Summary
- In fact, the country is home to a whopping 23 universities out of the top 100 in the QS World University Rankings for Engineering in 2024.
- So, if you are dreaming of becoming an engineer and working in a top-tier company, the United States is a fantastic destination for you.
- Renowned institutions like Princeton University, Georgia Institute of Technology, and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) are just a few more examples of the many superb universities that offer engineering programs in the USA.
The USA has always been popular for engineering universities, as evident from these facts:
- In 2022 alone, over 192,000 engineering degrees were awarded by universities in the USA.
- Engineers earn an average wage of $131,370, and the field itself is experiencing steady growth at 3.48% per year.
So, if you are dreaming of becoming an engineer and working in a top-tier company, the United States is a fantastic destination for you.
Most likely you are already familiar with names like the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Stanford University, and the University of California, Berkeley (UCB). But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Renowned institutions like Princeton University, Georgia Institute of Technology, and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) are just a few more examples of the many superb universities that offer engineering programs in the USA. In fact, the country is home to a whopping 23 universities out of the top 100 in the QS World University Rankings for Engineering in 2024.
This explains why the USA is a great destination for students to pursue an MS in Engineering. Of course, some engineering programs are more popular than others. According to a 2019 National Foundation for American Policy (NFAP) study, here is a breakdown of engineering programs in the USA, by percentage of international students:
| Program Name | % of International Students |
| Petroleum Engineering | 82% |
| Electrical Engineering | 74% |
| Computer and Information Sciences | 72% |
| Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering | 71% |
| Statistics | 70% |
| Economics | 67% |
| Civil Engineering | 61% |
| Mechanical Engineering and Agricultural Economics | 58% |
| Mathematics | 56% |
| Chemical Engineering | 54% |
| Metallurgical and Materials Engineering | 53% |
| Materials Sciences | 52% |
| Pharmaceutical Sciences | 50% |
In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about the best engineering universities in the USA. We will discuss the factors you should consider before choosing a university, the range of scholarships available to help reduce the financial burden, and the process for obtaining an education loan. So, let’s get started.
Best engineering universities in the USA (with tuition fees, rankings, and application deadlines)
As per the QS World University Rankings report for 2024, these are the top 25 universities in the USA for an MS in Engineering.
| Rankings ‘24 | Rankings ‘23 | Institution |
| 1 | 1 | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) |
| 2 | 2 | Stanford University |
| 5 | 5 | University of California, Berkeley (UCB) |
| 8 | 8 | Harvard University |
| 9 | 10 | California Institute of Technology (Caltech) |
| 12 | 12 | Georgia Institute of Technology |
| 16 | 15 | Carnegie Mellon University |
| 21 | 17 | University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) |
| 22 | 19 | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign |
| 24 | 23 | University of Texas at Austin |
| 26 | 25 | Purdue University |
| 27 | 26 | University of Michigan-Ann Arbor |
| 30 | 35 | Cornell University |
| 32 | 34 | Princeton University |
| 44 | 54 | Columbia University |
| 49 | 45 | University of California, San Diego (UCSD) |
| 56 | 52 | Texas A&M University |
| 62 | 77 | Northwestern University |
| 65 | 71 | Yale University |
| 66 | 72 | Pennsylvania State University |
| 76 | 59 | University of Washington |
| 86 | 97 | University of Pennsylvania |
| 90 | 90 | University of Wisconsin-Madison |
| 100 | 137 | New York University (NYU) |
| 111 | 118 | Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University |
Now, let’s understand a bit more about the top three universities on this list.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Website: https://www.mit.edu/
Rank: #1, by QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024: Engineering & Technology
MIT is a private research university in Cambridge, Massachusetts. It was founded in 1861 and has been a leader in developing modern technology and science. The campus is located on the Charles River and has over 10,000 undergraduate and graduate students.
Programs:
-
- Aeronautics and Astronautics
- Biological Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil and Environmental Engineering
- Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
- Materials Science and Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Nuclear Science and Engineering
- Ocean Engineering
- Systems Engineering
Application Deadlines: Application deadlines vary by program and degree level. Visit MIT’s website for up-to-date information. In general, applications open on September 15 and close on December 15.
Application Fees for International Students: International students must pay $75.
Tuition Fees: MIT’s tuition and fees vary by program and degree level. As of 2024, per term costs are $29,875.
Stanford University
Website: https://www.stanford.edu/
Rank: #2, by QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024: Engineering & Technology
Stanford University is located in Stanford, California, and is known for its academic strength, wealth, and proximity to Silicon Valley. It has a growing community of over 16,000 students and 2,200 faculty members.
Programs:
-
- Aeronautics and Astronautics
- Bioengineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil and Environmental Engineering
- Computer Science
- Electrical Engineering
- Management Science and Engineering
- Materials Science and Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
Application Deadlines: The application deadlines vary by program. Check Stanford’s website for detailed information.
Application Fees for International Students: International students must pay $125.
Tuition Fees: Tuition fees for full-time programs are $62,580 per year.
University of California, Berkeley (UCB)
Website: https://www.berkeley.edu/
Rank: #3, by QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024: Engineering & Technology
UC Berkeley is a public research university in Berkeley, California. It is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and great campus life. The university enrolls over 42,000 students, with a large number of them pursuing engineering degrees.
Programs:
-
- Bioengineering
- Civil and Environmental Engineering
- Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences
- Industrial Engineering and Operations Research
- Materials Science and Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Nuclear Engineering
Application Deadlines: Application deadlines vary by program. Visit UC Berkeley’s website for current deadlines.
Application Fees for International Students: International students must pay $155.
Tuition Fees: For in-state students, the tuition is $12,264 per year, and for out-of-state students, it is $27,366 per year.
Now, when you need to choose the right engineering program, you need to look beyond just rankings. There’s a whole world of factors to consider, like the engineering specializations on offer, research opportunities available, and the university’s connections to the industry. Most importantly, the program should align with your personal goals and interests. After all, the ‘best’ program for one person might not be the perfect fit for another.
The next sections of this guide will dive deeper into these aspects to help you make an informed decision.
How to choose the best engineering program to study in the USA?
To choose the best engineering program to study in the USA, consider these factors:
Accreditation
Ensure the program is ABET-accredited. This accreditation means that the institute meets the minimum education standards set by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology. This is crucial as it guarantees the quality of education you will receive.
Specialization
Look for programs that offer concentrations that match your interests and career goals. Top engineering schools like MIT, Stanford, and CalTech provide a wide variety of engineering disciplines, which allows you to focus on your specific area of interest, such as aerospace, biomedical, or environmental engineering.
Curriculum and Facilities
Evaluate the curriculum, course offerings, and quality of facilities and laboratories. Check if the program allows for double majoring or interdisciplinary studies. For example, some schools offer combined undergraduate and graduate programs or dual degrees in engineering and business.
Internships and Co-op programs
Seek schools that provide opportunities for real-world experience through internships, co-op programs, or study abroad options. These programs can enhance your resume and give you practical experience in your field.
Faculty and Research
Consider the expertise of faculty members and research opportunities available to students. A low student-to-faculty ratio, such as 5:1 or 10:1 is a good indicator that students will get personalized attention and mentorship.
Rankings and reputation
Consult reputable rankings like U.S. News & World Report and QS World University Rankings to identify top engineering schools. However, this should be done to make yourself aware of the relative positions of universities; rankings should not be the sole factor in your decision.
Location
Think about where you want to live and study, as well as where you can find potential job opportunities. Universities close to tech hubs like Silicon Valley, Texas, and New York offer advantages for engineering students due to the proximity to major companies.
Size and diversity
A diverse environment with a decent percentage of international students, sometimes as high as 60-70%, can provide a richer educational experience and better prepare you for a global career.
Cost and financial aid
Evaluate the total cost of attendance and also look for scholarships you can apply to. Many top engineering universities in the USA for international students offer substantial financial aid to help mitigate the high costs.
Career prospects
Research the job placement rates and career services offered by the programs you’re considering. Some universities have dedicated career centers that provide lifetime support to students and help them secure jobs after graduation.
So, it’s obvious that students need a lot of time and mind space to compare universities. Unfortunately, most students only apply to a few familiar names, missing out on better options. SelectRight solves this problem. SelectRight uses AI to match over 40,000 programs worldwide to your academic, career, and financial profile and gives you a shortlist of universities aligned with your goals.
Here’s how it works:
- Create your free profile on SelectRight and fill in your details.
- Let the algorithm generate a shortlist of universities and programs.
- Compare programs and get help from a dedicated higher education expert.
- Decide which universities to apply to.
- Connect with other students, faculty, and alumni to build your community.
If you are targeting spring 2025 admissions, take the first step and create your SelectRight profile today. This can save you time, reduce anxiety, and allow you to focus on your studies.
Scholarships to study engineering in the USA
The average yearly cost of pursuing an MS in Engineering in the USA can range from $30,000 to $80,000. Although this is a broad range, it reflects the differences in university fees. This amount is particularly high for international students, which is why scholarships are a crucial resource to help reduce the financial burden. So let’s explore the scholarship options available.
University-Specific Scholarships
University-specific scholarships are a great asset. Once you get admitted to a university, you are automatically considered for most of these scholarships, so you don’t have to apply for them separately.
Here are some examples of university-specific scholarships.
| Name of the Scholarship | Key Aspects |
| American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship | Covers full tuition, room, and board for one international student. |
| Brandeis University Wien International Scholarship Program | For high-achieving students interested in contributing to the student community. |
| Clark University Global Scholars Program | Offers scholarships of at least $10,000 and a $2,500 stipend for a paid internship. |
| Emory University Needs-Based Scholarship Program | Need-based financial aid for international students. |
| Harvard University Scholarships | Offers a range of highly competitive scholarships for international students. |
| Illinois State University International Awards | Includes tuition waivers, merit awards, and graduate assistantships. |
| Iowa State University International Merit Scholarships | Merit-based scholarships ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 per year. |
| Michigan State University International Scholarships | Various grants and scholarships for international students. |
| New York University Wagner International Scholarships | Partial to full tuition scholarships ranging from $25,000 to $47,000. |
| University of Arkansas International Scholarships | Offers funding opportunities for international students from diverse backgrounds. |
| University of Iowa Scholarships for International First-Year Students | Various scholarships for first-year international students. |
| University of Minnesota International Scholarships | Includes the Global Excellence Scholarship and the #YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarship, offering $15,000 per year. |
| University of Oregon International Scholarships | Awards more than $2.5 million in financial aid and scholarships annually. |
| University of Wisconsin Superior Non-resident Tuition Waiver Program | Tuition waivers for international students demonstrating financial need. |
USA-Specific Scholarships (Not University-Specific)
These scholarships are not tied to specific universities and have their own application timelines and procedures. Competition for these scholarships is usually very high. Here are some examples:
| Name of the Scholarship | Key Aspects |
| Fulbright Foreign Student Program | Provides funding for one year or more of study/research in the USA. |
| Hubert Humphrey Fellowship Program | For international professionals to undertake 10 months of non-degree academic study. |
| #YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarship | Requires an essay or video demonstrating interest in promoting intercultural exchange. |
| Civil Society Leadership Awards | Fully funded master’s level scholarships for students from eligible countries. |
| AAUW International Fellowships | For women pursuing full-time graduate or postdoctoral study in the USA. |
| PEO International Peace Scholarship | For international women students to pursue graduate study in the USA or Canada. |
| The Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans | For immigrants and children of immigrants pursuing graduate education. Provides up to $90,000 over two years. |
Note that when you receive a scholarship, it will typically cover part of your tuition fees, but other expenses will need to be covered by you. Therefore, almost all students will need an education loan to finance their MS in engineering in the USA. Let’s understand more about that in the next section.
Education loans for engineering in the USA
Most public and private banks in India offer education loans for MS in engineering at top engineering universities in the USA. Additionally, there are Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) both in India and abroad that provide student loans.
The challenge, however, is not a lack of options but rather an overabundance of choices. This abundance can make it difficult for students to compare products effectively. Because of this, most students are unable to get the best possible loan for their needs. This is a big problem because even a 0.5% difference in interest rates can translate into many lakhs over the loan’s repayment period.
That’s why finding the right education loan is so crucial, and this is where FundRight can help.
FundRight makes finding a loan for your studies in the USA quick and easy. Here’s how it works:
- First, register on FundRight and fill out your profile. This is free and takes no time at all. Once you’re done, FundRight will connect you with lenders.
- Within two days, you’ll get loan offers from 15 top Indian banks, international lenders, and NBFCs. This gives you a variety of options to compare.
- A FundRight advisor will help you compare the loans and negotiate with lenders to get you the best possible interest rate and terms.
- Once you’ve chosen a loan, securely upload your documents through FundRight’s platform to start the application process.
- Get Approved Quickly: FundRight’s streamlined process allows you to get loan approval in as little as 10 days.
If you are targeting spring admission, we strongly recommend you create a profile on FundRight to see how much you can save on an education loan for an MS in engineering in the USA.
FAQs
1. What are the top MS Engineering program types for international students in the USA?
The top MS Engineering programs for international students in the USA are:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Aerospace/Aeronautical Engineering
- Biomedical Engineering
- Materials Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
These programs are offered by prestigious universities like MIT, Stanford, and Harvard.
2. Is work experience required for admission to MS Engineering programs in the USA?
Work experience is generally not required for admission to MS Engineering programs in the USA. However, it can strengthen your application, especially if you have relevant core experience in your field of study.
3. What are the eligibility criteria for MS Engineering in the USA for international students?
Eligibility criteria include:
- A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
- A minimum GPA of 3.0
- Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL: 79-90+, IELTS: 6.5+)
- GRE scores
- Letters of recommendation
- A statement of purpose
- A resume
- Official transcripts
4. Can I work during my MS in Engineering?
Yes, you can work during your MS in Engineering. Options include:
- On-campus work
- Off-campus work with proper authorization
- Part-time work (up to 20 hours per week) during fall and spring semesters
- Full-time work (up to 40 hours per week) during breaks and vacations
After one semester, students with J-1 visas may work in their fields of study.
5. What are the post-graduation work opportunities for MS Engineering students in the USA?
Post-graduation work opportunities include:
- Optional Practical Training (OPT): Up to 12 months of work in your field of study
- STEM OPT Extension: Additional 24 months for STEM fields, totaling up to 36 months of work authorization
