GENERAL

BTech in USA: Top Colleges, Admissions, Fees, Scholarships, Jobs

PD
Puja Das • 13 Mins read • 27 Jul 25
BTech in USABTech in USA

Before embarking on a journey to become an engineer, an individual requires to find a good engineering school that can help you to achieve your goals. For global students, the USA is one of the topmost options for students to study their B. Tech degrees. In the USA, a B. Tech degree is usually referred to as B. Sc. Engineering or BE. More than 780 colleges are there in the USA that offer B. Tech in the USA, and this includes MIT, Harvard University, Stanford University, UCLA etc. The average B.tech Engineering graduate salary in the USA is $91420 or INR 7720000. 


B. Tech in USA: Highlights

Most of the BTech universities in the USA are located in Texas, California, New York, Washington, Florida, Ohio, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania etc. the duration of BTech in the USA is 4 years. Listed below are few interesting facts regarding BTech in USA:

Particulars

Details

Total number of BTech Colleges in the USA

More than 780

Average cost for BTech USA

First-year tuition fee: INR 2000000 - 4000000 or above

Top Specializations

Computer Science & Engineering, Electronics & Electrical Engineering, IT & Networking, Mechanical Engineering

English Language proficiency Exams required

IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and Duolingo

Standardised test scores

SAT or ACT

Course Duration

4 Years

Course Type

Full Time

Admission Criteria

Completed 12 years of schooling equivalent to a high school diploma, with strong academic records in science and math

Scholarships

Needed-based and merit-based scholarships

Intake session

January, May and September


BTech in USA - Important Dates and Events

Some important events and dates of the BTech in USA are identified following table:

Important Events

Important Dates

Fall Intake

September 2025

Spring Intake

January 2026

Summer Intake

May 2026

Application Openings for fall intake

September to October 2024

Application deadlines for fall intake

November 2024 to January 2025

Semester Start

Late August or Early September 2025

Application Deadlines for Spring Intake

July 2025 to December 2025

Semester start

January 2026

Application openings for summer intake

May 2026

Entrance Exams dates (SAT/ACT, TOEFL/IELTS)

April to August 2025


BTech in USA Scholarships

The USA provides various scholarships for Indian students in the USA that can be availed at the bachelor level, irrespective of the stream. The amount of these scholarships ranges between $1000 and $5000. It assists in decreasing the cost of BTech in the USA. Here are some university-provided scholarships that Indian students can avail to make their education affordable:

Institution

Scholarships

Amount or Benefits (USD)

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

First Year Grant

2000

Stanford University

Endowed Undergraduate Scholarship Funds

Varies

California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

Named Scholarships

Varies

Carnegie Mellon University

Eric J. Gennuso and LeRoy D. (Bud) Loy, Jr. Scholarship Program

2,500 USD

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Ford Undergrad Engineer Scholarship

Varies

University of Texas at Austin

International Education Fee Scholarship

Covers tuition and other fees


BTech in USA Fees

The cost of studying BTech in the USA and the cost of living in the USA for international students identified here. Applicants must refer to the table provided here to know more about the cost of BTech in USA for Indian students:

University

Annual Tuition Fee (USD)

Equivalent Tuition Fee for Indians (INR)

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

29,875

24.95 lakhs

Stanford University

61,731

51.56 lakhs

University of California, Berkeley (UCB)

26,358.50

22.01 lakhs

Harvard University

56,550

47.23 lakhs

California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

63,402

52.96 lakhs

Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech)

31,370

26.20 lakhs

Carnegie Mellon University

64,596

53.96 lakhs

University of California, Los Angeles

15,154

12.65 lakhs

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

36,760-44,664

30.70 to 37.30 lakhs

University of Texas at Austin

45,376

37.90 lakhs

Cost of Living

Types of Cost

Minimum Cost

Maximum Cost

Mobile recharge

$15

$30

Home Internet

$15

$30

Electricity

$20

$40

Cell Phone

$50

$80

Weekend Activities

$50

$100

Restaurant Meals

$75

$100

Entertainment

$80

$100

Shopping 

$100

$100

Groceries

$150

$180

Accommodation

$150

$200


Why Choose a BTech in the USA?

Choosing the USA as a study designation for BTech degree comes with different compelling reasons:

  • Globally Recognised institutes: The USA is known for its prestigious educational institutions, offering a quality education respected across the world.
  • Optional Practical Training: OPT courses enable students to gain work experience after graduation, optimising their profession 
  • Diverse learning Environment: Interacting with peers from diverse backgrounds while studying abroad optimises a student’s personal development and learning experience.
  • Career Opportunities: Graduating from a US university opens the door to career opportunities in renowned tech giants, SMEs and startups.
  • Scholarships and Financial Aid: The government and educational institutions serve numerous scholarships and financial aid courses to decrease the financial burden for deserving students.
  • Practical approach to Learning: The USA system stresses practical learning, encouraging students to attend projects, real-world applications and laboratories.
  • Research Opportunities: Applicants at USA universities can contribute to cutting-edge technology advances through research and classroom learning. 

Also Read:

Other Popular Countries for Studying B Tech




BTech in Germany

BTech in Australia

BTech in UK


BTech in USA Qualification

BTech in USA qualifications are mentioned in this part:

Particulars

Details

Required Degree

12th grade

English Proficiency Tests

IELTS or TOEFL


BTech in USA Eligibility Criteria – Category-wise

Some of the commonly approved eligibility criteria for BTech in USA at most universities in the country are listed ahead:

Institution

GPA or Percentage

Standardized Test Scores

English Proficiency Score

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

3.5 or 90%

SAT: 1530-1590 | ACT: 32-36

IELTS: 7.0 | TOEFL-iBT: 90

Stanford University

3.0 or 85%

SAT: 1430-1505 | ACT: 32-34

IELTS: 7.0 | TOEFL-iBT: 100

University of California, Berkeley (UCB)

3.0 or 85%

SAT: 1330-1530 | ACT: 29-35

IELTS: 6.5 | TOEFL-iBT: 90

Harvard University

3.8 or 90%

SAT: 1460-1590 | ACT: 32-35

IELTS: 6.5 | TOEFL-iBT: 78

Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech)

3.3 or 88%

SAT: 1540 | ACT: 34

IELTS: 6.5 | TOEFL-iBT: 79

California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

3.5 or 90%

SAT: 1570 | ACT: 36

TOEFL-iBT: 78

Carnegie Mellon University

3.9 or 95%

SAT: 800 | ACT: 35

IELTS: 7.5 | TOEFL-iBT: 102

University of California, Los Angeles

3.8 or 93%

SAT: 1510 | ACT: 34

IELTS: 7.0 | TOEFL-iBT: 87

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

3.8 or 93%

SAT: 1530 | ACT: 34

IELTS: 6.5 | TOEFL-iBT: 80

University of Texas at Austin

3.83 or 93%

SAT: 1355 | ACT: 30

IELTS: 6.5 | TOEFL-iBT: 79


BTech in USA Application Process

The step-by-step application process for BTech in USA colleges for Indian students are as follows:

  • Step 1: Start planning minimum 9 - 10 months prior to the BTech program start date.
  • Step 2: Shortlist universities for your desired engineering bachelors program, and check the admission requirements and deadline. If you do not satisfy the eligibility criteria, then look for another university.
  • Step 3: Shortlist English-proficiency test marks such as TOEFL, IELTS etc. Select between SAT or ACT (if you intend to submit standardised test scores)
  • Step 4: Get your academic credentials evaluated through ECE or WES. Keep the application fee ready. Arrange all supporting documents like essays or SOP and LOR from teachers.
  • Step 5: Apply online through the university application portal or through portals officially mentioned by the university. 
  • Step 6: Submit the important documents such as test scores, academic transcripts and supporting documents.
  • Step 7: If selected, you will get an acceptance letter from the university. You must confirm your admission by paying applicable tuition fees. 

GMAT/GRE Requirements

  • GMAT is not required for BTech in USA
  • GRE is an option test for BTech in USA

SOP, LOR, and Resume

Particulars

Details

SOP

Yes, Required

LOR

Yes, Required


Top BTech Entrance Exams for USA

Top BTech entrance exams for USA are identified here:

Entrance Exams Category

Entrance exams Names

English Proficiency Tests

TOEFL or IELTS

Common entrance exams

SAT or ACT

Optional Tests

GRE

IELTS/TOEFL Tips

  • Familiarise yourself with the test format, question pattern and scoring system for both TOEFL or IELTS.
  • Determine the minimum mark needed by your target universities and aim to exceed it
  • Use official test preparation books, e-resources and practice tests from IDP (for IELTS) or ETS (for TOEFL).
  • Allocate particular time slots for every section of the exam (reading, writing, speaking and listening) and stick to it.
  • Involve in regular English practice, including reading, listening, writing and speaking, to optimise your overall language skills
  • Simulate exam conditions by taking full-length practice exams and analyse your performance to identify areas for development. 


BTech in USA Cut Off

BTech in USA cutoff marks for different courses are mentioned here:

Exams

Cutoff marks 

12th grade

More than 80%

SAT

1330 - 1590

ACT

29 - 35

GPA

3.3

IELTS/TOEFL Score Cutoffs

The IELTS/TOEFL cutoff scores for BTech in USA are mentioned here:

Exams

Cutoff marks

IELTS

6.5 - 7.5

TOEFL

80 - 100


BTech in USA Visa Required

For international students, the F1 Visa, J1 Visa and M1 Visa are three different types of US student Visa. As an international student, one might require a USA student visa. 

BTech in USA Visa Application Process

  • Obtain the letter of admission from a recognised higher education institution.
  • Make sure pay pay the fee to SEVIS
  • You are required to get an I-20 acceptance document in the event that you have been accepted to a constitutional course.
  • You must first pay for your visa and then pick up your application.
  • Four months before the commencement of your term, you should submit an application for a student visa to visit the USA.

BTech in USA Visa Application Fees

Particulars

Details

Visa Application Fees

$160

SEVIS Fee

$350


BTech in USA Syllabus

The BTech in USA syllabus are identified in this section briefly:

Particulars

Details

First Two Years

Pivot on foundational courses such as calculus, physics, introductory engineering and chemistry courses. These support students explore various engineering disciplines and select a specialization. 

Third and Fourth Years

Applicants delve deeper into their selected specialization (computer science, civil engineering and mechanical engineering) with more advanced course work and lab work

General Education

Many USA universities need students to take courses in social sciences, humanities and other areas outside of their engineering major, serving a well-rounded education. 


Core Courses

  • B. Tech in Computer Sciences
  • B. Tech in Mechanical Engineering
  • B. Tech in Civil Engineering
  • B. Tech in Electrical Engineering
  • B. Tech in Electrical Engineering
  • B. Tech in Aerospace Engineering
  • B. Tech in Bioengineering

Electives & Specializations

Particulars

Details

Computer Sciences

Focuses on algorithms, data structure, AI, software development and more.

Mechanical Engineering

Covers mechanics thermodynamics, manufacturing and design.

Civil Engineering

Deals with the design, construction and maintenance of infrastructure like bridges, buildings and roads.

Electrical Engineering

Engages circuits, electronics, signal processing and power systems.

Aerospace Engineering

Applies principal of physics, chemistry and engineering to operate and design chemical processes.

Bioengineering

Combines engineering principles with medical and biological sciences.


Best Universities/Colleges for BTech in USA

Some of the top-ranking universities for BTech in USA are MIT, Harvard University, Stanford University, UCLA, Georgia Institute of Technology, Caltech etc. listed ahead are the rankings of the BTech colleges in USA:

Names of the University

University Type

Established Year

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Private University 

1861

Stanford University

Private University

1885

University of California

Public University

1868

Harvard University

Private University

1636

California Institute of Technology

Private University

1891

Georgia Institute of Technology

Public University

1885

Carnegie Mellon University

Private University

1900

University of California

Public University

1868

University of Illinois at Urbana

Public University

1867

University of Texas at Austin

Public University

1883


Public Universities

Names of the Public universities for BTech in USA are listed here:

  • University of Texas
  • University of Illinois
  • University of California
  • Georgia Institute of Technology
  • University of California


Private B-Schools

Names of the Private universities for BTech in USA are listed ahead:

  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology
  • Stanford University
  • Harvard University
  • California Institute of Technology
  • Carnegie Mellon University


Global Rankings for Indian Applicants

University

Top Engineering & Technology Schools in the USA - QS 2025 - 2026

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

#1

Stanford University

#3

University of California, Berkeley (UCB)

#12

Harvard University

#5

California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

#10

Georgia Institute of Technology

#12

Carnegie Mellon University

#16

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

#52

University of Illinois at Urbana - Champaign

#69

University of Texas at Austin

#68


BTech in USA vs BTech in India 

The following table shows the comparison between BTech in USA and BTech in India:

Particulars 

BTech in USA

BTech in India

Degree

Bachelor of Science in Engineering or Bachelor of Engineering

B.Tech

Curriculum

BTech in the USA offers more flexibility with general education requirements and the ability to change majors.

Basically more structured and focused on core engineering subjects with less flexibility

Cost

Particularly more costly than studying in India, with tuition fee structure from INR 2152737 to INR 4624698 yearly, depending on the university.

Generally more affordable than studying in the USA, with tuition fees structure between INR 400000 to INR 1000000 for the whole program

Career Benefits

BTech in USA offers access to huge range of high-paying jobs, especially in technology and research, and potential for international placements

BTech in India provides good job prospects, but may have fewer scopes for global placement and higher salaries compared to the USA. 

Quality

USA universities are known for their strong research focus and cutting-edge technology

BTech in India varies highly depending on the college or university. Tier 1 institutions such as IITs serve high-quality education and strong placement records. 

Top Universities

MIT, Georgia Institute of Technology, Harvard University, Caltech, UCLA

IITs, NITs and other government and private engineering colleges. 


Career Scope After BTech in USA

The USA is one of the most sought-after destinations for higher education, especially in technology and engineering-oriented disciplines. BTech or any other equivalent engineering degree from the USA holds much more relevance for an Indian student due to its unique advantages. Here are a few significant reasons why someone should choose BTech in the USA for Indian students.

  • Global Exposure: Degrees obtained from the USA hold a global exposure and recognition. In this respect. The graduates are expected to be ahead of others in most job hunts. In addition, a BTech from a premier American institute can unlock corridors into companies in the USA and Multinationals. 
  • Better Career Benefits: American College graduates easily attain well-paying jobs in the top companies like Amazon, Tesla, Microsoft and Google in the USA. Global students studying in the USA can work in the nation after graduation under OPT for up to 3 years with the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics designation.
  • World Class Education: The USA boasts some of the world’s best universities, including California Institute of Technology or Caltech, Stanford University and MIT, known for their engineering courses. In addition, universities usually focus much on research and innovation; hence they can serve well-equipped laboratories.
  • Access to Modern Technology: Major American universities are leaders in technological change. The modern technological developments and trends are available at universities for students.
  • Entrepreneurial Ecosystem: The USA confirms a fostering environment for entrepreneurs wherein venture capitals and innovation hubs are within reach, as in Silicon Valley. A lot of Indian students pursuing their engineering degrees in the USA eventually start successful entrepreneurial ventures or join leading startups.


Top Recruiters/Placement Companies

Names of the top recruiters which hire BTech students from USA:

  • The Boeing Company
  • General Electric Co
  • Medtronic, Inc.
  • Intel Corporation
  • Lockheed Martin Corp
  • HDR, Inc.
  • WSP Global Inc.
  • Accenture
  • JP Morgan Chase & Co.
  • Siemens
  • Microsoft


BTech in USA Salary Package

The average salary package for BTech in the USA is USD 91420 or INR 7720000 per year. The table provided below can be checked to know about the job-wise salary details:

Job Title

Median Salary

Cost in INR

Software Engineer

USD 104,907

INR 88.6 L

Aeronautical Engineer

USD 77,826

INR 65.7 L

Biomedical Engineer

USD 62,433

INR 52.7 L

Chemical Engineering

USD 72,718

INR 61.4 L

Civil Engineer

USD 63,004

INR 53.2 L

Electrical Engineer

USD 72,237

INR 61 L

Manufacturing Engineer

USD 65,654

INR 55.4 L

Mining Engineer

USD 72,552

INR 61.3 L


Average Salary in UK

Particulars

Details

Average Salary in UK

£49,000 per year


Average Salary for Indian Students

Particulars

Details

Entry-level salaries

$60000 to $80000


Frequently Asked Questions

Ques. Is BTech in USA worth it for Indian students in 2025?

Ans. Yes, studying BTech in the USA in 2025 can be a worthwhile investment for Indian students. 

Ques. Can freshers apply for BTech in USA?

Ans. Yes, freshers who have completed their 12th class from a science background (Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics) can apply for a BTech in the USA.

Ques. Do USA BTech degrees help in settling abroad?

Ans. Yes, a BTech degree from the USA can relevantly optimise the prospects of settling abroad.

Ques. Is BTech and BS the same in the USA?

Ans. A BS degree in the USA can be offered throughout a wide range of science or related programs. However, US universities mostly offer BS or BE degrees in Engineering at undergraduate level. A BS degree in engineering from US universities is equivalent to the BTech degree in India.

Ques. How much is the tuition fee for BTech in the USA?

Ans. The tuition fees for BTech in the USA ranges between $26358 and $64596 throughout the top universities. Indian students on a tight budget can apply for admission to the public universities in the USA offering engineering programs. Some top universities in USA are as follows:

  • The University of Texas
  • UCLA
  • UC Berkeley
  • Georgia Tech

Ques. What is the average salary of students after BTech in the USA?

Ans. The average salary of students after BTech in the USA is $95000. 

Ques. What are the top-ranking universities in the USA for BTech?

Ans. The top-ranking universities in the USA for BTech are Stanford University, Harvard University, University of California, MIT and Georgia Institute of Technology.

Ques. What is the duration of BTech in the USA?

Ans. The duration of BTech in the USA is 4 years.

Ques. How much study break is acceptable for BTech in the USA?

Ans. All USA universities accept and see a one year break as typical. If the break is longer than a year, students must explain it.

Ques. Is it mandatory to take the SAT or ACT for BTech admission in the USA?

Ans. Many universities in the USA are test-optional now, but submitting marks can strengthen your application.