Study MBA in Finance in USA: Eligibility, Cost, & Top Colleges
From Campus to Wall Street!
Table of Content
- Why Choose an MBA in Finance in USA?
- Top Universities for MBA in Finance USA
- 1. University of Pennsylvania (Wharton)
- 2. MIT Sloan School of Management
- 3. Columbia University
- 4. University of Chicago (Booth)
- Eligibility for the MBA Finance Program in USA
- Popular Finance MBA Courses
- Scholarship Options for Indian Students
- Cost of MBA in Finance in USA
- Career Options After MBA Finance USA
An MBA in Finance in USA is your golden ticket to entering the world of international business and a high-paying finance career. If you’re an International student looking to climb the finance ladder, studying in the USA opens doors to globally ranked B-schools, world-class internships, and massive networking opportunities.
Not to mention, you’ll be gaining exposure to international finance, investment banking, fintech, and more! Let’s break down all you need to know to study MBA finance USA in the most simplified way possible.
Why Choose an MBA in Finance in USA?
The US is home to some of the top universities for MBA in Finance USA, and the finance sector here is massive, innovative, and globally influential. Here’s why students prefer to study MBA finance USA:
- World-Class Curriculum: The MBA Finance programs USA are designed with a mix of theory, real-time case studies, and hands-on learning experiences.
- Diverse Specializations: US universities offer a wide range of finance-focused tracks, from risk management to fintech. This helps you tailor your education to match your career goals and interests.
- High ROI: The MBA Finance salary in USA is among the highest globally. Graduates often land roles in top-tier firms with salaries that justify the investment in education.
- Networking Opportunities: You get access to career fairs, alumni networks, mentorship programs, and direct industry connections, especially in cities like New York, Chicago, or San Francisco.
- Global Recognition: A degree from one of the best Finance MBA USA universities is recognized and respected worldwide. It adds credibility and value to your resume, no matter where you work.
- Career Support & Internships: Top B-schools in the US offer strong career services and placement rates, with plenty of internship options at leading financial firms.
Top Universities for MBA in Finance USA
In a dilemma about choosing the right university? Here’s a curated list of the top universities for MBA in Finance USA that offer unmatched finance education, powerful alumni networks, and career support that opens doors globally:
1. University of Pennsylvania (Wharton)
Wharton is widely recognized as the gold standard for Finance education. Ranked #1 globally, Wharton’s Finance program is deeply analytical and globally focused. It offers access to research centers like the Wharton Financial Institutions Center and career paths in investment banking, fintech, and asset management. For a budget-friendly accommodation off campus, check out student housing near the University of Pennsylvania!
| Location | Philadelphia, PA |
| QS Global MBA Ranking (2025) | #2 |
| Annual Tuition Fee | ~USD 84800 |
| Placement Rate | 97% |
2. MIT Sloan School of Management
MIT Sloan’s Finance MBA stands out for its strong tech integration and quantitative edge. Ideal for those interested in fintech and computational finance, Sloan’s MBA program offers opportunities for research and innovation.
| Location | Cambridge, MA |
| QS Global MBA Ranking (2025) | #4 |
| Annual Tuition Fee | ~USD 82000 |
| Placement Rate | 95% |
3. Columbia University
Columbia’s MBA in Finance program is grounded in theory and real-world applications. With a high placement rate and access to global firms through its Career Management Center, Columbia attracts students who want to blend financial strategy with global leadership.
| Location | New York, NY |
| QS Global MBA Ranking (2025) | #8 |
| Annual Tuition Fee | ~USD 80000 |
| Placement Rate | 93% |
4. University of Chicago (Booth)
Booth is known for its rigorous academic approach and a strong emphasis on data-driven finance. The program emphasizes analytical thinking and leadership development. Booth’s flexible curriculum and its Finance Club make it an attraction for those targeting top-tier finance roles.
| Location | New York, NY |
| QS Global MBA Ranking (2025) | #15 |
| Annual Tuition Fee | ~USD 82500 |
| Placement Rate | 96% |
Eligibility for the MBA Finance Program in USA
To pursue an MBA in Finance in USAfor international students, they must meet certain eligibility criteria. Here are the details:
- A bachelor’s degree (minimum 3- or 4-year undergraduate program) from a recognized university with a good academic record (GPA 3.0+ is generally expected)
- GMAT or GRE scores (650+ is recommended). Most top schools use this as a measure of quantitative and verbal reasoning skills.
- TOEFL/IELTS scores (TOEFL: 90+, IELTS: 6.5+) to demonstrate English language proficiency
- 2-3 years of work experience (preferred, not mandatory) in relevant fields like Banking, Finance, Accounting, or Business
- Letters of Recommendation (2-3) from academic or professional referees who can vouch for your potential
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Essays highlighting your goals, motivations, and fit with the program
Popular Finance MBA Courses
Top MBA schools offer well-designed finance courses that help students build strong foundations and explore advanced topics in the field. At MIT Sloan, students begin with core subjects like Managerial Finance and Corporate Finance, where they learn about company valuation, investment decisions, and financial planning. They can later choose electives in areas such as private equity, financial technology, and investment banking.
At Chicago Booth, students enjoy a flexible curriculum. They can build a finance concentration by taking classes like Financial Instruments, Investments, and Advanced Valuation. This lets students tailor their learning based on career goals—whether in asset management, corporate finance, or banking.
At Wharton, finance students start with basic courses like Corporate Finance and Global Macroeconomics. As they progress, they can choose advanced electives such as Behavioral Finance and Venture Capital. These courses prepare students for dynamic roles in finance, strategy, and entrepreneurship.
Scholarship Options for Indian Students
Many universities offer scholarships to reduce the cost of MBA in Finance in USA. Here’s a list of scholarships specifically available to Indian students:
| Scholarship Name | Offered By | Amount (USD) | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tata Scholarship for Cornell University | Tata Education and Development Trust | Covers full tuition & Living | Indian Students admitted to Cornell University, financial |
| Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships | Inlaks Foundation | Up to $100,000 | Indian passport holders under 30, outstanding academics, and admission to US Universities. |
| Fulbright-Nehru Undergraduate Program | USIEF (Govt. of USA & India) | Full Tuition + Living Expenses + Visa | Indian citizens, academic excellence, leadership potential, and good English scores. |
Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship | Reliance Industries + Stanford University | Full tuition | Indian nationals admitted to Stanford, academic merit, financial need |
| AAUW International Fellowships | American Association of University Women | $20,000 - $25,000 | Female Indian Students pursuing full-time study in the USA |
Cost of MBA in Finance in USA
Before diving into your dream degree, let’s discuss the numbers. The cost of MBA in Finance in USA typically includes tuition, living costs, and miscellaneous expenses. Here is a breakdown:
| Expense Type | Average Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | $70,000 - $90,000 |
| Living Expenses | $15,000 - $25,000 |
| Health Insurance | $1,200 - $2,000 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,000 - $2,000 |
| Miscellaneous Expenses | $2,000 - $3,000 |
Career Options After MBA Finance USA
What’s next after you earn that degree? Here are some of the highest-paying career options after MBA Finance USA:
- Investment Banking Analyst: Works for major financial institutions to manage mergers, acquisitions, and large-scale financial planning. At this position, your annual salary will range from $130,000 to $200,000 (incl. bonuses).
- Financial Consultant: Offers financial advisory services to corporations and high-net-worth individuals. Financial Consultants earn between $90,000 – $160,000 per year.
- Risk Manager: Identifies and analyzes risks threatening the assets and earning capacity of an organization. At this position, companies offer between $100,000 – $170,000 as an annual salary.
- Corporate Finance Manager: Plans and oversees a company’s financial strategies, including budgeting, forecasting, and capital structure. Your salary ranges from $105,000 to $180,000 per year as a corporate finance manager.
- Portfolio Manager: Handled investment portfolios and offered strategic asset allocation advice to maximize client returns. As a portfolio Manager, you can earn an annual salary between $120,000 – $250,000.
- Financial Analyst: Evaluates financial data, prepares reports, and guides investment decisions within firms or for individual investors. Financial Analysts get paid between $85,000 – $140,000 annually.
- Private Equity Associate: Analyze potential investments, assist in acquisitions, and work closely with portfolio companies to enhance value. You can draw between $180,000 and $300,000 of salary at this position
The MBA Finance salary in USA typically ranges between $90,000 to $350,000, depending on your role, experience, and location. Cities like New York, San Francisco, and Chicago offer higher pay but also come with a higher cost of living.
An MBA in Finance in USA can be your stepping stone to a powerful, global finance career. From Ivy League classrooms to Wall Street internships, this degree transforms your ambition into real opportunities.
But remember, studying abroad also means finding the right place to live! That’s where Amber comes in. With verified listings, easy booking, and personalized support, we help you find the best student accommodation across the USA.
Start your journey stress-free with your dream school and your dream stay!
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a general MBA and an MBA in Finance?
A general MBA covers broad business management skills across multiple disciplines, while an MBA in Finance specializes in areas like investment banking, corporate finance, risk management, and financial analytics.
Are there any online or hybrid MBA in Finance programs in the USA?
Yes! Many universities like Indiana University (Kelley School) and Carnegie Mellon offer flexible online/hybrid formats, ideal for working professionals or those preferring remote learning.
What kind of visa is required to pursue an MBA in Finance in the USA?
You’ll need an F-1 student visa, which also makes you eligible for CPT and OPT work options during and after your studies.
How competitive is the admissions process for top Finance MBA USA programs in the USA?
Highly competitive. Top schools like Wharton, Booth, and MIT Sloan typically admit students with strong academic scores, high GMAT/GRE scores, relevant work experience, and standout SOPs.
What are some common challenges international students face post-MBA in the USA?
Common challenges include navigating visa sponsorship (like H1B), securing job offers within the OPT timeline, cultural adaptation, and building local professional networks.