The US is home to a host of world-class universities, making it one of the most popular study abroad destinations. Did you know that in 2022 alone, approximately 7,50,000 students went abroad for studies, of which ~1,90,000, the maximum, went to the US? If you are planning to study for a master’s in Computer Science degree, the US is a great choice. So, let’s find out the best universities in the US and other interesting details.

Key Highlights

• Why should you pursue MS in Computer Science in the USA
• Best universities in the USA for MS in Computer Science
• Eligibility criteria for masters in computer science in the USA
• The application process for MS in CS in the USA
• Cost of MS in Computer Science in the USA for Indian students

Why should you pursue MS in Computer Science in the USA

• Globally recognised universities and courses

The excellent education system, research opportunities and impeccable pedagogy attract the student community to the US. Some top-notch varsities offer various options, such as campus recruitments and internships, to gain hands-on experience.

• Economic Powerhouse

The US is not only an education hub but also a financial hub. Post-completion of your course, you can pursue your career in the US, which will give you a competitive edge. MS degree imparts advanced knowledge and expert knowledge, making you career-ready.

• Melting pot of cultures

A multicultural country is culturally-inclusive, so you will always feel warm and welcomed in the US as a student. Your campus, buzzing with students from all over the world, will be a perfect platform to develop lifelong friends and grow your professional network too.

Here are the top universities in the US for a master’s degree in Computer Science as per as per Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings 2023 and Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2023.

Sr. No.	Name of the university	QS World University Rankings 2023  (the US rank)	THE World University Rankings 2023   (the US rank)
1	Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	1	3
2	Harvard University	5	1
3	Stanford University	3	2
4	California Institute of Technology (Caltech)	15	4
5	University of California, Berkeley (UCB)	4	6
6	Princeton University	6	5
7	Columbia University	10	8
8	Cornell University	8	12
9	University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)	9	13
10	New York University (NYU)	12	15

Eligibility criteria for Masters in Computer Science in the USA

• Be ready with your bachelor’s degree before you opt for a master’s degree in Computer Science. Your previous degree should be from the IT domain, which can help you secure a university seat easily.
• Meet the minimum score or minimum GPA as required by your chosen university.
• Completing your entrance exams such as Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). GRE is for all graduate-level courses, whereas GMAT is for only management programs.
• Since the courses are English-taught, you are required to clear either of the following English proficiency tests:
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
• International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
• Pearson Test of English (PTE)
• Duolingo English Test (DET)

The application process for MS in CS in the USA

• Although most universities offering MS courses will have similar subjects, specialisations and formats, opportunities such as internships, will vary. Therefore, you need to first identify the course that best suits you basis your previous degree and future career plans.
• To increase selection chances, you can shortlist more than one university.
• Visit their website to understand the university-specific eligibility criteria, admission process and documents required.
• Basis the information mentioned on the website, keep the following documents.
• Academic transcripts
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Letter of Recommendation (LOR)
• English test and entrance exam certificates
• Once all the documents are ready, apply by visiting the university website, submit all the required documents and pay the application fees.

Important Tip: When you get selected, you can proceed with the visa application to avoid the last-minute hassle. 
Cost of MS in Computer Science in the USA for Indian students
The annual tuition fees will range between ~USD 31,000 and ~USD 77,000, approximately INR 24,61,000 to INR 63,18,000. The tuition fees will vary depending on the university and course selection. The annual cost of living in the USA will be around USD 47,000 to USD 50,000, which will be ~INR 38,56,000 to ~INR 41,02,000.
Studying abroad can be super expensive, especially in the US, and therefore, many students opt for a study loan for abroad courses such as MS in Computer Science. An education loan is a perfect way to finance your higher studies independently if you aspire to study in the US.
So, you can get ready to study MS in Computer Science after planning your academic journey. If you want to finance your course independently, you can opt for a loan for education. If you need more information, please feel free to connect with us.