10 Top Universities To Study MS In Finance In USA 2024

Landing a solid finance career without the right degree these days? That’s like trying to win a Formula 1 race on a bicycle. An MS in Finance in the USA is your turbo engine—helping you navigate the intricate twists and turns of financial markets and boosting your chances of securing an average salary well above $90,000. It’s no longer just a dream, it’s a smart move for anyone serious about thriving in the world of finance.

But here’s the brutal truth: finding the right program can be a nightmare. You don’t just need any degree—you need the one that fits your goals like a glove. With countless US universities offering MS in Finance programs, picking the wrong one could set you back both time and money. Stick around, though, because we’re about to break down the top universities that will put your career on the fast track in 2024.

Why Pursue a Master in Finance in The USA?

Why not?? Finance in 2024 is evolving at breakneck speed, and here’s a fact to prove it: the global financial markets are expected to grow by over $10 trillion in the next five years. If you’re not gearing up with the right skills, you’re already behind. An MS in Finance from a top US university can help you stay ahead of the curve.

Here are four practical reasons why it’s the smart choice:

Unmatched Career Opportunities

The USA is home to some of the world’s largest financial hubs—think Wall Street, Chicago, and Silicon Valley. Studying here puts you right at the center of the action, opening doors to top-tier internships and jobs.

Higher Earning Potential

Graduates with an MS in Finance in the USA often secure roles with an average salary upwards of $90,000, and in fields like investment banking or financial analysis, it can go even higher.

Global Networking

With international finance becoming more interconnected, studying in the USA gives you access to a diverse network of peers, professors, and industry professionals from around the globe.

Cutting-Edge Curriculum

US universities offer programs that are constantly updated to reflect real-time financial market trends, ensuring you’re learning the most relevant, practical skills to excel in today’s financial landscape.

10 Top Universities To Pursue MS in Finance in USA

Behavioral finance and global market trends are shaping the financial world, making this advanced degree crucial for those wanting to thrive in investment banking, corporate finance, or financial analysis. But which universities offer the best programs?

Finance students can explore the following universities in the USA:

University	QS Ranking (2024)	Average Fees (USD/year)	Average Salary Post-MS (USD/year)
MIT Sloan School of Management	1	$87,600	$130,000
UC Berkeley Haas School of Business	4	$80,486	$125,000
UCLA Anderson School of Management	44	$58,852	$110,000
Boston University (Questrom)	108	$58,560	$100,000
USC Marshall School of Business	124	$56,484	$105,000
University of Texas, Austin	66	$53,000	$98,000
Ohio State University	140	$51,994	$95,000
Georgetown University McDonough	301	$43,686	$95,000
Georgia Tech	9	$38,646	$90,000
University of Illinois Springfield	10	$21,667	$85,000

What Is Th Eligibility and Admission Requirements For MS Programs In The USA?

The eligibility criteria typically focus on academic performance, test scores, and relevant experience, ensuring finance students are equipped for the rigorous curriculum. Different universities may have slightly varying requirements, but there are some commonalities across top programs.

Here is what you’ll actually need:

Criteria	Details
Bachelor’s Degree	A 4-year undergraduate degree in Finance, Economics, Accounting, or related fields. Some accept any major.
GPA Requirements	Most programs prefer a GPA of 3.0/4.0 or higher, though top-tier schools may require closer to 3.5.
GRE/GMAT Scores	Competitive GRE or GMAT scores are often required. GRE: 315+, GMAT: 600+ (varies by program).
English Language Proficiency	Non-native English speakers need a TOEFL score of 90+ or an IELTS score of 7.0+.
Work Experience (Optional)	Some programs value relevant work experience in finance, but it’s not always mandatory.
Letters of Recommendation	Typically 2-3 academic letters of recommendation or professional recommendations.
Statement of Purpose (SOP)	A detailed statement of purpose explaining your career goals and reasons for choosing the specific program.
Resume/CV	Updated resume highlighting relevant academic, internship, or work experience.
Application Fee	Varies by university, ranging from $50 to $150.

What Are The Financial Aid and Scholarship Programs To Fund Masters In USA

Another problem that students face when pursuing an MS in Finance in the USA is the hefty cost associated with tuition and living expenses. However, there are several financial aid options and scholarships available to help ease the financial burden for both domestic and international finance students. Many universities and organizations offer scholarships that can significantly reduce tuition fees, making education more accessible.

Here are few scholarships that can help fund your MS in Finance:

Scholarship Name	Eligibility	Award Amount	Application Deadline	Details
Fulbright Foreign Student Program	International students pursuing master’s degrees	Full tuition + living expenses	Varies by country	Offered to international students from over 155 countries.
Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships	Indian students with exceptional academic and leadership potential	Up to $100,000	March	Available to students in any field, including finance.
QS Leadership Scholarship	All master’s students with leadership potential	$10,000	April	Focuses on students who demonstrate exceptional leadership skills.
The Robert S. Kaplan Life Sciences Fellowship	Students entering specific business and finance programs	Partial tuition waiver	Varies	Awarded by Harvard Business School for finance-related programs.
Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship	Students from developing countries	Full or partial tuition	March	Need-based scholarships for students from select countries.

What Is The Cost Of Living As A Student In USA?

Do you know that the cost of living for students in the USA can vary significantly depending on the city, lifestyle, and housing options? While tuition fees are one major expense, daily living costs can add up quickly, especially in larger cities like New York or San Francisco. From accommodation in USA to transportation and groceries, these factors determine how much you’ll need to budget during your time as a finance student.

Here’s a breakdown of the average monthly living costs for a student in the USA:

Expense Category	Average Monthly Cost (USD)	Description
Accommodation	$800 – $1,500	Dormitory or shared apartment (varies by city and state).
Food and Groceries	$250 – $500	Includes eating out and home-cooked meals.
Transportation	$70 – $120	Public transport, varies depending on location.
Health Insurance	$100 – $300	Typically required for international students.
Miscellaneous Expenses	$200 – $400	Entertainment, shopping, personal expenses, etc.

Conclusion

It’s not just about picking the right university or meeting the eligibility criteria—it’s about making an investment in yourself and your future. Yes, it’s a big financial commitment, but the potential returns, from access to global financial hubs to higher earning potential, make it worthwhile.

The key is to be strategic. Understand what you need out of a program, look at the long-term benefits, and don’t shy away from leveraging scholarships or financial aid. If you plan carefully and stay focused on your goals, studying finance in the USA could be your best move yet. You’re not just earning a degree—you’re shaping a career that can thrive in the dynamic world of finance.

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