Again and again, USA keeps drawing International students. The reason is not farfetched. You will discover why between the pages. However, this piece elaborates on everything you need to know to do your masters program in USA. You will discover the cost, fundings, scholarships and answers to major questions that plague your mind.
Being a major revolutionary in education, USA still stands out in quality education in all courses, especially research. Home to world-class universities and college, you have a handful to choose from. Welcome Aboard, scholar!!!
Is Studying Masters in USA Worth It?
It’s a yes. Testimonies from previous students recommend USA as the best study abroad destination. Here are some of the best reasons to consider a Masters program in USA in 2021;
- USA is a home to elite universities and institutions which dominate the global rankings for universities
- America has a great international outlook with over 400,000 applicants each year.
- USA is the most popular destination for international students, which offers an unparalleled breadth of qualifications to pick from.
- Although it’s expensive, students have a handful of funding opportunities to choose from.
- USA offers students seeking a graduate degree with innovative research, world-class technology, renowned faculty, and cultural exposure.
- STEM courses are widely opted by students, because, one, it is in demand in the US.
- Interestingly, USA gives students 17-month work visa extension post-MS
Types of Masters Program in USA
Contrary to popular trend, America divides her masters study program into two categories namely:
- Academic Masters programmes
- Professional Masters programmes.
Academic Masters Programmes
Academic Masters programmes are like traditional taught Masters degrees in other countries. It focuses upon broad subject areas and concludes with a substantial research task and the submission of an associated thesis. However, academic masters programme in USA tend to be less specialised than their international equivalents.
Professional Masters Programmes
Note that professional Masters programmes provide the vocational skills and technical training required for particular professional careers. Also, Professional Masters programmes have fewer elective modules than academic masters programmes. However, you will be required to complete a stricter syllabus of core training.
So before making a choice of university and programme, verify the type of masters. This is necessary for direction.
Top Universities for Masters Program in USA 2021
Without mincing words, universities in USA are elite, very competitive and have low acceptance rate. What this means is that you have a low chance of getting accepted. However, there is nothing an expert’s advice cannot fix. Below is the list of top universities for Masters program in 2021;
- Yale University
- Brown University
- Cornell University
- Harvard University
- Dartmouth College
- Stanford University
- Princeton University
- Columbia University
- University of Chicago
- The University of Pennsylvania
- University of Michigan–Ann Arbor
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Most of these universities are top ranking in university rankings and member of the Ivy League.
Requirements For Masters Program in USA
Although requirements differ by each university, here is a rundown of the requirements to apply for MSc in USA
- CV
- Transcripts
- Health Insurance
- Research Internships
- Statement of Purpose
- GRE score of 330 or above
- Social & Leadership Activities
- Identity Proof: Passport for visa
- 2 to 3 letters of recommendation
- 3.5 or higher GPA, equivalent to 87% in bachelors
- Bachelor’s degree in relevant field or its equivalent.
- Financial Statement for proof of financial capability.
- Research Papers published in a good conference add greater value in selection.
- Participation in projects enhances the applicant’s understanding of the method. (State the reason for the project and the ultimate goals)
Frequently Asked Questions About Masters Program in USA
When is the Application Deadline for Masters Program in USA?
One key to securing a spot in USA as a masters student is early application. Submit your full application by the end of March in the academic year before you expect to enrol. However, some institutions accept applications in the previous December. .
Applying earlier gives room if you wish to be considered for some scholarships and other funding arrangements.
What are the Top Student Cities in USA?
America has great bustling cities. However, based on research, students settle for cities such as
- New York City
- Los Angeles ,
- Chicago
- Houston
- Phoenix
- Philadelphia
- Boston
- San Francisco
What’s the Average Cost of a Masters Programme in USA?
Cost in USA is on the top side. However,we came up with a tuition fee range for universities in USA in 2021. Also, cost of masters programs in USA depends on the type of university. Public universities in USA are considerably low when compared to private universities.
Therefore, Masters program at a public university in America will charge tuition fees between $20,000-35,000 per year for international students. Big, right!!! Here’s the bright side, only few Masters students in America pay the full cost of their course. Many receive funding from their university or from other organizations.
Do I Need a Student Visa to Get to USA?
The visa you apply for will depend on your mission to USA. It’s expedient you know that the US Department of State grants two different student visa:
- The M-1 visa is for non-academic, vocational training programmes.
- The F-1 visa is for attendance at universities and other higher education institutions.
To that stead, you will need an F-1 visa to study Masters in the USA. Note that when applying at the USA consular post in your country of residence.
Apply using the documents;
- Your passport
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of financial support
- Receipts for fee payments
- Form I-20 (Issued by your university once you’ve paid the SEVIS I-901 registration fee)
- Form DS-160 (got online as the first part of your actual visa application. Print it out)
Are there other Standardized Tests for MSc in USA?
Yes, masters program in USA requires other tests. Basically, this depends on your course. They include;
- GRE for Engineering, Management, Social Sciences, Computer and Information Technology
- GMAT for Management courses
- MCAT for Medical courses
- LSAT for Law Courses
Check out other study destinations such as Denmark, China, UK, Germany, Australia, Canada and Ukraine
References
- https://www.findamasters.com/study-abroad/america/top-ranked-universities-in-usa-postgraduate.aspx
- https://www.findamasters.com/funding/guides/masters-funding-usa.aspx
- https://www.findamasters.com/study-abroad/america/masters-study-in-usa.aspx
- https://collegedunia.com/usa/article/pursuing-ms-in-usa-a-complete-guide-for-international-students#leadform
