Thinking about pursuing an MS in the USA? Maybe you’re set on MIT, Stanford, or the University of Illinois or considering a tech hub like Silicon Valley, Boston, or Austin. But before you finalize, the big question is—how much is the cost of doing MS in USA?
The US has some of the top-ranked universities, high-paying STEM careers, and a well-paying job market. The tuition fees can go up to $60,000 per year (₹50L), and living costs vary widely between cities. A student in Ohio or Texas might spend far less than someone in New York or California, where rent alone can be high.
Here’s a quick look at the cost of doing MS in USA in 2025:
Tuition Fees: $15,000–$60,000 per year (₹12L–₹50L), depending on the university.
Living Expenses: $10,000–$18,000 per year (₹8L–₹15L), with rent making up the biggest chunk.
Health Insurance: $1,200–$3,000 per year (₹1L–₹2.5L), mandatory for all students.
We’ll cover tuition fees, accommodation, food, transport, and other essentials so you can plan the cost of doing MS in USA wisely.
Cost of Doing MS in USA: University Fees Breakdown
The cost of doing MS in USA depends on university type, program demand, and location. Public universities charge $16,000–$35,000 (₹13L–₹29L) per year for international students, while private universities range from $40,000–$60,000 (₹33L–₹50L).
In 2024, over 130,000 Indian students enrolled in graduate programs in USA, a 14% increase from the previous year. Tuition fees are highest at top-ranked universities, particularly for Computer Science, AI, and Engineering, where demand and research funding drive costs up.
Several US universities rank in the QS World University Rankings 2025, including MIT, Stanford, and UC Berkeley, known for their strong faculty, research, and global employability rates. These institutions charge premium tuition fees, but many public universities offer competitive programs at lower costs.
Public vs. Private Universities: What’s the Difference in Cost of Doing MS in USA?
Public universities receive state funding, which allows them to offer lower tuition for in-state residents. However, international students pay out-of-state tuition, which is still significantly lower than private universities. Private universities, on the other hand, charge higher tuition fees but may offer better financial aid and assistantship opportunities.
For example, UC Berkeley (public) charges around $29,000 per year for MS programs, whereas MIT (private) costs nearly $58,000 annually. However, students at private institutions often qualify for larger scholarships that help offset costs.
MS Tuition Fees at Top US Universities (2025)
University
Type
Popular MS Programs
Annual Tuition (USD) (₹ INR Equivalent)
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Private
AI, Robotics, Engineering
$58,000 (₹48L)
Stanford University
Private
Computer Science, Data Science
$57,861 (₹47.8L)
Harvard University
Private
Business Analytics, AI
$56,000 (₹46.2L)
University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley)
Public
CS, Data Science, Electrical Engineering
$29,000 (₹24L)
Carnegie Mellon University (CMU)
Private
AI, Robotics, Cybersecurity
$55,000 (₹46L)
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC)
Public
Mechanical, Civil, Electrical Engineering
$35,000 (₹29L)
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
Public
AI, ML, Biomedical Engineering
$34,500 (₹28.5L)
University of Southern California (USC)
Private
Data Science, AI, Cybersecurity
$48,000 (₹40L)
University of Texas at Austin
Public
AI, CS, Business Analytics
$22,000 (₹18L)
Purdue University
Public
Aerospace, Mechanical, Industrial Engineering
$25,000 (₹20.6L)
Arizona State University (ASU)
Public
Cybersecurity, AI, CS
$16,000 (₹13L)
Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech)
Public
AI, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science
$21,000 (₹17.5L)
Northeastern University
Private
Business Analytics, Cybersecurity, Engineering Management
$52,000 (₹43L)
University of Washington
Public
Computer Science, ML, AI
$39,000 (₹32L)
How Tuition Fees Vary by Program
The field of study plays a big role in tuition costs. STEM programs tend to be more expensive due to demand, research facilities, and lab-based coursework. In contrast, non-STEM fields are often cheaper, as they require fewer technical resources.
Tuition Fees Based on Program Type (2025)
Program Type
Tuition Range (USD per Year) (₹ INR Equivalent)
Examples
STEM Fields (CS, AI, Data Science, Engineering)
$30,000–$60,000 (₹25L–₹50L)
CMU ($55K/₹46L), UC Berkeley ($40K/₹33L)
Business & Management (MBA, Business Analytics)
$40,000–$80,000 (₹33L–₹66L)
Harvard ($75K/₹62L), Wharton ($80K/₹66L)
Non-STEM (Humanities, Social Sciences, Public Policy)
$20,000–$40,000 (₹16L–₹33L)
University of Florida ($25K/₹20L), Ohio State ($28K/₹23L)
For example, an MS in Computer Science at Carnegie Mellon costs $55,000 (₹46L) per year, while an MS in Political Science at the University of Florida costs around $25,000 (₹20L) per year.
Why Are Some Universities More Expensive Than Others?
Tuition fees vary across all universities, and several factors contribute to cost differences.
Factors Affecting MS Tuition Fees
Factor
Impact on Cost
Examples
University Ranking & Reputation
Top-ranked schools charge more due to faculty expertise, research funding, and high job placements.
MIT ($58K/₹48L), Stanford ($57.8K/₹47.8L)
Program Demand
High-demand fields like AI, Data Science, and Cybersecurity have higher tuition fees due to strong job market opportunities.
CMU AI ($55K/₹46L), NYU Cybersecurity ($50K/₹41L)
Location
Universities in expensive cities (New York, California) have higher tuition & living costs.
NYU ($55K/₹46L), Columbia ($54K/₹45L)
Public vs. Private
Public universities have lower fees for in-state students, while private universities are consistently expensive.
UC Berkeley ($29K/₹24L), Harvard ($75K/₹62L)
For example, an MS at NYU or Columbia costs nearly $55,000 (₹46L) annually, whereas the same degree at the University of Arizona costs around $20,000 (₹16L) per year. The cost difference is largely due to location, demand, and available research funding.
Cost of Doing MS in USA: By Degree Type
The cost of doing MS in USA depends on what you study and where you study it.
A Master’s in Computer Science at Stanford costs nearly three times what you’d pay for a Master’s in Public Policy at the University of Florida.
Programs in AI, Data Science, and Engineering come with higher tuition fees due to research intensity and industry demand, while degrees in Humanities and Social Sciences are often more affordable.
A 2024 survey by NCES found that STEM programs in the USA have 40% higher tuition costs than non-STEM programs. This is due to funding for advanced research labs, specialized faculty, and corporate partnerships.
Business schools also rank among the most expensive, as top MBA and Analytics programs charge premium tuition due to networking opportunities and employer demand.
Harvard ($75K/₹62L), Wharton ($80K/₹66L), Columbia ($70K/₹58L)
MS in Humanities, Social Sciences, Public Policy
$20,000–$40,000 (₹16L–₹33L)
University of Florida ($25K/₹20L), Ohio State ($28K/₹23L), UC Berkeley ($29K/₹24L)
Why Do Some Degrees Cost More Than Others?
Fields like AI, Cybersecurity, and Biotechnology demand top-tier faculty, high-tech labs, and corporate research partnerships, driving up tuition. CMU and MIT, both leaders in AI research, charge over $55,000 per year (₹46L) for their MS programs.
Schools price tuition based on employability. A Master’s in Data Science from NYU ($54K/₹45L) has higher tuition than a Master’s in Literature because graduates command six-figure salaries in tech.
Some business degrees like MBA and Business Analytics are shorter, high-intensity courses, which means students pay more upfront but graduate faster.
Engineering programs require high-tech simulations, specialized software, and lab-based projects, adding to annual tuition costs at schools like Purdue ($32K/₹26L) and UIUC ($35K/₹29L).
Cost Comparison: Expensive vs. Budget-Friendly Cities
Where you study greatly impacts your total MS cost. A student in New York City or San Francisco may spend twice as much on rent and food compared to someone studying in Texas or Ohio.
City Type
Examples
Living Expenses (USD per Year) (₹ INR Equivalent)
Expensive Cities
New York, San Francisco, Boston, Los Angeles
$20,000–$30,000 (₹16.5L–₹25L)
Moderate Cities
Chicago, Seattle, Austin, Denver
$15,000–$22,000 (₹12.5L–₹18L)
Budget-Friendly Cities
Houston, Pittsburgh, Tucson, Indianapolis
$10,000–$15,000 (₹8.5L–₹12.5L)
A student at NYU ($55K tuition + $30K living = $85K/year) will spend nearly double compared to a student at Texas A&M ($22K tuition + $12K living = $34K/year).
Why Are Some Cities More Expensive Than Others?
Housing Costs – Rent in New York, San Francisco, and Boston is at least $2,000 (₹1.65L) per month, whereas Houston, Pittsburgh, and Tucson offer rent under $800 (₹66K) per month.
Local Economy & Job Market – Cities with tech and finance hubs (San Francisco, NYC, Seattle) have higher salaries post-MBA/MS but also cost more while studying.
Public Transport vs. Car Dependency—A student in New York or Chicago can survive on public transport ($100–$150 per month), whereas in Arizona or Texas, students often need a car, which adds insurance and fuel costs.
Entrance Exam & Application Costs: Cost of Doing MS in USA
Before even starting your MS in USA, you’ll need to budget for entrance exams, application fees, and document processing. These pre-admission costs can add up to $500–$2,000 (₹41K–₹1.65L), depending on how many universities you apply to.
Exam Fees for MS in USA (2025)
Most universities require GRE/GMAT for admission and TOEFL/IELTS for English proficiency. Some universities waive the GRE for students with strong academic records or professional experience.
IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
$265 (₹21,500)
Extra TRF (Test Report Form): $25 (₹2,000) per university
Pro Tip: Some universities waive GRE/GMAT for students with high undergraduate GPAs or strong work experience.
University Application Fees & Additional Costs
Applying to multiple universities can be expensive, with each application costing $75–$150 (₹6,000–₹12,000). Most students apply to 6–10 universities, making total application costs $600–$1,200 (₹50,000–₹1L).
Application Cost
Fee (USD) (₹ INR Equivalent)
University Application Fees
$75–$150 (₹6,000–₹12,000) per university
WES Credential Evaluation (for some universities)
$160–$250 (₹13,000–₹20,000)
Transcripts & Document Verification
$10–$20 (₹800–₹1,600) per transcript
SEVIS Fee (Mandatory for Student Visa)
$350 (₹29,000)
Hidden Cost Alert: Some universities require WES (World Education Services) verification for Indian students, which can increase costs by $250 (₹20,000).
Applying strategically—choosing 6–8 target universities and using fee waivers where available—can save money in the application process.
Hidden Costs of Doing MS in USA
Most students budget for tuition and rent, but hidden costs can add $5,000–$10,000 (₹4L–₹8L) per year to their expenses. These include insurance, accommodation setup, books, and travel costs.
Student Health Insurance Costs (Mandatory at Most Universities)
All international students must have health insurance, and universities charge between $1,200–$3,000 (₹1L–₹2.5L) per year. Some states require public insurance, while others allow private health plans.
University
Health Insurance Cost (USD per Year) (₹ INR Equivalent)
University of California System (UCLA, UC Berkeley, etc.)
$2,900 (₹2.4L)
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC)
$1,800 (₹1.5L)
Arizona State University (ASU)
$1,400 (₹1.1L)
Texas A&M University
$1,200 (₹1L)
Budget Tip: Some universities allow students to buy private insurance, which can reduce costs by 30–40% compared to university-provided plans.
Setting Up Accommodation (Furniture, Utilities, Security Deposits)
Moving into a new apartment requires more than just paying rent. Students often spend $1,500–$3,000 (₹1.25L–₹2.5L) upfront on furniture, security deposits, and utilities.
Initial Setup Cost
Estimated Expense (USD) (₹ INR Equivalent)
Security Deposit (1–2 months’ rent)
$800–$2,000 (₹66,000–₹1.65L)
Furniture (Bed, Desk, Kitchenware, etc.)
$500–$1,500 (₹41,000–₹1.25L)
Utilities (Electricity, Water, WiFi setup)
$200–$400 (₹16,000–₹33,000)
Cost-Saving Hack: Buying second-hand furniture from Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or IKEA can cut costs by up to 50%.
Books, Study Materials & Lab Fees
Some STEM courses require software licenses and lab equipment, adding another $500–$1,500 (₹41,000–₹1.25L) per year.
Expense
Estimated Cost (USD per Year) (₹ INR Equivalent)
New Textbooks & E-books
$500–$1,200 (₹41,000–₹99,000)
Lab & Research Fees
$300–$800 (₹25,000–₹66,000)
Budget Tip: Buying used textbooks or sharing with seniors can save up to 60%. Some universities also provide free access to digital books and research materials.
University Activity Fees & Annual Lab Costs
Most US universities charge students activity and service fees, covering gym access, student organizations, and IT services. Some also have mandatory lab fees for STEM students.
University
Annual Activity Fees (USD) (₹ INR Equivalent)
MIT
$368 (₹30,000)
Stanford
$450 (₹37,000)
Purdue University
$320 (₹26,000)
Watch Out! These fees are non-refundable and charged separately from tuition.
Flight Tickets & Initial Relocation Costs
A one-way ticket from India to the US costs $600–$1,500 (₹50,000–₹1.25L), depending on the city and season.
Expense
Estimated Cost (USD) (₹ INR Equivalent)
Flight Ticket (One-Way, Economy Class)
$600–$1,500 (₹50,000–₹1.25L)
Extra Luggage Fees (for students moving abroad)
$100–$200 (₹8,000–₹16,000)
Airport Transport (Taxi/Uber to Campus)
$50–$100 (₹4,000–₹8,000)
Cost-Saving Tip: Booking flights 3–4 months in advance and flying via Middle Eastern carriers (Qatar Airways, Emirates) can reduce airfare.
How to Reduce Costs While Studying in the USA?
Many students manage their expenses through scholarships, part-time jobs, assistantships, and strategic budgeting.
Here’s how you can cut down your expenses while pursuing an MS in USA.
Scholarships & Assistantships
Most universities offer merit-based and need-based scholarships to international students. Graduate assistantships (TA/RA positions) cover part or full tuition and provide a monthly stipend.
Funding Option
Benefit
Where to Apply?
Merit-Based Scholarships
Covers 25%–100% of tuition
University financial aid offices
Graduate Assistantships (TA/RA)
Tuition fee waiver + stipend
University departments
External Scholarships (Fulbright, Tata, Inlaks)
Covers tuition + living costs
Private organizations
Tip: Apply for assistantships as soon as you get admitted—they are competitive and limited.
Affordable Housing Options
Rent is one of the biggest expenses in the USA, but sharing an apartment or opting for student housing can cut costs by 30–50%.
Housing Type
Average Monthly Rent (USD) (₹ INR Equivalent)
On-campus student dorms
$800–$1,500 (₹66K–₹1.25L)
Shared apartment (2–4 roommates)
$400–$1,200 (₹33K–₹99K)
Single-bedroom apartment
$1,200–$2,500 (₹99K–₹2L)
Tip: Look for apartments in suburban areas—they are cheaper and often well connected to campuses via public transport.
Reducing Food & Grocery Expenses
Eating out frequently can double your monthly expenses. Buying groceries and cooking at home saves over $200 (₹16K) per month.
Food Option
Average Monthly Cost (USD) (₹ INR Equivalent)
Home-cooked meals (groceries from Walmart, Costco)
$150–$250 (₹12K–₹21K)
University meal plans
$250–$500 (₹21K–₹41K)
Eating out (3–4 times a week)
$500–$800 (₹41K–₹66K)
Tip: Many universities have Indian student groups that organize bulk grocery buys, helping you save even more.
Public Transport & Student Discounts
Most students can rely on public transport and university shuttle services.
Transport Mode
Average Monthly Cost (USD) (₹ INR Equivalent)
Public transport pass (subway/bus)
$50–$150 (₹4K–₹12K)
University shuttle (free in most campuses)
$0
Uber/Lyft (occasional use)
$50–$100 (₹4K–₹8K)
Tip: Use student discounts for public transport, gyms, and entertainment—many cities offer up to 50% off for students.
Allows F-1 visa holders to work in the US for up to 12 months after graduation.
STEM students get a 24-month extension, making it a total of 36 months (3 years).
OPT jobs do not require visa sponsorship, making it easier to get a full-time job after graduation.
Example: A Machine Learning graduate from CMU can work at Google for $100K+ (₹83L per year) on OPT before applying for an H-1B work visa.
Cost Comparison: MS in USA vs. Other Countries
While the USA remains the top choice for Indian students, countries like Canada, Germany, and Australia offer competitive programs at lower costs.
Cost of Doing MS in USA vs. Other Countries (2025)
Country
Average Tuition Fees (USD per Year) (₹ INR Equivalent)
Average Living Costs (USD per Year) (₹ INR Equivalent)
USA
$30,000–$60,000 (₹25L–₹50L)
$15,000–$25,000 (₹12.5L–₹20.5L)
Canada
$20,000–$35,000 (₹16.5L–₹29L)
$12,000–$18,000 (₹10L–₹15L)
UK
$25,000–$45,000 (₹20.5L–₹37L)
$15,000–$20,000 (₹12.5L–₹16.5L)
Germany
$0–$5,000 (₹0–₹4L) (Public Universities)
$12,000–$16,000 (₹10L–₹13L)
Australia
$25,000–$45,000 (₹20.5L–₹37L)
$15,000–$22,000 (₹12.5L–₹18L)
Which Country is the Most Cost-Effective?
Germany is the cheapest option for MS, with tuition-free public universities, but living costs can add up, and German language proficiency is required for many programs.
Canada offers mid-range tuition and affordable living but has limited post-study work opportunities compared to the USA.
USA is the most expensive, but higher salaries post-MS and longer work opportunities (OPT, H-1B) make it a strong investment.
The UK and Australia have high tuition fees, but shorter course durations (1 year vs. 2 years in the USA) reduce total costs.
upGrad Abroad’s Expense Calculator for MS in USA
upGrad Abroad’s Expense Calculator helps students estimate their tuition and living costs before applying.
How Can upGrad Abroad Help?
Personalized Budget Planning – Get a detailed cost estimate based on your university, city, and lifestyle preferences.
Higher earning potential – MS graduates earn $90,000+ (₹75L+) per year on average.
Global exposure & top faculty – Study with leading researchers in cutting-edge fields.
Work opportunities – OPT (up to 3 years for STEM) & H-1B visa options increase job prospects.
Challenges to consider:
Tuition & living costs are high, ranging from $40,000–$80,000 (₹33L–₹66L) per year.
Competitive job market – Requires strong networking and internships.
For students looking for the best ROI (Return on Investment), the USA remains a top choice.
Planning to study MS in the USA? Check your budget, scholarships, and visa requirements to start your journey today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are there any universities in the USA with lower tuition fees for Indian students?
Yes, public universities like Texas A&M Kingsville ($15,000–$18,000/year), Wichita State University ($14,000–$17,000/year), and South Dakota State University ($12,000–$14,000/year) offer lower tuition for international students.
Do public universities in the USA charge lower fees than private ones for international students?
Yes, public universities charge $15,000–$35,000/year, while private universities range between $35,000–$60,000/year. Schools like University of Texas and Purdue are more affordable than private ones like Stanford and MIT.
What is the total amount an Indian student needs before moving to the USA for an MS?
Students need $30,000–$50,000 for the first year, including tuition, living expenses, health insurance, visa, and travel costs. Universities require proof of funds covering at least one year.
Can international students negotiate tuition fees or get fee waivers?
Tuition fees are fixed, but students can apply for merit-based scholarships, graduate assistantships (TA/RA), and financial aid to reduce costs. Some universities offer tuition waivers for top-performing students.
Are installment payment options available for tuition fees in US universities?
Yes, many universities allow students to pay in 2–4 installments per semester. Some, like Northeastern University and University of Illinois, offer monthly payment plans with a small administrative fee.
How much money should I carry for my initial months in the USA?
Students should carry $2,000–$3,000 for rent deposits, groceries, transport, and essentials. Having a forex card and international debit card is recommended for smooth transactions.
Is a blocked account required for MS students in the USA like it is in Germany?
No, the USA does not require a blocked account. Instead, students must show proof of funds via bank statements, loan sanction letters, or sponsorship documents for visa approval.
What’s the cheapest way to transfer money from India to the USA for tuition payments?
Wire transfers via SBI, ICICI, HDFC and remittance services like Wise, Western Union, and Remitly offer lower exchange rates and processing fees than traditional banks.
Are Indian students eligible for in-state tuition fees in any US universities?
Generally, no. However, some universities offer in-state tuition waivers after a year of residency or through special scholarships in states like Texas and Florida.
What are the banking and financial setup costs for international students in the USA?
Opening a student bank account is free, but some banks require a $25–$100 minimum deposit. Major banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo offer student-friendly accounts.
How much does mobile phone and internet service cost for students in the USA?
A mobile plan costs $30–$70/month, with providers like T-Mobile, Mint Mobile, and AT&T offering affordable student plans. Home internet costs $40–$80/month depending on the provider.
Is health insurance included in university tuition, or do students need to buy it separately?
Most universities require international students to buy health insurance, costing $1,200–$3,000/year. Some universities include it in tuition, while others offer private insurance options.
How much do Indian students spend on food in the USA per month?
On average, students spend $200–$500/month on food. Cooking at home is cheaper, while eating out frequently can increase monthly expenses significantly.
Are there any organizations that help fund MS education for Indian students in the USA?
Yes, organizations like Fulbright, Tata Scholarship, and Inlaks Foundation offer grants and scholarships for Indian students. Many US universities also provide assistantships with tuition waivers.
Can I reduce costs by taking online MS courses instead of attending on-campus programs?
Yes, online MS programs are 30–50% cheaper than full-time ones. Universities like Georgia Tech, ASU, and University of Illinois offer affordable online MS degrees but with limited networking opportunities.
We are a dedicated team of study-abroad experts, ensuring intensive research and comprehensive information in each of our blogs. With every piece written, we aim at simplifying the overseas education process for all. Our diverse experience as journalists, content writers, editors, content strategists, and marketers helps create the most relevant and authentic blogs for our readers.
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