MS in Accounting in USA: Top Colleges, Fees & Scope
Advance Your Accounting Career Abroad
Table of Content
There is a growing need for skilled accounting professionals worldwide, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics foresees over 6% employment growth for auditors and accountants through 2032. Pursuing an MS in Accounting in USA not only places you at the heart of this expanding market but also gives you advanced skills in financial reporting, auditing, taxation, and regulatory frameworks.
The USA has more than 25 of the world's top 100 accounting and finance schools. International students have the best career opportunities with leading companies such as Deloitte, PwC, EY, and KPMG that actively recruit students from U.S. campuses.
It is time to position yourself at the forefront of international finance and compliance standards in a world where businesses are increasingly borderless.
Why Study Accounting in USA?
Here are the top reasons why international students choose to study accounting in USA:
1. Global Recognition and University Rankings
The USA is home to some of the world’s top-ranked universities for finance and accounting. According to QS Rankings 2024, three universities offering Accounting graduate programs USA are among the top 15 globally, making your degree highly valued across borders.
2. GRE/GMAT Waiver Opportunities
Many universities, including elite institutions like the University of Pennsylvania, Columbia University, and New York University, now offer GRE or GMAT waivers. This test-optional approach makes it easier and more accessible for international students to study accounting in USA.
3. Proximity to Global Accounting Giants
The Big Four accounting firms—Deloitte, PwC, Ernst & Young, and KPMG—are headquartered in the USA. Graduates of Accounting Master degree USA programs have direct access to these firms, with starting salaries of around USD 85,000.
Top Universities for MS in Accounting USA
Here are some of the top universities for MS in Accounting USA that consistently rank high worldwide.
| QS 2025 Rank (Accounting & Finance) | University | Top Courses | Application Deadlines | Tuition Fee (USD/year) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #11 | University of Pennsylvania | MS in Data Science, MBA (Wharton), MS in Computer and Information Technology | Round 1: Sept; Round 2: Jan; Round 3: April | Year 1: 84,830; Year 2: 83,830 |
| #43 | New York University | MS in Data Science, MS in Business Analytics, MBA (Stern) | November of every year | 62,250 |
| #34 | Columbia University | MS in Data Science, MS in Business Analytics, MBA | Deadline to be announced in August 2025 | 54,144 |
| #44 | University of Michigan | MS in Data Science, MBA (Ross), MS in Information | Sept 2024 to April 2025 | 57,582 |
| #208 | Ohio State University | MS in Data Analytics, MBA (Fisher), MS in Computer Science and Engineering | Space-available deadline: June 14, 2025 | 60,690 |
| #89 | Penn State University, Great Valley | MS in Data Analytics, MBA, MS in Information Science | Fall: July 2025; Spring: Dec 6, 2025 | 37,639 |
| #152 | Michigan State University | MS in Business Data Science & Analytics, MBA (Broad), MS in Computer Science | Spring: Oct 2025; Summer/Fall: Jan 2025 | 58,425 |
| #631-640 | Boston College | MS in Applied Economics, MS in Business Analytics, MBA | Applications open from Oct 2024 to May 2025 | 66,540 |
| #596 | University of Texas at Dallas | MS in Data Science, MS in Business Analytics, MBA | April 2025 | Admission Fee: 7,500; Year 1: 21,500; Year 2: 29,000 |
MS in Accounting in USA: Admission Requirements
When applying for Accounting graduate programs USA, universities have specific GPA and English proficiency requirements for international students.
| University | GPA Requirements | English Language Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| University of Pennsylvania | 3.0 GPA or higher, with competitive GMAT/GRE (Avg. GMAT: 728, Avg. GRE Verbal & Quant: 162) | |
| University of Michigan | 3.2 GPA (85%) with relevant experience | TOEFL iBT: 100 |
| New York University | 3.0 GPA (85%) from a recognized university | TOEFL iBT: 100 |
| University of Texas at Dallas | 3.0 GPA (85%) | TOEFL iBT: 80 |
| Boston College | 3.6 GPA (90%) | IELTS: 7.5 (min. 7 per band) |
| Ohio State University | No specific GPA requirement | IELTS: 7 (min. 6.5 per band) |
| Michigan State University | 3.0 GPA (85%) | IELTS: 7 (min. 6.5 per band) |
| University of Dallas | No specific GPA requirement | IELTS: 6.5 (min. 6 per band) |
| Pennsylvania State University | 3.0 GPA (85%) | IELTS: 6.5 (min. 6 per band) |
| Columbia University | No minimum GPA, but requires GMAT/GRE scores | IELTS: 6.5 (min. 7 per band) |
Confused about what's true and what's not when it comes to college admissions? Check out 6 common college admission myths and get the facts to help you navigate the application process with confidence.
US Student Visa Requirements for a Masters in Accounting USA
To pursue a Masters in Accounting USA, international students must apply for a US F1 student visa. Below are the key documents required to support your visa application:
- Academic transcripts and mark sheets translated into English.
- Confirmation page of the DS-160 visa application form.
- SEVIS fee payment receipt as proof of registration in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System.
- Valid standardized test scores (if required by the university).
- A recent passport-size photograph meeting visa specifications.
- A valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond your intended stay.
- Proof of financial resources showing your ability to fund your education and living expenses in the USA.
- Form I-20 issued by a SEVP-approved university, signed by both the student and an official from the institution.
- Evidence demonstrating your genuine intention to return to your home country after completing your education.
Cost of MS in Accounting in USA for International Students
Planning your budget is a key step when choosing to study accounting in USA. The total cost of MS in Accounting in USA includes both tuition fees and the cost of living. Below is a breakdown of the major costs associated with pursuing an Accounting Master degree USA:
Tuition Fees for Masters in Accounting USA
The tuition fees for international students range from USD 5,612 to USD 84,874 annually. This variation depends on the ranking and reputation of the university, as well as the program structure.
| University | Program | Annual Tuition Fees (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| University of Southern California (USC) | Master of Accounting (MAcc) | 69,036 |
| University of Texas at Austin (McCombs) | Master's in Professional Accounting (MPA) | 48,000 – 52,000 |
| University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | Master of Science in Accountancy (MSA) | 39,000 – 42,000 |
| Indiana University (Kelley School of Business) | Master of Science in Accounting | 44,000 – 47,000 |
| University of Michigan (Ross School of Business) | Master of Accounting (MAcc) | 63,254 |
| Boston College (Carroll School of Management) | Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) | 58,700 |
Estimated Cost of Living in the USA
Living expenses in the USA are high due to the superior quality of life, safety, and healthcare facilities offered. Here is an estimated annual breakdown for international students:
| Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Residence | USD 18,450 |
| Food | USD 3,480 |
| Utilities (Gas, Electricity, Water) | USD 2,160 |
| Internet | USD 1,080 |
| Transport | USD 840 |
| Miscellaneous | USD 3,500 |
| Total Estimated Cost of Living | USD 29,510 |
Read this guide to learn the 5 key benefits of booking your student housing early—save money, stress less, and get the best spot!
Scholarships for MS in Accounting in USA for International Students
Given the high tuition and living expenses, securing financial aid can significantly reduce the cost of MS in Accounting in USA. These scholarships are offered by universities, government bodies, and private organizations to support international students pursuing their academic goals. Many programs provide merit-based, need-based, and assistantship opportunities to help ease the financial burden of studying in the USA.
Here's a list of popular scholarships:
- Academic Excellence Fellowship: Offered to students with a strong academic record in MBA programs.
- AICPA Foundation Scholarship: Available for those enrolled in a Masters in Accounting in USA.
- Satish and Yasmin Gupta College of Business Graduate Scholarship: For students pursuing an MBA or MS program.
- Rotary International Ambassadorial Scholarships: Open to students from countries with active Rotary clubs and at least two years of college education.
- Fulbright Scholarships for Indians: For Indian students showing academic excellence and English proficiency.
- Inlaks Scholarship: For Indian nationals with 65–75% academic marks.
- AAUW International Fellowship: Available for non-US women pursuing master’s or doctoral studies in the USA.
- JN Tata Endowment Fund (Loan Scholarship): For Indian students with a minimum of 60% in a bachelor’s degree.
Check out our guide on the top 20 scholarships for international students in the USA in 2025 and find the perfect scholarship to fund your education!
Scope of Accounting Degree in USA
Pursuing a Masters in Accounting USA not only provides a world-class education but also opens the door to a wide array of career opportunities. Here's a snapshot of popular job roles and their corresponding annual salaries:
| Job Role | Average Salary (USD/year) |
|---|---|
| Accountant | 61,165 |
| Staff Accountant | 56,470 |
| Senior Accountant | 77,110 |
| Accounting Manager | 88,295 |
| Financial Controller | 97,420 |
| Associate Auditor | 62,302 |
| Financial Analyst | 69,785 |
| Tax Manager | 105,681 |
Pursuing an MS in Accounting in USA offers international students a globally recognized degree, excellent career prospects, and exposure to world-class education. With top-ranked universities, scholarship opportunities, and strong industry demand, this program is a valuable pathway for those aiming to build a successful career in accounting and finance.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which accounting qualification is considered the best in the USA?
The Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation is widely recognized as the top professional accounting qualification in the United States. It is highly valued by employers and often pursued by those who have completed their MS in Accounting, as it enhances career prospects and opens doors to high-level accounting and finance roles.
Is an MS in Accounting a STEM degree in the USA?
Yes, many universities offer a STEM-designated MS in Accounting in USA for international students. This designation reflects the program's focus on technical skills such as data analytics and financial modeling. STEM status also allows international graduates to extend their stay in the US for up to 36 months under Optional Practical Training (OPT), offering more time to gain valuable work experience in the accounting field.
Is Accounting in high demand in the USA?
Yes, accounting is in high demand in the United States. In 2022, around 190,000 accounting positions were open, and this number is expected to rise to over 200,000 by 2024.
How many years does it take to study accounting in the USA?
An undergraduate degree in accounting typically takes four years to complete in the USA. However, some students may finish in three years if they excel in the program. For those pursuing advanced education, such as a Masters in Accounting in USA, the duration is usually 1-2 years, depending on the program structure.
Is CPA valid in the USA?
Yes, a CPA after MS in Accounting USA is fully valid in the USA. Through mutual recognition agreements (MRAs), qualified professional accountants from other countries can practice in the US without needing to completely re-credential.