MBA in USA: Top Universities, Fees, Requirements, Eligibility & Scholarships

With five of the world’s top 10 business schools in 2025, including Stanford, Harvard, and Wharton, USA remains a leading destination for MBA aspirants, boasting an impressive 95% employment rate for graduates from top-tier schools within three months of graduation. 

Below are the top highlights of studying MBA in USA: 

Top MBA Colleges  

In 2025, US remains the global epicenter of business education, hosting over 660,000 master’s students at AACSB-accredited institutions and producing more than 202,000 MBA graduates annually.

Here is the list of top MBA Colleges: 

Source: QS Top Universities 

Top MBA Specializations  

MBA programs in USA offer over 30 specializations, with Finance, Consulting, and Technology leading the pack.

Here is the list of most popular MBA specializations offered in Business Schools: 

Eligibility and Admission Requirements for MBA 

To pursue an MBA in United States, international students must meet academic, professional, and language benchmarks.  

While requirements vary by school, most top programs follow these common criteria: 

1. Academic Qualifications 

The academic expectations for MBA programs in USA differ by institution tier.  

The table below outlines the degree and GPA requirements across premium, mid-tier, and other colleges. 

   2. Standardized Tests 

Standardized test benchmarks vary significantly across business school tiers.  

The following table provides a clear view of the GMAT and GRE score ranges commonly expected: 

   3. English Proficiency Score 

English language proficiency requirements also differ depending on the school tier.  

The table below summarizes the TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE scores generally accepted by U.S. MBA programs: 

   4. Work Experience Requirement 

While not mandatory everywhere, U.S. business schools value applicants who bring practical, leadership-driven experience.  

Here’s a breakdown of requirements across different tiers of U.S. business schools: 

Cost of Studying for MBA 

The total cost of an MBA degree in USA includes tuition and living expenses.  

Approximately,  

• Tuition cost for MBA programs in USA is: 

• Living Cost in USA is approximately $14,061 per year (INR 12.47L, excluding rent) 

Hence, the overall cost of a two-year MBA program, including living expenses, can cost approximately $200,000– $240,000 (INR 1.77Cr– 2.12Cr). 

Scholarships for MBA 

Although the cost of MBA in USA can feel overwhelming, scholarships can reduce the financial burden.  

Here are the top 5 options:  

MBA Intakes and Admissions 

Many U.S. universities offer MBA admissions in multiple intakes, which simply means different start months when classes begin. Students can choose the intake that best fits their schedule. 

Main Intakes in USA: 

• Spring Intake: January – May 
• Summer Intake: May – August 
• Fall Intake: August – December 

Below is a table where a few universities are listed along with their available intakes (all under rolling admissions): 

Most US business schools follow a rolling admissions process, meaning applications are reviewed as they are received rather than after a fixed deadline. Seats are offered continuously until the cohort is full. 

For universities that offer rolling admissions, the key factor is not the “deadline” but how “early you apply”. Once capacity is reached, applications may automatically be deferred to the next available intake. 

How to Apply for an MBA? 

Applying for an MBA in USA is a competitive process that requires early planning.  

Here is the step-by-step procedure:  

Step 1: Research Schools – Compare rankings, tuition, ROI, and specializations. 

Step 2: Check Eligibility – Verify academic, test score, and work experience requirements. 

Step 3: Take Required Tests – GMAT/GRE and English proficiency exams (TOEFL/IELTS). 

Step 4: Prepare Documents – The list of documents include: 

• Academic Transcripts  
• GMAT/GRE Score Report  
• English Proficiency Test Scores 
• Letters of Recommendation  
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Essays 
• Passport Copy  
• Bachelor’s Degree Certificate 
• Resume/CV 

Step 5: Submit Application – Apply via official portals and pay the fee. 

Step 6: Attend Interview – Prepare for behavioral and career-focused questions. 

Step 7: Confirm Admission – Accept offer, pay deposit, and start visa process. 

Student Visa Requirements for MBA 

International students pursuing an MBA in USA need an F-1 student visa, which allows full-time academic study at accredited institutions.  

Here are the requirements for securing a F-1 Students Visa: 

Here are the supporting documents required an F-1 Visa:  

• Admission Letter from the business school. 
• Proof of Financial Support (bank statements, scholarship letters, loan approval). 
• Academic Transcripts & Test Scores 
• Intent to Return  
• Two Photos (Passport) 
• Any previous U.S. visa documents (if applicable). 

Process to Apply for an F-1 Student Visa 

• Complete Form DS-160: Online nonimmigrant visa application. 
• Pay SEVIS Fee: Required for all F-1 applicants. 
• Schedule Visa Interview: At a U.S. embassy or consulate. 
• Attend Interview: Bring passport, Form I-20, DS-160 confirmation, photo, and financial documents. 

Top Cities for MBA 

The city you choose for your MBA affects networking, internships, and post-MBA job opportunities. 

Here are the top 5 cities in USA for MBA:  

Job Opportunities After MBA 

The median starting salary for new MBA graduates in U.S. is $92,000 (INR 81.5L), significantly higher than most master’s programs. 

Over 95% of graduates from top programs secure jobs within 3 months, with recruiters including McKinsey, Goldman Sachs, Google, and Amazon. 

Here is the list of top 5 roles and salaries post-MBA in USA:  

Source: Glassdoor