MS in Finance in the USA — Top Universities, Costs, Courses & Career Prospects
Dreaming of studying MS in Finance at a top US university? You’re not alone. Every year, thousands of international students — especially from India — choose the USA for its world-class universities, career opportunities, and globally respected finance degrees.
In this guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know about pursuing a Master of Science in Finance (MSF) in the USA:
What the degree offers
Top universities
Costs and scholarships
Admission requirements
Career prospects after graduation
What Is an MS in Finance?
An MS in Finance is an advanced postgraduate program that focuses on key financial disciplines such as corporate finance, investment management, financial accounting, capital markets, risk management, and behavioral finance.
Many students pursuing an MSF already have a background in finance, business, or accounting — either academically or professionally — and want to further deepen their expertise.
This degree can open doors to leadership roles in financial services, consulting, corporate finance, and investment banking — making it a highly attractive option for ambitious professionals.
Why Study MS in Finance in the USA?
Here’s why many Indian students choose to pursue their MS in Finance in the USA:
Home to some of the world’s top universities for finance
Degrees are globally recognised and valued
High demand for finance graduates in the US job market
STEM-designated programs, allowing up to 3 years of OPT (work visa extension)
Opportunities for high-paying finance careers in major financial hubs like New York, San Francisco, Chicago, and Boston
Top US Universities for MS in Finance (2023 Rankings)
Here are some of the best universities for pursuing a Master’s in Finance in the USA, ranked by QS and Times Higher Education (THE) 2023:
| University | QS 2023 | THE 2023 | Next Intake |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 1 | 5 | Dec / Jan |
| Stanford University | 3 | 3 | Nov – Mar |
| Harvard University | 5 | 2 | Nov / Jan / Mar |
| California Institute of Technology (Caltech) | 6 | 6 | Oct |
| University of Chicago | 10 | 13 | Jan |
| University of Pennsylvania | 13 | 14 | June |
| Princeton University | 16 | 7 | Sept – Jan |
| Yale University | 18 | 9 | Dec – Mar |
| Cornell University | 20 | 20 | Feb |
| Columbia University | 22 | 11 | Jan / May |
Cost of Studying MS in Finance in the USA
The average tuition fee for MS in Finance programs in the USA generally ranges from USD 19,000 to USD 80,000 per year, depending on the university.
In addition to tuition, students should also budget for living costs — which typically average around USD 3,200 per month. This covers accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses.
MS in Finance USA: Eligibility Criteria
While each university has its own admission criteria, here’s what most US universities expect for an MS in Finance:
A bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, economics, business, or a related field
A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (varies by university)
Relevant coursework in subjects such as algebra, statistics, computer applications (C++, Python, etc.)
Competitive GRE or GMAT scores (optional at some universities)
Proof of English proficiency (IELTS / TOEFL scores)
Relevant work experience in finance, accounting, or related industries (preferred but not always required)
What Will You Study? MS in Finance Curriculum
While course offerings vary by university, a typical MS in Finance curriculum includes:
- Financial Accounting
- Financial Management
- Corporate Finance
- Investment Theory
- Risk Management
- Behavioral Finance
- International Finance
- Banking & Finance
- Econometrics
- Financial Modelling
Some programs also offer elective courses and internship opportunities to enhance practical experience.
Duration of MS in Finance in the USA
The length of an MS in Finance program depends on the university:
- Some programs can be completed in 10–12 months (fast-track)
- Others take 18 months to 2 years, especially if they include internships or additional electives
Scholarships for MS in Finance in the USA
To help with tuition and living costs, many US universities offer scholarships and grants to international students. Here are some popular options:
Dean’s Scholarship Program – partial tuition waiver
Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship – up to USD 100,000
Quad Fellowship – up to USD 50,000
Global Study Awards – partial scholarships for tuition and living expenses
Applying early improves your chances of securing financial aid.
Career Opportunities After MS in Finance in the USA
The demand for finance professionals in the USA remains strong — and an MS in Finance from a top US university can significantly boost your career prospects.
Popular roles and average salaries (approximate):
| Job Title | Average Salary (USD) |
|---|---|
| Financial Controller | 91,000+ |
| Accounting Manager | 85,000+ |
| Senior Financial Analyst | 83,000+ |
| Portfolio Manager | 94,000+ |
| Finance Manager | 109,000+ |
Graduates also have the option of extending their work period in the US under OPT (Optional Practical Training), especially if enrolled in a STEM-designated MS in Finance program.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. How much does MS in Finance cost in the USA?
Tuition fees range between USD 19,000 and USD 80,000 per year, plus living expenses of about USD 3,200/month.
Q2. Is MS in Finance a STEM-designated degree?
Yes, many MS in Finance programs in the USA now carry a STEM designation, allowing for extended post-study work opportunities (OPT).
Q3. Are finance jobs in demand in the USA?
Absolutely. There’s strong demand for qualified finance professionals, especially in corporate finance, investment banking, fintech, and consulting.
Q4. What is the average salary after MS in Finance in the USA?
Graduates can expect average starting salaries between USD 85,000 to USD 110,000 per year, depending on role and location.
Q5. Are GRE or GMAT scores required for MS in Finance admissions?
Most universities do require GRE/GMAT, but an increasing number now offer waivers — especially for applicants with relevant work experience.
Q6. Should I choose MBA in Finance or MS in Finance?
An MBA offers broader business management training, while an MS in Finance is a specialised degree focused on deep finance expertise. Choose based on your career goals.
Q7. Is MS in Finance the same as CFA?
No. The CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) is a professional certification, not a university degree. However, some employers view CFA as a strong qualification for finance roles, often complementary to an MS in Finance.
Need personalised advice?
If you’d like help selecting the best university for your MS in Finance — or applying for scholarships — our expert counsellors can guide you every step of the way. Contact us today!