Masters in Engineering in USA: Top Universities, Fees, Eligibility, Specializations & Jobs
Masters in Engineering in USAAre you planning to pursue a Masters in Engineering in USA? Its a great choice for Indian students. The USA is home to some of the best engineering universities, top recruiters, and excellent career opportunities.
Some of the top universities include MIT, Stanford University, University of California Berkeley, Georgia Tech, and University of Michigan. The average tuition fees for a Masters in Engineering in USA range from $30,000 to $60,000 USD yearly.
After graduation, students can work as Software Engineer, Systems Engineer, Project Engineer, or Research Engineer. Some of the top recruiters include Amazon, Google, Microsoft, Boeing, Tesla, General Electric, and more.
The average annual salary for Masters in Engineering graduates ranges from $114,000 to $147,000 USD yearly, with senior roles reaching $170,000 or more USD. This blog will guide you through everything candidates need to know, from top universities and fees to scholarships, eligibility, job opportunities, and salaries in the USA.
Masters in Engineering in USA: Highlights
The table below represents key highlights for pursuing a Masters in Engineering in the USA.
Topic | Details |
Top Recruiters | Amazon, Google, Microsoft, Boeing, Tesla, General Electric, and more. |
Average Tuition Fees (USD) | $30,000 - 60,000 yearly |
Average Annual Salary (USD) | $114,000 - 147,000 yearly |
Popular Scholarships | Fulbright Scholarship, AAUW International Fellowship, Knight-Hennessy Scholarship, and more. |
Intake Sessions | Fall (August/September) and Spring (January) |
Course Duration | 1.5 - 2 years |
Common Job Roles | Software Engineer, Systems Engineer, Project Engineer, Research Engineer, and more. |
Why Choose a Masters in Engineering in USA?
Choosing a Masters in Engineering in USA offers several advantages for Indian students. Here are some of the main reasons include.
- Top-Ranked Universities - Some of the top universities include MIT, Stanford, UC Berkeley, Georgia Tech, and the University of Michigan.
- High‑Paying Careers - Average salaries for graduates range from USD 114,000 to 147,000 annually.
- Global Recruiters - Leading companies like Amazon, Google, Microsoft, Boeing, Tesla, and more.
- Strong Research and Innovation - Access to advanced labs and innovation hubs.
- Scholarship and Funding Support - Scholarships like the Fulbright, AAUW International Fellowship, and Knight‑Hennessy help reduce costs.
Best Universities for Masters in Engineering in USA
The table below represents the top universities in the USA for engineering, along with the average yearly tuition fees.
University | QS Ranking 2025 | Average Tuition Fee (USD/year) | Location |
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 1 | $57,590 | Cambridge, Massachusetts |
Stanford University | 2 | $56,487 | Stanford, California |
University of California, Berkeley (UCB) | 5 | $48,465 | Berkeley, California |
Georgia Institute of Technology | 16 | $29,140 | Atlanta, Georgia |
University of Michigan - Ann Arbor | 19 | $52,098 | Ann Arbor, Michigan |
Carnegie Mellon University | 24 | $49,610 | Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania |
University of California, San Diego (UCSD) | 34 | $32,352 | San Diego, California |
Masters in Engineering in USA: Eligibility Criteria
The table below shows the common eligibility requirements for pursuing a Masters in Engineering in the USA.
Eligibility Requirement | Details |
Educational Qualification | 4-year bachelor's degree in Engineering or any related field from a recognised university |
Minimum GPA | 3.0/4.0 (or equivalent) |
English Proficiency | IELTS: 6.5 - 7.0 overall or TOEFL iBT: 90 - 100 |
Standardised Test (if required) | GRE score around 300+ |
Work Experience | Not mandatory: 1 - 2 years preferred |
Letters of Recommendation (LORs) | 2 - 3 LORs from professors or employers |
Statement of Purpose (SOP) | SOP explaining academic background, career goals, and program choice |
Financial Proof | Evidence of funds to cover tuition and living expenses |
Masters in Engineering in USA: Application Process
The following steps will help guide candidates to apply for a Masters in Engineering in USA.
Step 1: Research universities and shortlist based on ranking, courses, and fees.
Step 2: Check all the eligibility requirements, like GPA and language requirements.
Step 3: Prepare documents (transcripts, LOR, SOP, and financial proof).
Step 4: Take IELTS or TOEFL test.
Step 5: Submit online application with fees.
Step 6: Track application status through the university portal only.
Step 7: Receive and accept the offer letter.
Step 8: Apply for F - 1 student visa and arrange travel.
Masters in Engineering in USA: Documents Required
The table below lists the essential documents required to apply for a Masters in Engineering program in the USA
Document | Details |
Academic Transcripts | Marksheets from all semesters of your bachelors degree |
Degree Certificate | Proof of completion of bachelors degree |
IELTS/TOEFL Score Report | Proof of English language proficiency |
GRE Score Report (if required) | Standardised test score for admission |
Statement of Purpose (SOP) | Personal statement explaining goals and motivation |
Letters of Recommendation (2 - 3 LOR) | Academic or professional recommendations |
Resume or CV | Academic and professional achievements |
Financial Proof (Bank Statements) | Proof of funds for tuition and living expenses |
Valid Passport | Identification and visa application |
Masters in Engineering in USA: Visa Application Timeline
Follow the steps below for a smooth F - 1 student visa application process.
Step 1: Receive admission offer and accept it by paying the deposit.
Step 2: Receive Form I - 20 from your university.
Step 3: Pay the fee.
Step 4: Fill out the visa application form online.
Step 5: Pay the visa application fee.
Step 6: Schedule a visa interview at the nearest U.S. Embassy.
Step 7: Attend the interview with all required documents.
Step 8: Receive your visa approval and plan travel to the USA.
Top Entrance Exams for Masters in Engineering in USA
The table below shows the main entrance exams required for admission to a Masters in Engineering program in the USA
Exam | Purpose | Minimum Score (Typical) |
GRE | Measures analytical, quantitative, and verbal skills | 300 or above (Some universities waive GRE) |
IELTS | English language proficiency | Overall 6.5 - 7.0 |
TOEFL iBT | English language proficiency | 90 - 100 |
PTE Academic | Alternative English proficiency test | 58 - 65 |
Duolingo English | Alternative English proficiency test (selected universities) | 110 - 120 |
Masters in Engineering in USA: Cutoff
The table below shows the typical cutoff scores required for admission to a Masters in Engineering program in the USA.
Exam | Typical Cutoff Score |
GRE | 300 or above |
IELTS | Overall 6.5 - 7.0 |
TOEFL iBT | 90 - 100 |
PTE Academic | 58 - 65+ |
GPA | 3.0/4.0 (or equivalent) |
Masters in Engineering in USA: Syllabus
The table below shows the common syllabus structure for a Masters in Engineering program in the USA.
Category | Subjects |
Core Subjects | Engineering Mathematics, Advanced Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Control Systems |
Specialisations | Software Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering |
Elective Courses | Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Robotics, Sustainable Design |
Research & Projects | Capstone Project, Independent Research, Industry Collaboration |
Practical Training | Lab Work, Internships, Co‑op Programs |
Masters in Engineering in USA: Electives & Specializations
The table below lists popular electives and specializations offered in Masters in Engineering programs in the USA.
Specialization | Electives Subjects |
Mechanical Engineering | Robotics, Fluid Mechanics, Thermal Systems, Advanced Manufacturing |
Civil Engineering | Structural Analysis, Geotechnical Engineering, Transportation Systems |
Electrical Engineering | Power Systems, Microelectronics, Embedded Systems |
Computer Engineering | Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing |
Industrial Engineering | Supply Chain Management, Operations Research, Lean Manufacturing |
Environmental Engineering | Sustainable Design, Water Resources, Climate Change Mitigation |
Aerospace Engineering | Aerodynamics, Propulsion, Spacecraft Design |
Masters in Engineering in USA: Scholarships
The table below lists popular scholarships available for international students pursuing a Masters in Engineering in the USA.
Scholarship | Benefit (Approximately) |
Fulbright Foreign Student Program | Covers tuition, living expenses, and airfare |
AAUW International Fellowship | $20,000 - $50,000 USD |
Knight - Hennessy Scholarship (Stanford) | Full tuition and living allowance |
Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship | Partial tuition support based on need |
Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship | Covers tuition, fees, and living expenses |
Cost of Living in USA
The table below shows the estimated monthly cost of living for Indian students in the USA
Expense Type | Estimated Monthly Cost (USD) |
Accommodation | $800 - $1,500 |
Food | $250 - $500 |
Transportation | $70 - $150 |
Utilities (Electricity, Internet, etc.) | $150 - $250 |
Health Insurance | $100 - $300 |
Personal Expenses | $200 - $400 |
Miscellaneous | $100 - $200 |
Career Scope After Masters in Engineering in USA
The table below shows popular job roles and their average annual salaries for Masters in Engineering graduates in the USA.
Job Role | Average Annual Salary (USD) |
Software Engineer | $110,000 - $125,000 |
Systems Engineer | $95,000 - $115,000 |
Mechanical Engineer | $90,000 - $105,000 |
Electrical Engineer | $92,000 - $110,000 |
Civil Engineer | $85,000 - $100,000 |
Project Engineer | $95,000 - $115,000 |
Research Engineer | $100,000 - $120,000 |
Engineering Manager | $114,000 - $140,000 |
Masters in Engineering in USA: Salary Package
The table below shows the average salary packages for Masters in Engineering graduates in the USA based on experience level.
Experience Level | Average Annual Salary (USD) |
Entry-Level (0 - 2 yrs) | $85,000 - $100,000 |
Mid-Level (3 - 5 yrs) | $105,000 - $125,000 |
Senior-Level (5+ yrs) | $125,000 - $150,000 or above |
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques: What is the average tuition fee for Masters in Engineering in USA?
Ans: The average tuition fee for a Masters in Engineering in USA ranges between $30,000- $60,000 per year, depending on the university and program.
Ques: What is the average salary after completing Masters in Engineering in USA?
Ans: Graduates can expect an average salary between $110,000 - $125,000 per year.
Ques: What are the top universities for Masters in Engineering in USA?
Ans: Top universities include MIT, Stanford University, UC Berkeley, Georgia Tech, University of Michigan - Ann Arbor, Carnegie Mellon University, and UC San Diego.
Ques: What is the eligibility criteria for Masters in Engineering in USA?
Ans: Students need a 4‑year bachelor's degree in engineering, a GPA of 3.0/4.0, IELTS 6.5–7.0 or TOEFL 90–100, and may need a GRE score of 300+.
Ques: What is the duration of a Masters in Engineering in USA?
Ans: Most Masters in Engineering programs in the USA take 1.5 to 2 years to complete.