Do you know that the USA hosts more than 35 of the world’s top 100 STEM universities? Sounds exciting, right? This is just one of many incredible facts that make studying STEM courses in USA a promising opportunity for students. With the availability of global research hubs, advanced teaching facilities, and incomparable career opportunities, pursuing a STEM course in the USA is not only about certification, but it is a gateway to global careers. In this writing piece, you will explore crucial insights about STEM courses in USA for international students, including popular courses, top universities, admission process, career prospects and many more.
Table of Contents
STEM courses refer to academic programs that focus on four major disciplines: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Courses in the STEM field aim to offer students exhaustive knowledge of a particular area, equipping them with knowledge and skills that solve real-world problems.
Over time, STEM courses have become highly popular because of their ability to prepare students for promising and in-demand careers.
Some of the highly preferable STEM courses to study are:
Studying STEM courses is not only about earning a global certification, but it goes beyond that. Students enjoy a wide range of growth opportunities while learning from world-class professionals. Here are some benefits of STEM courses in USA that make it a top destination for international students.
With a range of STEM courses that blend innovation, advanced technology and incomparable career prospects, international students enjoy practical learning and prepare students to work with global professionals. Whether you are looking for 1 year STEM courses in USA, an inclusive bachelor’s degree or a master’s program, there is a course designed to cater to varying learning needs.
The USA is home to the best science courses globally that are designed to offer students a perfect mix of innovation and research brilliance. With the availability of various scientific fields, students can prepare for their desired global career. Here is a list of STEM courses in USA that are highly preferred by students.
| Course Name | Top Universities | Average Annual Fees |
|---|---|---|
| MS in Physics |
| $16,751 to $63,798 (INR 14.8 L to INR 56.3 L) |
| MS in Chemistry |
| $30,000 to $55,000 (INR 26.5 L to INR 48.5 L) |
| MS in Environmental Science |
| $25,000 to $65,000+ (INR 22.1 L to INR 57.4 L+) |
| BSc in Physics |
| $25,000 to $50,000+ (INR 22.1 L to INR 44.1 L+) |
| BSc in Chemistry |
| $20,000 to $50,000 (INR 17.6 L to INR 44.1 L) |
| BSc in Biology |
| $20,000 to $50,000+ (INR 17.6 L – INR 44.1 L+) |
Note: Annual fees provided in the table are approximate figures and may vary according to the university, course, and specialisation. It is advised to review the university’s official portal for updated fee details.
With the advanced technology programs, the universities in the USA entirely focus on innovation and practical learning. Students are encouraged to work with experts and learn skills that prepare them for demanding tech careers.
| Course Name | Top Universities | Average Annual Fees |
|---|---|---|
| MS in Computer Science |
| $25,000 to $55,000 (INR 22.1 L to INR 48.5 L) |
| MS in Cybersecurity |
| $33,000 to $55,000 (INR 29.1 L to INR 48.5 L) |
| MS in Data Science |
| $46,000 to $80,000 (INR 40.6 L to INR 70.6 L) |
| BS in Computer Science |
| $20,000 to $50,000 (INR 17.6 L to INR 44.1 L) |
| BS in Information Technology |
| $20,000 to $45,000 (INR 17.6 L to INR 39.7 L) |
| BS in Artificial Intelligence |
| $25,000 to $50,000 (INR 22.1 L to INR 44.1 L) |
Engineering courses in the USA are recognised to offer a perfect mix of theoretical learning and practical training that prepares students for a highly impactful career. With top disciplines including civil, electrical, and mechanical, students can opt for a course that aligns with their goals.
| Course Name | Top Universities | Average Annual Fees |
|---|---|---|
| MS in Mechanical Engineering |
| $55,000 to $65,000 (INR 48.5 L to INR 57.4 L) |
| MS in Civil Engineering |
| $50,000 to $65,000 (INR 44.1 L to INR 57.4 L) |
| MS in Electrical Engineering |
| $55,000 to $65,000 (INR 48.5 L to INR 57.4 L) |
| B.Eng. in Mechanical Engineering |
| $55,000 to $65,000 (INR 48.5 L to INR 57.4 L) |
| B.Eng. in Civil Engineering |
| $45,000 to $60,000 (INR 39.7 L to INR 52.9 L) |
| B.Eng. in Computer Engineering |
| $50,000 to $65,000 (INR 44.1 L to INR 57.4 L) |
Students pursuing STEM mathematics courses from the USA learn various analytical skills along with real-world applications that eventually prepare them for high-demand global careers. With specialisations in disciplines, including applied mathematics, actuarial science and data science, pursuing STEM mathematics courses in the USA becomes a top choice for international students.
| Course Name | Top Universities | Average Annual Fees |
|---|---|---|
| MS in Applied Mathematics |
| $50,000 to $65,000 (INR 44.1 L to INR 57.4 L) |
| MS in Statistics |
| $55,000 to $65,000 (INR 48.5 L to INR 57.4 L) |
| MS in Actuarial Science |
| $55,000 to $70,000 (INR 48.5 L to INR 61.8 L) |
| BSc in Mathematics |
| $50,000 to $65,000 (INR 44.1 L to INR 57.4 L) |
| BSc in Statistics |
| $45,000 to $60,000 (INR 39.7 L to INR 52.9 L) |
| BSc in Data Science |
| $50,000 to $65,000 (INR 44.1 L to INR 57.4 L) |
With the availability of so many courses, finding details about your desired course can feel challenging. To make it easier, you can use our course finder tool, an AI-based algorithm that simplifies searching for your preferred course with the help of various filters.
There is no doubt in stating that the USA is home to the top prestigious universities offering STEM programs. Students here enjoy easy access to advanced research, developed facilities and growth opportunities that help them enjoy a global STEM career. Here is a list of the top universities known for their excellence in STEM courses.
| University Name & Location | QS World Ranking | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts | #1 | 4.5% to 4.9% |
| Stanford University, Stanford, California | #3 | 3.6% to 4.3% |
| Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts | #5 | 3.5% |
| California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California | #10 | 3.1% |
| University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois | #13 | 4.5% |
| University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania | #15 | 5.9% |
| Cornell University, Ithaca, New York | #16 | 8.2% |
| University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, California | #17 | 11-12% |
| Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut | #21 | 4.5% |
| Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland | #24 | 6.4% to 8% |
To study stem programs in USA, students first have to be eligible according to the university requirements and their degree level. Here is the detailed explanation of the eligibility criteria students must consider for admission purposes.
General eligibility requirements to pursue an undergraduate STEM course in USA are
To pursue postgraduate US STEM courses, the general eligibility requirements include:
Now that you are familiar with the eligibility criteria, it's time for you to understand the admission process for STEM courses in USA that will help you apply confidently to your chosen university. Given below are the detailed steps students must follow while applying to a STEM university in USA.
STEP 1: Start by preparing a list of the top STEM universities in USA you want to apply to. Check eligibility criteria, admission requirements and application deadline for each STEM university in USA for better results. In addition, to make a comprehensive list, you can use our university finder tool, an AI-based algorithm that simplifies searching for a preferred college with the help of various filters.
STEP 2: Once you have finalised the university and course you are applying to, prepare your online admission application through the official university portal before the deadline.
STEP 3: Gather the necessary documents required according to the application form.
STEP 4: Submit the form by paying the application fees, normally ranging between USD 75–150 (INR 6,600–INR 13,200) per university.
STEP 5: After applying, wait for around 4 to 8 weeks, during which your application is properly reviewed and an admission decision is made.
STEP 6: If accepted, you will receive an offer letter that you have to confirm, finish the enrollment process and pay the tuition fee to reserve your seat at the university.
STEP 7: After being accepted into the university, an I-20 form for your student visa application will be issued. Without wasting time, apply for your F-1 Visa that permits you a legal entry to enter and study in USA.
Studying STEM courses in USA is an expensive prospect, and many students often face issues in managing their finances. It is where the USA Scholarships for Indian Students come into the picture, offering students the required financial assistance. Here is the detailed list of top scholarships available for students.
| Scholarship | Eligibility | Grants / Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Harvard College Financial Aid |
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| MIT Scholarship |
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| Yale Scholarship |
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| Fulbright Foreign Student Program |
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| Stanford Knight-Hennessy Scholars |
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| AAUW International Fellowships |
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| Tata Scholarship (Cornell) |
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| Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship |
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Studying in the USA is not just about planning for tuition, but also about considering the overall cost of studying. Among the various international destinations, the USA is generally considered the expensive to study. Here are the top components you must take into account while planning to study a STEM program in the USA.
Tuition Fee
Living Expenses
Additional Expenses
Pursuing a STEM program in USA is worth the investment as graduates are in high demand across the job sectors. Students also enjoy strong career growth and high-paying jobs, given the strong economic status of the country. Below are some top career paths with their average annual salaries that students enjoy after completing their degree.
| Job Role | Average Starting Salary |
|---|---|
| Civil Engineer | $68,000 to $74,000 (INR 60.0 L – 65.3 L) |
| Mechanical Engineer | $65,000 to $72,000 (INR 57.4 L – 63.5 L) |
| Physicist | $70,000 to $80,000 (INR 61.8 L – 70.6 L) |
| Aeronautical Engineer | $72,000 to $82,000 (INR 63.5 L – 72.4 L) |
| Biochemist | $60,000 to $68,000 (INR 52.9 L – 60.0 L) |
| Computer Scientist / Software Engineer | $75,000 to $90,000 (INR 66.2 L – 79.4 L) |
| Chemical Engineer | $72,000 to $85,000 (INR 63.5 L – 75.0 L) |
| Statistician / Data Analyst | $70,000 to $80,000 (INR 61.8 L – 70.6 L) |
| Architect | $60,000 to $68,000 (INR 52.9 L – 60.0 L) |
| Chemist | $58,000 to $65,000 (INR 51.2 L – 57.4 L) |
| DevOps Engineer | $85,000 to $100,000 (INR 75.0 L – 88.3 L) |
Summing up, this concludes our informative journey about pursuing STEM Courses in USA. By now, you likely have a clearer picture of the program and university that best fits your career goals. From world-class faculty, advanced labs, and the latest technology, the universities in the USA have everything to help students excel in their careers.
Still waiting? Take that first step to turn your plan into action, connect with our study abroad consultants, and seek the best career advice to choose the perfect university and program that aligns with your interests and goals.
A STEM course in the USA is an academic program grounded in the disciplines of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. The courses are designed to equip students with practical and problem-solving skills for careers in technology, innovation, research & development.
STEM OPT is a 24-month extension of the initial 2-month Optional Practical Training (OPT) period for F-1 visa holders who have completed a degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) field. It is a great help for students to continue gaining work experience in a relevant field after graduation.
Among the various STEM courses, petroleum engineering ranks as the highest-paying field, with reports suggesting students often enjoy starting salaries near six figures and with experience, salaries often go over $2,00,000.
To pursue a STEM degree in the USA, the average tuition fee is approximately $20,000 to $40,000 for a UG course and $18000 to $65,000 for a master's degree. The costs vary according to the university type, location and specific program.
Students can choose the best STEM university in the USA by following the simple steps:
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