MS in Physiotherapy in USA 2025: Top Universities, Admission, Fees, Scholarships & Career Guide
MS in Physiotherapy in USAIn the USA, an MS offers a variety of courses, including Data Science, Computer Science, and many more. An MS in Physiotherapy in the USA is a 2-year course that involves evaluating academic performance, clinical exposure, and English language Proficiency. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in physiotherapy and a minimum GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0. There are over 200 accredited Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) and MS programs from accredited universities in the US, including the University of California, the University of Pittsburgh, Northwestern University, the University of Delaware, and Duke University. Some universities offer an MS program with a focus on research or clinical specialization.
MS in Physiotherapy graduates in the US get various work opportunities, including hospitals, rehabilitation centres, sports medicine clinics, outpatient facilities, and research departments. The job titles are Physical Therapist, Rehabilitation Specialist, Clinical Researcher, Pediatric Physiotherapist, or Orthopaedic Physiotherapist. Graduated students are eligible to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which gives them the opportunity to have practical experience in the US for up to 12 months, or 36 months under the STEM OPT extension.
MS in Physiotherapy in the USA: Quick Highlights
The program is provided by several top institutions, and includes an appropriate mixture of theory, clinical education, and research. Here is a quick notification for MS in Physiotherapy in the USA:
Particulars | Details |
Course Name | MS in Physiotherapy in the USA |
Popular Streams |
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Popular Institutions |
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Course Duration | 2 years |
Required examinations |
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Course Fee | |
Course Level | Post-Graduate |
Top Recruiters |
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Salary Package | ₹ 60,00,000 to ₹80,00,000 per annum |
MS in Physiotherapy in the USA: Important Dates
The MS in Physiotherapy in the USA fall intake usually starts in the month of September and continues up till January. Given below is the list of important dates and events of different universities:
University | Deadline | Intake |
University of Pittsburgh | Fall | September 2025 |
University of Southern California | Fall | Dec 2025 (residential), Mar 2026 (hybrid) |
University of Delaware | Fall | Deadlines vary by department |
Emory University | Fall | Apply by early Dec 2025 |
Boston University | Fall | January 2026 |
Why Study MS in Physiotherapy in the USA?
MS in Physiotherapy in the USA gives exposure to international quality education, advanced clinical training, cutting-edge research facilities, and a chance to network internationally.
Benefits of Studying an MS in Physiotherapy in the USA
- The USA will provide recognized programs with high-quality advanced curricula based on evidence-based practice and clinical training.
- Studying in a location like the USA will expose students to a variety of advanced healthcare settings with different patient populations.
- There are many career opportunities with salary packages ranging from approximately $99,710 per year.
- Many scholarships are offered to study master's in physiotherapy in the USA, ranging from $1,000 to full tuition fee coverage.
- Students in the US will be able to engage in research and innovation, allowing them to contribute to the advancement of rehabilitation sciences.
MS in Physiotherapy in the USA: Fee Structure
Tuition Fees for an MS in Physiotherapy in the USA vary based on the university and the location. Private universities with a better reputation have more costly fees in comparison to public universities.
University Name | Fee (USD/year) | Fee (INR/year) |
Washington University | $ 23,606 | ₹ 20,67,800 |
University of Delaware | $ 31,500 | ₹ 27,59,300 |
Emory University | $ 28,202 | ₹ 24,70,400 |
Duke University | $ 41,000 | ₹ 35,91,400 |
University of Southern California | $ 81,181 | ₹ 71,11,100 |
University of Pittsburgh | $ 34,150 | ₹ 29,91,400 |
Cost of Living in the USA
The annual cost of living in the USA is approximately 25,00,00 USD. Below is a list of monthly expenses of students living in different cities of the USA.
City | Amount per Month (USD) | Amount per Month (INR) |
Boston | $1,800 – $2,200 | ₹ 1,56,000 - 1,90,700 |
Los Angeles | $1,600 – $2,000 | ₹ 1,38,700 - 1,73,400 |
Pittsburgh | $1,200 – $1,600 | ₹ 1,04,000 - 1,38,700 |
San Jose | $1,800 – $2,300 | ₹ 1,56,000 - 1,99,400 |
Washington D.C. | $1,700 – $2,100 | ₹ 1,47,400 - 1,82,000 |
MS in Physiotherapy in the USA: Qualification
MS in Physiotherapy in the United States requires the application of candidates to have a Bachelor of Physiotherapy or a related discipline like Kinesiology, Exercise Science, or Rehabilitation Science. The academic record, as well as prior internship in Physical therapy, are the requirements for admission.
Particulars | Details |
Education Qualification | A bachelor’s degree (preferably 4 years) in Physiotherapy (BPT) or related fields such as Kinesiology, Exercise Science, or Rehabilitation Sciences. |
English Proficiency Test | International students must demonstrate English proficiency through IELTS or TOEFL scores. |
MS in Physiotherapy in the USA: Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Master's in Physiotherapy in the USA, students must have an undergraduate degree in physiotherapy or a related field with strong academic performance. They must meet the English Proficiency Test requirements.
Eligibility Criteria | Requirement |
Academic Qualification | Bachelor's degree in Physiotherapy or related field |
GPA | Minimum 3.0/4.0 or 65-75% in Indian grading |
GRE | May be required |
TOEFL/IELTS | TOEFL: 90–100+, IELTS: 6.5–7.5 |
SOP | Statement of Purpose outlining career and academic goals |
LOR | 2–3 Letters of Recommendation |
Resume/CV | Detailing education, clinical experience, and relevant projects |
MS in Physiotherapy in the USA: Application Process
Students interested in applying for a master's in physiotherapy need to research and explore different universities and programs - specifically, the program offered, areas of speciality, eligibility criteria, etc. The MS in Physiotherapy application process is outlined below:
- Research and narrow down the list of universities.
- Check the individual universities and their eligibility.
- Take the GRE and English Proficiency Test.
- Prepare SOP, LORs, resume, and transcripts.
- Apply to universities through their official portal.
- Pay application fees and attend interviews.
- Wait for the admission decision, and apply for the F1 visa.
MS in Physiotherapy in the USA: Documents Required
In order to apply for a Master's of Science in Physiotherapy in the United States, applicants must collect several documents that detail their academic and professional history.
List of documents to prepare:
- Academic transcript and degree certificate
- GRE and TOEFL score reports
- Statement of Purpose
- Refresh Letter
- Current Resume
- A valid Passport
- Proof of funds
- Receipt acknowledging the application fee
MS in Physiotherapy in the USA: Entrance Exam
For admission to MS in Physiotherapy in the United States, students must qualify for the entrance exams of GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS, while some other institutions have started accepting other tests, such as the Duolingo Test.
Exam | Purpose |
GRE | Required by some universities |
TOEFL | English proficiency test |
IELTS | Alternative to TOEFL |
Duolingo | Accepted at some institutions |
MS in Physiotherapy in the USA: Preparation Tips
Here are some tips for preparing for your application for an MS in Physiotherapy:
- Work on analytical writing, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning.
- Learn skills related to listening, reading, and writing abilities for the TOEFL/IELTS.
- Take coaching classes or use online resources.
- Create a study calendar so you know when you want to study for the exam.
- Take an overall look at sample questions and the formats as a whole.
- Practice with mock test papers regularly.
MS in Physiotherapy in the USA: Documents Required
In order to apply for a Master's of Science in Physiotherapy in the United States, applicants must collect several documents that detail their academic and professional history.
List of documents to prepare:
- Academic transcript and degree certificate
- GRE and TOEFL score reports
- Statement of Purpose
- Refresh Letter
- Current Resume
- A valid Passport
- Proof of funds
- Receipt acknowledging the application fee
MS in Physiotherapy in the USA: Scholarships
For admission to MS in Physiotherapy in the United States, students must qualify for the entrance exam of GRE, TOEFL, IELTS, while some other institutions have started accepting other tests, such as the Duolingo Test.
Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Benefits |
Fulbright-Nehru Scholarship | Indian students with merit + need | Full tuition + living + travel |
AAUW International Fellowships | Women from developing countries | Up to $18,000 per year |
Tata Trusts Scholarship | Indian students at selected U.S. colleges | Tuition + living expenses |
Inlaks Foundation Scholarship | High-performing Indian students | Up to $100,000 |
MS in Physiotherapy in the USA: Top Universities in the USA
Top universities in the USA offer an MS in Physiotherapy, which are known for good academic expertise and clinical training, and research. Here are some of the best physiotherapy universities in the USA.
University | QS World Ranking 2025 |
Emory University | 37 |
University of Southern California | 116 |
University of Pittsburgh | 275 |
University of Delaware | 346 |
San Jose State University | 1201 |
Boston University | 93 |
MS in Physiotherapy in the USA: USA vs India
There are many notable differences that exist for studying MS in Physiotherapy in the USA v/s India, including quality of education, global exposure, and employment opportunity. The Programs in the USA will provide high-level clinical training, research exposure, and state-of-the-art facilities.
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MS in Physiotherapy in the USA: Career Opportunities
MS in Physiotherapy graduates in the US have a wide scope of careers in many hospitals, rehabilitation clinics, sports settings, and research institutions. Graduates can practice as a physical therapist, a rehabilitation professional, or a clinically based researcher.
Job Profile | Job Role |
Clinical Physiotherapist | Provides patient-centred rehabilitation for musculoskeletal, neurological, or post-surgical issues. |
Sports Physiotherapist | Treats and prevents sports-related injuries, working with athletes to enhance performance and recovery. |
Pediatric Physiotherapist | Works with infants and children to improve motor function, coordination, and developmental issues. |
Geriatric Physiotherapist | Helps elderly patients manage age-related conditions like arthritis, osteoporosis, and mobility issues. |
Neurological Physiotherapist | Rehabilitates patients with stroke, spinal cord injuries, Parkinson’s, or other nervous system disorders. |
Physiotherapy Researcher | Conducts studies to improve therapeutic techniques and contributes to the advancement of the field. |
Rehabilitation Director | Manages physiotherapy departments, oversees staff, and develops patient care protocols and strategies. |
MS in Physiotherapy in the USA: Top Recruiters
Top employers of MS in Physiotherapy graduates in the USA include hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, and other healthcare organizations/amalgamations of healthcare providers that excel in patient care and are involved with clinical research. Some of the top recruiters are:
- Mayo Clinic
- Cleveland Clinic
- Kaiser Permanente
- Hospital for Special Surgery
- Athletico Physical Therapy
- USCF Health
- Johns Hopkins Hospital
- Select Medical
- Encompass Health
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre
MS in Physiotherapy in the USA: Salary Package
The average annual wages of physical therapists in the US are 92,000 USD (76.81 Lakh INR). Employment of physical therapists in the USA is projected to increase 17% from 2021 to 2031. Below is a table for the average salaries for varying job titles of physical therapists in the USA:
Job Role | Average Annual Salary (USD) | Average Annual Salary (INR) |
HomeCare Physical Therapist | $ 90,188 | ₹ 78,90,000 |
Pediatric Physical Therapist | $ 88,024 | ₹ 77,10,500 |
Physical Therapist | $ 76,726 | ₹ 67,20,800 |
Outpatient Physical Therapist | $ 83,937 | ₹ 73,52,500 |
Staff Physical Therapist | $ 75,507 | ₹ 66,14,000 |
Registered Physical Therapist | $ 78,000 | ₹ 68,32,400 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques. What is the eligibility for an MS in Physiotherapy in the USA?
Ans. To apply for an MS in Physiotherapy, students must have a bachelor’s degree in physiotherapy (BPT) or a related course of study, plus proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS). A few programs will ask for a GRE score and/or clinical experience.
Ques. How long does it take to complete an MS in Physiotherapy in the USA?
Ans. The MS in Physiotherapy is a two-year program that includes classroom time, clinical placements, and research/thesis work.
Ques. Will I be able to work while I study an MS in Physiotherapy in the USA?
Ans. International students on an F-1 visa may work up to 20 hours per week on campus in the semester and full-time during breaks. Optional Practical Training (OPT) is available as well after graduation.
Ques. What is the Average tuition for an MS in Physiotherapy in the USA?
Ans. Tuition fees depend on the university and range from $25,000 to $50,000 per year.
Ques. Will I be able to work in the USA after doing my MS in Physiotherapy?
Ans. Yes, but you will have to pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) and obtain a license from the state.
Ques. What is the scope for a person graduating with an MS in Physiotherapy in the USA?
Ans. Graduates can qualify to work as clinical physiotherapists, sports physiotherapists, rehabilitation physiotherapists, paediatric or neurological physiotherapists, researchers, or educators, like teachers in healthcare or education.