MBA in the USA – Top Universities, Courses, Tuition Fees, Scholarships

An MBA in the USA is a great choice for students from other countries who want to study more after their bachelor’s degree. The USA has famous universities that provide quality education for interested students, making it one of the best places to get an MBA. There are many different specialisations and programmes to choose from.

Some top MBA schools in the USA include MIT, Stanford, Columbia University, and NYU. Most MBA programmes last for two years, but some universities offer one-year programmes or programmes that take longer. While studying in the USA might cost more than in some other countries, graduates often earn back that money with good salaries.

On average, MBA graduates in the USA earn about USD 90,000 a year (which is around INR 75 lakh).

Many well-known companies, like Amazon, Johnson & Johnson, and The Walt Disney Company, are looking to hire MBA graduates. Studying for an MBA in the USA can give you great experiences and help you get jobs with top companies!

MBA in USA: Highlights

There are more than 600 universities where you can choose from a lot of different programs. Some popular subjects you can study are Finance (how to manage money), Business Analytics (using data to make smart choices), Sales & Marketing (how to sell products), and Human Resources (working with people). Most of these schools are in states like California, New York, Texas, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Florida, and Ohio.

Getting an MBA in the USA gives you many chances to learn about different parts of business!

Top 10 MBA Colleges in the US

Some of the top MBA colleges in the USA are Stanford, Harvard, MIT, and Columbia University. Here are some of the best-ranked MBA colleges in the US for international students:

MBA Specialisations in the USA

If you’re thinking about getting an MBA in the USA, there are many areas you can study, like Finance, Marketing, Accounting, Entrepreneurship, and International Business. Indian students who want to study in the US can check out our list of the best MBA specialisations.

List of MBA Universities in the USA with Fees

Student Visa costs for the US

International students must obtain a U.S. student visa to study at an American university. The two main types of student visas are the F-1 and J-1 visas.

The J-1 visa, or Exchange Visitor Visa, is designed for students taking part in exchange programs. This visa allows for academic or cultural exchange activities, and applicants must secure sponsorship from a recognised program or institution.

The F-1 visa is for students enrolled in full-time academic programs at U.S. schools. Students must have an I-20 form (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status) to apply. The application for the F-1 visa requires a fee of $185.

MBA in USA Requirements

MBA admission requirements in the USA include:

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution.
• GMAT/GRE scores are required by most B-schools, though some offer waivers.
• Statement of Purpose explaining career goals and reasons for pursuing an MBA in USA and that specific university.
• Work Experience usually need 2-3 years of professional experience.
• English Proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL scores (unless candidates prior education was in English).
• Letters of Recommendation
• Resume/CV: Including students academic and work experience.

Disclaimer: Please note that admission requirements may vary by university.

Work Opportunities After Completing an MBA in the U.S.

International students who wish to remain in the U.S. after completing their MBA must obtain a work visa. F-1 visa holders are eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows them to work in a role related to their field of study. This temporary work authorisation can last for up to 12 months.

For MBA graduates in fields like STEM, there may be an option to extend OPT for an additional 24 months. After the OPT period, students can explore other work visa options, such as the H-1B, to continue their careers in the U.S.

Types of MBA Scholarships for International Students in the USA

MBA scholarships in the USA are awarded based on merit and financial need, helping make education more accessible for students. Indian students are eligible for a variety of scholarships at the graduate level, both from U.S. universities and external organizations. Many top universities also offer scholarships specifically for international students, and additional funding opportunities are available through private entities.

1. McKinsey Award—MIT Sloan School of Management
2. HBS Forward Fellowship – Harvard Business School
3. Columbia Business School China & India Fellowships
4. Horace W. Goldsmith Fellowship – Harvard Business School

Types of MBA Scholarships for International Students in the USA:

• Need-Based Scholarships: For students with financial need.
• Merit-Based Scholarships: Awarded based on academic excellence and achievements.
• International Student Scholarships: Specifically for students from outside the U.S.
• Graduate Fellowships: Prestigious awards that may cover full tuition and offer stipends.
• GRE/GMAT-Based Scholarships: For students with high scores on these exams.
• Tuition Fee Discounts: Some universities provide discounts of up to 50% on MBA tuition fees.

MBA in USA Jobs & Salaries

Source: talent.com/salary

Wrapping Up

With an average starting salary of around USD 94,000 per year, an MBA from the USA offers significant returns on investment for Indian students. Top universities like Harvard, MIT, and Stanford provide high-quality education across specialisations, preparing graduates for leadership roles worldwide. Despite higher tuition fees, the potential for career growth is immense, with opportunities at leading global companies. Additionally, scholarships and work options like OPT further enhance the value of studying in the U.S. By meeting admission and visa requirements, Indian students can take advantage of the numerous career opportunities the USA offers, setting themselves up for long-term success in the global job market.

FAQs:

1. What are the basic requirements to apply for an MBA in the USA?

To apply for an MBA in the USA, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree, GMAT/GRE scores, a statement of purpose, work experience (usually 2-3 years), proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL), letters of recommendation, and an updated resume/CV. Specific requirements can vary by university.

2. How long does it take to complete an MBA in the USA?

Most MBA programmes in the USA take two years to complete. However, some universities offer one-year accelerated programmes, and others may have part-time or executive MBA options that can take longer to finish.

3. What are the costs of studying MBA in the USA?

The cost of an MBA in the USA varies by university but typically ranges from USD 30,000 to USD 80,000 per year. Universities like MIT, Harvard, and Stanford can have higher tuition fees, while others may be more affordable. Additionally, living expenses and other fees must be considered.

4. What scholarships are available for international students in the USA?

International students can apply for various scholarships, including merit-based, need-based, and specific awards for students from India or other countries. Some top scholarships include the McKinsey Award at MIT Sloan, the HBS Forward Fellowship at Harvard, and Columbia Business School’s China & India Fellowships.

5. Can international students work after completing an MBA in the USA?

Yes, international students on an F-1 visa are eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT) after graduation, which allows them to work in the U.S. for up to 12 months in a role related to their field of study. For STEM graduates, there is an option to extend OPT for an additional 24 months.

After OPT, students may apply for work visas like the H-1B.