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MS in Artificial Intelligence in USA: Top Colleges, Eligibility, Fees, Jobs & Salary

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Shaurya • 13 Mins read • 24 Jul 25
MS in Artificial Intelligence in USAMS in Artificial Intelligence in USA

Latest Updates 

  • The GRE 2025 Exam will be held between 8th September 2025 to 21st September 2025.            
  • The GMAT Exam date 2025 will fall between June 2025 to December 2025.
  • The PTE 2025 Exam will also be held from July 2025 to December 2025.
  • The IELTS Exam 2025 can be written from August 2025 to December 2025.


MS in Artificial Intelligence in the USA is a postgraduate course for a total duration of 2 years. A Master's in AI in the USA includes concepts of machine learning, robotics, data science, and much more. This course is offered by several universities in the USA. Top universities for MS in AI in the USA include MIT, Stanford, Carnegie Mellon, and UC Berkeley. Future career options include working as an AI engineer, machine learning specialist, data scientist, or research analyst.  More than 1270 degrees in the field were awarded in 2023 to Indian students. 

The entrance exams accepted here include GRE, GMAT, PTE, TOEFL, IELTS, etc. The fees for MS in AI in the USA range between USD 54,000 to 1,54,000 USD, which in Indian currency is ₹46,60,000 - ₹1,33,00,000. The average salary for MS in AI in USA ranges between USD 75,000 - USD 1,50,000, which in Indian currency is ₹64,80,000 - ₹1,30,00,000 annually. Various Scholarships in USA for Indian students are also available, like the  PEO International Peace Scholarship, Civil Society Leadership Award, which provide financial assistance. 


MS in Artificial Intelligence in USA - Quick Highlights 

Here is the full detailed information in the table of MS in Artificial Intelligence in USA for a quick view.

Category

Details

Course Name

Master's in Artificial Intelligence

Course Level

Post-Graduate Level

Course Duration

2 years

Eligibility criteria

A minimum four-year degree is required in the related field

Application mode

Online

Required examinations

Total Course Fee

USD 54,000 to 1,54,000 USD / ₹46,60,000 - ₹1,33,00,000

Average salary 

USD 75,000 - USD 1,50,000 / ₹64,80,000 - ₹1,30,00,000

Top universities

  • Stanford University
  • Columbia University
  • Harvard University
  • University of California, Berkeley
  • Princeton University
  • Carnegie Mellon University
  • Georgia Institute of Technology
  • University of Southern California
  • Northwestern University Evanston

Top recruiters

  • Google
  • Azure
  • Oracle
  • Amazon
  • IBM
  • Open AI
  • Tesla
  • Nvidia


MS in Artificial Intelligence in the USA - Important Dates and Events 

Important dates for the MS in Artificial Intelligence in the USA have been mentioned in the table below. The dates include important dates related to the entrance exams, which are necessary for admission to universities in the USA for a Master's.

Upcoming Events

Dates

GRE 2025 Exam

8th September, 2025 - 21st September, 2025

PTE 2025 Exam

July, 2025 - December, 2025

IELTS Exam 2025

August, 2025 - December, 2025

Stanford University Application Date for Autumn Intake

2nd December, 2025

Columbia University Priority Deadline for October Intake

16th June, 2025 - 11th August, 2025

Harvard University Application Begins

1st December, 2025 - 15th December, 2025

UC Berkeley Application Begins

9th December, 2025

Princeton University Application Process

15th September, 2025 - 15th December, 2025

Carnegie Mellon University Application Process

3rd September 2025 - 10th December, 2025

Georgia Institute of Technology Application Process

September, 2025 - 1st February, 2025

University of Southern California Application Process

1st August, 2025 - 15th December, 2025

Northwestern University Evanston

1st September, 2025 - 15th December, 2025


Why study Maa ster's in Artificial Intelligence in the USA?

The USA is among the top places to pursue this course. There are numerous reasons to support this notion. Let’s look at a few in detail : 

  • World-Class Universities: USA has the highest number of top QS World-ranked universities, like Stanford, Harvard, Princeton, UC Berkeley, and many more. These universities provide theoretical knowledge, practical experience, global exposure, and a wide pool of opportunities.
  • Highest Paying Employment Opportunities: USA is known to have one of the most advanced, diverse, and high-paying job markets with salaries ranging from USD 75,000 - USD 1,50,000, which in Indian currency is ₹64,80,000 - ₹1,30,00,000 annually. 
  • Focus on hands-on experience in the industry: Unlike most other countries that focus on theoretical knowledge, the USA focuses on practical training as well as theoretical knowledge of the field


MS in Artificial Intelligence in the USA: Fee Structure & Seat Matrix

The total tuition fees for MS in AI in the USA range between USD 28,000 - USD 78,000, approx, which in Indian rupees is  ₹24,00,000 to ₹67,00,000. A university-wise breakdown is given in the table below. Candidates may have a look at the fees according to their preferences. 

University

Total Fees in USD

Total Fees in INR

Stanford University, Stanford, California

66000

₹57,00,000

Columbia University, Manhattan, New York City

77,900

₹67,31,000

Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts

57,000

₹49,25,000

University of California, Berkeley

30,100

₹26,00,000

Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey

59,700

₹51,60,000

Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

27,900

₹24,10,000

Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia

60,000

₹51,84,000

University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California

38,700

₹33,44,000

University of Michigan, Evanston, Illinois

33000

₹28,50,000


MS in Artificial Intelligence in the USA: Eligibility Criteria

Although the Qualifications for MS in AI vary depending on different universities, here are a few conditions that are common among all the universities.

Eligibility Criteria

Details

Undergraduate Degree

Passed with 60% aggregate in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics

GPA

3.0+

GMAT Score

580 to 700

GRE Score

318 to 329

English Proficiency Exams

  • IELTS - 6.5+
  • TOEFL - 70 to 100
  • PTE - 65+
  • DET - 105+

Work Experience

2 years

Others

  • Statement of Purpose
  • Letter of Recommendation
  • Passport
  • USA Student Visa


MS in Artificial Intelligence in the USA: Application Process

MS in AI in the USA Application Process starts with filling the examination form for examinations like GMAT, IELTS, GRE, PTE and TOEFL. Upon receiving their test scores, applicants need to apply for admission at the official website of the particular university after confirming that they meet the eligibility criteria. 

  1. Visit the official website of GMAT, IELTS, or GRE (as per the university requirement) and then apply for the examination.
  2. Download the admit card and appear in the examination.
  3. After the result is declared, visit the official website of the university you prefer and check the eligibility requirements. 
  4. For most top universities, a minimum of 85% aggregate in the bachelor’s degree is required.
  5. Although the GMAT/GRE and IELTS/TOEFL scores may differ.
  6. After checking the eligibility requirements, if you qualify the eligibility requirements then fill the application form by selecting the “MS in AI” program.
  7. After applying, wait for the results of the shortlisted candidates. 


MS in Artificial Intelligence in the USA: Documents Required

Documents such as SOP, LOR, and resume are very important while applying for admission in foreign universities. SOP stands for ‘Statement of Purpose’, which defines your educational background, your skills and capabilities, and the reason/purpose behind your application for admission. 

  • SOP: It explains your academic background, goals, and why you want to study in the USA. It should be 800-1000 words. It should cover your complete academic background, why MS in AI in the USA, why this university, relevant projects, research, or internships. Any academic gaps or backlogs must be explained.
  • LOR: LOR stands for Letter of Recommendation. If you are thinking of applying to any foreign university in the USA, a LOR is a must. A letter of recommendation is a formal document that outlines the candidate’s skills, achievements, and suitability for the course of study. LOR can be written by Managers, work supervisors, faculty, or heads of departments.to
  • RESUME: A Resume is a formal document highlighting the academic qualifications, skills, and work experiences. A strong resume for MS in AI in the USA is a must for experienced candidates as it highlights the technical skills, research experience, and academic achievements, emphasizing how they align with the specific requirements of the roles you're targeting.
  • Academic Transcript: The academic transcript includes the marksheet of the bachelor’s degree. A bachelor’s degree is necessary for admission to any university in the USA
  • IELTS/TOEFL: The IELTS/TOEFL score is required to take admission in the universities of Canada for a master’s degree. These tests are required to judge the English proficiency of candidates.
  • GRE: The GRE test is also required to take admission in universities in Canada, as it checks if a candidate is ready or not to take admission at the graduate level. Most universities accept GRE scores for providing admission to students.


MS in Artificial Intelligence in the USA: University-wise Requirements

The top universities offering MS in AI courses have their own admission requirements and admission process. Various universities have different GPA requirements and different IELTS/ TOEFL score requirements. In the table below, the requirements have been mentioned corresponding to the universities. Applicants may have a look and apply according to their eligibility.

University

Requirements

Stanford University, Stanford, California

  • GPA - 3.0 or higher
  • IELTS - 7.5
  • TOEFL - 100

Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts

  • IELTS - 6.5
  • TOEFL - 80

University of California Berkeley

  • GPA - 3.0 or higher
  • IELTS - 7.0

Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

  • GPA - 3.0 or higher
  • IELTS - 7.5
  • TOEFL - 100

Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia

  • GPA - 3.0 - 3.5
  • IELTS - 7.0

University of Michigan, Evanston, Illinois

  • GPA - 3.0 
  • IELTS - 6.5
  • TOEFL - 84


MS in Artificial Intelligence in the USA: GMAT/GRE Preparation Tips

Preparing for GMAT/GRE requires a well-planned and structured study routine, as the GMAT syllabus is quite vast. It is important to understand the examination pattern and previous year questions for better preparation. Below are some tips given for candidates willing to apply for the GMAT/GRE exam:

  1. Understand the exam pattern: Make yourself familiar with the types of questions and exam pattern by analyzing the previous year's questions. This will help you when you appear for the examination.
  2. Practice mock tests: Select a particular test series and practice regularly. Most of the candidates avoid this due to exam fear or underconfidence. But this will help you clear your core concepts, analyze your mistakes, and boost your confidence.


MS in Artificial Intelligence in the USA: IELTS/TOEFL Preparation Tips

The International English Language Testing System, known as IELTS or Test of English as a Foreign Language / TOEFL, is a very important test if you are thinking of pursuing master’s or doctoral programs in colleges abroad. Scoring well in these examinations requires proper preparation and mindful planning.

Stated below are a few tips for the candidates to score better in these exams:

  • Understand the exam pattern: The motive of both IELTS and TOEFL is to test the language skills, but they both have a different format; the IELTS test is of 2 hours and 45 minutes, whereas the time duration of the TOEFL test is 4 hours. IELTS is preferred in Commonwealth countries, whereas TOEFL is preferred in the USA.
  • Work on your listening skills: Both IELTS and TOEFL  have a listening section in the examination. The examination requires you to understand spoken English. To improve your listening skills, listen to documentaries and learn new words frequently. 


MS in Artificial Intelligence in the USA: Scholarships

Scholarships in USA for Indian students enrolled in the MS in AI programs at many universities are available, such as the PEO International Peace Scholarship, Lady Meherbai D Tata Education Trust Scholarship, QS Connect Master’s Scholarship, Civil Society Leadership Award, and many others.

Scholarships

Eligibility

Monetary Benefits

PEO International Peace Scholarship 

Foreign female students pursuing a master’s program in the USA

USD 12,500

Lady Meherbai D Tata Education Trust Scholarship

Indian female students with a minimum 2 years of work experience who want to pursue a master’s degree in the USA

₹3,00,000 - ₹6,00,000

QS Connect Master’s Scholarship

Merit-Based

USD 2,000

Civil Society Leadership Award

Performance-Based

Fully Funded 

Fulbright Nehru Master’s Fellowship 

Indian Candidates with high academic scores and english language proficiency

Fully Funded

Inlaks Shivdasani Scholarship

Indian Candidates with first-class bachelor’s degree applying for a master’s program in the USA

USD 100,000


MS in Artificial Intelligence in the USA: Top Universities

Top Universities for MS in AI in the USA, which are approved by QS World University, include Stanford University, Harvard University, University of California, Berkeley ,and many more. Let’s discuss them in detail : 

University Name

Courses Offered

QS World Ranking (2025)

Stanford University, Stanford, California

MS in Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence)

6

Columbia University, Manhattan, New York City

  • MS in Data Science
  • MS in Computer Science

38

Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts

MS in Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence)

5

University of California, Berkeley

MS in Artificial Intelligence

17

Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey

MSE in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence

25

Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

MS in Artificial Intelligence and Innovation

52

Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia

MS in Human-Computer Interaction (Artificial Intelligence)

123

University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California

MS in Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence)

146

University of Michigan, Evanston, Illinois

MS in Artificial Intelligence

45


MS in Artificial Intelligence in the USA VS MS in Artificial Intelligence in India

Here is a comparison table that depicts the differences between MS in Artificial Intelligence in USA VS MS in Artificial Intelligence in India on the basis of cost, average salary, alumni network, and living costs. Students thinking of joining universities abroad can check this for better clarity :

Factor

MS in Artificial Intelligence in USA

MS in Artificial Intelligence in India

Global Recognition

Extremely High

Moderate ranking

Top universities

MIT, Stanford, Harvard, UC Berkeley, Georgia Institute of Technology

IITs, IIITs, IISC, ISI Kolkata

Tuition fees

30,000 USD - 66,000 USD (₹25 Lakhs - ₹79 Lakhs)

Might go up to ₹10 Lakhs

Average starting salary

90,000 USD - 120,000 USD/ Year

₹6,00,000 - ₹20,00,000 /Year

ROI

Very high

Moderate to High 

Alumni Network

Globally strong

Growing globally, strong within India

Living Costs

Might go up to 300 USD

Might go up to ₹50,000


MS in Artificial Intelligence in the USA: Career Scope

Career opportunities in USA after completing a Master's in Artificial Intelligence are quite good.The average starting salary in the USA after completing the degree ranges between 101,867 USD to 142,000 USD for roles of an AI Engineer, Machine Learning Specialist, Data Scientist, Research Analyst, AI Interaction Designer, and many more. 

Also, the career scope in the field of Artificial Intelligence is booming every day due to advancements in technology. AI Engineers are in demand nowadays, so choosing the field would be a beneficial decision for career growth.

 Refer to the table below to know more about the average annual salary:

Profession

Average Annual Salary (USD)

Top recruiters

Cloud AI Engineer

USD 1,05,000 - USD 1,60,000

AWS. Google Cloud, Microsoft

AI Ethics Consultant

USD 90,000 - USD 1,40,000

Google, IBM, Meta

Data Scientist

USD 90,000 - USD 1,50,000

IBM, Tesla, Apple, Meta

Robotics Engineer

USD 95,000 - USD 1,40,000

Tesla, NVIDIA, Amazon

Machine Learning Engineer

USD 1,18,000

Google, Amazon


FAQs


Ques 1: What are the exams required for admission in MS in Artificial Intelligence in the USA?

Ans 1: GMAT, GRE, IELTS, and TOEFL are required for assuring admission in foreign universities in the USA.


Ques 2: . Is the GMAT required for admission to all the universities in the USA?

Ans 2:. No, some universities do not require GMAT scores for admission. Admission is provided on the basis of the score in the bachelor’s degree in STEM, and IELTS/TOEFL scores

Ques 3: What is the average fees of MS in Artificial Intelligence in the USA?

Ans 3: The average tuition fees for MS in Artificial Intelligence programs in the USA ranges between  38,000 USD to 78,000 USD.


Ques 4: What is the average starting salary after completing MS in Artificial Intelligence in the USA?

Ans 4: After completing MS in Artificial Intelligence from top universities in the USA, the average starting salary ranges between 75,793 USD to 158,878 USD annually.


Ques 5: Which is the top university for MS in Artificial Intelligence in the USA?

Ans 5: According to the QS World Ranking 2025, Harvard University is the top university in the USA for MS in Artificial Intelligence in the USA.


Ques 6: What is the overall course duration of MS in Artificial Intelligence in the USA?

Ans 6: The overall course duration of an MS in Artificial Intelligence in the USA is 2 years.


Ques 7: What is the minimum score required in the undergraduate degree for admission in the MS in AI program in the USA?

Ans 7: Top universities in the USA require a minimum aggregate of 85% for admission to the MS in Artificial Intelligence program