Master’s in Engineering in USA

If you’re serious about “building” the future—whether it’s smarter cities, advanced robotics, or sustainable energy solutions—then a Master’s in Engineering in USA is your way in. The US has some of the best engineering schools in the world, like MIT, Stanford, and UC Berkeley, where advanced research meets real-world innovation.

But is it worth the cost? The tuition fees tanges from $30,000 to $70,000 (₹25 - ₹58 lakh) per year, so getting scholarships, research assistantships, or funding through internships can help. And with the tech and engineering job market in the US expected to grow by 10% by 2030 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics), H-1B sponsorships and high-paying jobs after graduation are a real possibility.

So, which universities are the best? How do you apply? What about work permits and PR pathways? This page walks you through everything!

Highlights: Masters in Engineering in USA

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS, 2024), engineering jobs are projected to grow 6% by 2032, with higher demand in AI, robotics, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing.

Why choose the USA for your master's? Read more about the benefits of studying in the USA.

Top Universities for Masters in Engineering in the USA

With over 1.7 million engineers working in the USA (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024), studying at the right university can set the foundation for a high-paying and future-proof career. The USA has 10 of the top 50 global engineering schools (QS World University Rankings 2025).

Want to apply without paying fees? Check out no-application-fee universities in the USA.

Best Universities for Engineering in the USA (2025)

Looking for cost-effective programs? Public universities like UIUC, Purdue, and Georgia Tech offer lower tuition fees with strong job placement rates.

Want more details? Learn about the best master's programs in the USA and find the right fit for your career goals.

How to Choose the Right Engineering University?

• Check Specializations: If you're interested in AI & Robotics, MIT and Carnegie Mellon are top picks. For Mechanical & Automotive Engineering, Michigan and Purdue are ideal.
• Compare Tuition Fees: Private universities like MIT and Stanford charge $50,000 - $80,000 per year (₹41 - ₹66 lakh), while public universities like UIUC and Georgia Tech cost $25,000 - $45,000 (₹20 - ₹37 lakh) annually.
• Look at Research & Industry Ties: Berkeley, Caltech, and Georgia Tech have strong partnerships with Tesla, Google, and NASA.

Best Specializations for Masters in Engineering in the USA

Engineering is evolving fast, and some specializations offer better career prospects than others. 

The National Science Foundation (NSF, 2024) reports that over 190,000 international students enroll in USA graduate engineering programs annually, which makes it one of the most sought-after fields. Emerging areas like AI, clean energy, and automation are shaping the future job market, with the AI engineering sector expected to grow by 30% by 2030 (McKinsey, 2024).

Most In-Demand Engineering Specializations

Choosing a specialization? Consider industry demand, salary growth, and job opportunities in the USA.

Eligibility Criteria for Master’s in Engineering in USA

A Master’s in Engineering in USA requires a strong academic background and competitive test scores. Engineering is a STEM field, meaning students benefit from a 3-year OPT work permit after graduation.

Who Can Apply?

Bachelor’s Degree – A 4-year undergraduate degree in engineering, technology, or a related field.
Minimum GPA – Most top universities expect a 3.0 - 3.5 on a 4.0 scale (varies by university).
Prerequisite Subjects – Mathematics, physics, and core engineering courses.

Need to meet English proficiency requirements? Learn about the best IELTS score for US admissions.

Do You Need GRE for Engineering in the USA?

Many universities have waived GRE requirement, but some still require it, especially for top-tier programs.

Find out which universities waive the GRE! Check this guide on GRE requirements for the USA.

English Language Requirements

International students must prove their English proficiency through IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE.

Not sure which test to take? Read about TOEFL vs. IELTS: Which one is better for the USA?

Admission Process for Masters in Engineering in USA

Every year, over 200,000 international students apply for engineering master's programs in the USA (Institute of International Education, 2024). The process can be competitive, but early preparation, strong academic records, and strategic application choices can improve your chances.

Looking for ways to study in the USA for free? Check out available scholarships and funding options.

Step-by-Step Admission Process

Step 1: Research & Shortlist Universities

• Consider program rankings, research focus, job placement rates, and tuition fees.
• Public universities like UC Berkeley and Georgia Tech offer lower tuition than Ivy League schools.
• Want to aim for top-tier schools? Read how to get into Ivy League colleges from India.

Step 2: Check Admission Deadlines (Fall vs. Spring Intake)

• Fall Intake (August/September): Primary intake with more courses, funding, and job opportunities.
• Spring Intake (January): Fewer programs but still a viable option.

Step 3: Prepare Application Documents

Need SOP or LOR help? Follow expert tips on writing an impactful SOP.

Step 4: Submit Applications via University Portals

• Some universities accept applications via Common App, ApplyWeb, or direct portals.
• Application fees range from $50 - $150 (₹4,100 - ₹12,300) per university.

Step 5: Track Admission Results & Apply for a Visa

• Universities send admission decisions between December and April.
• If accepted, you’ll receive an I-20 form required for an F-1 Student Visa application.

New to the USA education system? Read this guide on the education system in the USA.

Cost of Studying Masters in Engineering in the USA

The USA offers some of the best engineering programs, but tuition and living expenses can add up quickly. According to the College Board (2024), the average cost of a master's degree in engineering is between $40,000 - $80,000 per year (₹33 - ₹66 lakh), varying by university and location.

Planning your budget? Check the cost of studying engineering in the USA for Indian students.

Tuition Fees: Public vs. Private Universities

Want cost-effective options? Learn about costs of master’s programs in the USA.

City-Wise Cost of Living

Living costs in the USA vary by city and state. Tech hubs like California and New York are more expensive, while cities in Texas and the Midwest are more affordable.

Considering a budget-friendly location? Explore the cost of MS in the USA.

Additional Costs to Consider

Apart from tuition, students must budget for health insurance, student fees, and textbooks.

How to Reduce Costs?

Need financial aid? Check out fully-funded scholarships in USA.

Best Cities in the USA for Engineering Students

According to the National Science Foundation (NSF, 2024), over 50% of engineering master’s students find their first jobs in the same city where they study. Some cities are tech and research hubs, while others offer a lower cost of living and strong industry connections.

Want a city that fits your budget and career goals? Check the best cities to study in the USA for a full breakdown.

Top Cities for Engineering Students

Choosing an affordable city? Austin and Chicago offer lower living costs with strong job markets.

Scholarships for Masters in Engineering in the USA

According to EducationData.org (2024), more than 60% of international master's students receive some form of financial aid.

Top Scholarships for MS in Engineering

How to Maximize Your Chances of Getting a Scholarship

• Apply Early – Most scholarships have deadlines 6-12 months before the program starts.
• Write a Strong SOP – A compelling Statement of Purpose (SOP) can help stand out.
• Consider Assistantships – Teaching Assistantships (TAs) and Research Assistantships (RAs) can cover tuition and provide stipends.

Pro Tip: Universities like MIT, UC Berkeley, and Stanford offer generous funding to students with strong research backgrounds.

Career Opportunities After Masters in Engineering in the USA

Over 65% of international engineering graduates secure full-time jobs in the USA within six months of graduation (ASEE, 2024). The country’s engineering industry generates over $1.5 trillion annually, with high demand in AI, automation, clean energy, and aerospace.

Want to know which jobs are trending? Check out the top in-demand jobs in the USA for 2025.

Top Engineering Careers & Salaries

Looking for high-paying roles? Explore the highest-paying jobs in the USA for engineers.

Internships & Work Opportunities

• Internships: Most engineering programs in the USA offer internship opportunities through university partnerships with top companies. 90% of international students secure internships before graduating (National Association of Colleges and Employers, 2024).
• Part-Time Jobs: Engineering students can work on-campus for up to 20 hours per week. Some roles include lab assistants, research assistants, and IT support.
• Co-op Programs: Universities like Northeastern, Drexel, and Purdue offer co-op programs that let students work full-time for 6-12 months before graduation.

Need work experience while studying? Find out the best part-time jobs for international students.

Work Visa Options After Completing MS in Engineering in the USA

After completing your master's, staying in the USA for work requires the right visa strategy. Engineering graduates qualify for STEM OPT (Optional Practical Training), allowing them to work for up to 3 years without needing employer sponsorship.

Want to stay long-term? Learn about Green Card pathways for international students.

Post-Study Work Visa Options

Pro Tip: The H-1B lottery system has 85,000 slots annually, and STEM graduates have a higher selection rate due to demand in tech and engineering.

Is a Masters in Engineering in the USA Worth It?

Spending ₹50 lakh or more on a degree is a huge decision, so it’s natural to ask—will it actually pay off? The short answer? It depends on your career goals, financial situation, and where you study.

Why It’s Worth It

✔ Better Salaries & Job Opportunities

• Engineers with a master’s degree earn 20-30% more than those with just a bachelor’s (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024).
• Fields like AI, Machine Learning, Renewable Energy, and Robotics are growing at over 25% per year and need skilled engineers.

✔ Top Companies Are Hiring

• Google, Tesla, Boeing, Intel, Microsoft, and Apple actively recruit MS Engineering grads.

✔ Cutting-Edge Research & Innovation

• The USA leads in AI, automation, and aerospace research, with funding from NASA, DARPA, and Fortune 500 companies.

When It Might Not Be Worth It

❌ If You’re Not Looking for a Technical Career

• A Master’s in Engineering is highly specialized. If you want to work in management, business, or finance, consider an MBA or an Engineering Management degree instead.

❌ If You Can’t Afford It Without Financial Aid

• If cost is a concern, look for scholarships, assistantships, or consider public universities where tuition is lower.