GENERAL

MS in Business Analytics in USA: Top Colleges, Eligibility, Fees, Scholarships, Salaries

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Sakshi • 16 Mins read • 15 Aug 25
MS in Business Analytics in USAMS in Business Analytics in USA

An MS in Business Analytics in the USA is a 1 to 2-year postgraduate program that combines technical data skills with business strategy. It trains individuals with the knowledge and experience to successfully enter high-impact analytics, consulting, and technology businesses. Admission is primarily based on merit, and also on entrance exams like the GRE, GMAT, and English language proficiency exams like the TOEFL and IELTS. Most programs require a 4-year undergraduate degree (similar to 3 years), a GPA of approximately 3.0 to 3.6, and basic statistical skills or programming experience (optional).

Some of the top universities offering this program are MIT, UCLA, UT Austin, UCSD, and Purdue University, where the fee is around $30,000– $70,000 ( ₹25.9 to ₹60.4 lakhs). The curriculum includes significant subjects such as data analytics, machine learning, business strategy, Python, SQL, and visualization tools, Tableau, and Power BI. Top recruiting companies include Amazon, Deloitte, Microsoft, EY, Capital One, Boeing, and Morgan Stanley. The annual salary for graduates is $85,000– $120,000(₹73.4lakh - ₹1.2cr). The top specialisations offered under MSBA courses are Finance, Healthcare Analytics, Operations, Marketing, Project Management, and Supply Chain.

Scholarships such as Fulbright-Nehru, AAUW international Fellowships, and Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship are available for financial assistance for International Students.


MS in Business Analytics in USA: Course Details/Highlights 

The important highlights of the MS in Business Analytics degree are given in the table below:

Particulars

Details

Program 

MS in Business Analytics in USA

Program Type

Full-time

Course Level

Postgraduate Level

Program Duration

1 year- 2 years

Top Universities

  • University of California, Los Angeles
  • University of Texas at Austin
  • University of Notre Dame
  • University of Minnesota, 
  • Twin CitiesDuke University 

Basic Eligibility

4-year bachelor’s degree or 3-year equivalent

GPA Requirement

3.0 to 3.6 on a 4.0 scale (83–89%)

Entrance Exams

English Proficiency  Requirements 

TOEFL iBT: 79 to 105

Specializations Offered

  • Healthcare & Hospital
  • Operations
  • Business Economics
  • Sales & Marketing
  • Project Management

Annual Tuition Fee Range

$30,000– $70,000  (₹25.9 to ₹60.4 lakhs)

Annual Salary

$ 65,000– $120,000(₹56.20lakh - ₹1.2cr)

Core Subjects

Data analytics, statistics, business strategy, SQL, Python, machine learning

Tools You Learn

Excel, R, Python, SQL, Tableau, Power BI, SAS, cloud platforms

Top Recruiters

  • American Express
  • Capital One
  • AIG
  • Boeing
  • Morgan Stanley


MS in Business Analytics in the USA: Important Dates and Events

The MS in Business Analytics in the USA application deadlines are generally between December and July, depending on the intake (summer/winter) and the university.

Upcoming Events

Dates

GRE 2025 Exam

September 8th, 2025 - September 21st, 2025

GMAT 2025 Examination

June, 2025 - December, 2025

IELTS Exam 2025

August 2025 - December 2025


MS in Business Analytics USA: Top University Application Start & End Dates

The application timeline for MS in Business Analytics program in USA varied for universities and intake seasons.

University 

Dates

Emory University Goizueta

October 2025 - May 2026

University of Houston application date 

International Deadline- March 21, 2025 Domestic Deadline-  August 15, 2025

University of Maryland Application Deadline  

Sep 26, 2025

University of Cincinnati

July 1, 2026

Emory University

October 8, 2025


Why Choose MS in Business Analytics in the USA?

By pursuing it in the USA, students learn strong skills and have good job opportunities. The USA has outstanding universities and a brilliant job market. So, many students pursue a business analytics course in the USA.

Here are the important benefits of pursuing a business analytics course in the USA:

  • Top Colleges: There are top colleges such as MIT, UCLA, and UT Austin, which have high marks for higher education and international rankings.
  • Higher Academic Standards: USA colleges are using more sophisticated tools and practices from industry. They are emphasising their programs' practical skills and problem-solving.
  • Career Development: Have more internship experiences and projects based on real-time business. This allows students to become a leadership personality in leading companies.
  • Diverse Campus Life: Diverse learning with students from other countries and nations. It makes the learning process rich and diverse.
  • Employment Opportunities: The USA is home to Google, Amazon, and Apple, which also increase opportunities for internships, networking, and employment.
  • Future Highs: The USA Business Analytics market is on fire.  Expected to grow to $103.65 billion in 2026.


MS in Business Analytics in USA: Fees

The MS in Business Analytics course fees in USA may vary from one university to and, depending on the tier, and by semester-wise tuition fees. The course fee of the program is ₹32.83 Lakhs - ₹76.2 Lakhs.

University

Fee Range (USD)

Fee Range (INR Approx.)

MIT

$85,000 – $88,000

₹73.4 Lakhs – ₹76.2 Lakhs

UCLA

$68,000 – $70,000

₹58.74 Lakhs – ₹60.47  Lakhs

UT Austin

$50,000 – $55,000

₹43.19 Lakh - ₹47.51 Lakhs

Purdue University

$55,000 – $58,000

₹47.51 Lakhs - ₹50.10 Lakhs

Michigan State University

$38,000 – $40,000

₹32.83 Lakhs – ₹34.55 Lakhs

University of Notre Dame

$57,000 – $60,000

₹49.24 Lakhs – ₹51.83 Lakhs


Living expenses in USA

The cost of living in the USA is generally higher compared to India. The cost of living includes Transport, Health Insurance, Personal Expenses, Meals, and Accommodation. Etc. Below is a list of the cost of living in the USA for the MS in Business Analytics.

Expense Type

Annual Expense (USD)

Annual Fee for Indian Students (INR Approx.)

Accommodation

$20,000 – $23,000

₹17.2Lakhs – ₹19.8Lakhs

Meals

$8,500

₹7.34 lakhs

Transportation

$2,200

₹1.90 lakhs

Health Insurance

$6,700

₹5.79 lakhs

Personal Expenses 

$9,100

₹7.86 lakhs

Total

$47,000 – $50,000

₹40.5 – ₹43.1 lakhs


MS in Business Analytics in USA: Qualification

The MS in Business Analytics qualification in USA requires a UG degree in engineering science, commerce, or management. The Candidates also need to clear the English language Proficiency test to qualify for these courses.

Particulars

Details

Undergraduate Degree

4-year UG degree or 3-year equivalent in STEM, commerce, or management

English Proficiency

TOEFL iBT: ≥ 90–93, TOEFL pBT: 600, IELTS: 6.5–7.5 (7.0 in each section preferred)


MS in Business Analytics in USA: Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility Criteria for MS in Business Analytics in the USA require a UG degree or a 3-year equivalent in STEM, commerce, or management. Most of the universities require a minimum GPA, and other requirements like a LOP, SOP, resume, etc., students have to qualify for the English Proficiency tests, IELTS and TOEFL, to study MS in Business Analytics in USA. Many institutions check the GRE scores for admission.

Eligibility Criteria 

Requirement

Bachelor’s Degree

4-year UG degree or 3-year equivalent in STEM, commerce, or management

English Proficiency Test

IELTS (6.5–7.5), TOEFL iBT (90–93), TOEFL pBT (600) or equivalent

GPA

A minimum 3.0 out of 4.0 scale is required.

SOPs and LORs

A strong Statement of Purpose and 2–3 Letters of Recommendation


MS in Business Analytics in USA: Application Process

The application process for MS in Business Analytics in U.S.A universities consists of several key steps, from applying to the right university to obtaining a visa. The process is as follows :


Step 1: Research and Choose Universities

  • Figure out and research 4 to 6 universities, based on tuition fee, the structure of the course, the GRE/GMAT requirement, and the location you want. Verify that they offer scholarships and confirm the intake time slot (fall or winter).

Step 2: Verify Eligibility Criteria

  • Understand eligibility criteria at each university, scoping minimum GPA, English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo), any computer programming skills, and relevant work experience (if necessary).

Step 3: Submit Documents

  • Prepare all the documents and submit them.

Step 4: University Online Applications

  • Create an account on each university's portal, complete the required documents, and pay the application fees ( $50- $150 for each application).

Step 5: Monitoring Important Dates

  • Most universities usually have application opening dates for the fall intake between November and March, while the dates for the winter intake are usually from earlier months.

Step 6: Interview (If Applicable)

  • Some universities may have video or live interviews. Prepare Technical interview and personal interview questions and answers.

Step 7: Admission Decision and Accept the offer

  • You will need to accept the offer letter online through the university portal before the deadline. The university will provide you with Form I-20 to be used in the visa application process.


MS in Business Analytics in USA: Documents

If a student applies for an MS in USA, the student should know what documents are needed for the process. It includes a Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (LORs), Essays, Academic transcripts, Resume, GRE/GMAT, and TOEFL/IELTS scores.

  • Statement of Purpose (SOP): 500-word summary that describes your motivation to pursue your plan. MSBA and career goals.
  • Essays: Some universities will ask for an essay describing in a word count the candidate's inspiration and background.
  • Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Usually, from 1 to 3 LORs, each should come from an academic faculty member or business supervisor.
  • Resume or CV
  • Bachelor's Academic Transcripts
  • GRE/GMAT and TOEFL/IELTS test scores


MS in Business Analytics in USA: Admission (University-wise)

The universities offering MS in Business Analytics in the USA have their admission process, including academic qualifications, GPA scores, experience, and documents required. The admission process varies depending on the university.

Refer to the table to know the admission requirements of each university:

University

Key Documents 

MIT 

  • 2–3 years full-time work experience
  •  3 LORs, 1-page resume

UCLA 

  • Experience or coursework in computer programming

University of Texas at Austin

  • 2 LORs
  •  Personal essay
  •  Resume
  •  1-minute video essay

UC San Diego

  • 2 LORs
  •  Resume or CV, 500-word SOP

Purdue University

  • 2 LORs
  •  Resume
  •  SOP & essays

Michigan State University

  • Work experience optional, programming knowledge (C, C++, Python, Java, HTML)

Arizona State University

  • 1 LOR
  •  Updated resume

UC Davis

  • Around 2 years of average work experience


MS in Business Analytics in USA: Entrance Exams

MS in Business Analytics entrance tests in USA accept an English language skill test, such as IELTS, TOEFL, GMAT, and GRE. These entrance test scores are accepted by most of the top universities to enrol students.

Exam

Details

TOEFL 

The Test of English as a Foreign Language.

IELTS

The International English Language Testing System.

GRE

Graduate Record Examinations.

GMAT

Graduate Management Admission Test.



GMAT/GRE Preparation Tips

For an MS in Business Analytics in the USA, a strong GMAT or GRE score is important because it increases your chances of getting admission to some of the best Universities or colleges. Here are some helpful preparation tips for both exams:

GMAT Preparation:

The Internet provides so many useful tools that you can use to prepare for the GMAT and enhance your preparation. Some easy-to-fulfil suggestions about how you should enhance your GMAT preparations are as follows:

  • Online GMAT Courses: Manhattan Prep and Kaplan websites provide online complete courses with a focus on GMAT preparation. They include lectures, study schedules, and practice exams.
  • Video Class: Your professional instructors can educate you on all GMAT subjects in a simple manner in the form of videos. They are beneficial for those who learn visually very well.
  • Practice Question Banks: Almost all websites provide a good amount of practice questions with adequate explanations to support your learning.
  • Reports of Progress: You will receive individual reports in some courses, so you will be aware of how you are doing well and where you have to practice.
  • Live Classes: Live online classes are a great opportunity to ask questions, resolve misunderstandings, and learn in real-time along with other students.


GRE Preparation:

Good GRE scores are important in order to secure admission to the best MS in Business Analytics programs. Some tips that will help you prepare are discussed below.

  • Read high-level sources (literature, academic journals, news articles) regularly.
  • Learn word meanings within context and not definitions.
  • Practice timed to develop exam pacing.
  • Learn from each practice test and error.
  • Practice using real GRE materials such as PowerPrep.
  • Apply self-obvious techniques for each question type.


MS in Business Analytics in USA: Scholarship 

The scholarships are for international students to help them with the tuition fee and living expenses. Here is the list of MS in Business Analytics in USA Scholarships and their benefits.

Scholarship Name

  Description

Eligibility 

Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Scholarships

American Scholarship covers full tuition fee, living expenses, airfare, and more. One of the most sought-after U.S. scholarships for Indian students.

Indian nationals possessing a 4-year bachelor's degree and 3 years of work experience.

AAUW International Fellowships

Provides USD 20,000 to 50,000 for postgraduate studies in the USA; assists women scholars across the world.

Non-U.S. women citizens holding a bachelor's degree equivalent in the USA.

BrokerFish International Student Scholarship

Provides USD 1,000 to foreign students for living/personal expenses.

Submission of essay (500-1000 words) on the significance of health insurance.


Business Analytics Programs in the USA: Curriculum 

Most likely, all MS in Business Analytics programs in the USA are offered as full-time programs and range from 12 to 24 months. Many programs also offer optional streams for students who want to complete research or continue into a PhD program.

Program Type

Structure and Key Features

Standard MS (12–16 months)

Core courses, electives, and a capstone project; full-time study.

Extended MS (18–24 months)

May include internship, thesis option, or career development modules.

Accelerated Track (12 months)

Intensive format with a fixed schedule; no summer break.

Part-Time or Online (24–36 months)

Designed for working professionals, offers flexibility with limited campus interaction.


All MS Business Analytics programs offered in the USA for international students consist of 30 to 42 credit hours, including courses such as:

  • Statistical Modelling
  • Machine Learning for Business
  • Data Visualization Tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI)
  • Business Strategy and Operations Analytics
  • Programming with Python or R


MS in Business Analytics in USA: Top Specializations

The MS in  Business Analytics in USA Specialisation is as follows: 

  • Finance
  • IT & Systems
  • Business Analytics
  • Project Management
  • Business Economics
  • International Business
  • Healthcare & Hospital
  • Engineering Management
  • Sales & Marketing
  • Transports & Logistics
  • Human Resources
  • Digital Marketing
  • Operations
  • Advertising
  • Public Policy
  • Energy & Environment
  • Supply Chain
  • Agriculture & Food Business
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Sports


MS in Business Analytics in USA: Cut-off

The MS in Business Analytics in USA cutoff is generally a minimum GPA score of 3.0 out of a 4.0 scale. The GPA varies by university, and some universities accept higher scores according to the courses.

University

GPA Cut-off

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

3.8 or above on a 4.0 scale (92–93%)

University of California, Los Angeles

3.0/4.0 (83–86%)

University of Texas at Austin

3.66 out of 4.0 (90–92%)

University of California, San Diego

3.0/4.0

Purdue University

3.0/4.0 GPA (83–86%)

Michigan State University

3.5/4.0 cumulative GPA (89–90%)

University of Notre Dame

3.45/4.0 (88–89%)

Arizona State University

3.0 on a 4.0 scale (83–86%)

University of California, Davis

3.5/4.0 (89–90%)


G-MAT/GRE Cut-off of Top Universities

Students who want to take admission in MS program in USA have to know the GMAT/GRE score, which varies by each university. Below is the table of the TOEFL cut-offs for top US universities.

University

GMAT/GRE Score Requirement

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

GRE Quant: 165–170
GRE Verbal: 154–167

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

GMAT: 710
GRE Quant: 167

University of Notre Dame

GMAT: 640–750

University of California, Davis

GRE Quant (Average): 167


TOEFL Cut-off of Top Universities

If a candidate wants to pursue an MS in the USA, they ned to know the TOEFL score, which is different for each university. However, some universities accept a higher score. Below in the table are the TOEFL cut-off scores for top US universities.

University

TOEFL Score Requirement

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Minimum: 90
Recommended: 100

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

87

University of Texas at Austin

79

University of California, San Diego

105

Purdue University

93

Michigan State University

100

University of Notre Dame

84 overall (22 in writing, 17 in other sections)

Arizona State University

80

University of California, Davis

80


Best Universities/Colleges for MS in Business Analytics in USA

The top universities to study MS in Business Analytics in the USA include MIT, the University of California, the University of Texas, Purdue University, and many more. Here is the list of the top universities with fees in INR and USD.

University

Total Tuition Fees (USD)

Fees (INR)

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

$87,600

₹75.7 lakh

University of California, Los Angeles

$68,710

₹59.40 lakh

University of Texas at Austin

$53,000

₹45.82 lakh

University of California, San  Diego

$67,950

₹58.75 lakh

Purdue University

$56,700

₹49.02 lakh

University of Notre Dame

$60,734

₹52.5 lakh

Arizona State University

$61,058

₹52.8 lakh

University of California, Davis

$60,104

₹51.96 lakh


Top Global Ranking Universities for MS in Business Analytics in USA

The Universities for MS in the USA provide the best education, research possibilities in many other areas, and help students get hands-on experience to explore modern lab techniques. The Universities of USA provide the best-ranked institutions in the QS World University Ranking for MS in Business Analytics.

University

QS World Ranking (2024)

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

1

University of California, Los Angeles

46

University of Texas at Austin

68

University of California, San  Diego

66

Purdue University

88

University of Notre Dame

294

Arizona State University

173

University of California, Davis

114


Career Scope After MS in Business Analytics in USA

The MS in Business Analytics course in USA opens many career possibilities in multiple fields, such as Finance, Healthcare, Information Technology, etc. The course provides a good salary and growth for the candidates. The career prospects include Data Analyst, Business Intelligence Analyst, Business Analyst, etc. Check out the table below for job opportunities with responsibility.

Job Title

Description

Data Analyst

Collecting, processing, and interpreting data to identify patterns and insights for business decision-making. 

Data Scientist

Analyzing large datasets to identify trends, build predictive models, and inform data-driven strategies. 

Business Intelligence Analyst

Designing and implementing systems to collect and analyze data, providing insights for business intelligence.

Business Analyst

Working with stakeholders to understand business needs, analyze data, and recommend solutions. 

Product/Marketing Analyst

Using data to understand customer behaviour and market trends to optimize marketing strategies. 


MS in Business Analytics in USA: Top Recruiters

The top recruiters for MS in Business Analytics in USA are Amazon, Deloitte, Microsoft, EY & PwC, etc. They are all reputable companies with a good choice among them, according to most students, for higher career advancement.

  • American Express
  • Capital One
  • AIG
  • Boeing
  • Morgan Stanley
  • Amazon
  • Deloitte
  • Microsoft
  • EY & PwC
  • Meta & Google


MS in Business Analytics in USA: Salary Package

The MS in Business Analytics students from the USA have many career options with a good salary package. The annual salary can vary between $65,000 and $95,000 based on the job function, industry experience, and work location. The table below is a table with approximate values in USD and INR:

Job Title

Average Salary (USD)

Average Salary (INR)

Data Analyst

$70,000–$75,000

₹60.52 lakh – ₹64.84 lakh

Data Scientist

$90,000–$95,000

₹77.81 lakh – ₹82.13 lakh

Analytics Consultant

$75,000–$85,000

₹60.52 lakh – ₹73.48 lakh

Senior Business Analyst

$90,000–$95,000

₹77.81 lakh – ₹82.13 lakh

Business Intelligence Analyst

$65,000–$70,000

₹56.20 lakh – ₹60.52 lakh

Business Analyst

$65,000–$70,000

₹56.20 lakh – ₹60.52 lakh

Product/Marketing Analyst

$75,000–$95,000

₹64.84 lakh – ₹82.13 lakh


Frequently Asked Questions 


Que 1. How long does the MS in Business Analytics program in the USA usually take?

Ans 1: Programs typically last from 1 to 2 years, depending on the university and its type of program (regular, extended, or accelerated). Most programs are mostly full-time and STEM-designated. International students may be able to get 3 years of OPT.


Que 2. Do MS in Business Analytics admissions require GRE or GMAT?

Ans 2. Yes, most universities accept both GRE and GMAT scores. Some of the best universities (e.g., UT Austin, Purdue) have made it optional, while others, such as MIT or UCLA, have high GRE Quantitative scores (167–170). It is always best to check each university's admission requirements.


Que 3. What is the fee for MS in Business Analytics in the USA?

Ans 3. Fees for universities range respectively from $39,000 to $91,000 (₹33.7 to ₹78.6 lakhs approx.). MIT, for example, total close to $87,600, whereas Michigan State University total close to $39,000 for the full course.


Que 4. Which universities offer MS in Business Analytics program in the USA?

Ans 4. Top universities for MSBA programs include:

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

  • UCLA
  • University of Texas at Austin
  • UC San Diego
  • Purdue University

The universities mentioned have a quality curriculum, great ROI, and have good connections to the industry.


Que 5. What jobs are available after completing the MS in Business Analytics degree in the USA?

Ans 5. MSBA graduates can typically gain employment in one of the following roles:

  • Data analyst
  • Business intelligence analyst
  • Product analyst
  • Analytics consultant

Top hiring companies include Amazon, Deloitte, Microsoft, EY, Boeing, Capital One, and Morgan Stanley.