Last Updated on August 28, 2023

  Find Master’s Degree Programs In The USA For International Students.   While there are some colleges and universities that offer graduate programs online, most US master’s degree programs require the student to be physically present in the U.S. for at least one year or beyond to receive a graduate degree from an American college or university.

Masters Program In USA For International Students

A young experiment with democracy and a shared national love for fried food, the United States has a long, unique history, especially with producing some of our favorite films and television shows. Add in an enthusiastic love for baseball and (American) football, and you’d come close to arriving at the image of American culture.

The U.S. is a massive place, with each state containing its own history; and when you’re going from one side to another, it feels as if you’re going from planet to planet.

International students from all over the world look to study in the U.S.A., and travelers and explorers are often looking to find out whether Americans are as loud and silly as they are on television (spoiler: they are). Being a student, though, brings you in contact with the top-ranked and largest universities in the world, and they are ready to welcome students like you every year.

Why study in the U.S.?

You only need to look at the university rankings to see that U.S. universities dominate the lists of the best universities in the world. But, if you’re inclined to ignore these rankings, you can also be easily astounded by the sheer number of accredited universities the U.S. higher education system offers. In fact, according to the Association of American Colleges and Universities, there are 2,613 accredited four-year colleges and universities in the U.S.! Holy cow!

In the U.S., secondary schools are divided into different categories: research universities, community colleges, liberal arts colleges, and vocational schools. Depending on your needs, these different colleges and institutions have something to offer you. Most commonly, however, if you’re looking for an international education and a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree program, you’re probably looking for a research university or a liberal arts college.

At any university in the U.S., they are interested in welcoming students from everywhere in the world. The classes are all delivered in English, and the universities and graduate schools offer extra help and assistance to students who are travelling from other countries. And, though the majority of Americans speak English, there is no official national language in the U.S.

What to study in the United States?

All over the U.S., universities offer a lot of topics and degree programmes that you can choose from. Some of the biggest names, at the biggest Ivy League schools, teach programmes in the subject you’re most interested in. Here are some of the subjects you can consider:

• Study Biotechnology in the U.S. 
• Study Entrepreneurship in the U.S. 
• Study Health Management in the U.S. 
• Study for an MBA in the U.S. 
• Study International Relations in the U.S. 

Major cities in the U.S.

In every major city in the U.S., you’ll find a large, diverse community of people that live nearby the university of your dreams. Take a look at some of the big cities to choose from:

• Study in Chicago 
• Study in New York City 
• Study in Los Angeles 
• Study in Boston 
• Study in San Francisco 
• Study in Atlanta 
• Study in Seattle 
• Study in Tampa 
• Study in Miami 
• Study in Charlotte 
• Study in Minneapolis 

cheap universities in usa for international students 2021

Although the Ivy League universities, plus Stanford and M.I.T., are all major, world-renowned universities to pick from, there are literally hundreds of universities all over the country. Below we’ll run through some of the lesser-known favourites:

• The New School
• Columbia University
• California State University Northridge
• Georgia Tech
• Harvard Kennedy School
• Johns Hopkins University
• University of Illinois at Chicago
• Louisiana State University
• Mississippi State University

Practical Information

How to apply to universities in the U.S.Each university in the U.S. has its own system on their website that allows future students to apply for and enrol in their degree programmes. So, once you select the university of your choice, you can go through their application and submit your materials there.Here are some of the basic requirements you’ll need for every application:A scan of your diploma (high school or Bachelor’s degree)A transcript/record of your previous coursesA scan of your passportYour CVTesting scoresEvidence of scholarship or fundingLetters of recommendation (between 2-3)Portfolio and/or writing samples

Helpful ways to make sure you qualify for an American university

Take Preparation Courses: These kinds of courses enable degree-seeking students to get an extra educational boost just before they start their Master’s degree or other post-graduate degree programmes. Try a pre-M.B.A., pre-Law, or pre-Medicine programme, as well as any other foundation or preparation courses that will allow you to study in the degree programme of your choice;

Improve your English through an English-language prep course: If you’re attending a degree programme in the U.S., you will need to prove that your language skills are good enough to participate in the classes and understand the lectures. These courses will also prepare you for any of the English-language tests that universities require.

 English-language tests

To apply to study in the U.S., you’ll need to provide proof you have a diploma for your English proficiency.

The certificates generally accepted by the universities in India are:

• TOEFL
• IELTS
• C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency

Still, you should always check on your university’s website, just to be sure what the exact requirements are.

Masters In Usa With Scholarship

Foreign Fulbright Student Program
The Fulbright Program are full scholarships in USA for international students who wants to pursue a Master’s or PhD degree.  The scholarships can also be awarded for non-degree postgraduate studies.  The grant covers tuition fee, textbooks, airfare, a living stipend, and health insurance.

Humphrey Fellowship Program
The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program provides a year of professional enrichment in the United States for experienced professionals from designated countries throughout the world. Fellows are selected based on their potential for leadership and their commitment to public service in either the public or private sector.  The fellowships are full grants covering all related expenses.

US Colleges and Universities that offer Scholarships for International Students »

American University Scholarships
American University (AU) awards a limited number of generous partial merit scholarships to academically-qualified incoming international first-year undergraduate students.  No need-based financial aid is available to international students. The merit scholarship range from U.S.$6,000 to U.S.$25,000 per academic year (renewable subject to conditions).

Also see AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship Program which awards scholarships to high-achieving international students who wish to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree at the University and who are dedicated to positive civic and social change. It is intended for students who will be to returning home to improve under-resourced, under-served communities in his/her home country.

Amherst College Scholarships
Amherst College currently runs a need-based financial aid program that provides assistance to financially needy international students.  Once you have been admitted, your financial need is determined. A financial aid award that is equal to your need will then be offered.  The award is sometimes called an “aid package” because it may include both self-help (employment) and gift aid (scholarships and grants).

Berea College Scholarships
Berea College is the only school in the United States that provides 100% funding to 100% of enrolled international students for the first year of enrollment. This combination of financial aid and scholarships offsets the costs of tuition, room, board, and fees.  In subsequent years, international students are expected to save $1,000 (US) per year to contribute toward their expenses. The College does provide summer jobs to international students so that they may meet this obligation.

Clark University Scholarships
Clark University offers the Clark Global Scholars Program which are open to first-year applicants (not a transfer student) who has attended school overseas for at least four years as well as international citizens attending school in the United States. A scholarship of $15,000 to $25,000 per year (for four years, contingent upon meeting academic standards for renewal) and a guaranteed $2,500 taxable stipend for a paid internship or research assistantship taken for academic credit during the summer following your sophomore or junior year is included with the award.

Colby-Sawyer College Scholarships
International students are eligible for merit-based financial aid offered by Colby-Sawyer College. The scholarship value increases based on academic ability (measured in GPA) and range from $15,000 up to $28,000 per year. The college does not meet full financial need.

Columbia College Scholarships
Columbia College offers scholarships and awards to outstanding international students. The awards are one time cash grants or 15%- 100% tuition reduction.

Concordia College Scholarships
Concordia prizes the contributions international students make on campus and is pleased to provide partial financial assistance to international students. The International Student Scholarship is based on academic ability and family need, amounting up to $28,000 per year. International Excellence Scholarships are competitive, merit-based scholarships that are awarded to international first-year students or transfer students for up to four years and can go as high as $28,000.

Dartmouth College Scholarships
Dartmouth College meets the demonstrated need of all admitted undergraduates, including those from other countries. Dartmouth College has scholarships and loans available to international students, which includes an allowance for travel to the U.S..

East Tennessee State University
East Tennessee State University (ETSU) offers the International Students Academic Merit Scholarship for new international students seeking a graduate or undergraduate degree. The scholarship value per academic year is $12,500 for Undergraduate students and $11,500 for Graduate students.

list of master programs in usa

A Master is an advanced degree conferred by universities around the world for completion of graduate study in a specific discipline. Masters degree programs typically take one to two years to complete and further prepare graduates for a career in their chosen field. Obtaining a Masters degree offers numerous professional, personal and academic benefits to students who have graduated from a Bachelor program.

Masters degrees are available across various fields of study, including the Arts, Business, Engineering and Technology, Law, Humanities, Social Sciences, Biological and Life Sciences, and the Natural Sciences. Within each of those fields of study, numerous practical specializations are available within particular disciplines.

In today’s global society, higher education in the multinational environment has never been more relevant. In fact, it’s imperative to comprehensively understand and then face environmental and societal challenges in the 21st century. Studying at different academic institutions allows us to evade a homogenous thought processes and understand diverse perspectives. During undergrad a professor once told me that it was “limiting to study at one institution,” and I agree. 

Studying in different cultural and academic contexts allows us to expand our ideologies and philosophies. Studying in a foreign context is beneficial on multiple occasions. Being in courses abroad will shake up your current ideas on the delivery of education—the traditional didactic approach you may be accustomed to. Why? You can find a cheap master’s degree for international students in all corners of the world… but the best places to find cheap masters programs abroad are in Europe, Asia, and the United States. Here’s our round up of reputable, yet affordable, colleges.

Why get your master’s degree abroad?

You mean, tuition free masters programs for international students isn’t enough of a reason? What about the fact that you’ll likely get a higher caliber education than you would in your own country?

The learning environment while earning your master’s degree abroad is unparalleled to your closer-to-home institutions. In fact, the learning never stops. Between language and culture, the classroom can quickly translate into your life abroad. Diversifying your attention while engaging in an academic program has been proven to lead to better learning outcomes. Study Polish while obtaining your Master’s in Business Administration. Or the American political landscape while studying social sciences in D.C. Maybe Malay history while studying economics in Malaysia.  Or French literature in Lyon? Why not.

Regardless of where you call home on this beautiful planet, there are many cheap master’s programs abroad. Ready and waiting for your academic pursuit.

Cheap universities for international students in Europe

There are plenty of cheap master’s degrees for internal students in Europe. Cheap with exceptional value. From Scandinavia to Portugal, England to the Czech Republic, there are a bounty of affordable master’s degrees in Europe to suit your academic interests. With an outstanding history in both education, culture, and intellect, Europe is a fine place to continue your studies. 

While the price of a master’s degree has never been more expensive, you can even find almost free universities in Europe for international students. Europe is home to some of the cheapest universities in the world for international students. If not free, there are certainly affordable programs that might work with your budget. Here is where you can find some affordable master’s degrees in Europe: 

UiO – The University of Oslo

Speaking of cheap universities for international students in Europe, why not obtain your master’s degree in Norway with the University of Oslo? Social sciences, language and arts, and a plethora of hard science degree options—with over 60 different master’s degree options, there is something for every intellect at the UiO. Located in the most populous Norwegian city, Oslo is an inviting international destination. It’s a great option for a cheap master’s degree for international students.

International Management Institute in Lucerne

Earn your Master’s in Business Administration with a focus on hospitality management in Switzerland. Continue your education in the beautiful snowcap mountain city of Lucerne. With over 25 years of experience and a near 100% internship placement rate, the International Management Institute sets its students up for successful careers in the industry. Find yourself in the middle of Europe while obtaining your master’s degree!

• Related: Read more about the IMI in Lucerne | Visit their site 

Paris-Sorbonne University

La Sorbonne is one of France’s most prestigious universities. Perhaps because it’s more than seven centuries old. Or the academic success of its scholars. Where history is studied and where history has been made. Whatever the case, France is an exceptional choice when considering an affordable master’s degree in Europe. It should also be noted that Paris has been named one of the best European cities for graduate students too. Check out the City of Light for your master’s degree.

See more low cost degree programs in France.

Macromedia University of Applied Sciences

Check out Germany for your graduate degree. Did you know that Germany used to offer tuition free master’s programs for both international students and German citizens? While most master’s are no longer free, students can expect to pay minimal tuition rates in this country. (Yes, most graduate schools were once free.) Study design management at the Macromedia University of Applied Sciences located in Munich. This charming, sizable city is more than a college town. Located in the capital of Bavaria, this university offers more than a valuable master’s degree. 

See more low cost degree programs in Germany.

cheap universities in usa for international students 2021

Some of oldest and best known universities are located in the US of A. Most American degrees are recognized worldwide too. From the Ivy leagues of the east coast to their counterparts on the west coast, there’s a school for everyone interested in obtaining a master’s degree. And then some. While Americans have a reputation for paying a pretty penny for their degrees, there are affordable institutions to consider as well. 

With the exception of some Ivy leagues and private institutions, there are there are some cheap master’s degrees in USA for international students. America might not be known for its affordable tuition rates, but here are some great programs to consider during your search. And here’s a link you might find useful on study abroad scholarships. Academics from across the globe unite at American universities to teach and research. Join them in your academic pursuit.

University at Buffalo—SUNY

The university of Buffalo is part of the State University of New York system. Located about six hours outside of New York City, the University at Buffalo SUNY has the largest selection of academic programs out of any public institution in New England.With over 300 graduate and professional degrees, along with many combined degree programs, the choice is yours. Create what you want.

University of Michigan

Tucked away in the midwestern city of Ann Arbor, the University of Michigan is an exceptional institution named one of the top 25 universities worldwide. The University of Michigan, or locally known as U of M, has a wide range of multidisciplinary graduate degree programs. Here you can also be apart of a diverse international population in a university setting with a thriving social scene.

Colorado State University

Explore the beauty of the four-season state of Colorado while completing your graduate studies at Colorado State University. Located in the Rocky Mountains, this public research university is consistently top-rank. CSU offers graduate programs from a handful of schools including but not limited to, business, education, and biomedical science. With over 350 student organizations, there are plenty of opportunities to become involved in interest groups.

University of Washington

Located in the famed Pacific Northwest, the University of Washington is an outstanding public research university. There are more than 370 graduate programs to choose from and with a long history as one of the oldest universities on the west coast, you are sure to receive a valuable degree. Why not consider this gem on the west coast for your graduate degree?

See ALL master’s degree programs in the USA

Your cheap master’s degree awaits you & that brilliant brain of yours

There are so many master’s degree programs to choose from worldwide. Whether you’re interested in Western Europe or Southeast Asia, or North America, there are programs dotted across the map that offer subjects and topics for everyone. And while it may be difficult to find the cheapest universities in the world for international students in the U.S. there are still many choices where you can obtain a valuable graduate degree and feed your love of learning. 

At the end of the day, it depends on what you want out of your graduate school education. And what you would like to study. The goal should be to find cheap yet valuable master’s degrees for international students—in your field, aligned with YOUR goals.