Masters in Interior Design in USA: Fees , Top Colleges, Placements & Salaries
Masters in Interior Design in USAMasters in Interior Design in USA is a 1 to 3 years master’s level designing program which trains the students in the art of Interior Design. The USA is a popular choice for students pursuing Master’s in Interior Design because of high quality education and top universities.
The average tuition fees for Masters in Interior Design in USA is $15,000 per semester. The average cost of living in the USA for a student pursuing Masters in Interior Design in USA is between $18,000 - $25,000 per year. There are multiple scholarships also available for the students.
To get admission in Masters in Interior Design in USA, the students are required to have a Bachelor's degree in Interior Design, Architecture or related field with acceptable English proficiency test score. The IELTS and TOEFL are considered for English Proficiency.
So, in this blog we will cover - fees, admissions, placement, salaries, top colleges, entrances, eligibility and everything, you must know if you are planning Masters in Interior Design in USA.
Masters in Interior Design in USA - Quick Highlights
Check the table below for the quick highlights on Masters in Interior Design in USA.
Particulars | Highlights |
Program Name | Master in Interior Design |
Intake Sessions | Fall, Spring and Summer |
Tenure | 1- 3 years |
Eligibility Criteria |
|
Specialisations |
|
Tuition Fees | $ 30,000 to $ 1,00,000 per year |
Medium of Teaching | English |
Top Universities |
|
English Requirements | Pass IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/DET |
Career Opportunities |
|
Top Recruiters | Structures Company, LLC, Renewal Remodels & Additions, All Natural Stone, Ware Malcomb, and Clive Daniel Home |
Why Choose a Masters in Interior Design in USA?
Master’s in Interior Design is gaining more and more popularity among the designing students. The Indian students are opting for Masters in Interior Design in USA due to the benefits, the universities in USA offer. Here is why Indian students must opt for a Masters in Interior Design in USA.
- Job Opportunities - The USA designing industry is booming a lot in recent years thus providing students with a lot of career opportunities.
- Competitive Salary - The salary packages offered to the interior design graduates are more competitive.
- Exposure - The students get opportunities to be exposed to global culture and international opportunities.
- Global Recognition - The universities in USA are globally recognised and approved and are among the top universities across the globe.
- Placement - The average placement of universities in USA is 70% - 80%, thus most of the students get placed right after graduation.
- Quality Education - The universities in USA provide international standard, high quality education to the students. The university teaches students through modern practices and technologies.
Masters in Interior Design in USA - Important Dates, Events & Deadlines
Masters in Interior Design in USA is a postgraduate degree program for students who wish to gain specialization in design and Interior Design. The universities of the USA undertake admissions in Fall, Spring and Summer Sessions. Check all the details related to important dates and deadlines for Masters in Interior Design in USA.
Masters in Interior Design in USA - Intake Sessions
The universities in the USA undertake admission in 3 sessions. Check the table below for highlights on each session.
Session | Highlights |
Fall Session | This is the most common session, the session starts in August/September. |
Spring Session | This is a less common session and usually starts in January. |
Summer Session | This is a less common session and only specific universities for specific programs conduct the session. The session starts in May/June. |
Masters in Interior Design in USA - Important Admission Dates
Check the table below for the important dates related to the admission in Masters in Interior Design in USA.
Event | Summer Intake (2026) | Spring Intake (2026) | Fall Intake (2025) |
Application Start | January, 2026 | May, 2026 | September, 2025 |
Application End | March, 2026 | July, 2026 | November, 2025 |
Session Start | May, 2026 | August/September, 2026 | January, 2026 |
University-Specific Application Deadline for Masters in Interior Design in USA
Let’s look at the university-specific application deadline for top universities in USA. Check the table below for the university specific admission dates for the 2026 session intake.
University | Application Deadline |
New York School of Interior Design | 5 January, 2025 |
Pratt Institute | 5 January, 2025 |
University of Texas at Austin | 11 January, 2025 |
Rhode Island School of Design | 5 January, 2025 |
Florida State University | 1 February, 2025 |
Illinois State University | 15 February, 2025 |
University of North Texas | 5 January, 2025 |
Washington State University | 10 January, 2025 |
Masters in Interior Design in USA - Visa Application Processing
If you are planning to pursue a Master in Interior Design in USA it is crucial that you apply for the F1 Student Visa. Check the following steps to apply for the F1 Visa Application.
- Fill out the DS 160 online Visa form application.
- Pay the required Visa application fees.
- Gather all the required details like passport, I-20, DS - 160, SEVIS fees receipt and funds proof.
- Schedule an interview at the US embassy.
Masters in Interior Design in USA Fees
It is important that students must be aware of expenses incurred by them apart from tuition fees. Check the table below for the fee and cost of living in USA.
Particulars | Cost |
Average Tuition Fees | $15,000 per semester |
Accomodation Cost (private) and Food expense | $12,000 per year |
Transport Cost | $ 3,000 per year |
Books and study material | $ 1,000 per year |
Other Expenses | $ 2,500 per year |
University-Specific Fees for Master’s in Interior Design
The Masters in Interior Design in USA costs between $ 15,000 to $ 50,000 per semester. Check the table below for the university specific fees for Master in Interior Design in USA.
University | Fees (per semester) |
Parsons School of Design | $30,889 |
Savannah College of Art and Design | $43,155 |
Cornell University | $14,750 |
New York School of Interior Design | $23,400 |
Pratt Institute | $26,640 (3 years program) and $33,300 (2 years program) |
University of Texas at Austin | $38,650 - $46,498 |
Rhode Island School of Design | $31,983 |
Drexel University | $ 10,000 |
Arizona State University | $15,150 |
Florida State University | $10,000 |
Eastern Michigan University | $10,548 |
Illinois State University | $7,800 |
University of North Texas | $26,774 |
Academy of Art University | $12,920 |
University-Specific Cost of Living for Masters in Interior Design in USA
Check the table below for university specific estimated cost of living in USA per year.
Name of University | Accomodation and Food | Personal Items | Books | Transport |
Parsons School of Design | $ 31,000 | $ 882 | $ 723 | $ 594 |
Savannah College of Art and Design | $ 18,000 | $ 2,595 | $ 2,043 | $ 1,719 |
New York School of Interior Design | $ 23,400 | $ 3,200 | $ 2,000 | $ 4,000 |
Pratt Institute | $ 24,192 | $ 2,300 | $ 2,100 | $ 1,500 |
University of Texas at Austin | $15,510 | $3,560 | $720 | $1,786 |
Rhode Island School of Design | $17,400 | $2,800 | $3,400 | $1,700 |
Arizona State University | $12,460 | $4,653 | $1,908 | $3,654 |
Florida State University | $15,020 | $4,800 | $400 | $3,652 |
Eastern Michigan University | $14,332 | $2,010 | $750 | $3,832 |
Illinois State University | $12,522 | $3,166 | $830 | $4,172 |
Academy of Art University | $1,277 | $451 | - | $199 |
Masters in Interior Design in USA - Eligibility Criteria
To secure a seat in Master in Interior Design in a university in USA the students are required to meet certain eligibility criteria. Check the table below for the eligibility criteria.
Particulars | Eligibility Criteria | Highlight |
Academic Qualification | Bachelor’s in Interior Design/Architecture or related field | Must have passed with minimum of 75% or GPA score of 3.0 on scale of 4.0 |
English Requirement | IELTS/TOEFL | Must have passed one of the english proficiency test |
STAT | English proficiency | Some universities considers |
Documents | Passport | Must have a valid passport |
Portfolio | Showcasing your interior designs | |
Official Transcript | The record of academic qualifications, grades and courses. | |
Students Visa | The students must have an F1 student visa. | |
Letters | 2 to 3 LOR (Letter of Recommendation) | LORs are crucial as they serve as third party endorsement of an applicant's academic abilities, character, potential and capabilities. |
SOP (Statement of Purpose) | SOPs are comprehensive overview of applicant’s previous academic background, qualifications and represents suitability of candidate for the course and university. |
Master in Interior Design in the USA - Admission Process
The admission process for the universities in USA is simple and easy. Here are the admission related details for the students.
Masters in Interior Design in USA - Documents Required
Check the list below for the required documents to get admission in Master’s in Interior Design in the university in USA.
- Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design/Architecture or relevant field
- 10 and 10+2 marksheet
- Passport
- F1 Student Visa
- IELTS/TOEFL Score card
- Funds Proof
- University admission Letter
- Passport size photographs
- LORs (2-3)
- SOPs
- Portfolio
- Official Transcript
Masters in Interior Design in USA - Admission Procedure
Students who wish to take admission in the Master in Interior Design in USA can follow the following steps.
- Step 1 - Apply for the Master in Interior Design program in the university of your interest through the university website.
- Step 2 - Submit the documents like 10+2 marksheet, graduation marksheet, english proficiency exam score card, LORs, SOPs, portfolio, official transcript and funds proof for verification.
- Step 3 - The university will send a confirmation once verification is completed. Some universities may invite you for assessment or interview or both as per university admission guidelines.
- Step 4 - Once you are selected, the university will share an admission confirmation letter.
- Step 5 - Pay the required amount of fees and receive your invitation letter.
- Step 6 - Apply for the F1 Student visa.
Masters in Interior Design in USA - Entrance Exams
Check the table below for the entrance exam required to pursue Masters in Interior Design in USA.
Entrance Exam | Highlights | Accepted Score |
IELTS | For English Proficiency | Minimum score of 6.5 with no band less than 6.0 |
TOEFL | For English proficiency | Minimum score of iBT 90 - 100 |
GRE | Graduate Record Examination | Score between 157 - 167 |
University-Specific Eligibility Criteria for Masters in Interior Design in USA
Check the table below for the university specific eligibility for Masters in Interior Design in USA.
University | Academic Qualification | IELTS | TOEFL | Additional Requirements |
Savannah College of Art and Design | Bachelor’s in Interior Design/Architecture or related field | Minimum score of 6.5 | Minimum iBT of 85 | GRE Score Verbal - 149 Quant - 145 |
New York School of Interior Design | Bachelor’s in Interior Design/Architecture or related field | Minimum score of 6.5 | Minimum iBT of 79 | Portfolio |
Pratt Institute | Bachelor’s in Interior Design/Architecture or related field | Minimum score of 7.0 | Minimum iBT of 88 | Portfolio |
University of Texas at Austin | Bachelor’s in Interior Design/Architecture or related field | Minimum score of 6.5 | Minimum iBT of 79 | Essay of 750 - 1,000 words |
Rhode Island School of Design | Bachelor’s in Interior Design/Architecture or related field with 85% | Minimum score of 6.5 | Minimum iBT of 90 | Portfolio |
Florida State University | Bachelor’s in Interior Design/Architecture or related field with 85% | Minimum score of 6.5 | Minimum iBT of 80 | GRE Score - Verbal - 149 Quant - 145 |
Eastern Michigan University | Bachelor’s in Interior Design/Architecture or related field with 75% | Minimum score of 6.5 | Minimum iBT of 79 | Official Transcripts |
Illinois State University | Bachelor’s in Interior Design/Architecture or related field | Minimum score of 6.5 | Minimum iBT of 79 | - |
University of North Texas | Bachelor’s in Interior Design/Architecture or related field | Minimum score of 6.0 | Minimum iBT of 79 | 2 years of professional work experience as an interior designer |
Academy of Art University | Bachelor’s in Interior Design/Architecture or related field | Minimum score of 6.5 | Minimum iBT of 79 | Portfolio |
Washington State University | Bachelor’s in Interior Design/Architecture or related field | Minimum score of 7.0 | Minimum iBT of 80 | Portfolio |
Tips to Crack IELTS/TOEFL Exam for Masters in Interior Design in USA
English Proficiency is a major and non-negotiable eligibility criteria for taking admission in Masters in Interior Design in USA. Here are some tips to crack the English Proficiency exam.
- It is necessary that you understand the exam pattern of both the English proficiency tests. IELTS conducts a time bound test separately for listening, speaking and reading while in TOEFL, it is combined in one.
- The best path to crack the exam is practice. Daily practice the questions, previous years and give mock tests.
- Analyze your strengths and weaknesses. After every practice do a thorough self-analysis to understand the areas you are lagging at.
- Sharpen your English listening and reading skills by listening to English news and reading English newspapers.
- Create a proper study plan and follow it strictly to ensure success.
Tips to Crack GRE Exam for Masters in Interior Design in USA
Graduate Record Examination is a standard exam for admissions in Master’s and PhD programs. Here are some tips to qualify the GRE exam efficiently.
- Start preparing for the exam beforehand to give yourself ample time to grasp the exam pattern, syllabus and key focus areas.
- Analyze yourself for the weak and strong areas and emphasize on the weak points.
- Practice full length mock tests and after each mock test do a detailed analysis.
- Keep track of your progress on a daily basis.
- Improve your time management skills by effectively giving time to each section.
Masters in Interior Design in USA Syllabus
Masters in Interior Design in USA is a two year degree. Check the table below to understand what curriculum students study during the 2 years of Masters in Interior Design in USA.
Year | Semester | Syllabus |
Year 1 | Semester 1 | Historical Styles I, Design & Drawing I, Introduction to Sustainability, Interior Design Studio I, Color for Interiors, Textiles for Interiors |
Semester 2 | Historical Styles II, Design & Drawing II, Codes, Environment and Behavior, Interior Design Studio II, Materials & Methods of Construction, Summer: Experiential Learning I | |
Year 2 | Semester 3 | Modern Architecture & Design I, Interior Design Studio III, Building Systems, Lighting I, Construction Documents, Electives |
Semester 4 | Modern Architecture & Design II, Interior Design Studio IV, Kitchen & Bath Design, Advanced Graphic Communications, Interior Design Practice, Summer: Experiential Learning II | |
Year 3 | Semester 5 | Interior Design Studio V, Advanced Detailing, MFA Thesis Prep, Lighting II, Electives |
Semester 6 | Theory of the Built Environment, Furniture Design, Master in Interior Design Thesis, Electives |
Best Universities for Masters in Interior Design in USA
Check the table below for details on the top universities in the USA for pursuing Master in Interior Design in USA.
Name of University | Rhode Island School of Design | Savannah College of Art and Design | Parsons School of Design | New York School of Interior Design | Pratt Institute |
Type | Private | Private | Private | Private | Private |
Establishment | 1877 | 1978 | 1896 | 1916 | 1887 |
Location | Washington | Multiple Location | Greenwich City | New York City | Brooklyn |
Acceptance Rate | 13.8% | 83.7% | 35% | 60% | 53.2% |
IELTS | Minimum score of 6.5 | Minimum score of 6.5 | Minimum score of 7.0 | Minimum score of 6.5 | Minimum score of 7.0 |
TOEFL | Minimum iBT of 90 | Minimum iBT of 85 | Minimum iBT of 92 | Minimum iBT of 79 | Minimum iBT of 88 |
Fees | $31,983 | $43,155 | $ 55,588 | $23,400 | $26,640 |
Intake Session |
Masters in Interior Design in USA Scholarship - Key highlights & Deadlines
There are multiple scholarships available for the students who are pursuing Masters in Interior Design in USA. Check the table below for the university specific scholarships, amount and eligibility criteria on the scholarships available for students pursuing Masters in Interior Design in USA.
Scholarship Name | Eligibility Criteria | Amount/Benefits |
Rotary International Ambassadorial Scholarship |
| Up to $25,000 |
Fulbright Scholarships for Indians |
| Monthly stipend, Tuition and cost of attendance coverage |
Inlaks Scholarship |
| $10,000 |
AAUW International Fellowship | Non US based women pursuing master or doctorate in USA | $20,000 - $50,000 |
JN Tata Endowment Fund |
| Rs. 1,00,000/- to Rs. 10,00,000/- |
SelfScore International Student Scholarship |
| $5,000 |
Global Student Scholarship |
| $1,000 |
TEC Scholarship |
| $1,000 |
Masters in Interior Design in USA VS UK VS India
Master’s in Interior Design is available in Indian universities as well as USA universities but why choose Masters in Interior Design in USA and what edge it gives you. Check the table below for an in-depth comparison between Masters in Interior Design in USA, USA and India.
Parameter | USA | UK | India |
Duration | 2 - 3 years | 1 year | 2 years |
Fees | ₹ 13.7 Lakhs | ₹ 33.6 Lakhs to 53.76 Lakhs | ₹ 10 Lakhs |
Language | English | English | English-Hindi mixed |
Proficiency Test | IELTS/TOEFL | IELTS/TOEFL | Not Required |
Eligibility | Bachelor’s in Interior Design/Architecture or related field | Bachelor’s in Interior Design/Architecture or related field | Bachelor’s in Interior Design/Architecture or related field |
GRE | Must | Not required | - |
Career | Multiple opportunities | Wide scope | Not much |
Fees | ₹ 34,00,000/- | ₹ 33,00,000/- | ₹ 7,50,000/- |
Average Package | ₹ 40 LPA | ₹ 30 LPA | ₹ 4 LPA |
Career Scope Masters in Interior Design in USA
The students who graduate with a Masters in Interior Design in USA have a lot of career fields and options available. The average placement report of universities in the USA is between 80% - 90%. Check the table below for the placement report of some top USAn universities.
University | Placement Percentage |
University of Oklahoma | 96% |
Iowa State | 100% |
Ball State | 100% |
Career Specific Salary Package for Masters in Interior Design in USA
Check the table below for the available career options and average salary package.
Career Option | Salary Package | Salary in ₹/- |
Junior Interior Designer | $ 47,125 | ₹ 40 LPA |
Assistant Interior Designer | $ 48,755 | ₹ 42 LPA |
Interior Designer | $ 55,075 | ₹ 47 LPA |
Senior Interior Designer | $ 77,675 | ₹ 67 LPA |
User Experience Designer | $ 88,620 | ₹ 77 LPA |
Design Director | $ 97,293 | ₹ 84 LPA |
Top Recruiters/Placement Companies
Many top reputed MNC companies recruit Interior design students every year. Check the below list of top companies who recruit from universities in USA.
- Structures Company
- LLC
- Renewal Remodels & Additions
- All Natural Stone
- Ware Malcomb
- Clive Daniel Home
- IKEA
- Wayfair
- Mohawk Industries
- LIXIL
- Gensler
- HOK
- IA Interior Architects
- Parsons
- Pratt
- RISD
- Ware Malcomb
- The Structures Company
- Mohawk Industries
- Wayfair
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques - What are the admission requirements for Master in Interior Design in USA?
Ans - To get admission in Master in Interior Design in USA, the student must have a Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design/Architecture or related field and must pass IELTS/TOEFL or any other English proficiency test with an acceptable score. Some universities ask for a GRE Score, design portfolio and experience as well.
Ques - List of universities offering Master in Interior Design in USA?
Ans - The following are the top universities offering Master in Interior Design in USA. The universities are -
- New York School of Interior Design
- Savannah College of Art and Design
- Parsons School of Design
- University of Cincinnati
- University of Florida
- Iowa State University
- Arizona State University
- University of Texas at Austin
- Drexel University
- Rhode Island School of Design
Ques - What career options are available after a Master in Interior Design in USA in 2025?
Ans - There are multiple career options available after a Master in Interior Design in USA. Some top career choices are - Interior Designer, User Experience Designer and Design Director.
Ques - Is a Master in Interior Design from USA worth it?
Ans - Yes, the Master in Interior Design in USA is a very promising and worthy degree offering. The students can expect a package of ₹ 40 LPA to ₹ 84 LPA.
Ques - Are there any funding opportunities available for international students who are pursuing Master in Interior Design in USA?
Ans - Yes, multiple scholarships are available for international students who are pursuing Master in Interior Design in USA. These scholarships provide concessions on tuition fees. Some scholarships even cover the complete cost of study including the living cost.