, paying the visa application fee, attending the interview, paying for the visa after approval, and receiving it.
Required Documents for Studying Master’s Degree in the USA
Generally, the following documents are needed to obtain a student visa for the USA.
- A valid passport with a validity date at least six months longer than your stay.
- Recent passport-sized photo.
- Confirmation page of DS-160.
- I-20 form.
- Payment of the SEVIS fee.
- Application as a non-immigrant.
Language Proficiency Required for Studying Master’s Degree in the USA
For a Master’s degree in the USA, official English language certificates like TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic, or C1 Advanced are generally required. Higher scores increase admission chances. Applicants to French-taught programs are exempt. Those who earned degrees in English-speaking countries where English is the primary language also don’t need to submit English test scores.
Results from TOEFL MyBest (with excellent scores) or TOEFL Essentials will not be accepted. TOEFL iBT Home is also accepted. The required level of English proficiency for a Master’s degree in the USA is as follows:
| Test | Minimum Score Required |
|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | 93 overall, with at least 20 in each section; scores must be from one test. TOEFL MyBest or Essentials not accepted. TOEFL iBT Home accepted. |
| TOEFL Paper-based | 580 with TWE 5 |
| IELTS (Academic) | Overall band 7.0, minimum 6.5 in each section (Academic only) |
| Pearson Academic (PTE) | Overall 65, minimum 60 in all sections |
| Cambridge English | C1 Advanced – minimum 193; C2 Proficiency – minimum 200 |
Studying Master’s Degree in the USA without a Language Certificate
Some universities in the USA allow admission without an English language certificate. Applicants may take a standardized language exam upon admission, and based on their level, the university can provide language courses to improve skills.
Even students with little or no English can enroll in introductory courses, making it possible to pursue a Master’s degree in the USA while enhancing language proficiency.
GPA Requirement for Studying Master’s Degree in the USA
Applicants for a Master’s degree in the USA must hold a Bachelor’s degree, with most universities requiring an undergraduate GPA of 2.5–3.0 or higher. Some programs may require a GPA of 3.3+. Many schools also require standardized tests like the GRE or GMAT. For example, Franklin University accepts a minimum GPA of 2.75, or applicants may take the university’s entrance exam if they fall below the GPA requirement.
Age Conditions for Studying Master’s Degree in the USA
International students should pay attention to the fact that to study for a Master’s degree in the USA, they must consider the age conditions for studying in the USA; while there isn’t a specific age limit, it may be challenging for individuals over 40 years to obtain a student visa.
Best Universities in the USA for Master’s Degrees
The USA is among the leading countries in the world that has invested significantly in education. The country has the highest number of scientific institutions in the field of Master’s studies in the USA and the world.
Most of these institutions have been ranked among the top 100 universities globally by the QS World University Rankings. Therefore, applying for a Master’s degree in the USA is more popular among international students as it allows quicker entry into the job market.
The best universities in the USA for pursuing a Master’s degree are:
| University | QS Ranking | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Stanford University | 3 | https://www.stanford.edu/ |
| Harvard University | 5 | https://www.harvard.edu/ |
| California Institute of Technology | 6 | https://www.caltech.edu/ |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 1 | https://www.mit.edu/ |
| University of California, Berkeley | 32 | https://www.berkeley.edu/ |
| Yale University | 14 | https://www.yale.edu/ |
| University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) | 20 | https://www.ucla.edu/ |
| Princeton University | 10 | https://www.princeton.edu/ |
| University of Chicago | 25 | https://www.uchicago.edu/ |
| Johns Hopkins University | 13 | https://www.jhu.edu/ |
| University of Pennsylvania | 40 | https://www.upenn.edu/ |
| Columbia University | 19 | https://www.columbia.edu/ |
| Cornell University | 21 | https://www.cornell.edu/ |
Tuition Fees for a Master’s Degree in the USA
The cost of studying for a Master’s degree in the USA depends on various factors, such as the length of the program, which is one of the main factors. Most Master’s programs in the USA can be completed within one to two years.
The average tuition cost for a Master’s degree in the USA for students ranges from 30,000 to 120,000 dollars. The cost varies depending on the university and the Master’s program itself. Some tuition costs in the USA have been collected below for some reputable universities to help students.
| University | Estimated Annual Tuition & Fees (USD) |
|---|---|
| Princeton University | $65,210 |
| Harvard University | $59,320 |
| University of Chicago | $67,446 |
| Yale University | $69,900 |
| Columbia University | $71,170 |
| University of California, Berkeley | $16,608 (in-state) / $50,808 (out-of-state) |
| University of San Francisco | $60,492 |
| Northeastern University | $32,495 |
| Drexel University | $62,412 |
| Florida Atlantic University | $5,976 (in-state) / $21,655 (out-of-state) |
Scholarships for Master’s Degree in the USA
Scholarships help international students reduce costs or even study for free in the USA. While pursuing a Master’s degree in the USA, students should also plan for living expenses, healthcare, and other fees. Most scholarships require strong academic performance and high scores in exams like TOEFL, IELTS, SAT/ACT (for undergraduates), or GRE (for graduate programs).
Some scholarships in the USA are as follows:
| Scholarship | Coverage Amount Based on Program |
|---|---|
| University of Toronto Scholarships | Full tuition and living expenses based on resume and eligibility |
| Harvard University Scholarships | Full tuition based on merit |
| Yale University Scholarships | $50,000 to $70,000 per year based on academic record |
| Princeton University Scholarships | Around $50,000 per year based on merit |
| MIT Scholarships | Full tuition and living expenses based on merit |
| Duke University Scholarships | Tuition assistance based on student merit |
| Agnes Scott College Marvin B. Perry Presidential Scholarships | Up to $230,000 for four years of graduate studies based on merit |
| Hendrix College Memorial Scholarships | Up to $200,000 per year based on minimum GPA 3.6 and SAT 32 / ACT 1430 scores |
| Berry College Stamp Scholarships | Up to $6,000 per year for 4 years based on merit |
| Stanford University Scholarships | Full tuition and living expenses based on excellent resume and merit |
Deadlines and Start Dates for Master’s Terms in the USA
Most universities for Master’s studies in the USA operate on a three-semester system – fall, spring, and summer. In American universities, each semester lasts about four months, during which students should submit their applications for Master’s studies in the USA on time and pay the application fees to secure admission.
- The fall semester, which is the first semester of the year, starts in mid-August to early September. The academic year begins in this semester and most aid is provided during this period.
- The spring semester, which starts in the first or second week of January. Most universities accept new students in this semester, but the student acceptance rate is lower compared to the fall semester.
- The summer semester, which is the shortest of the three semesters and lasts two months and usually starts in June. Very few universities accept students in the summer.
Regular students do not enroll during this semester and work full-time on campus (40 hours a week) or undergo industrial training. Below are the deadlines for some prominent universities for Master’s studies in the USA.
| University | Early Action / Early Decision Deadline | Regular Decision Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Harvard University | November 1, 2025 | January 1, 2026 |
| Stanford University | November 1, 2025 | January 5, 2026 |
| Yale University | November 1, 2025 | January 2, 2026 |
| University of California, Berkeley | November 30, 2025 | December 2, 2025 |
| Carnegie Mellon University | November 1, 2025 | January 3, 2026 |
| Cornell University | November 1, 2025 | January 2, 2026 |
| Columbia University | November 1, 2025 | January 1, 2026 |
| Georgia Institute of Technology | November 1, 2025 | January 6, 2026 |
| University of Texas at Austin | October 15, 2025 | December 1, 2025 |
| University of Wisconsin–Madison | November 1, 2025 | January 15, 2026 |
List of Master’s Programs in the USA
Today, pursuing a Master’s degree in the USA offers a limited scope concerning rights and career prospects, leading many students to think rationally about their future career choices. To enhance the chances of working in in-demand jobs in the USA, it is best that your field of study be among the best study fields in America.
Below are some of the Master’s programs available in the USA for your reference.
| Field of Study | Available Programs |
|---|---|
| Arts | – Master of Business Administration (MBA) – Master of Arts (MA) / Master of Fine Arts (MFA) – Postgraduate Diploma / Master’s in Journalism and Communication – Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) – Bachelor of Library Science – Master’s / PG Diploma in Digital Marketing – Bachelor of Laws (LLB) – Foreign Language Courses – PG Diploma in Management (PGDM) – PG Diploma in Business Analytics (PGDBA) – PGDEMA (Event Management) |
| Engineering & Science | – Master of Science (MS/MSc) – Master of Technology (MTech) / Master of Engineering (MEng) – Master of Computer Applications (MCA) – Master’s in Computer Science – PG Diploma in Business Analytics – Paramedical Courses – PG Diploma in Hospital Management – MBA – Financial Engineering Courses – Mobile App Development Courses – Robotics Engineering Courses |
| Commerce & Business | – Chartered Accountancy (CA) – Master of Commerce (M.Com) – MBA & MCA – PG Diploma in Computer Applications (PGDCA) – Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) – Business Accounting and Taxation (BAT) – Actuarial Science Courses – Master’s in Digital Marketing – PGDM in Finance – PGDEMA (Event Management) |
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Required Documents for the US Student Visa for Master’s Degree
International students planning to study for a Master’s degree in the USA must prepare a complete set of required documents in advance. Creating a checklist ensures smooth university admission and prevents issues like missing academic records. After securing admission, students must submit the necessary documents to apply for a U.S. student visa at the U.S. Embassy.
- Passport
- Resume/Curriculum Vitae
- Mark sheets and passing certifications
- Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent
- Letter of Recommendation (LOR)
- Entrance exam scorecards – GRE / GMAT / LSAT / MCAT
- Scores of the English language proficiency test
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Experience letters (if applicable)
- Copy of the application confirmation
- Articles
- Certificate of extracurricular activities
- Proof of funds
- Research proposal / portfolio / project description (for specific courses)
Student Work in the USA for Master’s Degree
Studying for a Master’s in the USA can be expensive, but international students on F-1 or M-1 visas can work under certain conditions. In the first year, work is limited to on-campus jobs. After that, students can work off-campus through OPT, STEM OPT, or CPT, gaining income and experience.
OPT (Optional Practical Training) allows up to 12 months of work, before or after graduation. STEM graduates can apply for a 24-month OPT extension, making it ideal for tech and science fields.
- Students must hold an F-1 visa.
- Student employment must relate to their course of study in the USA.
- They must apply for OPT before completing all course requirements.
- You must complete a certificate course at the university for your OPT application to be considered. A DSO (Designated School Official) will recommend you for OPT.
- To apply for OPT, you need to fill out Form I-20. The university submits your request to create the form in SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System).
- The candidate must find a job for the OPT Extension within 90 days after completing the program.
Dependent Student Visa in the USA for Master’s Degree
International students pursuing a Master’s in the USA on F-1 or M-1 visas can bring their spouse and unmarried children under 21 as dependents. To do so, inform your Designated School Official (DSO), who will issue a separate I-20 form for each dependent. They must then apply for an F-2 or M-2 visa. This allows your family to live with you while you study in the USA.
- Dependents may exit and reenter the United States with appropriate documents.
- Dependents are not permitted to work and are not eligible for a Social Security number.
- Dependents may attend full-time in an elementary or secondary school to meet the compulsory education requirements for minors in their state of residence.
- Dependents can study in a SEVP-certified school in the United States as long as they are enrolled in less than a full academic course. To read more about this in relation to official school limitations, check the related frequently asked questions.
- If there are any changes to the I-20 form for an F-1 or M-1 student or a dependent, the dependents should receive the updated I-20 form from the DSO.
- Dependents may apply for a change of status (through Form I-539, “Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status”) to F-1 or M-1 status if the adult dependent wishes to study full time.
Remember that to obtain dependent visas for immigration, your dependents can only maintain their F-2 or M-2 immigration status as long as they preserve their status throughout your academic program and any permitted periods of post-prog optional practical training. Changes in any of these factors can also affect their immigration status.
Benefits of Studying for a Master’s Degree in the USA
The USA, due to its high-ranking universities, can be a destination for many talented and creative students. Studying in a country like the USA certainly comes with numerous benefits. Here we outline some of the advantages of studying for a Master’s degree in the USA:
- High level of education in the US
- Better job opportunities
- Reputable degree
- High cultural diversity
Student Housing in the USA
Students can use student dormitories to live in the United States. Student dormitories are separate for girls and boys, and each university offers its own dormitory, each with a different campus and conditions.
Students can also rent student houses and share the costs with one or more other people. However, dormitories are a better place to meet other students and also get to know the culture and customs of life in this country.
Residency in the USA After Completing a Master’s Degree
One of the concerns of international students residency after studying in the USA is important. Master’s students in the USA can apply for a green card through employer sponsorship. While on OPT or CPT, they don’t need an H1B visa to start the process. If a U.S. employer agrees to sponsor them for future permanent employment, they can begin the green card process, which includes labor certification, filing Form I-140, and then Form I-485.
Individuals cannot apply for the GC form independently. There are three types of green cards available for those wishing to apply for a US green card and be employed through this route:
EB1
For doctoral students, IT managers who fall under the EB1 visa will receive their green card immediately.
EB2
For students in the USA and 4-year Bachelor’s students with 5 years of work experience, the average time to receive GC and EB2 ranges from 4 to 8 years.
EB3
Only a Bachelor’s degree is sufficient. After receiving a green card, you can establish your business in the USA. After obtaining a green card, you can work for any employer in the USA.
Frequently Asked Questions about Studying for a Master’s Degree in the USA
- What documents are required for a Master’s degree in the USA?
The following are needed to study at universities in the USA.
- When should I apply for a Master’s degree in the USA before which months?
To get accepted into US universities, typically, you should apply before the months of September and January.
- Can international students work in the USA after studying for a Master’s degree?
International students can work in the USA with the necessary permits such as OPT.
- What are the required language documents for studying for a Master’s degree in the USA?
For studying for a Master’s degree in English in the USA, official language certificates such as TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic, C1 Advanced, etc. are generally required.
- Can students pursuing a Master’s degree in the USA apply for dependent visas for their family?
Yes, while studying, individuals can apply for dependent visas for their spouse and unmarried children under 21 years of age.
- What is the average cost of studying for a Master’s degree in the USA?
The average annual tuition fee that applicants for a Master’s degree in the USA have to pay is around 30,000 to 120,000 dollars, depending on the university and the chosen field of study.
Conclusion:
Many students worldwide seek countries offering quality higher education and post-graduation opportunities. Studying for a Master’s degree in the USA is popular due to benefits like access to the US job market and residency options for students and families. This article covers the conditions and application process for Master’s programs in the USA. For personalized guidance or questions, contact Malek Pour Institute’s expert consultants by phone.
