How to Shortlist Universities for MS in USA
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Having the USA as your study abroad destination can be a life-changing experience. International students consider the USA their top study destination due to its top-ranking universities, high-quality education, and top career opportunities.
Pursuing a Master’s in the USA is a dream for many international students. However, with over 4,000 universities, finding a perfect university becomes overwhelming. Let’s begin with a step-by-step guide to shortlist universities for MS in the USA.
Identify Your Preferences
The first step in shortlisting universities for study masters in the USA is identifying your preferences. Determine if you want to specialize in AI, Data Science, Cybersecurity, or any other field. Review your location preferences and desired residential areas, such as the East Coast, West Coast, or Midwest. Consider the tuition and living expenses while choosing between public or private universities. Additionally, also decide whether you want to apply for fall or spring intake, as deadlines may vary.
Check University Rankings
Check university rankings from QS World University, US News & World Report, Times Higher Education, and more. Always look for rankings specific to your field of study to determine the university rankings. Rankings help you decide how good the university is regarding placement, learning experience, global engagement, and more.
Evaluate Course Curriculum
Completely review your course curriculum, program structure, electives, and research opportunities. Reviewing the course curriculum will help you decide whether the program matches your long-term career goals. The requirements of each program differ, so verifying and checking them beforehand allows you to plan everything accordingly.
Check Admission Requirements
Every program has different admission criteria. Some programs require you to submit a GRE / GMAT score, while others require work experience. Checking the admission requirements before applying would save you time and effort and reduce your chances of rejection.
Every application typically charges you $100, so wasting money on applications that don’t meet the criteria would be too costly.
Consider Job Opportunities & Alumni Network
Always check the placement report of the university you are applying to. Also, check the university’s employment rate and companies hiring from the university. Additionally, check the university’s LinkedIn page to see the strength and network of the alumni.
Finalize Your List
After checking all the factors, finalize your list. Create three categories—Dream, Target, and Safe—and shortlist your universities in those categories. Ensure that you shortlist a minimum of 8 – 12 universities.
Top 10 Universities for MS in the USA
| University Name | QS World University Rankings 2025 |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 1 |
| Harvard University | 4 |
| Stanford University | 6 |
| California Institute of Technology (Caltech) | 10 |
| University of Pennsylvania | 11 |
| University of California, Berkeley (UCB) | 12 |
| Cornell University | 16 |
| University of Chicago | 21 |
| Princeton University | 22 |
| Yale University | 23 |
Application Process for MS in the USA
Once you have shortlisted your universities for an MS in the USA, here’s how you can apply:
- Deadlines & Requirements: Check the deadlines and requirements of your shortlisted university and program. Ensure that you are fulfilling all the requirements, such as GRE/GMAT scores, English language proficiency scores, and more.
- Documents: Prepare your documents, such as your academic transcripts, resume/CV, SOPs, Essays, and more.
- Standardized Tests: Take standardized tests if required (GMAT / GRE / IELTS / TOEFL).
- Online Application: Create an account on the university portal and fill out the online application form with all the necessary documents.
- Track Application: Once you have submitted your application, keep track of it.
- Funding: Apply for funding (education loan) or scholarships if required.
- Post-Acceptance: Once you have received your admission offer, apply for an I-20 Form, apply for a student visa in the USA, and book your flights and accommodation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many universities should I shortlist and apply to for an MS in the USA?
It is usually recommended that you shortlist 8 – 12 universities. To maximize your chances of admission, you should apply to 2-4 dream universities, 2-4 target universities, and 2-4 safe universities.
When is the right time to apply for an MS in the USA, Fall or Spring intake?
International students prefer the fall intake as it offers more universities, programs, and funding opportunities. However, if you miss the Fall intake deadline, the spring intake is suitable.
What factors should I consider when shortlisting universities for an MS in the USA?
While shortlisting universities for an MS in the USA, consider factors like university rankings, program curriculum, admission requirements, job opportunities, alumni network, location, tuition fees, living expenses, and more.
How do I know if a university is fit for me for an MS in the USA?
Compare your GPA, GRE/GMAT, TOEFL/IELTS scores, and research/work experience with the university’s admission requirements. Also, check the average student’s admitted profile to see if the university fits you for an MS in the USA.
How do I evaluate financial factors for MS in the USA?
Check tuition, living expenses, and scholarship for MS in the USA availability to minimize student debt. You can also opt for an education loan abroad to easily manage your expenses for an MS in the USA.
Mansi Jain
Updated on August 1, 2025
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