Masters in Data Science in USA: Eligibility, Fees, and Requirements

Learning Saint
Nov 19, 2025
9 min read

Introduction:

The United States has become a global leader in technology, research, and data-driven innovation. For international students, pursuing a Masters in Data Science in USA opens the door to world-class education, cutting-edge research labs, and direct exposure to leading tech companies. Every year, thousands of students worldwide choose the USA as their preferred destination because it combines advanced academic learning with practical, industry-driven experience.

Today, almost all sectors—from healthcare and finance to e-commerce and cybersecurity—depend on data for decision-making. This demand has significantly increased the value of skilled data science professionals. A Masters in Data Science in USA equips students with modern analytical techniques, machine learning expertise, big data tools, statistical modeling skills, and real-world problem-solving abilities.

The USA is home to tech giants like Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Meta, Tesla, and several fast-growing AI startups. These companies frequently collaborate with top American universities, giving students exposure to internships, live projects, and hands-on learning environments. This strong industry-academia connection ensures graduates are job-ready with practical experience.

Furthermore, graduates benefit from excellent job opportunities. According to recent market trends, data scientists in the USA enjoy one of the highest-paying tech careers, with average annual salaries ranging between $95,000 and $150,000 depending on experience, domain, and location. The Optional Practical Training (OPT) duration for STEM programs—like a Masters in Data Science in USA—allows students to work in the US for up to 3 years without an H-1B visa immediately.

In short, studying data science in the USA is not just about earning a degree—it’s about starting a high-growth career in a technologically advanced, innovation-driven environment. Whether your goal is to work in Silicon Valley, start your own AI project, or pursue research, the USA provides unmatched opportunities.

Eligibility Criteria for Masters in Data Science in USA

To secure admission to a Masters in Data Science in USA, students must meet certain eligibility criteria. Although the specific requirements may vary depending on the university, the core eligibility remains similar across most institutions.

a. Academic Background

A bachelor’s degree in a related field is usually required. Most universities accept students from:

Computer Science
Information Technology
Mathematics
Statistics
Engineering
Physics
Economics (with strong quantitative background)

Candidates from non-technical backgrounds can still apply if they complete prerequisite courses such as basic programming, statistics, or calculus.

b. Minimum GPA Requirements

Top universities generally expect:

GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (approx. 65%+ or higher in Indian grading)

Highly competitive universities like MIT, Stanford, or Carnegie Mellon may ask for higher GPAs.

c. GRE Score Requirements

Many universities in the USA have made the GRE optional. However, submitting a competitive GRE score can strengthen your application.

Competitive GRE score: 310+ (Quant above 160 preferred)

If you're searching How to Apply for Master's in Data Science in the USA, checking whether the GRE is optional or mandatory for your target university should be your first step.

d. English Language Test Requirements

Non-native English speakers must submit valid test scores:

IELTS: 6.5 – 7.5
TOEFL iBT: 90 – 110
PTE: 60 – 70

Some universities now accept Duolingo, with typical requirements between 110–125.

e. Coding and Analytical Skills

Strong coding and analytical skills are expected for a Masters in Data Science in USA. Students should be familiar with:

Python or R
SQL
Data structures
Algorithms
Probability and statistics
Linear algebra

Some universities may require applicants to complete a coding test or foundational coursework before the program begins.

Academic Requirements for Admission

Academic performance plays the most important role in securing admission. Universities in the USA evaluate your academic history to understand your preparedness for a technically demanding program.

a. Bachelor’s Degree Requirements

Most universities require a four-year bachelor’s degree, but many accept three-year bachelor's degrees from India (like B.Sc or BCA), especially when accompanied by strong academic performance or additional certifications.

b. Prerequisite Courses

Students applying for a Masters in Data Science in USA may be required to complete prerequisite subjects, such as:

Calculus I & II
Linear Algebra
Probability and Statistics
Introduction to Programming
Data Structures

Universities like Northeastern, NYU, and USC expect students to be comfortable with both mathematical concepts and programming fundamentals.

c. Research or Project Experience

Having academic projects, research papers, or internships related to:

Machine learning
Data analytics
Big data
AI
Business intelligence

can significantly strengthen your profile.

d. Work Experience

Although not mandatory, 1–3 years of experience in IT, software engineering, analytics, or business intelligence can boost your chances of admission.

English Language Proficiency Requirements

One of the mandatory eligibility criteria for international students applying to a Masters in Data Science in USA is demonstrating English language proficiency.

Accepted Exams

Most universities accept:

TOEFL iBT
IELTS Academic
PTE Academic
Duolingo English Test

Required Scores

Typical score requirements are:

TOEFL iBT: 90–110
IELTS: 6.5–7.5
PTE: 60–70
Duolingo: 110–125

Some universities also set minimum sectional scores (e.g., speaking, reading, writing, listening).

Exemption Criteria

English test waivers may be granted if:

Your bachelor's degree was taught completely in English
You studied in an English-speaking country for 2+ years

Always check university-specific policies when researching How to Apply for Master's in Data Science in the USA.

Documents Required for Masters in Data Science in USA

As part of your application process, universities require several academic, personal, and professional documents.

a. Academic Documents

Transcripts from 10th, 12th, and bachelor's degree
Consolidated mark sheets
Graduation certificate or provisional degree

b. Test Score Reports

GRE score (if required)
TOEFL/IELTS/PTE/Duolingo score

c. Statement of Purpose (SOP)

The SOP is a key requirement for admission. It should explain:

Your academic background
Why you want to pursue a Masters in Data Science in USA
Your career goals
Why you chose the specific university

d. Letters of Recommendation (LORs)

Most universities require 2–3 LORs from:

Professors
Employers
Project supervisors

e. Resume or Curriculum Vitae

Your CV should include:

Academic qualifications
Technical skills
Projects
Work experience
Certifications

f. Portfolio (Optional but Helpful)

GitHub repositories, Kaggle projects, or research publications can strengthen your application.

g. Passport & Financial Documents

Universities require:

Scanned passport copy
Bank statements
Affidavit of support
Sponsorship letters

These documents are necessary for both admission and visa applications.

Application Process Step-by-Step

Students often ask: How to Apply for Master’s in Data Science in the USA? To make the process simple, here is a clear, step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Research Universities and Shortlist Programs

Research programs based on:

Tuition fees
Eligibility
Location
Ranking
Curriculum: AI, ML, deep learning, big data, analytics

Step 2: Check Eligibility Requirements

Carefully review:

GPA
English test scores
Prerequisite coursework
GRE requirement

Step 3: Collect Necessary Documents

Prepare:

SOP
LORs
Resume
Academic transcripts
Valid passport

Step 4: Register and Apply Online

Create application accounts for each university and submit:

Personal info
Academic details
Uploaded documents

Step 5: Pay Application Fees

Application fees usually range between $70–$150 per university.

Step 6: Attend Interviews (If Required)

Some universities may conduct:

Technical interviews
Behavioral interviews
Video assessments

Step 7: Receive Offer Letter

If selected, you will receive:

Conditional offer
Unconditional offer
Scholarship details (if applicable)

Step 8: Arrange Finances

Prepare bank statements, loan approvals, and funding documentation for your I-20 form.

Step 9: Apply for Student Visa (F-1)

Submit:

Passport
I-20
SEVIS fee
DS-160 form
Visa interview appointment

Step 10: Fly to the USA

After visa approval, make travel, accommodation, and orientation day plans.

Fees for Masters in Data Science in USA

The cost of pursuing a Masters in Data Science in USA varies widely depending on the university, location, and program structure. Since the USA is home to both public and private universities, fee ranges can differ significantly. Understanding the cost structure helps students plan financially and explore funding options early.

a. Tuition Fees

On average, tuition fees for a Master's in Data Science in the USA range from:

Public Universities: $18,000 – $40,000 per year
Private Universities: $40,000 – $65,000 per year

Some highly reputed universities like Stanford, MIT, or Carnegie Mellon may have higher fee structures due to their global ranking and research-based curriculum.

b. Living Expenses

Living expenses depend largely on the city. Major tech cities like New York, Boston, and San Francisco generally have higher living costs.

Typical breakdown:

Accommodation: $800 – $1,800/month
Food: $300 – $500/month
Transportation: $70 – $150/month
Health insurance: $700 – $1,200/year
Utilities & Miscellaneous: $300 – $500/month

Total estimated living cost ranges between $12,000 – $20,000 per year.

c. Additional Costs

Apart from tuition and living expenses, students must consider:

Application fees: $70 – $150 per university
GRE/IELTS/TOEFL exam fees
SEVIS fee: $350
Visa fee: $185
Books & supplies: $500 – $1,000/year
Travel expenses

Understanding these costs is essential when exploring How to Apply for Master’s in Data Science in the USA because many universities require proof of funds before issuing the I-20.

Scholarships and Financial Aid Options

One of the biggest concerns students face while planning higher education abroad is funding. Fortunately, many scholarships and financial aid opportunities are available for international students pursuing a Masters in Data Science in USA.

a. University-Based Scholarships

These are awarded based on:

Academic merit
GRE/IELTS/TOEFL scores
Leadership qualities
Research capabilities

Examples include:

Graduate Merit Scholarships
International Student Excellence Awards
Research and Teaching Assistantships

b. Assistantships (RA/TA)

Many universities offer:

Research Assistantships (RA)
Teaching Assistantships (TA)

These positions provide:

Partial or full tuition fee waivers
Monthly stipends
Hands-on experience in labs or classrooms

RA/TA roles are competitive, but they greatly reduce the cost of a Master's in Data Science in the USA.

c. External Scholarships

International students can apply for several third-party scholarships such as:

Fulbright Foreign Student Program
Tata Scholarship
AAUW International Fellowships
Inlaks Scholarship
Narotam Sekhsaria Scholarships

d. Education Loans

Many Indian students choose to fund their studies through:

Private banks
Government banks
NBFCs
International student loan providers

Loans typically cover:

Tuition fees
Living expenses
Insurance
Travel

e. On-Campus Jobs

Students can work up to 20 hours per week on-campus during the semester and up to 40 hours during breaks. Typical jobs include:

Library assistant
Lab assistant
IT support
Cafeteria staff

Earning can help cover living costs while studying.

Top Universities Offering Masters in Data Science in USA

The USA hosts some of the world’s highest-ranked universities offering advanced, industry-aligned data science programs. These programs focus on machine learning, AI, big data analytics, cloud computing, and statistical modeling.

Here are some of the top options:

a. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Program: Data Science & Machine Learning
Known for cutting-edge AI research

b. Stanford University

Program: MS in Statistical Data Science
Strong recruitment from Silicon Valley

c. Carnegie Mellon University (CMU)

Program: MS in Computational Data Science
Ideal for students interested in AI-heavy roles

d. University of California, Berkeley

Program: Master of Information and Data Science (MIDS)
Flexible online + on-campus formats

e. University of Southern California (USC)

Program: MS in Applied Data Science
Located in Los Angeles, strong industry ties

f. University of Michigan–Ann Arbor

Program: Master’s in Data Science
Known for balanced theory and practical learning

g. New York University (NYU)

Program: MS in Data Science
Great opportunities in finance, analytics, tech

h. Northeastern University

Program: MS in Data Analytics/Data Science
Strong co-op program for internships

i. Columbia University

Program: MS in Data Science
Ivy League prestige and strong research focus

These top universities often have competitive acceptance rates, so understanding How to Apply for Master’s in Data Science in the USA can help you prepare a strong application.

Job Opportunities After Masters in Data Science in USA

One of the biggest advantages of completing a Masters in Data Science in USA is the outstanding career opportunities available after graduation. With industries becoming increasingly data-driven, skilled data professionals are in high demand.

a. Popular Job Roles

Graduates can pursue careers such as:

Data Scientist
Machine Learning Engineer
Data Analyst
Business Intelligence Analyst
Data Engineer
AI Engineer
Cloud Data Architect
Research Scientist

b. Industries Hiring Data Science Graduates

You can find employment in:

Technology
Finance
Healthcare
E-commerce
Telecommunications
Manufacturing
Government and defense

Major corporations regularly hire data science graduates, including:

Google
Amazon
Meta
Apple
Microsoft
IBM
Tesla
Uber
Deloitte
JPMorgan Chase

c. Average Salaries

Average starting salaries for data science roles in the USA:

$95,000 – $130,000/year (entry-level)
$130,000 – $160,000/year (experienced roles)

Machine learning engineers and AI specialists earn even higher salaries.

d. Optional Practical Training (OPT) Benefits

The STEM OPT extension allows students to stay and work in the USA for up to 3 years after completing their degree. This is a major advantage for international students.

Conclusion

Pursuing a Masters in Data Science in USA is an excellent investment for students aiming to build a high-growth technology career. From top-ranked universities and advanced research facilities to excellent job placements, the USA provides an unmatched ecosystem for data science education.

Understanding eligibility, academic requirements, fees, scholarships, and the application process helps students prepare confidently. Whether you're exploring course prerequisites or searching How to Apply for Master’s in Data Science in the USA, this guide covers everything you need to know before beginning your journey.

With strong determination, the right planning, and timely applications, you can secure admission to a top US university and build a rewarding career in data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence.