OVERVIEW OF MASTERS / MS IN USA
The United States is one of the most favored destinations among International Students who wish to pursue a Master's degree. MS (Master of Science) is the most sought-after credential and includes all the STEM Programs - Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Universities also offer an MS in Management related programs such as Finance, Business Analytics, Global Logistics & Supply Chain Management.
An MS Program typically has a duration of 2 years, though there are some that can be completed in 1 year. Students seeking to apply will often be required to show 16 years of education (high GPA for more selective universities), English Language Proficiency (TOEFL / IELTS) and finally GRE. The cost varies across states and universities and can range from 35 lakh INR to 80 lakh INR for Ivy League institutions. The average starting salary range for an MS graduate is between $80,000 – $150,000. Some of the most popular MS Programs include Computer Science, Data Science, Information Systems, Engineering Management and other core subjects such as Mechanical Engineering, Electronics & Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering & Construction Management.
PROCESS TO APPLY FOR MS IN USA
Once you have your list of universities shortlisted, you can move forward with submitting your application to each of them. The process is entirely online and each University has its own application portal with its unique structure and set of questions. For the US, Spring and Fall are the important intakes for international students, with Fall intake receiving the majority of applications. You will need to have your entire documentation ready before submitting your application to study MS in USA.
ENTRY / ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR STUDY MS IN USA
The entry requirements vary between universities; however, institutions look at the student’s profile on a holistic basis. What it means is that multiple factors are considered from the student profile, which includes CGPA, GRE Score, TOEFL / IELTS Score, Work Experience (if any), Co-curricular activities, Published papers / articles. Among them, the GRE and CGPA score have the highest weightage in terms of eligibility consideration.
Academics - 16 years of education (12+4). Universities look for CGPA above 3.0 for popular or competitive programs. For students with 15 years of education (12+3), the number of Universities and Programs to apply to are limited, but it is possible to apply.
English language proficiency - TOEFL Score above 80 usually or IELTS Score overall of 6.5 band.
SCRUTINY PROCEDURE FOR PHD IN USA
Following are the list of documents that students need to keep ready while submitting their applications to study masters in USA:
Degree Certificate (if completed)
Transcripts & Marksheets
GRE Score Card
TOEFL / IELTS Score Card
Statement of Purpose / Essay
Letters of Recommendations (upto 3)
Resume Updated with latest details
10th & 12th Standard Certificates
Passport Copy
Job Experience Letters (if working)
Any co-curricular / extra-curricular certificates
Bank Balance Certificate (for I-20)