An MBA degree from the United States of America (USA) gives you the chance to study at some of the best business schools in the world.
But what are the top USA MBA programs, and what does it take to get in?
An MBA, or Master’s of Business Administration, is a popular graduate degree that teaches advanced business skills.
MBA programs in America usually take 2 years of full-time study to complete.
They help prepare students for leadership roles in fields like marketing, finance, management, technology, and more.
This guide will explain everything you need to know about getting an MBA degree in America
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Top 10 MBA Programs in the USA
Here are the top 10 MBA schools in America:
- Stanford Graduate School of Business
- Harvard Business School
- University of Pennsylvania (Wharton)
- MIT (Sloan)
- University of Chicago (Booth)
- Columbia Business School
- Northwestern University (Kellogg)
- UC Berkeley (Haas)
- Yale School of Management
- New York University (Stern)
These elite MBA powerhouses dominate rankings thanks to their prestigious brands, high admissions standards, accomplished faculty, and successful alumni networks.
Graduates earn degrees that can open doors at any top company.
Eligibility for MBA in the USA
To get admitted into a U.S. MBA program, you’ll need:
1. Undergraduate Degree
Most programs require at least a 3-year bachelor’s degree with strong grades from an accredited college.
Common backgrounds include business, economics, engineering, liberal arts, or science.
2. GMAT Score
The GMAT is a standardized admissions test used by business schools. Programs set their own score requirements.
At top schools, scores of 720+ on this 800-point test are competitive.
3. TOEFL Score
If English isn’t your native language, you’ll need a high TOEFL score to show English fluency. 100-120 points is a good goal.
4. Work Experience
Top U.S. schools prefer candidates with at least 2 years of full-time work experience. They look for increasing responsibility and career growth.
5. Essays & Interviews
Admissions decisions also factor in your written essays, letters of recommendation, resume, and admissions interviews.
These reveal your personality, goals, communication skills, and potential.
MBA Application Process
Applying to a U.S. business school takes lots of preparation.
Here are the key steps:
1. Research Schools
Browse school websites, rankings, and other resources to make a list of programs that match your goals. Look for reach, target, and safety schools.
2. Prepare Application Materials
Give yourself several months to take required standardized tests, write essays, obtain recommendation letters, finalize your resume, and gather transcripts and financial documents.
3. Submit Your Application
Meet all deadlines! Applying early improves your chances at selective schools.
4. Interview
If invited, thoroughly prepare for your admissions interview. Treat it as a conversation that highlights your qualifications.
5. Make Your Decision
Once you receive your acceptance, compare offers carefully based on finances, culture, location, and other fit factors. Put down a deposit by the deadline.
MBA Fees in the USA
The total costs of an American MBA include:
1. Tuition
Tuition at top business schools averages around $70,000 USD per year for full-time students.
Some charge up to $100,000+ annually. Public schools tend to cost less.
2. Living Expenses
You’ll also need to budget for rent, food, transportation, insurance, books, and other living costs.
These can add $20,000-$30,000 per year. New York, San Francisco, and other big cities are pricier.
3. Other Costs
Add in one-time expenses like application and enrollment fees, GMAT prep materials, travel for school visits and internship interviews, professional attire, a laptop, etc.
4. Total 2-Year Cost
The all-in costs of a 2-year MBA can range from $150,000 to $250,000+ USD at top private schools and $80,000-$120,000 at good public options. Seek scholarships!
Benefits of Obtaining an MBA in the USA?
Attending a top U.S. business school for your MBA gives you many benefits:
- World-class faculty and resources
- Prestigious alumni networks
- High-paying job opportunities
- International exposure and experience
- Cutting-edge business education
But before relocating to the U.S., make sure you understand eligibility requirements, application processes, costs, visa rules, and post-study career prospects.
How to Get an MBA Loan
With some planning, you can get funding to cover MBA costs:
- Savings – Start saving early while working. Build up a lump sum to pay a portion.
- Employers – Some companies offer tuition assistance or sponsor international students.
- Bank Loans – Banks in your home country may offer education loans with low-interest rates or collateral options.
- School Loans – U.S. schools offer loans and payment plans, usually at higher interest rates.
- Scholarships – Apply for merit-based or diversity MBA scholarships from schools, foundations, companies, etc. These help reduce the amount you must finance.
- Aid for International Students – Research home-country charities, foundations, and government programs that help students study abroad.
MBA Visa Process for International Students
If you’re not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you’ll need to obtain a student visa. Here’s how:
1. Get I-20 Form
After accepting your MBA offer, the school will issue this certificate of eligibility for an F-1 student visa.
2. Pay SEVIS Fee
Pay the $350 I-901 SEVIS fee for the Student Exchange Visitor Information System.
3. Schedule Visa Interview
Make an appointment at your closest U.S. consulate or embassy to interview for the F-1 visa. Bring all required documents.
4. Obtain Visa
If approved, you’ll receive a sticker or stamp valid for entry within the next 6 months. Allow plenty of processing time!
5. Enter U.S.
When you arrive, your passport and I-20 will be checked. Register for classes within 30 days to activate your visa status.
MBA Job Opportunities in the USA
An MBA unlocks access to elite jobs. Average starting salaries exceed $115,000 USD at top U.S. schools.
Common roles include:
- Investment banking
- Management consulting
- Marketing leadership
- Operations management
- Product management
- Business technology
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance management
- Strategy consulting
- Investment analysis
Top employers actively recruit from American business schools, giving students unparalleled access to competitive jobs at places like McKinsey, Bain, Amazon, Microsoft, Google, Deloitte, JP Morgan, American Express, P&G, Nike, and more.
Conclusion
An MBA from an elite American business school is a powerful springboard to global career success and leadership roles.
While getting accepted to top programs takes dedication and preparation, the payoff in unparalleled opportunities and education is immense.
For aspiring business leaders, a U.S. MBA is an invaluable investment in your future.
FAQs
Is Getting an MBA in the USA Worth It for International Students?
Yes, a U.S. MBA provides global prestige, networking opportunities, and a valuable visa pathway. Graduates earn 40-50% higher salaries on average.
Can I Work in the USA After My MBA?
With an F-1 visa, you can work in the U.S. for 1-3 years after graduating through OPT and the STEM extension.
Many students then transition to an H-1B work visa sponsored by their employer.
What GMAT Score Is Required for an MBA in the USA?
The average GMAT at top U.S. schools is around 720. However, competitive applicants score 730+.
Some schools allow GMAT waivers for high GPAs or GRE substitution.
How Much Does an MBA Cost in the USA for International Students?
For a 2-year program, total costs range from $80,000-$250,000+ depending on the school, location, and lifestyle. Scholarships and loans can help reduce expenses.
Can I Get a Scholarship as an International MBA Student?
Yes, many U.S. business schools offer merit scholarships regardless of citizenship status. Average awards range from $5,000-$20,000. High GPAs and test scores increase eligibility.
