Masters in the USA from Bangladesh

If you are a fresh graduate or a working professional in Bangladesh, you're in the right place. Time to elevate your career prospects with a master's degree. And what better place to do so than from a prestigious American university? Pursuing a masters in the USA from Bangladesh can open doors to new opportunities. It can give you a global perspective and help you stand out in a competitive job market.

However, navigating the application process and selecting the right program can be overwhelming. In this article, UniSearch experts will guide you through the essentials of pursuing a master's degree in the USA from Bangladesh. You will also find everything from visa requirements to popular programs and scholarships in the USA. So, keep on reading.

Why Pursue a Master's Degree in the USA from Bangladesh?

Pursuing a Master's degree in the USA from Bangladesh can offer several benefits. Check out a few of them here:

• The USA is home to some of the world's most prestigious universities, offering world-class education and exposure to cutting-edge research and technology. In fact, the USA has the highest concentration of world-ranking universities, numbering in the hundreds
• Studying in the USA provides an opportunity to develop valuable skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership, which employers worldwide highly value
• As an international student, you have the chance to network with professionals and peers from diverse backgrounds, enhancing cultural awareness and global perspective
• The USA is popular among Bangladeshi students for its academic excellence, research facilities, and the availability of scholarships and funding opportunities. Between 2021 and 2022, 10,597 Bangladeshis studied in the USA (Open Doors Report, IEE)
• The USA offers a diverse range of programs, including interdisciplinary fields that combine multiple areas of study, allowing you to tailor your education to your specific career goals
• A Master’s degree enhances your knowledge and skills base in your field. This helps you open up advanced employment opportunities at home and abroad
• The experience of studying Masters in the USA can open up exciting career opportunities for you. You’ll be able to explore unique and enriching cultural diversity

Popular Masters Degrees in the USA

There are many options to choose from, depending on your interests and career goals. To help you out, we've put together a chart of some of the most popular master's degrees in the USA for Bangladeshi students.

These are just a few examples of popular master's degrees in the USA for Bangladeshi students. Depending on your interests and career goals, there may be many other options to consider as well.

Pursuing a master's degree in the USA offers many benefits. It gives exposure to new cultures and perspectives, networking opportunities, and access to top-notch faculty and resources. Carefully consider your options before making a decision. You should keep the program's reputation, location, cost, and visa requirements in mind.

Intakes for Masters Program in the USA

You might be wondering when you should aim to apply for masters in the USA from Bangladesh. To make it easier for you, here is the chart below showing the average range of intakes in the USA for international students. These dates can vary depending on the institution and program that you choose. Some programs offer only one or two intakes per year. Others may offer rolling admissions, which means that you can apply at any point of the year - there is no fixed deadline.

Here is a chart for the upcoming intakes in 2023-24:

Choosing the Right Program and University

Choosing the right program and university can be a daunting task. Especially if you're looking to pursue a Master's degree in the USA after completing your graduation in Bangladesh. However, by considering several factors, you can find the perfect match for your academic and personal goals.

Firstly, you need to determine the location you want to study. The USA offers a lot of options ranging from bustling cities to serene suburbs. You may prefer to be in a large metropolis or a smaller college town. It depends on your preferences. It's important to consider your budget as well. So, keep in mind the cost of living as it can vary from location to location.

Next, you should research the program offerings of different universities. Consider the subject areas that interest you and see if the university offers courses in those areas. You should also check the curriculum of the program you're interested in to see if it aligns with your academic and career goals. For example, if you're interested in pursuing a Master's in Computer Science, you should look for universities that have a strong Computer Science department.

Another crucial factor to consider is the faculty of the university. Look for universities with renowned faculty members in your field of study. You may also want to research their teaching methods and their experience working in the industry.

Prestigious Universities in the USA for Masters Programs

Now that you have an idea of what factors to consider, here are some examples of prestigious universities in the USA that offer Master's programs. Not only are these universities among the best in the USA, but they are also the creme-de-la-creme of the world’s best higher education institutions. These universities are highly competitive, and entry requirements often look at exceptional academic merit.

1. Harvard University

Harvard University’s reputation definitely precedes it. You would think of a Harvard graduate and immediately imagine an exceptional talent. Employers think the same - a degree from such an esteemed institution speaks volumes about your knowledge, skill, and ability.

Harvard University offers a wide range of master's programs in areas like education, engineering, law, business, public health, and many more. Their programs take on a real-world focus to provide you with a top-tier education. It will prepare you for leadership roles in your respective fields.

Not only is Harvard the third-best university in the USA, but it is also the 5th best university in the world, according to QS Top Universities.

2. Stanford University

Stanford University is known for its prestigious master's programs in engineering, computer science, business, and law. In second place out of the USA’s best and most prestigious institutions, Stanford is also the third best university in the world according to QS WUR 2023.

Their programs are designed to challenge you and prepare you for a successful career. With almost 150 years of history, the university is a world leader in research. In fact, the university’s “accelerators” support its researchers with the funding and facilities they need to transform their discoveries into meaningful solutions for the world at large.

3. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

MIT is renowned for its master's programs in science, engineering, and technology. These programs offer the skills and knowledge that you need to tackle complex real-world problems and innovate in your field.

It also happens to be the world’s best university, according to QS World University Rankings 2023. The university boasts a highly diverse student population - over 60% of the said population are graduate students!

4. California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

Caltech offers master's programs in areas such as engineering, computer science, and applied science. Coming in at 4th place among top US universities and 6th place among the world’s best (QS WUR 2023), it’s another of the academic giants. Caltech’s programs have rigorous coursework and research opportunities that will prepare you for a successful career in industry and academia.

As a world leader in science and engineering, it’s no surprise research is a big part of Caltech. In fact, counting faculty members and postdoctoral fellows, the university has a one-to-one ratio of students and Ph.D. researchers!

5. Columbia University

Columbia University offers master's programs in areas such as business, journalism, public policy, and many more. Their programs are designed to comprehensively understand your study field and prepare you for leadership roles.

As you can probably guess by now, Columbia is another of the world’s best institutions. At #22 among the world’s best, to be precise (QS WUR 2023). The university’s history goes back a long way - in fact, it happens to be the fifth oldest university in the USA. The university has over 18,000 international students, representing over 150 countries.

Popular Universities in the USA for Masters Programs

As a student from Bangladesh, if you want to pursue a Master's degree from a popular university in the USA, there are several popular options to choose from. Some of the most sought-after Masters programs include Business Administration (MBA), Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, Public Health, and Accounting. Various universities offer these courses in the USA. And these are popular among Bangladeshi students.

New York University (NYU)

NYU offers master's programs in areas such as business, law, journalism, and many more. The university captures the dynamism of its home city, New York. Unafraid to innovate, NYU challenges its students to bring out their fullest potential. Unsurprisingly, New York University is in the top 40 of the world’s best universities!

University of California, Berkeley

UC Berkeley is known for its prestigious master's programs in engineering, computer science, and business. Their programs are designed to provide the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in your careers and make a positive impact on society. In fact, the university awards more than 4000 master’s and professional degrees annually. For doctoral degrees, this figure numbers up to around 800 a year.

The university is among the top 30 in the world, according to QS Top Universities.

University of Notre Dame

This university offers 91 postgraduate programs to choose from. It has been at the forefront of scholarship and research. The School of Architecture, College of Arts and Letters, Mendoza College of Business, College of Engineering, Keough School of Global Affairs, The Graduate School, The Law School, and College of Science oversee the masters programs at the University of Notre Dame.

The University of Notre Dame occupies an enviable spot in the top 250 of the world’s best universities.

Arizona State University

This university offers masters programs in Liberal Arts, Sciences, Design and Arts, Engineering, Journalism, Education, Business, Law, Nursing, Public Policy, Technology Sustainability, etc. Arizona State University inspires new ways of thinking, inventing, and addressing social, cultural, and economic challenges in the area and throughout the world. ASU lands a wonderful spot in the top 220 of the global universities.

University of Michigan

The University of Michigan offers master's programs in areas such as engineering, business, public policy, and many more. Their programs give a comprehensive understanding of the study field and enhance chances for a successful career. The university’s internationally recognised faculties and departments offer over 250 degree programs.

The University of Michigan - Ann Arbor ranks at #25 on QS Top Universities world rankings.

University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania’s master's programs in business, law, and education are very popular among young graduates. These programs are pioneering in their fields. These will enhance your skills and prepare you for a leadership role in your career. In the top 15 of the world’s best universities, UPenn offers almost 300 graduate programs and certificates.

How to Prepare for the Application Process?

Preparing for the application process can be challenging. But with adequate research and planning, it is much easier! Remember to keep track of deadlines, prepare required documents early enough, pay the application fee, and take any standardized tests required. And you are good to go! Check out these steps elaborately for a better understanding:

Step 1: Research

The first step towards preparing for the application process is research. You should gather information on the universities and programs you are interested in, their admission requirements, application deadlines, and application fees. Most universities have websites that provide detailed information on these aspects. 

Step 2: Standardized Tests

Some universities may require you to take standardized tests such as the TOEFL, GRE, or GMAT. If you’re planning on pursuing an MBA degree, for instance, there’s a high chance you may need to sit the GMAT. Graduate programs in the sciences might require you to submit GRE General Test scores. Studying abroad typically involves showing your ability in the English language with a proficiency test scorecard too.

You should research the specific tests required by the universities and start preparing for them. You can purchase test prep materials or enroll in test prep courses to help you prepare adequately.

Step 3: Required Documents

Most universities will require you to provide specific documents when submitting your application. These documents typically include:

• Your academic transcripts
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal statement
• Your updated resume

You should request your transcripts from your previous institutions and ask for letters of recommendation from your professors or previous employers. It’s always a great idea to ask professors or colleagues who are the most familiar with your capability and drive.

If a personal statement is part of the requirements, write one that showcases your strengths and accomplishments while linking it to why you’re a great match for the program and university. This can supplement the information in your updated resume and personalize your application.

Step 4: Application Fee

You’ll need to pay an application fee when submitting your application. The application fee varies across universities. You can check the fee for the specific universities you are applying to. It would be best to prepare the fee early enough to avoid last-minute inconveniences.

Step 5: Deadlines

Universities have different application deadlines. Not tracking these may mean you miss out on your preferred program. You should keep track of the deadlines and ensure that you submit your application early enough to allow for any unforeseen circumstances.

Eligibility & General Requirements

There are several general requirements and eligibility criteria that you should keep in mind. These vary depending on the university and program you are applying to, but here are some key points to consider:

Academic Qualifications

Most universities in the USA require a minimum of a Bachelor's degree or equivalent from an accredited institution. You must provide your academic transcripts, including your GPA, and possibly your GRE/GMAT scores. Some programs may also require specific coursework or prerequisites.

English Language Proficiency

As an international student, you will need to demonstrate proficiency in English. Most universities require TOEFL or IELTS scores, with minimum scores varying by institution and program.

Typically you’ll need 6.5 or 7 in IELTS, or at least 80 (iBT) or 550 (PBT) in TOEFL, or 315 or above in GRE. Some universities may waive the language requirement if you have studied in an English-speaking country or have completed a certain number of years of education in English.

Financial Support

You will need to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover tuition, fees, and living expenses for the duration of your program. This may include bank statements, scholarship or grant awards, or other financial documentation.

Application Materials

In addition to academic transcripts and test scores, you will need to submit a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and possibly a resume or CV. Some programs may also require a portfolio or writing sample.

Deadlines

Be sure to pay attention to application deadlines, which may vary by program and institution. Some universities have rolling admissions, while others have specific deadlines for each application cycle.

The Cost of Masters in the USA from Bangladesh

The cost of a master's degree in the USA can vary significantly depending on the university, program, location, and other factors. However, we can provide you with an estimate of the approximate costs for a master's degree at a reputed university in the USA:

These estimates are based on the assumption of a 2-year master's program. The tuition and fees can vary significantly depending on the program and university.

Also, keep in mind that these estimates do not include any scholarship or financial aid that you may receive. Many universities in the USA offer merit-based scholarships and other forms of financial assistance to international students.

Scholarships, Grants, and Loans

Masters in the USA from Bangladesh can be expensive. Fortunately, there are various funding options available, such as scholarships, grants, and loans. These options can help alleviate your financial burden to pursue a Master's degree in the USA.

Scholarships are one of the most sought-after funding options for Bangladeshi students. You don’t need to repay this financial aid. Universities, private organizations, government agencies, and non-profit organizations award these scholarships. Some popular scholarship options for Bangladeshi students in the USA are:

Fulbright Scholar Program

This program provides funding for international students to pursue graduate study, research, or teaching in the USA. The program is open to students from all over the world, including Bangladesh.

The amount of the award money depends on the specific grant or fellowship, as well as the country and length of study. In general, this scholarship covers full tuition and other fees, health insurance, travel expenses, and living expenses.

Rotary Foundation Global Grant

You can apply for this scholarship if your desired degree relates to:

• Peace and conflict resolution
• Disease prevention and treatment
• Water and sanitation
• Maternal and child health
• Basic education and literacy
• Economic and community development

at one of six partner universities in the United States, including Duke University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The fellowship covers tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.

American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship

You can get this scholarship if you pursue a Master's degree at American University in Washington, D.C. The scholarship covers tuition, room, and board for the duration of the program. You must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to your community. This also provides opportunities to learn from global leaders in a culturally diverse environment.

MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program

If you are an academically talented student from a disadvantaged background, this scholarship can provide you with financial support. This scholarship allows grants for Master's programs at selected universities like Stanford University, Duke University, and the University of California, Berkeley. It covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.

Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program

If you wish to pursue a Master's degree in selected fields like architecture, engineering, and public policy, this scholarship is for you. You can apply for this financial aid that will cover your tuition fees and living expenses for the duration of the program.

The Post-Study Opportunities in the USA for Bangladeshi Students

You may be wondering about the post-study opportunities available to you. Here are some of the most attractive post-study options in the US for Bangladeshi students.

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a program that allows international students to work in the US for up to 12 months after completing the degree. You can apply for OPT before or after graduation. It is an excellent way to gain work experience and build your resume while also earning money.

H-1B Visa

The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa. It allows US employers to hire foreign workers in specialized occupations. If you have a degree in a specialized field such as engineering, science, or technology, you may be eligible for an H-1B visa. This visa allows you to work in the US for up to six years and is an excellent way to build your career in the country.

Further Education

If you are interested in pursuing further education after completing your degree in the US, you may be able to do so through a Master's or Ph.D. program. Many US universities offer graduate programs in a wide range of fields, and pursuing a higher degree can open up even more post-study opportunities for you.

Tips for Adjusting to Life in the USA

Adjusting to a new place is hard, we know. So, here are 5 tips for your new life in the USA as an international student:

• You may encounter some cultural differences in the USA. You can start by reading books, watching American TV shows or movies, and talking to other international students who have already been in the USA for a while
• Housing can be expensive in the USA. Try to find affordable housing through different sources. Your school may have a housing office that can assist you, and you can also look for housing online
• You can join clubs and do fun activities. It is a great way to meet people and make friends. Many universities have clubs for international students, which can help you connect with others who are going through similar experiences
• You can learn new languages alongside English. Spanish and French are very popular in the USA
• Adjusting to life in a new country can be difficult, but it is important to be patient and open-minded. Give yourself time to adjust and don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it
  
  

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to apply for Masters in the USA from Bangladesh?

You need to research universities and programs to apply for a Masters in the USA from Bangladesh. First, check admission requirements. Then, take standardized tests, and gather transcripts, and recommendation letters. Apply online, pay application fees, and wait for admission decisions. You also need to get a student visa and plan for living expenses.

How can I study in the USA from Bangladesh?

To study in the USA from Bangladesh, you need to research universities and programs. Submit the required documents. If you meet admission requirements, you’ll get an offer letter. Once accepted, apply for a student visa. Studying in the USA provides opportunities for personal growth, networking, and gaining valuable education.

Which university is best for Bangladeshi students in the USA?

The USA has thousands of higher education institutes, including from popular community colleges to world-ranking research-driven institutes. The "best" university depends on individual preferences, academic goals, and available resources. You should research and consider factors such as program offerings, location, cost, and reputation before making a decision.

Our Concluding Thoughts

The USA offers world-class education, cutting-edge research opportunities, and a multicultural environment. So, masters in the USA from Bangladesh would be a great opportunity for you. It will foster your personal and professional growth once you step in. By understanding the requirements clearly, make your application stand out. You can maximize your chances of securing a place in a top-tier American university and take your career to new heights. Best of luck with your study goals!