The USA invests more in research than any other country, giving students access to billion-dollar labs, cutting-edge technology, supercomputing facilities, and groundbreaking projects that define entire fields of study.
MS/PHD in USA
The USA stands out as a top destination for MS and PhD programs, offering international students access to globally ranked universities, cutting-edge research opportunities, and strong career pathways. Universities in the USA provide 1.5–2 year master's programs and 4–6 year doctoral programs across engineering, computer science, business, health sciences, and social sciences. The cost of MS in the USA ranges from $20,000–$60,000 per year, while many PhD programs are fully funded, offering tuition waivers, research/teaching assistantships, and annual stipends of $20,000–$40,000. Institutions such as MIT, Stanford, Harvard, UC Berkeley, and Carnegie Mellon offer world-class facilities, expert supervision, and access to Optional Practical Training (OPT) for up to 3 years of post-study work (STEM fields).
Council for Global Education, trusted since 1991, provides expert guidance for students pursuing MS and PhD in the USA. From university shortlisting and application planning to GRE preparation, statement of purpose writing, funding guidance, and visa assistance, our counselors help students navigate the admissions process and secure placements at leading US universities with confidence.
Reasons to study MS/ PHD in USA
American graduate programs encourage cross-disciplinary exploration—combine computer science with biology, engineering with business, or AI with healthcare—creating unique expertise that doesn't exist elsewhere.
Direct access to the world's leading tech ecosystem, startup culture, and venture capital networks in Silicon Valley, Boston, Seattle, and Austin, turning research into real-world impact and entrepreneurial opportunities.
Most PhD programs provide complete funding packages covering tuition plus competitive stipends ($25,000-40,000+), meaning you can earn while you learn without taking on debt.
STEM graduates get up to 3 years of work authorization (OPT + STEM extension) without needing employer sponsorship, allowing you to work at top companies like Google, Apple, Microsoft, or leading research institutions.
Build connections with future industry leaders, innovators, and Nobel laureates—American universities have the strongest global alumni networks that open doors to opportunities worldwide throughout your career.
Top universities to study MS/PhD in USA
University of California , Berkley
University of California, Los Angeles
University of Michigan
UNC Chapel Hill
University of Virginia
University of California, San Diego
University of Florida
University of Texas At Austin
Study in USA - Road map
Profile Assessment
Understanding you is crucial before start your study abroad journey. Our comprehensive assessment including psychometric tests and in –depth profile assessment by our expert counsellors helps identify what makes you stand out and areas that need strengthening for successful admission.
At Council for Global Education (CGE), we analyze key aspects of your candidacy—from academic credentials and co-curricular involvement to relevant work background—creating a personalized strategy that maximizes your chances in your dream institutions in Singapore.
University & Country Shortlist
Every student has unique preferences for their study destination and institution. Students approach us with initial options in mind.
At Council for Global Education (CGE), we evaluate your goals, explain specific university criteria, and provide honest insights about your admission prospects at your dream institutions.
Test Preparation
Achieving high scores in IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, and GMAT is crucial for university admissions for international students. Many students struggle with these standardized tests and require expert coaching to meet score requirements.
At Council for Global Education , we provide specialized test preparation courses for major countries across the globe with our experienced instructors, proven test strategies, and personalized study plans designed to help you achieve competitive scores for top universities in the world.
Admission Counselling
This is the most defining stage of your study abroad journey, where your achievements and purpose are transformed into a powerful application. Essays, SOPs and LORs become your voice — and must reflect who you truly are.
At Council for Global Education , we work one-to-one with every student to craft applications that are authentic, cohesive and impossible to overlook. From shaping narratives to refining documents and managing submissions with precision, we ensure each profile stands out in a competitive pool. When admission decisions arrive, we guide you in selecting the offer that best supports your long-term academic and career goals.
Scholarship & Financial Guidance
At Council For Global Education, we believe education should be accessible to everyone. That’s why we offer comprehensive scholarship support—from helping you discover.
Visa Application
Once admits arrive, thoughtful decision-making and transition planning shape the next phase of your global journey.
At Council for Global Education (CGE), we help you confidently choose the institution that aligns best with your long-term academic and career goals. We then support your complete visa process along with accommodation assistance, health insurance guidance and a premium pre-departure briefing that prepares you for academics, culture, lifestyle, etiquette and professional development in your destination country.
Value added Services
Pre-departure briefings, accommodation, etc
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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How much does MS cost in USA for international students?
MS programs in USA cost between $20,000 to $60,000 per year for tuition, depending on the university and program. Public universities are generally cheaper ($20,000-35,000) while private universities charge $30,000-60,000+. Add $15,000-25,000 annually for living expenses. Total cost for a 2-year MS ranges from $70,000 to $170,000.
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Is PhD fully funded in USA?
Yes, most PhD programs in USA offer full funding packages including tuition waivers, health insurance, and stipends of $25,000-40,000 per year through research assistantships (RA) or teaching assistantships (TA). STEM and science PhDs are almost always fully funded, while humanities and social sciences may have more limited funding.
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Is GRE required for MS in USA?
Many universities have made GRE optional or waived it post-pandemic, especially for strong candidates with good GPAs and work experience. However, competitive programs at top universities (MIT, Stanford, Carnegie Mellon) still prefer or require GRE scores. Check specific program requirements as policies vary widely.
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Can I work while doing MS in USA?
Yes, F-1 visa students can work on-campus up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during breaks. After the first year, you can apply for CPT (Curricular Practical Training) for off-campus internships related to your field of study, which is common during summer breaks.
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What is OPT and how long can I work after MS/PhD in USA?
OPT (Optional Practical Training) allows you to work in the USA after graduation. Standard OPT provides 12 months of work authorization. STEM degree holders (science, technology, engineering, math) can extend this for an additional 24 months, totaling 36 months (3 years) of post-study work without needing employer sponsorship.