Eligibility of MS in USA for Indian Students- GRE Score, Documents, and More

Over 1000 universities in the USA offer MS programs, presenting Indian students with a vast array of options. Understanding the eligibility criteria is crucial for aspiring MS candidates amid this abundance of choices. Students can chart a successful path toward their MS aspirations in the USA by navigating these prerequisites.

Join me as I explore the essential factors and nuances shaping this academic pursuit. Read more!

Why Study MS in the US?

Here are some reasons to consider if you wish to study an MS degree in the US:-

Top Globally-Ranked Universities

The US is home to over 200 universities featured in the QS World University Rankings 2025. Many of them, including MIT, which has been ranked #1 for 13 consecutive years, are within the top 10. 

High Earning Potential

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, students with a Master’s degree have median weekly earnings of $1,737, amounting to over $90,000 per year.

Interdisciplinary Study Opportunity

The US offers extensive interdisciplinary study and research opportunities for Master’s students beyond the usual STEM programs.

Robust Job Market

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the US has a robust job market with a low unemployment rate of 3.9%. Additionally, universities in the US conduct several career events to help students secure employment upon graduation.

Eligibility for MS in the USA 

There are several factors contributing to eligibility:-

• Possession of a four-year bachelor’s degree.
• Maintaining good academic grades.
• Obtaining competitive scores on standardized tests like GRE or GMAT.

Additionally, most universities also require English language proficiency exams like TOEFL or IELTS.

Document Requirements For Admission to MS in USA

When considering admission to MS programs in the USA, students must prepare several documents. Here’s a closer look at the requirements:-

1. Bachelor’s Degree

To enroll in a Master’s program in the US, you must have a Bachelor's degree in a related field. For instance, a master’s in a certain STEM program will require a relevant background.

2. English Proficiency Test

You must submit recent English Proficiency Test scores, sent directly to the university by the testing center. Score requirements may vary; For example, MIT requires a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 90 (577 paper-based).

3. GRE/GMAT Scores

Score requirements vary depending on the department. For example, Harvard recommends a GRE Quant score of 160 or a GMAT score of 48 or above for its Master’s program in Public Administration in International Development.

4. Letters of Recommendation

Most universities, including MIT and Harvard, require up to three recommendation letters from undergraduate teachers or professors. At least one letter should be from the faculty where you obtained your last degree. Many universities require recommenders to submit letters directly through their portals.

5. Statement of Purpose/Personal Statement

This is a crucial part of your application. You must explain why you chose the institution and courses, how it will advance your career, and why you are a good fit for the program.

6. Resume/CV

Top US universities may also consider your resume or CV as a decisive factor for admission or interview admission, especially for programs that recommend work experience.

7. Application Form and Fee

Most US universities accept online applications and require a fee. For example, MIT has an application fee of $75.

8. Student Visa

Full-time students must apply for an F1 visa, while exchange students can apply for a J1 visa. The F1 student visa is obtained by presenting the Form I-20 to the US Embassy or Consulate, usually for students whose studies are funded by parents or private sponsors. 

Documents Required for US Student Visa

Here are the documents that you will need for the student visa:-

• A valid international passport, with validity extending at least 6 months after the course completion date in the USA. 
• Acceptance at SEVP-approved institution and the I-20 Form. 
• Receipt of SEVIS application fee payment. 
• Non-immigrant visa application and DS-160 Form confirmation page. 
• Photograph in the required size and format. 
• Proof of funds for supporting tuition and living costs throughout your stay in the USA. This may include bank statements, details of scholarships received, and financial undertaking by your sponsor.
• Proof of intent to return home after completing your course, such as a return air ticket.
• Copies of academic certificates, degrees, and diplomas if requested.
• Following document submission, proceed with the visa interview on the scheduled date. Start preparing your application and visa documents well in advance and check all application dates carefully.

Important Resources for Study in USA
MBA in USA for Indian Students	Why study in USA	Difference Between L1 and H-1B Visa
Study in USA After Class 12	Post Study Work Permit in the USA	Salary After MS in USA
Best Cities to Study in USA	Study in USA for Indian Students After 12th	Masters in USA Costs
Requirements for Studying in USA	Study in the USA from India	Cost of Studying in USA

What is the Eligibility for MS in USA for Indian Students?

Indian students typically need to meet the same eligibility criteria as international students from other countries. Therefore, adhering to the general guidelines mentioned above should suffice in this scenario. 

By following these guidelines, Indian students can ensure they meet the necessary requirements for studying abroad in the USA. This approach streamlines the application process and ensures that students are well-prepared to embark on their international academic journey.

MS Application Cycle

• Autumn/Fall Intake: Applications open in late September or early October and are accepted till December second week. 
• Spring Intake: The application deadline for the spring intake usually hovers between mid-November to mid-December. 
• Summer Intake: The application deadline for the intake is somewhere in April. 

MS Admission Cycle 

• Fall Intake: Classes begin in mid-August or early September and go on till the beginning of December. 
• Spring Intake: The session begins in January and concludes in April.
• Summer Intake: The session starts in May and ends in August.

Top Universities/Colleges for MS in USA for Indian Students

Pursuing an MS in the US can be the gateway to a lucrative professional future for Indian students, offering advanced education, cutting-edge research opportunities, and a globally recognized degree.

The institutions mentioned below are renowned for their strong academic programs, innovative research, and robust industry connections, providing Indian students with excellent career prospects.

List of Universities in the USA Accepting GRE Scores for MS

QS Ranking 2025	University
#1	Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
#4	Harvard University
#6	Stanford University
#10	California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
#11	University of Pennsylvania
#12	University of California (Berkeley)
#16	Cornell University
#21	University of Chicago
#22	Princeton University
#23	Yale University

GRE Scores Accepted By Popular Universities

Top Universities	GRE Scores Required
Stanford University	Quantitative – 168|Verbal – 163
Carnegie Mellon University	Quantitative – 167|Verbal – 156
University of Texas Austin	No minimum requirements.
Yale University	No minimum requirement (previously it ranged between 150-170 for the verbal section and 150-170 for the quantitative section.)
University of Chicago	300 (Verbal+Quantitative)

More Resources to Read About USA
Master’s in marketing in USA	MS in Artificial Intelligence (AI) in USA	MS in Computer Science in USA
Masters in Public Health in the USA	PhD in USA for Indian Students	USA Study Visa Requirements
Cost of MS in USA	Cost of PhD in the USA	Cost of a bachelor’s degree in the USA
Study Medicine in the USA	Spring Intake in USA: Universities, Eligibility & Process	F1 Visa Documents Checklist

Study with upGrad Abroad

upGrad Abroad, through collaborations with overseas universities, offers a distinctive portfolio of study abroad programs delivered in a blended model. These programs present a golden opportunity for learners to leverage online learning in a flexible and affordable manner. To enroll in programs in the US, UK, Canada, Germany, Spain, or Australia, get in touch with our counselors.

Disclaimer! All course fees and salaries are approximate amounts subject to change depending on various conditions.

Interested to Study In USA? Apply for Free Counselling