Documents Required to Apply for Masters in USA
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US is undoubtedly one of the most desirable study abroad destionations among international students. Students across the globe desire to pursue master's in USA, but only a fraction of candidates manage to secure an admission. One of the major reasons why applicants get rejected is the incorrect/incomplete submission of the required documents. Let us discuss the documents required to apply for master's in USA in detail, so that applicants don't have to go through a rejection.
The US is still the most attractive study destination for international students across the world. Irrespective of fields, US universities enjoy their dominance in every sector. A large number of international students come to pursue MS in the US universities or an MBA at USA. US educational institutions' emphasis on research and practical experience makes them the preferred choice for students looking to pursue MS in STEM courses.
In this article, we will inform applicants about the list of documents required to apply for a master's in the USA. When to start the application process for applying to US universities is also one of the biggest concerns of students which they should be aware of.
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Top 10 US Universities for MS in USA
Applying MS in USA and want to apply to some of the top-ranked US universities for MS? Applicants can check out some of the top US universities for pursuing an MS degree in the table below:
| Top US Universities for MS |
QS World University Ranking 2025 |
Top Masters Courses Offered |
|---|---|---|
| #1 |
Masters in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering |
|
| #5 |
Masters in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Management Science and Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Civil Engineering |
|
| #4 |
Masters in Law, Business Administration, Public Health, Education, Arts and Sciences |
|
| #15 |
Masters in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Applied Physics, Chemistry, Mechanical Engineering |
|
| #11 |
Masters in Economics, Sociology, History, Statistics, Political Science |
|
| #12 |
Masters in Business Administration, Law, Engineering, Nursing, Education |
|
| #17 |
Masters in Public Policy, Operations Research and Financial Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering |
|
| #16 |
Masters in Law, Public Health, Forestry and Environmental Studies, Management, Political Science |
|
| #13 |
Masters in Hotel Administration, Labor Relations, Engineering, Agriculture and Life Sciences, Architecture |
|
| #23 |
Masters in Journalism, Law, Business Administration, Public Health, Social Work |
Check out the entire list of Top 100 Universities in USA for MS
Application Process for Masters in USA
The application process for master's in USA is very different from undergraduate admissions. For postgraduate admissions in USA, applicants have to:
- Log on to the official US university's website and go to the respective Department's page.
- The application link will be found at the Department's website.
- Applicants can access the application from the link provided on the Department's website.
- Submit all details, attach the documents and submit with a fee.
Please note: The fee for masters courses in USA will vary with each university and department or even course of application.
Aspirants should also know the complete application process of applying to US universities before applying for admissions.
Now that applicants have understood the application process for master's courses, they can check out the supporting documents that they would be required to submit along with the application in the following section.
List of Documents Required to Study Master's in USA
Before starting the application process, it is important to prepare a checklist of documents that are required to move ahead. For the benefit of our readers, we have listed below the set of major documents below:
1. Standardised Test Scores - GRE/GMAT
It is always suggested to have Standardized Test Scores before applicants begin the application process. Scores of standardised tests like GRE for MS, and GMAT for MBA should be with applicants when they are beginning the application process as it can help them select the universities where they can apply.
While some universities may specify the GRE cutoff or GMAT cutoff in their admission requirements, others might not. Applicants should check the previous year's admission trends if cutoffs are not available.
Also check out:
| GMAT Preparation Tips | GMAT Sample Papers |
| GRE Preparation Tips | GRE Sample Papers |
2. English Language Proficiency Test Scores - IELTS/TOEFL/PTE
Various universities ask for the English Language Proficiency Test or ELP Test scores of the candidates before deciding on their application. Tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE scores are required to get into the majority of the universities of USA. Usually, international candidates must submit language proficiency scores when applying for admissions, however, some may be exempted.
Given below are the English language test scores range for US university admissions for masters courses:
| English Proficiency Exam | Minimum Scores Required |
|---|---|
| IELTS | Overall score of 6.5 - 7.5 |
| TOEFL | Overall score of 90 - 100 |
| PTE | Overall score of 50 - 60 |
3. Academic Transcripts
Academic Transcripts are one of the most important documents that are required by US universities at the time of application. Academic transcripts have a detailed record of all the subjects applicants have studied in the form of marks or grades given by the institution of study. Usually, students going for undergraduate courses need scores of class 10th and 12th and upwards. Those who are still in class 12th would require the scores/marks of class 9th, 10th, and 11th. Those who are applying for master's courses require mark sheets of their bachelor's degree both individual mark sheets for every year and cumulative mark sheets as well. A student need not worry about getting the marks converted to GPAs as per the American Credit System.
4. Resume/CV
applicantsr resume or curriculum vitae is the first impression applicants set on the admissions committee of applicantsr university of choice, and is hence one of the most crucial documents. Some of the essential elements that applicants must include in their resume are academic performance and background, work or internship experience, research/academic projects, applicants technical skills, any additional courses or certifications completed, extracurricular activities, and more.
applicants must be very careful and not make these common mistakes while preparing your academic resumes. Also, check out a sample resume format before submitting one with the application.
5. Statement of Purpose (SOP)
A statement of purpose is a document which depicts an applicant's personality, aspirations, determination, and enthusiasm for applicants university application. It is a reflection of who applicants are and helps applicants stand apart from the crowd, even if applicants don't have exceptional academic grades. Usually, the length of an SOP is around 800-1000 and applicants must put applicantsr heart and soul into it. In US, universities give a heavy weightage to SOPs when it comes to admissions. When drafting SOP, applicants must follow the pattern listed below:
- First paragraph: Form the intro by talking about the one's background future goals, and more.
- Second and third paragraphs: Talk about academic background and professional experience, relevant research/academic projects, etc.
- Fourth paragraph: Describe the reason and motivation of choosing the course.
- Fifth paragraph: Discuss in length one's career goals and outline short-, mid-, and long-term objectives.
- Sixth paragraph: Describe the applicant's reasons for selecting the university of choice. Talk about objectives and align it with the university's vision and mission.
- Seventh paragraph: Conclude by showing applicants' desire to get enrolled in the university and that applicants are prepared to take on the upcoming challenges.
Check out the SOP Sample for USA
6. 2-3 Letters of Recommendation (LOR)
An LOR or a letter of recommendation is one of the most crucial documents of an admission application, as it makes applicants' applications very strong and provides credibility to the experiences mentioned in applicant's portfolio. A LOR is one such document which is 100% truthful as it is drafted by the recommender and not the applicant. Hence the admissions committee of any university is US takes it very seriously and thus it is one of the deciding factors for admissions. Check out Sample LOR for USA
LORs are of two types: Academic LOR and Professional LOR. An academic LOR is drafted by an academic faculty member, such as an applicant's professor, department head or university dean. Whereas, officials like applicants' reporting manager or supervisor at work issue a professional LOR for the candidate.
Check out:
| LOR Sample for MBA | Sample LOR for MS Courses |
| Common Mistakes to Avoid in LOR | How to write a winning LOR? |
Usually, universities in the US require at least 2 - 3 academic and/or professional letters of recommendation for master's courses.
7. Admission Essays
Admission essays are an important aspect to understand about the applicants applying for master's in the USA. The admission essays may be quite a few and are basically to understand the applicant's achievements, goals, career outlook, community service, reasons to study in USA, reasons to study in the university of application and other aspects.
There are four different types of admission essays and each of them are curated for a specific type of course. Check out how to write a winning admission essay and a sample admission essay before drafting them for college applications.
Also, read:
8. Portfolio
Portfolios are required by applicants applying for Arts courses where submitting work is an essential component. Each US university will specify what kind of portfolios are required and what kind of work will be accepted. Usually, applicants will have to upload their portfolios on SlideRoom and can either include images or videos. Applicants must confirm the requirements and then submit the portfolio.
9. Research Proposal
For those applying for a research-based masters in USA, may be required to submit a research proposal. A research proposal guideline will be shared by the university-specific department and certain topics will also be suggested.
Check:
10. Proof of Finances
This is one of the most important aspects of the application. Even if applicants secure admission, applicants still need to show appropriate proof of funds, then only applicants will secure final admission. The amount of funds needed to show depends on the university to the university and its location. Here the candidates can show the income of their family as well. applicants can also show education loans, scholarships, etc. to fund the applicant's education and other living expenses. Apart from this, it is always advisable to keep applicants' income tax returns handy to show the source of funds.
Know more about the Financial Documents Required for Study Abroad Applications.
It is always good to request for transcript early, as the university administration takes time to issue these and other documents required for getting admission. Make sure applicants have all the documents way before the deadline. It is recommended to apply before the deadline, as late applicants are not considered for any type of financial aid and scholarships as well. Therefore, it is important to apply on time.
Also Read:
- MBA Application Deadlines for US
- Application deadlines for top US B-Schools
- Study in US: Which type of application deadline to choose?
So if international applicants are applying for master's admission in USA, will have to submit the documents mentioned above. In case of queries, applicants can drop in their comments or sign up for free Shiksha Abroad Counselling.
Documents Required to Apply for Master's in USA - FAQs
Q. What documents are required for Masters in the USA?
A. Some of the mandatory documents required to apply for master's in US for international students are academic transcripts, proof of English language proficiency, aptitude test scores, academic references, admission essays, passport, resume/cv, work experience, portfolio (if required), proof of sufficient funds, and more. Apart from the above mentioned, you be required to submit other documents required by your university and course of choice.
Q. What is the minimum requirement for master's in USA?
A. In order to pursue master's in USA, a candidate must hold a 3 - 4 year long bachelor's degree or equivalent in relevant discipline with 3.0 GPA, meet the English language requirements of their university of choice, submit their SOPs and LORs as per the requirements of the university, provide proof of work experience (if required), and submit their aptitude test scores.
Q. Which are the top universities for master's in USA?
A. Some of the top universities for pursuing master's in USA are:
Q. What is the cost of pursuing master's in USA?
A. The annual cost of pursuing MS in USA is in the range INR 10 L - 40 L. However, majority of the top-ranked universities have tuition fee ranging from INR 20 L - INR 70 L or more.
| University Name |
1st Year Tuition Fees |
|---|---|
| INR 45 L - 50 L |
|
| INR 30 L - 68 L |
|
| INR 22 L - INR 50 L |
|
| INR 18 L - 72 L |
|
| INR 44 L - 53 L |
Q: Â What GPA is required for the University of South Dakota?
The University of South Dakota expects a GPA score of 2.5 from undergraduates and 3 from postgraduates on the 4-pointer scale. Along with the GPA scores, undergraduates must meet the basic eligibility and submit an ACT score of 21 or higher and an SAT score of 1070 or higher. In addition, they must submit the required documents, such as academic history, transcripts, letters of recommendation, English language scores, and more.
Q: Â What GPA is needed to go to Ohio State?
There is no minimum GPA score for UG admission at Ohio State. However, International students must have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale or equivalent) for graduate admission. Applicants may submit a standardized test score (GRE or GMAT) if their cumulative GPA is below 3.0 for the last degree.
Q: Â Is it hard to get into the UTSA in San Antonio Texas?
According to various sources, University of Texas San Antonio has an overall acceptance rate of around 87% which makes it somewhat selective for international student admissions. Some of the general requirements to be considered for admission are given as follows:
- SAT/ACT scores
- Overall Student's GPA
- Letters of Recommendation
- High School Class Rank
- Additional Academic Records
Q: Â Is University of North Dakota good for Indian students?
The University of North Dakota is one of the top choices for international students to pursue their higher education. The UND warmly welcomes its international students as they have contributed a lot to the success of the university. Moreover, the university offers a top-notch environment, the best academic opportunities, technical & career training, etc. The university boasts over 1000 international students who represent more than 95 countries. Additionally, international students highly enjoy the facilities provided by the University of North Dakota. The UND is one of the largest research universities in the United States for international students.
Q: Â Is MIT costly for Indians?
MIT is not costly for Indian students. Applicants can study BTech program at affordable tuition fees as compared to other BTech colleges in the USA. The MIT BTech fees is around INR 50 L to INR 52 L.
Q: Â What is the decent score required on the ACT test to get a good university in the USA?
The definition of a good ACT score varies from university to country. However, to get into the top 100 universities, you must aim for a score higher than 31 on the ACT.
Q: Â What GPA do you need to get into Iowa State?
International students who wish to study at Iowa State must have at least GPA of 3.0 on a scale of 4.0 for UG and PG admission. International transfer applicants must have a minimum equivalent GPA of C+ on a scale of A to F or 2.25 on a 4.0 scale for all transferable courses.
Q: Â Is Texas Wesleyan hard to get into?
As per the US News and World Report, Texas Wesleyan University acceptance rate is 58%. This shows that the university's admission process is relatively selective. Therefore, some students may find it harder to get into the university. Also, international students are advised to check the minimum eligibility for their courses before applying. Please note that the data on the acceptance rate given above is taken from an unofficial source, therefore, it is subject to vary.
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Statement of Purpose
Letter of Recommendation
Student Visa Application
Admission Essay Writing
Student Curriculum Vitae