Explore the top universities in USA for Masters for international students in 2024! Whether you're seeking world-class research facilities, renowned faculty, or vibrant campus life, this blog will help you find the best institutions to advance your academic and professional goals. Know what makes these universities stand out and how they can shape your future.

Top 10 universities in USA for Masters for international students

The US is renowned for its popular universities. Here are the top 10 universities that accept IELTS for pursuing a master's degree in the US:

Best universities in USA for Masters

Here are the 10 best universities in the US for you to consider studying master’s in your preferred program:

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

MIT is globally renowned for its top-ranked master’s programs, particularly in engineering, computer science, and business. The Sloan School of Management's MBA program and the School of Engineering’s MS degrees in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science are highly prestigious.

The average annual fee for master’s programs at MIT is approximately $53,790 (INR 44,79,660).

2. Harvard University

Harvard University offers a variety of esteemed master’s programs, with the Harvard Business School’s MBA and the Kennedy School’s public policy and administration programs being particularly notable. Harvard Law School’s LLM and the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences MA and MS degrees in diverse fields also stand out.

The average annual fee for master’s programs at Harvard is around $54,000 (INR 44,96,968).

3. Stanford University

Stanford University is known for its rigorous master’s programs in business, engineering, and humanities. The Stanford Graduate School of Business MBA program and the School of Engineering’s MS degrees in fields such as Computer Science and Bioengineering are especially popular.

The average annual fee for master’s programs at Stanford is about $56,169 (INR 46,77,597).

4. University of California, Berkeley (UCB)

UC Berkeley offers top-tier master’s programs across various disciplines, including the renowned Haas School of Business MBA and the College of Engineering’s MS degrees in Civil and Electrical Engineering. Berkeley’s School of Information also offers a cutting-edge Master of Information and Data Science (MIDS).

The average annual fee for master’s programs at UC Berkeley is approximately $44,000 (INR 36,64,205).

5. University of Chicago

The University of Chicago is known for its academically rigorous master’s programs, including the Booth School of Business MBA and the Harris School of Public Policy’s degrees in public policy. The Division of the Social Sciences offers MA programs in Economics and Political Science.

The average annual fee for master’s programs at the University of Chicago is around $61,548 (INR 51,25,557).

6. University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania offers a wide range of prestigious master’s programs, including the Wharton School’s MBA and the School of Engineering and Applied Science’s MS degrees in Computer and Information Science. The Graduate School of Education’s programs in educational leadership and policy are also highly regarded.

The average annual fee for master’s programs at the University of Pennsylvania is approximately $51,444 (INR 42,84,590).

7. Cornell University

Cornell University provides a broad spectrum of master’s programs, with the Johnson Graduate School of Management’s MBA and the College of Engineering’s MS degrees in Biomedical Engineering being particularly notable. The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences offers specialised master’s programs focusing on sustainability.

The average annual fee for master’s programs at Cornell University is around $29,500 (INR 24,56,951).

8. California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

Caltech’s master’s programs are highly specialised and focus on science and engineering, including MS degrees in Aerospace, Electrical Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering. Caltech’s curriculum emphasises research and innovation, preparing students for advanced careers in academia and industry.

The average annual fee for master’s programs at Caltech is about $56,364 (INR 46,94,585).

9. Yale University

Yale University offers a range of distinguished master’s programs, including the Yale School of Management’s MBA and the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences’ MA and MS degrees in Economics, Political Science, and Environmental Studies. Yale’s programs emphasise interdisciplinary collaboration and critical inquiry.

The average annual fee for master’s programs at Yale is approximately $45,700 (INR 38,06,206).

10. Princeton University

Princeton University is renowned for its academically rigorous master’s programs, such as the School of Engineering and Applied Science’s MS degrees in Computer Science and Mechanical Engineering, and the Woodrow Wilson School’s public policy and international affairs programs. Princeton fosters a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment.

The average annual fee for master’s programs at Princeton is around $56,470 (INR 47,03,205).

What are the requirements for universities in USA for Masters?

1. Academic qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree: A four-year bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution

• Transcripts: Official academic transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended, showcasing a strong academic record

2. Standardised tests

• GRE/GMAT: Scores from the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), depending on the program

• English proficiency tests: Non-native English speakers must provide scores from an English proficiency test like the IELTS

3. Letters of recommendation

• Professional and academic references: Usually, two to three letters of recommendation from professors or employers who can attest to the applicant’s qualifications and potential for success in graduate studies

4. Statement of purpose (SOP)

• Personal statement: A well-written statement detailing academic interests, career goals, reasons for pursuing a master’s degree, and why the applicant chose the particular university

5. Curriculum vitae (CV) or resume

• Detailed CV/Resume: Includes academic qualifications, professional experience, research, publications, and any relevant extracurricular activities

6. Application form

• Completed application: Submission of the university’s official application form through their online portal, which may include additional essays or personal insights

7. Application fee

• Payment: An application fee, which varies by university, is required upon submission of the application

8. Interviews (if applicable)

• Admissions Interview: Some programs may require an interview as part of the selection process, either in person, over the phone, or via video conferencing

9. Portfolio (for specific programs)

• Work samples: For certain fields such as architecture, design, or fine arts, a portfolio showcasing previous work may be required

10. Financial documentation

• Proof of funding: Evidence of sufficient financial resources to cover tuition fees and living expenses for the duration of the program. This may include bank statements, scholarship award letters, or sponsorship letters

Hope this blog helps you understand all about universities in USA for masters. If you are also planning for the same and want to take an IELTS test and have queries related to the same, then you can get in touch with your nearest IDP IELTS test centre. Our team of IELTS experts will guide you with all your doubts.

Read more informative articles:

• IELTS score for USA universities

• US universities accepting IELTS

• 1 year Masters programs in USA

• Affordable US universities

• MBA in USA for international students

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