MS in Microbiology in USA: Top Universities, Admissions, Cost, Scholarships, and Scope
MS in Microbiology in USALatest Updates:
- ETS published GRE Subject Test Dates for Fall Session 2026 with all the test windows on September 8th - 21st, 2025, and October 13th - 26th, 2025, for admission in the Microbiology graduate program in USA
- As of July 2025, NC State, University of Delaware, and Ohio State have reconfirmed their GRE-optional policy regarding 2025 admissions.
- The application deadlines for top MS in microbiology programs starting in Fall 2025 will fall between December 2025 and April 2026.
MS in Microbiology in USA is a 2-year postgraduate program designed to provide students with in-depth knowledge of microbial genetics, virology, immunology, and biotechnology. The course underlines practical research work, laboratory methods, and their usage in medicine, agriculture, and environmental science. The best-ranked universities for MS in Microbiology are Harvard University, Stanford University, University of California, Berkeley, and Johns Hopkins University.
International students must get the TOEFL or IELTS scores, although appearing for the GRE is not mandatory. The cost of studying MSc Microbiology in United States ranges from $20,000 to $55,000 per year, depending on the university. Living expenses range between $10,000 to $20,000. These expenses are dependent on factors like accommodation, travelling, and other necessities.
Indian and international students can apply for financial aid such as merit-based scholarships, graduate assistantships, and external fellowships like Fulbright or AAUW. There are also departmental scholarships used in some universities for pursuing microbiology graduate programs in USA.
Graduates of the Master’s in Microbiology in USA programs can pursue careers in biotechnology, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and research institutions. Common job roles are clinical microbiologist, research scientist, biomedical analyst, and quality assurance specialist. Microbiologist graduate from USA earns an average salary between $60,000 to $90,000 a year.
The MS in microbiology syllabus includes molecular biology, microbial pathogenesis, bioinformatics, current knowledge in the field of virology, and industrial microbiology.
MS in Microbiology in USA: Important Dates and Events 2026
Admissions to MS in Microbiology in USA primarily begin during the Fall (August–September) intake, with a few universities also offering Spring (January) admissions. The deadlines are usually in November to March in the case of Fall intake, which begins in July, till October in the case of Spring.
Here is a table with the important dates to apply for a Master’s in Microbiology USA:
Particulars | Application Deadline |
GRE Subject Test (2025‑26 dates) | Sep 8–21(2025), Oct 13–26(2025), Apr 20–May 3(2026) |
NC State University (M.S. Microbiology) | Dec 1, 2025 |
Ohio State University (M.S. Microbiology) | Jan 1, 2026 |
University of California, Riverside (Grad Division) | Jan 5, 2026 |
University of Wisconsin–Madison (Bacteriology M.S.) | Jan 10, 2026 (early review) |
Georgetown University (MS Microbiology & Immunology) | Jan 15 (early), Jul 1, 2026 |
Michigan (M.S. Microbiology & Immunology) | Mar 1, 2026 |
Why Study MS in Microbiology in USA?
The United States is the centre of cross-border education in microbiology, as the country has a rich research system, the best universities and a great number of professional opportunities. Given below are a few of the reasons to take MS in Microbiology in USA:
1. Best Universities- There are universities such as Harvard University, Stanford University, MIT and Johns Hopkins University that have a top-tier graduate course in microbiology that is world standard and has advanced laboratories and research inputs. These universities ranked at the top in QS Ranking and USA News recent ranking lists.
2. Research-Based Curriculum- U.S.A. universities lay stress on practical knowledge and elaborate laboratory skills. Students also have the benefit of working on live research projects in virology, immunology, Microbial genetics, and environmental microbiology during their course.
3. Best Career Opportunities - A US degree in Microbiology leads to well-paying careers such as a microbiologist, biomedical researcher, pharmaceutical analyst, and an expert in infectious disease. The graduates tend to land jobs in research labs, the CDC, WHO, or with famous biotech giants such as Pfizer and Moderna.
4. Scholarships & Funding- Indian students in the US have the option to apply for funding assistance such as scholarships and grants, depending on various universities. These scholarships are either fully funded or they offer a part of expenses for the international students.
5. A Pathway to PhD or Industry Role- The course can serve as a gateway to applicants interested in pursuing a PhD in microbiology. It also assists in employment opportunities in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and clinical research industries.
MS in Microbiology in US: Fee Structure
The average tuition fees for an MS in Microbiology in America range between $15,000 and $70,000 per year, depending on whether the university is public or private.
Here is a look at the average fee structure of public universities for the Microbiology graduate program in USA :
University | Fee in USD | Fee in INR |
University of Florida | $16,050 | ₹13,88,000 |
University at Buffalo (SUNY) | $20,072 | ₹16,67,000 |
University of Wisconsin–Madison | $25,578 | ₹22,11,000 |
North Carolina State University | $21,800 | ₹18,85,000 |
University of California, Riverside | $26,544 | ₹22,95,000 |
Private Universities' Fee Structure for Master’s in Microbiology USA
The US has a number of privately owned universities/research institutes that have excellent rankings in MS in Microbiology United States .
Many of these universities have excellent research facilities (and the best research is in the country) that can be afforded:
Private University | Fee in USD | Fee in INR |
Johns Hopkins University | $68,592 | ₹59,30,000 |
Drexel University | $39,600 | ₹34,23,000 |
Creighton University | $20,000 | ₹17,30,000 |
New York University (Tandon/GSAS) | $39,104 | ₹33,81,000 |
MS in Microbiology in US: Eligibility Criteria
To apply for a Master’s in Microbiology in USA, applicants must hold a relevant bachelor’s degree (GPA 3.0 and above, IELTS 7-8/ TOEFL 100+), and also be prepared with the necessary documents. The following is the eligibility criteria to pursue an MS in Microbiology programs:
Eligibility Criteria | Details |
Undergraduate Degree | Bachelor's in Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or related science field |
GPA Requirement | Minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 (or international equivalent) — ~90% programs require this level or higher |
GRE Score | Not required, though optional at some universities like USF, UNC |
English Proficiency | TOEFL ≥100 or IELTS ≥7.0–8.0 for most programs, like Florida, Iowa |
Prerequisite Coursework Required | General Biology (2 sem), General & Organic Chemistry, Calculus; recommended: Microbiology, Biochemistry |
Additional Documents | SOP, CV, 2–3 LORs, optional interview or mentor selection (at schools like Indiana or USC) |
MS in Microbiology (for Indian Students)US Student Visa Requirements & documents
To study MS in Microbiology in USA, Indian students must obtain an F-1 Student Visa. This visa is for academic purposes. It is the most common route for international students admitted to full-time programs in US universities.
Here is a step-by-step procedure to apply for a visa:
1. Get an I-20 from your US university after admission.
2. Pay SEVIS Fee: $350 at
3. Fill DS-160 Form at
4. Pay Visa Fee: $185 (~₹15,500).
5. Book Appointments: For biometrics (VAC) and visa interview (US Embassy).
6. Attend Interview: Carry all original documents.
7. Visa Stamped on passport (within 5–7 days, if approved).
Documents Required
- Passport (valid 6+ months)
- I-20 Form & Admission Letter
- DS-160 confirmation & visa fee receipt
- SEVIS payment proof
- Academic transcripts, TOEFL/IELTS scores
- Financial proof (~$40,000–$60,000)
- SOP, Resume, 2–3 LORs
Total Visa Fees:
Fee | Amount in USD | Amount in INR |
SEVIS Fee | $350 | ₹30,260 |
Visa Fee | $185 | ₹16,000 |
Total Cost | $535 | ₹46,260 |
Cost of living in America for Indian Students
Indian students pursuing MS in Microbiology in USA should budget accordingly before applying. Many factors impact the budget preparation. Here’s a breakdown of average monthly expenses:
Expenses | Cost in USD | Cost of INR |
Accommodation | $500– $1000 | ₹43,200 - ₹86,455 |
Food & Groceries | $200 – $400 | ₹17,300 - ₹34,600 |
Transportation | $70 - $150 | ₹6,000 - ₹13000 |
Health Insurance | $100 – $300 | ₹8,500 - ₹26,000 |
Utilities & Internet | $100 – $200 | ₹8,500 - ₹21,600 |
Miscellaneous & Leisure | $150 – $250 | ₹13000 - ₹21,600 |
MS in Microbiology in USA: Application Process
Applying for MS in Microbiology in USA involves 6–9 months of preparation before the intake (Fall – August/September or Spring – January). Here's a step-by-step guide:
1. Check University Requirements
Visit the official website of your preferred university. Look for eligibility, GPA, coursework, and English proficiency requirements.
2. Appear for Required Exams
- TOEFL/IELTS (mandatory)
- GRE (optional; recommended for top universities like Johns Hopkins, USC, Indiana)
3. Shortlist Universities
Search and shortlist universities on the basis of the academic scores, GPA and by budget preferred by you to identify a program that best suits your profile which increases the possibility of admission and cheaper tuition fees.
4. Prepare Application Materials
Before applying, compile all required documents to strengthen your profile and meet university requirements. A well-prepared application boosts your chances of admission.
Documents Needed:
- SOP
- CV
- LORs (2–3)
- Transcripts
- Passport & test scores
5. Apply Online
Once your documents are ready, submit your application through the official university portals. Some universities may also accept applications via centralised platforms like the Common App.
6. Pay Application Fee
The application fee for MS in Microbiology programs in the USA typically ranges between $60–$100 per university. After submission, most admission results are declared within 2–3 months.
MS in Microbiology in USA: Documents Required
Here's a list of commonly required documents when applying for MSc Microbiology in US universities:
- Bachelor’s Degree Certificate
- Academic Transcripts
- English Language Test Scores
- GRE Score (Optional but preferred by top-tier schools)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
- Resume/Curriculum Vitae(cv)
- Valid Passport
- Proof of Financial Support I-20 eligibility(~$40,000–$60,000 balance)
- Passport-sized Photos
MS in Microbiology in USA: Entrance Exams
To get admission into a Microbiology graduate program in USA, Indian students must appear for English language proficiency exams and, optionally, GRE. While the GRE is not mandatory at many universities, it strengthens your application for top-tier institutions.
Below are the exams and their details:
Exam | Details |
TOEFL | Test of English as a Foreign Language; minimum score: 100+ (iBT) recommended |
IELTS | International English Language Testing System; minimum range: 7.0 – 8.0 |
Duolingo English Test (DET) | Accepted at select universities; minimum: 115–125 |
GRE | Graduate Record Examination (optional at many schools like USC, Indiana, USF, Florida) |
Preparation Tips for MS in Microbiology in USA
To pursue MSc Microbiology in USA, Indian students need to pass English tests such as IELTS (6.5- 7.5 bands) or TOEFL (90-100+ scores). Not every university requires the GRE, although one is strongly advised to use it for research-intensive programs as a minimum, score higher than 310. Early preparations through a superior academic background, research or lab internship, and a well-designed SOP and LORs will also give your chances of admission a boost. Begin 12- 18 months early to beat the deadlines of the application and visa.
MS in Microbiology in USA: Scholarships for Indian Students
Numerous scholarships for Indian students in America are available to support tuition and living expenses for their studies. These scholarships have eligibility criteria and are focused on academics and financial need to help students finance their studies overseas.
Scholarships | Eligibility | Details |
Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowship | Indian citizens with at least 3 years of work/study experience and a strong academic/professional profile | Full tuition + living + J-1 visa & airfare |
Tata Scholarship – Cornell University | Indian undergraduate degree holders accepted at Cornell for graduate studies | Full tuition + living costs (for select students) |
AAUW International Fellowship (Women) | Women from non-US countries pursuing full-time graduate study in the US | $20,000–$25,000 depending on degree level |
Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship Exceptional | Indian students for top US universities (STEM, Arts, Humanities) | Up to $100,000 for tuition, living, and travel |
Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship | Need-based award for excellent students from developing countries | 50% grant / 50% loan; covers tuition + living |
Narotam Sekhsaria Scholarship | Indian graduates with high academic performance and admission to top global universities | Up to ₹20 lakhs as an interest-free loan |
JN Tata Endowment Scholarship | Indian students pursuing higher studies abroad, including MS in life sciences | ₹1–10 lakhs as a loan scholarship + travel grant |
University-Specific Graduate Assistantships | Offered by US universities to MS students based on merit or research work | Tuition waiver + stipend ($15K–$30K/year) |
Best universities for MS Microbiology in USA
Some of the best universities in the world for MS in Microbiology are also located in the United States. Moreover, many of them are actually ranked in the top in the QS world ranking.
Given below is a list of best universities for microbiology compiled for aspirant’s to assist.
University | Location | QS World Ranking |
Harvard University | Cambridge, MA | 1 |
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | Cambridge, MA | 2 |
Stanford University | Stanford, CA | 3 |
Johns Hopkins University | Baltimore, MD | 6 |
University of California | La Jolla, CA | 8 |
University of Pennsylvania | Philadelphia | 11 |
University of Washington | Seattle, WA | 23 |
Cornell University | Ithaca, NY | 21 |
UC Berkeley & UCLA | Berkeley & Los Angeles | 16 |
Career Opportunities & Salaries for MS in Microbiology in USA
Graduates from top US universities enjoy excellent career options in clinical research, pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, and academia. Starting salaries range between $55,000 $95,000 annually, depending on role and location.
Profession | Average Salary |
Microbiologist | $70,647/year |
Clinical Research Associate | $87,831/year |
Lab Manager | $96,784/year |
Biomedical Scientist | $106,190/year |
Quality Control Analyst | $55,202/year |
MS in Microbiology in USA: Top Recruiters
The demand for MS graduates in microbiology has been rising in recent years. Major sector recruiting comprises healthcare, public health labs, food safety, and pharma R&D.
A few of the top recruiters for microbiologist post-graduates are:
- Pharma Companies
- Pfizer
- Gilead Sciences
- Novartis
- Research Institutes
- Wyss Institute
- Broad Institute
- New England Biolabs
MS in Microbiology in USA vs India
The USA education system provides research-intensive courses of the Master of Science in Microbiology, where it has well-equipped laboratories and international contacts, as well as well-paid careers in health care, drug development, and diagnostics. In contrast to India, it offers high career development opportunities, practical experience, and international exposure, but is associated with a tight budget on education and living.
Factors | USA | INDIA |
Global Recognition | Very High (Top-tier research institutions & healthcare ties) | Moderate |
Top Universities | Harvard, Stanford, Johns Hopkins, UC Berkeley | AIIMS, JNU, BHU, Manipal |
Tuition Fees | $25,000–$60,000/year (₹20–50 Lakh/year) | ₹50,000–2 Lakh/year |
Average Starting Salary | $55,000–$95,000/year (₹45 Lakh–80 Lakh) | ₹2.5–6 Lakh/year |
ROI | Very High (long-term global ROI) | Moderate to High |
Alumni Network | Global—NIH, CDC, Big Pharma, Research Labs | Strong within India |
Living Costs | $1,200–2,000/month (₹1–1.6 Lakh) | ₹15,000–30,000/month |
FAQs for MS in Microbiology in USA
Ques . What entrance exams are required for MS in Microbiology in the USA?
Ans. English proficiency with IELTS /TOEFL is mandatory in most universities. You can take the GRE, though it is not a requirement, but it can make your profile even stronger.
Ques . Do US universities require research experience to take admission in MS in Microbiology?
Ans. Yes, and in many cases, good lab or project work in microbiology, biotechnology, or life sciences may be a major admission criterion.
Ques . How much does MS in Microbiology in USA cost?
Ans. The tuition is between 25 to 60 thousand dollars/year. Living basic costs are around $1,200- $2,000/ month, depending on the city.
Ques . What is the average salary after MS in Microbiology in USA?
Ans. The salaries are between $55,000 and $95,000/ year. Experience in R&D, pharma, and diagnostics jobs frequently exceeds a six-digit mark.
Ques . Are Indian students eligible for scholarships for MS in Microbiology in USA?
Ans. Yes, the scholars like Fulbright-Nehru, Tata scholars, Inlaks, and college-specific fellowships are available to Indian students.
Ques . What is the stay-back period after MS in Microbiology in USA?
Ans. The students can extend their post-graduate work periods in the USA with an F-1 visa and STEM OPT up to 3 years.