GENERAL

MS in Electrical Engineering in USA: Top Universities, Admission Process, Cost of Studying, Scholarships, Jobs and Salaries

HS
Harsh Singh • 12 Mins read • 31 Jul 25
MS in Electrical Engineering in USAMS in Electrical Engineering in USA

Latest Updates 

  • The GRE 2025 Exam is set to be conducted between 8th September 2025 to 21st September 2025.            
  • The PTE 2025 Exam is set to be conducted between July 2025 to December 2025.
  • The IELTS Exam 2025 is set to be conducted between August 2025 and December 2025.

MS in Electrical Engineering in the USA is a 2-year postgraduate degree program for a master’s in Electrical Engineering. This program is particularly theory-based with courses related to Signal Processing, Control Systems, Circuits and Systems, and many more. Entrance examinations, such as the GRE, IELTS, GMAT, and TOEFL, are required for admission to the best universities for an MS in Electrical Engineering in the USA, including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Princeton University, Stanford University, Johns Hopkins University, the University of Pennsylvania, Columbia University, and many others. Applicants need an aggregate score of 85% in their bachelor’s degree. Scholarships in USA for international students like Fulbright, Walter Hesse, Aga Khan scholarship and many more are also offered. The fees for the top colleges can range from $61,990  - $1,46,000, which is ₹53,83,000 - ₹1,26,77,000

The MS in Electrical Engineering salary in the USA after graduation is around $107,000,  which is ₹92,91,000 in Indian currency for roles such as Electrical Engineer, Senior Electrical Engineer, Radio Frequency Engineer, and many more. Some top recruiters for MS in Electrical Engineering in the USA are Boeing, Intel Corporation, IBM, Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, and many more.


MS in Electrical Engineering in USA - Course Highlights

Course highlights for master’s in Electrical Engineering are given in the following table. The highlights include the course fee, average salary, top universities and other information. Candidates can check the table and apply for admission accordingly.

Category

Details

Course Name

Masters in Electrical Engineering

Course Level

Post-Graduate Level

Course Duration

2 years

Eligibility

A Bachelor’s degree with 83% -86% aggregate

Application mode

Online

Required examinations

GRE, TOEFL, IELTS

Annual Course Fee

$61,990  - $1,46,000, which is ₹53,83,000 - ₹1,26,77,000

Average salary 

$107,000/₹92,91,000

Top universities

  • MIT University
  • Stanford University
  • Princeton University
  • University of Pennsylvania
  • Columbia University
  • New York University
  • University of Wisconsin
  • Northwestern University
  • Northeastern University

Top recruiters

  • Boeing
  • Intel Corporation
  • IBM
  • Northrop Grumman
  • Lockheed Martin


MS in Electrical Engineering in USA - Important Dates and Events 

Important dates of the entrance exams and other events for admission to MS Electrical Engineering in USA are mentioned in this section. Applicants must check these dates carefully and apply accordingly to avoid missing any deadlines. The events and their corresponding deadlines are given below.

Events

Dates

GRE 2025 Exam

8th September, 2025 - 21st September, 2025

PTE 2025 Exam

August, 2025 - December, 2025

IELTS 2025 Exam

August, 2025 - December, 2025


Top Universities - Application Start & End Dates

The application start and end dates for applying to the best university for Electrical Engineering in the USA are listed in the table below. Admission dates for completing the master’s degree usually fall between September to February in most cases. University-wise deadlines are given below in the table. Applicants are advised to note the deadlines and apply accordingly.

University Name

Application deadlines

University of Pennsylvania

1 November 2025

New York University

1 November 2025

Johns Hopkins University

15 February 2026

Northwestern University

1 March 2026

Stanford University

15 September 2025

Northeastern University

1 October 2025


Why choose MS in Electrical Engineering in USA?

Pursuing MS in Electrical Engineering in USA is a smart and beneficial decision for a bright career. The renowned universities in the USA are providing MS in Electrical Engineering along with a variety of scholarships. The average salary after completion of an Electrical Engineering degree ranges around $ 1,07,000. 

The reasons are listed below:

  • Top institutions of the world - USA has the most top universities in the world for Electrical Engineering master’s programs, like Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Princeton University, Stanford University, Johns Hopkins University, University of Pennsylvania, Columbia University, and many others.
  •  On average, around 17,800 new jobs in the USA are expected to arise annually during this decade. Hence, better career opportunities for the Electrical Engineering graduates.
  • After pursuing MS in Electrical Engineering in USA, an individual can expect an annual salary ranging from 62,000 to 151,000 USD (₹53,83,500 to ₹1,31,11,500)
  • Studying in the top universities of the world helps you build a good wide alumni network, which is very helpful in growing your career.

Read More: Masters in Electrical Engineering in Canada

MS in Electrical Engineering in USA: Fees

MS Electrical Engineering in USA fees for the top universities range between $61,990  - $1,46,000, which is ₹53,83,000 - ₹1,26,77,000 in Indian rupees. The total fees have been mentioned in the table below. Applicants can have a look and apply for admission accordingly.

University 

Fees in $

Fees in INR

University of Pennsylvania

$68,000

₹59,58,000

New York University

$1,46,000

₹1,27,83,000

Johns Hopkins University

$130,000

₹1,13,82,000

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

$61,990

₹54,27,000

Northwestern University

$1,22,670

₹1,07,40,000

Northeastern University

$1,19,300

₹1,04,45,000


MS in Electrical Engineering in the USA: Cost of Living

While completing the MS in Electrical Engineering in the USA, the total cost of living in the USA annually ranges around $30,000. This includes Accommodation, Food, Utilities, Internet, transportation, and other necessary costs. The annual cost of accommodation is around $14,400, which varies from city to city. Below is the table breaking down all the necessary expenses.

Particulars

Annual Cost in $

Annual cost in INR

Accomodation

$14,400

₹12,62,000

Food

$1,200

₹1,05,000

Transportation

$840

₹74,000

Health insurances

$1,000

₹88,000

Personal Expenses

$2,000

₹1,75,000

Total

$30,900

₹27,05,000


MS in Electrical Engineering in the USA: Admission Requirements

Although the Qualifications for MS in Electrical Engineering vary depending on different universities, here are a few conditions that are common among all the universities. These include GMAT score, IELTS score, postgraduation requirements, and others.

Eligibility Criteria

Details

Undergraduate Degree

Passed with (83-86)% aggregate in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics

GPA

3.0+

GRE Score

  • Verbal - 
  • Quantitative - 
  • Analytical Writing - 

English Proficiency Exams

  • IELTS - 6.5-7.0
  • TOEFL - 100 overall

Others

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


MS in Electrical Engineering in USA: Application Process

MS in Electrical Engineering in the USA application process starts with filling the examination form of examinations like IELTS, TOEFL, GRE. Hence after giving the examination, applicants need to apply for admission at the official website of the preferred university after checking the eligibility requirements. 

  1. Visit the official website of TOEFL, 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 selected university and check the eligibility requirements. A minimum of (83-86)% aggregate in bachelor’s degree is required for the top universities. The GRE, IELTS, TOEFL scores may differ.
  4. After checking the eligibility requirements, if you qualify for admission, fill the application form by selecting "MS in Electrical Engineering”.
  5. After applying, wait for the result of the shortlisted candidates. 



MS in Electrical Engineering in the USA: Documents Required

Below is the list of the major documents required for admission in MS in Electrical Engineering in USA. Kindly prepare the documents before applying for admission:

  • A 500-word Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining your intentions and vision for choosing the program and university
  • 1 professional LOR and 2 academic LORs must be submitted
  • Proof of English proficiency, such as  IELTS or TOEFL
  • Standardized test scores such as the GRE
  • Passport-sized photographs
  • A valid passport
  • USA student visa
  • Updated Resume

MS in Electrical Engineering in USA: University-wise Cutoff Criteria

Eligibility criteria for MS in Electrical Engineering in USA require the applicants to have a bachelor’s degree with a minimum aggregate of 83-86)%. Candidates fulfilling the basic eligibility criteria are eligible to apply. Admission in top universities like Massachusetts requires an IELTS score of 7.0, and TOEFL iBT: 100, Purdue University requires IELTS score 6.5, TOEFL iBT: 80, and DET score 115. The detailed requirement for admission is given below in the table.

University

Requirements

Test Scores

Additional requirements

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or relevant stream from MIT.
  • TOEFL iBT: 100
  • IELTS: 7.0

GRE: Not required

Essay, 2 LORs, Resume/CV

Stanford University

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or relevant stream from a recognized university.
  • TOEFL iBT: 90
  • IELTS: 7.0

GRE score: Not required

Personal Statement, 2 LORs, Resume/CV

Carnegie Mellon University

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or relevant stream from a recognized university.
  • TOEFL iBT: 102
  • IELTS: 7.5

GRE score: Not required

DET: 120

Personal Statement, 2 LORs, Resume/CV

University of Southern California

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or relevant stream from a recognized university.
  • TOEFL iBT: 90
  • IELTS: 6.5

GRE score: Not required

PTE score: 61

3 LORs

Purdue University

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or relevant stream from a recognized university.
  • TOEFL iBT: 80
  • IELTS: 6.5

GRE score: Not required

DET Score: 115

3 LORs



GMAT/GRE Preparation Tips

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

  1. For the Quantitative section: Memorize the formulas so that you always have them on your fingertips. Also, practice on platforms like Magoosh, Manhattan Prep, etc.
  2. For Analytical Writing: Practice writing the essay within 30 minutes. Also, use Kaplan’s or Magoosh’s essay templates to frame your essay.


IELTS/TOEFL Preparation Tips

IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is a very vital test for those willing to pursue 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:

  • Use a timer: Practicing under timed conditions will help a lot for the main exam. Thus, have a timer by your side and practice all the questions within the time limit.
  • Take mock tests: Practice with the test materials provided on the official site.


MS in Electrical Engineering in USA: Scholarships

Scholarships in USA for Indian students enrolled in MS in Electrical Engineering courses are Stanford University Departmental Financial Support, Fulbright Scholarship, Walter Hesse Scholarship, and many others. The scholarships and their corresponding details are mentioned in the table.

Scholarships

Eligibility

Benefits

Stanford University Departmental Financial Support

Candidates enrolled at a graduate program at Stanford University with a minimum aggregate of 3.8 out of 4.0 GPA

Full tuition fee waiver

Fulbright Scholarship

Awarded by the Fulbright Association to students with academic excellence

Full tuition fee waiver and stipend

Walter Hesse Scholarship

Candidates studying at Purdue University

Full tuition fee waiver

Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship

Should be from Asian region and good academic background

100% of tuition fees and cost of living; 50% scholarship, 50% loan basis

National Overseas Scholarship

One time payment of 15,400 USD/ ₹13,49,000

Minimum 60% score in Bachelors and should belong to SC, ST and OBC category.

AAUW International Fellowship

A grant of USD 20,000 - USD 50,000 is provided. 

Citizens apart from the USA and a good score on the english proficiency tests. 


MS in Electrical Engineering in the USA - Best Universities

The best universities for MS in Electrical Engineering in USA are Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Johns Hopkins University, University of Pennsylvania,  and many others. According to the QS World Rankings 2025, Massachusetts Institute of Technology is the top-ranked university among the top Electrical Engineering Colleges in the USA for MS in Electrical Engineering. A list of the top universities in US for MS in Electrical Engineering is given below in the table:

University Name

QS World Ranking 2025

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

1

Johns Hopkins University

24

Columbia University

38

University of Pennsylvania

15

New York University

55

University of Wisconsin

110

Northwestern University

42

Brown University

69

Northeastern University

384


MS in Electrical Engineering in USA: Syllabus

MS in Electrical Engineering syllabus is divided into 4 semesters, 2 each year. The curriculum of MS in Electrical Engineering is given below:


Duration

Syllabus

2 Years with 2 Semesters in each

  • Programming and Software Engineering
  • Programming Languages
  • Security and Cryptography
  • Intelligent Physical Systems
  • Network/Distributed Systems
  • Wireless/Embedded Systems
  • Integrated Systems
  • Devices and Nanofab


MS in Electrical Engineering in USA VS MS in Electrical Engineering in India

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

Factor

MS in Electrical Engineering in USA

MS in Electrical Engineering in India

Global Recognition

Globally higher-ranked universities

Moderate ranking

Top universities

MIT, Stanford, Harvard, UC, Johns Hopkins

IITs, NITs, IISCs BITS Pilani

Tuition fees

$30,000 - $68,000 / ₹26,29,000 - ₹59,58,000.

₹40k to ₹10 Lakhs

Average starting salary

$89,000 - $1,30,000 / ₹77,98,000 - ₹1,13,90,000 / Year

₹8,00,000 - ₹15,00,000 /Year

ROI

High returns

Moderate to High 


MS in Electrical Engineering in USA: Career Scope

Career opportunities in USA after completing a Masters in Electrical Engineering are quite good. The average starting salary in the USA after completing the degree ranges around $ 1,30,000 annually for the post of Senior Software Engineer, $ 1,25,000 for Senior Systems Engineer and much more. Refer to the table below to know more:

Profession

Average Annual Salary ($)

Average Annual Salary (INR)

Electrical Engineer

$ 89,000

₹77,98,000

Senior Electrical Engineer

$ 1,10,000

₹96,38,000

Software Engineer

$ 1,04,000

₹91,12,000

Radio Frequency (RF) Engineer

$ 1,11,000

₹97,25,000

Senior Systems Engineer

$ 1,25,000

₹1,09,52,000

Senior Software Engineer

$ 1,30,000

₹1,13,90,000

Controls Engineer

$ 93,000

₹81,48,000


FAQs

QUES : What are the exams required for admission to MS Electrical Engineering in the USA?

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


QUES : Is GMAT required for admission to all universities in the USA?

ANS : No, none of the universities require GMAT scores for admissions. Admission is provided based on the score in the bachelor’s degree and IELTS/TOEFL scores.


QUES : What is the average fee of MS in Electrical Engineering in the USA?

ANS : The average tuition fees for MS in Electrical Engineering courses in the USA range between  $61,990  - $1,46,000, which is ₹53,83,000 - ₹1,26,77,000.


QUES : What is the average starting salary after completing MS in Electrical Engineering in the USA?

ANS : After completing MS in Electrical Engineering from top universities in the USA, the average starting salary ranges between $107,000,  which is ₹92,91,000.


QUES : Which is the top university for MS in Electrical Engineering in the USA?

ANS : According to the QS World Ranking 2025, Massachusetts Institute of Technology is the top university in the USA for MS in Electrical Engineering in the USA.


QUES : What is the overall course duration of MS in Electrical Engineering in the USA?

ANS : The overall course duration of MS in Electrical Engineering in the USA is 2 years.


QUES : What is the score required in the undergraduate degree for admission in the MS in Electrical Engineering program in the USA?

ANS : Top universities in the USA require a minimum aggregate of 85% for admission to the MS in Electrical Engineering program.