BTech in USA: Deadlines, Fees, Scholarships & Jobs

BTech in USA: Deadlines, Fees, Scholarships & Jobs

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Veda Burman

| Updated On - Jul 4, 2024

Highlights:

  • Application Deadline: The early action deadline for BTech in the US universities are in early November 2024. The regular deadlines are in December 2024 or in January 2025.
  • Top Universities: USA houses 5 of the top 10 universities in the world for Engineering and Technology (QS WUR, 2024).
  • Tuition Fees: The annual tuition fees for the program ranges between 26,358 and 64,596 USD (22 and 54 lakhs INR) for Indian students.
  • Academic Requirements: To study BTech in USA, you must have good academic records in standard 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
  • Exam Requirements: SAT and ACT scores are waived off by most US universities. You can still submit these scores to strengthen your application. A minimum SAT score between 1330-1530 and ACT score between 29-35 is considered competitive.
  • Job Opportunities: As per US Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are 140,000 new job opportunities for engineers during 2016-2026.
  • Average Salary: The average salary after completing BTech in USA is around USD 75,000 (62.61 lakhs INR).

BTech in USA is a 4-year degree program, also offered as Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) or Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Engineering. For admission to the top BTech colleges in USA, you require a high school certificate with at least 85% or above academic score. You should have Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as core subjects in your 10+2 education. The other significant admission requirements of Indian students for this program are as follows:

  • English proficiency test score:
    • IELTS: 6.5-7.0
    • TOEFL iBT: 78-100
  • Standardized test scores (Optional):
    • SAT: 1330-1590
    • ACT: 29-35
  • 2 academic LORs
  • Essays, portfolio, academic work samples

The annual tuition fees for BTech in USA varies between 26,358 and 64,596 USD (22 and 54 lakhs INR). While selecting university, try to pick public universities with average acceptance rate. This will help you to reduce the tuition fees as compared to private institutes, and also increase your chance of admission.

The average cost of living in USA is 10,000-18,000 USD (8.34 to 15.02 lakhs INR) per year. You must also consider the US Student Visa fee of 185 USD (15,445 INR). The high tuition and living expenses can be reduced with a scholarship. However, it is hard to get scholarships for Indian students in USA. Hence, studying in USA can be a good choice provided you have the financial benefits and scholarships.

As per U.S. News, almost 60% of all international students entering USA enroll in an engineering course. Among them, over 80% of the students receive job opportunities in USA. A BTech student in USA can earn an average salary of 95,000 USD (79.35 lakhs INR) per annum. The renowned companies employing engineering graduates in USA with high salary are:

  • Microsoft
  • Google
  • Apple
  • Tesla
  • IBM
  • Intel
  • NASA
  • Boeing
  • Amazon
  • Lockheed Martin

Top Universities for BTech in USA

There are more than 700 universities in USA that offer engineering courses. Selecting one among them can be difficult. The annual BTech in USA fees can range from USD 25,000 to 65,000 (20.87 to 54.26 lakhs INR) depending on the university. Listed below are the top BTech colleges in USA for Indian students along with the deadlines and fee details:

QS WUR by Subject, 2024 - Engineering and Technology University Program Application Deadlines
#1 Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) BS in Aerospace Engineering | BS in Chemical Engineering | BS in Civil Engineering November 1, 2024 | January 4, 2025
#2 Stanford University BS in Civil Engineering | BS in Electrical Engineering | BS in Chemical Engineering November 1, 2024 | January 5, 2025
#5 University of California, Berkeley (UCB) BS in Civil Engineering | BS in Mechanical Engineering and Business Administration | BS in Bioengineering and Business Administration November 30, 2024
#8 Harvard University BS in Electrical Engineering | BS in Mechanical Engineering | BS in Bioengineering November 1, 2024 | January 1, 2025
#9 California Institute of Technology (Caltech) BS in Mechanical Engineering | BS in Electrical Engineering | BS in Bioengineering November 1, 2024 | January 3, 2025
#12 Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) BS in Electrical Engineering | BS in Computer Engineering | BS in Aerospace Engineering November 1, 2024 | January 4, 2025
#16 Carnegie Mellon University BS in Mechanical Engineering | BS in Chemical Engineering | BS in Civil Engineering November 1, 2024 | January 3, 2025
#21 University of California, Los Angeles BS in Civil Engineering | BS in Electrical Engineering | BS in Aerospace Engineering November 30, 2024
#22 University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign BS in Mechanical Engineering | BS in Bioengineering | BS in Civil Engineering November 1, 2024 | January 5, 2025
#24 University of Texas at Austin BS in Aerospace Engineering | BS in Electrical and Computer Engineering | BS in Mechanical Engineering December 1, 2024

Why Study BTech in USA?

BTech in USA is globally recognized and ensures high-paying jobs across the globe. USA, being a dream study destination for many, is home to more than 1 million international students. USA observed 268,923 Indian student enrollment in last year. Some top factors making BTech in USA unique, are as follows:

  • Academic Quality: USA is globally known for its cutting edge Engineering programs. The US houses 13 of the top 30 Engineering colleges in the world, according to QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2024. This includes universities like:
  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) at #1
  • Stanford University at #2,
  • UC Berkeley at #5.
  • Variety of Engineering Specializations: You can choose from a range of Engineering courses in USA, unlike many other countries. The universities in USA reportedly offer 40 specializations across 5 main branches of:
    • Civil engineering
    • Mechanical engineering
    • Electrical engineering
    • Chemical engineering, and
    • Industrial engineering.
  • English Taught Programs: The US universities use English as the language of instruction. Indian students will not face language barrier while studying BTech in USA, unlike in popular countries like Germany or Canada.
  • Connection with Industries: USA is a technologically advanced country, with the majority of universities having strong industry connection. This will help you to gain hands-on professional experience and build a network with industry professionals. The networking opportunities will help you in placements and internships.
  • Lucrative Salaries: Engineering graduates in USA tend to earn salaries higher than professionals in human resource management, sales, or even finance. Currently, the average salary after BTech or B.Sc. in Engineering in USA is 95,000 USD (79.33 lakhs INR) per annum.
  • Employment Growth: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has predicted 140,000 new job opportunities for engineers between 2016-2026 with a median salary of 128,230 USD (1.05 Crores INR). Indian students stand a fair chance of securing high paying jobs in USA after completing their BTech.
btech_in_usa_predicated_jobs_for_engineers

However, both tuition fees and living cost in USA are quite high as compared to any other country. Securing scholarships in USA is quite hard for international students. You should make a proper budget before applying for the program.

BTech in USA Specializations

The universities in USA reportedly offer BTech courses with 40+ specializations. Some popular BTech specializations in USA are provided below:

Specialization Top Universities
Mechanical Engineering MIT, Harvard University, Stanford University
Aerospace Engineering UCLA, Purdue University, Auburn University
Computer Engineering MIT, Harvard University, Stanford University, Princeton University
Civil Engineering University of Minnesota - Twin Cities, Purdue University West Lafayette, Arizona State University
Bioengineering MIT, UCLA, Harvard University
Chemical Engineering University of Minnesota - Twin Cities, Purdue University West Lafayette, Vanderbilt University
Petroleum Engineering University of Pittsburgh, Texas A&M University, University of Alaska

BTech in USA Admission Process

The admission process for best universities in USA for BTech is very stringent, hence, deserving students get their chances first. Your academic results, standardized test scores and English proficiency test scores will determine your eligibility and chances of getting admitted. Most universities have the application link on their website. You can visit the university and apply for the course you choose.

BTech in USA Application Process

The step-by-step application process for BTech colleges in USA for Indian students are as follows:

  • Step 1: Start planning at least 9–10 months prior to the program start date.
  • Step 2: Shortlist universities for your desired engineering bachelors program, and check the admission requirements and deadline. If you do not satisfy the eligibility criteria, then look for the next university.
  • Step 3: Shortlist English-proficiency test scores like TOEFL, IELTS, etc. Choose between SAT or ACT (If you intend to submit standardized test scores)
  • Step 4: Get your academic credentials evaluated through WES or ECE. Keep the application fee ready. Arrange all supporting documents like essay or SOP, and LOR from teachers.
  • Step 5: Apply online through the university application portal or through portals officially mentioned by the university.
  • Step 6: Submit the necessary documents like academic transcripts, test scores, and supporting documents.
  • Step 7: If selected, you will receive an acceptance letter from the university. You must confirm your admission by paying any applicable tuition fees.

Academic Requirements for BTech in USA

The universities in USA consider both academic excellence and performance in extracurricular activities for admission. Students considering to study BTech in USA or B.Eng in US mostly apply for admission while they are in their high school. Hence, your final results must be sent on acceptance. The USA BTech eligibility include:

  • Four years of formal education in English or evaluated qualification in other language
  • Expertise in Mathematics, up to calculus level
  • Biology, Chemistry, and Physics

Documents Required for BTech in USA

In addition to fulfilling the basic academic requirements, Indian students should provide the following documents as part of the application process:

  • High school certificate (Standard 12th)
  • 2 letters of recommendation from high school teachers
  • Standardized test scores: ACT or SAT scores (optional)
  • Essays, portfolio, academic work samples or other supporting documents.

BTech in USA Eligibility

Most of the US universities have waived off the SAT or ACT requirements. However, if you have taken the SAT, providing the scores will strengthen your chances of admission. The table given below presents the standardized test scores, minimum GPA, and equivalent 12th class percentage required for admission into BTech in USA:

Institution GPA or Percentage Standardized Test Scores English Proficiency Score
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) 3.5 or 90% SAT: 1530-1590 | ACT: 32-36 IELTS: 7.0 | TOEFL-iBT: 90
Stanford University 3.0 or 85% SAT: 1430-1505 | ACT: 32-34 IELTS: 7.0 | TOEFL-iBT: 100
University of California, Berkeley (UCB) 3.0 or 85% SAT: 1330-1530 | ACT: 29-35 IELTS: 6.5 | TOEFL-iBT: 90
Harvard University 3.8 or 90% SAT: 1460-1590 | ACT: 32-35 IELTS: 6.5 | TOEFL-iBT: 78
Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) 3.3 or 88% SAT: 1540 | ACT: 34 IELTS: 6.5 | TOEFL-iBT: 79
California Institute of Technology (Caltech) 3.5 or 90% SAT: 1570 | ACT: 36 TOEFL-iBT: 78
Carnegie Mellon University 3.9 or 95% SAT: 800 | ACT: 35 IELTS: 7.5 | TOEFL-iBT: 102
University of California, Los Angeles 3.8 or 93% SAT: 1510 | ACT: 34 IELTS: 7.0 | TOEFL-iBT: 87
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign 3.8 or 93% SAT: 1530 | ACT: 34 IELTS: 6.5 | TOEFL-iBT: 80
University of Texas at Austin 3.83 or 93% SAT: 1355 | ACT: 30 IELTS: 6.5 | TOEFL-iBT: 79

US Student Visa Application Process

For studying BTech in the US, international students need to obtain a F-1 student visa upon getting accepted at one of the US universities. The basic steps to obtain a student visa to study in the US are:

  • Step 1: Get the acceptance letter from a recognized tertiary institution
  • Step 2: Pay the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee
  • Step 3: Obtain the I-20 form from the constitution you have got accepted in
  • Step 4: Pay the visa fee and collect the visa form
  • Step 5: Fill the visa form and get the visa interview scheduled
  • Step 6: Get the US student visa 4 months prior to the course start date.

US Student Visa Document Requirements

For US student visa you will have to produce the following:

  • A passport that will be valid beyond 6 months of program completion
  • Acceptance letter from the university and form I-20
  • Application fee and SEVIS fee
  • 2 passport-size photographs
  • Academic transcripts
  • Proof of funds in the form of bank statement, loan statement or scholarship letter
  • Proof that the student will be leaving the US on completion of the program. This can be in the form of an air ticket to the home country of the student.

BTech in USA Tuition Fees

BTech in the popular universities in USA have various tuition fees, ranging between 26,358 and 64,596 USD (22 and 54 lakhs INR). The top engineering universities in USA offering Btech to Indian students, and their corresponding tuition fees are tabulated below:

University Annual Tuition Fee (USD) Equivalent Tuition Fee for Indians (INR)
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) 29,875 24.95 lakhs
Stanford University 61,731 51.56 lakhs
University of California, Berkeley (UCB) 26,358.50 22.01 lakhs
Harvard University 56,550 47.23 lakhs
California Institute of Technology (Caltech) 63,402 52.96 lakhs
Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) 31,370 26.20 lakhs
Carnegie Mellon University 64,596 53.96 lakhs
University of California, Los Angeles 15,154 12.65 lakhs
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign 36,760-44,664 30.70 to 37.30 lakhs
University of Texas at Austin 45,376 37.90 lakhs

Note: You can also take the first 2 years of course in a community college in USA then transfer to a US university to reduce the tuition cost.

Cost of Living in USA

The cost of living in USA varies by the states, cities, residence type, and your lifestyle. Indian students can live both on and off campus in USA, while most of the universities allowing only on-campus residence during the first year of study. On-campus residence provides an affordable housing option as compared to off-campus. If given a choice, you can select shared room to reduce the living expenses. Details of the average monthly cost of living in USA for Indian students are given below:

btech_in_usa_cost_of_living

BTech in USA Scholarships

The US offers multiple scholarships for international students in USA that can be availed at the bachelor level, irrespective of the stream. The amount of these scholarships ranges from USD 1,000-5,000. This helps to reduce the cost of BTech in USA. Here are some university-provided scholarships that Indian students can avail to make their education affordable:

Institution Scholarships Amount or Benefits (USD)
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) First Year Grant 2000
Stanford University Endowed Undergraduate Scholarship Funds Varies
California Institute of Technology (Caltech) Named Scholarships Varies
Carnegie Mellon University Eric J. Gennuso and LeRoy D. (Bud) Loy, Jr. Scholarship Program 2,500 USD
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Ford Undergrad Engineer Scholarship Varies
University of Texas at Austin International Education Fee Scholarship Covers tuition and other fees

Note: You can also look for externally-provided scholarships to study in USA, covering up to full tuition fee.

Work Study in USA

Indian students can earn by working part-time while studying BTech in USA. You can only work on-campus during the undergraduate years of study. There is no off-campus work opportunity in USA during undergraduate studies.

  • Students enrolled in a full-time program with valid F1 status can work for up to 20 hours per week.
  • During vacations, you can work for 40 hours per week.
  • The wages range between 7.25 and 15 USD (605 and 1,253 INR) per hour.

Jobs After BTech in USA

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that the employment of engineers will increase by 10% to 12% from 2022 to 2032. This means that there will be multiple vacancies for engineers in the coming years. Some top job profiles pursued by BTech graduates in USA across various sectors are:

  • Civil Engineer
  • Process Engineer
  • Software Engineer
  • Aerospace Engineer
  • Industrial Engineer
  • Chemical Engineer
  • Staff Engineer

The average salary of a BTech student is 95,000 USD (79.35 lakhs INR) per year. The salary varies depending on the company and your professional role. After completion of BTech in USA, students can pursue the following professions and earn the respective average salary:

btech_in_usa_jobs_and_salaries

The average salary after studying in the top universities in USA offering BTech programs are provided below:

University Average Annual Salary (USD) Equivalent Salary for Indians (INR)
MIT 119,000 99.37 lakhs
Caltech 117,000 97.70 lakhs
Stanford University 116,000 96.87 lakhs
UC Berkeley 97,000 81 lakhs
Harvard University 96,000 80.17 lakhs
Georgia Tech 96,000 80.17 lakhs

Note: These are the overall average salaries. Salary for BTech graduates may slightly differ.

Top Recruiters for BTech in USA

Most of the reputed companies visit USA universities to hire fresh graduates. Some top employers hiring BTech graduates in the US and the average salary offered are tabulated below:

Company Average Salary (USD)
Amazon.com Inc 82,000-150,000
Intel Corporation 68,000-152,000
Lockheed Martin Corp 60,000-155,000
Northrop Grumman Corporation 69,000-167,000
Microsoft Corp 96,000-154,000

USA Work Visa

You can get up to 12 months of your F1 visa extension in USA, if you pursue OPT or CPT. Engineering students can also be eligible for STEM OPT extension of up to 24 months.

If you secure a job in USA, your employer can apply for an H1-B visa on your behalf. This visa allows foreign nationals with specialty skills to stay and work in USA in a specific job role. You can get 3 years of H1-B visa status initially. With this visa, your dependent spouse and children below 21 years can also stay with you.

Pursuing a BTech degree in the US can reap huge benefits for any international student who is seeking top-class education. With topmost institutes offering a wide variety of engineering programs, edge-cutting research opportunities, and the highest paychecks, the US is surely a dream destination for any engineering aspirant. USA annually performs over 700 billion in overall research and experimental development, according to NCSES. Upon graduating, students can earn as high as 88,300 USD (72.88 lakh INR) and get more salary with relevant experience.

FAQs

Ques. Which is better, BTech from USA or India?

Ans. It depends on your academic and economical condition, whether you should pursue BTech from USA or India. USA has some of the top ranked engineering universities in the world, offering BTech programs. A BTech in USA is globally recognized, offering very high-paying jobs to graduates. The multicultural environment in USA also offers networking opportunities and exposure to potential employers.

If you do not have the finances to pursue BTech in USA, you can pursue engineering from the top universities in India. With a BTech degree from India, you can secure high paying jobs as well. After BTech in India, you can also look for scholarships or other financial assistance to pursue master’s degree in Engineering in USA.

Ques. Is BTech and BS same in USA?

Ans. A BS degree in USA can be offered across a wide range of science or related programs. However, US universities mostly offer BE or BS degree in Engineering at undergraduate level. A BS degree in engineering from US universities is equivalent to the BTech degree in India.

Ques. How much is the tuition fee for BTech in USA?

Ans. The tuition fees for BTech in USA ranges between 26,358 and 64,596 USD (22 and 54 lakhs INR) across the top universities. Indian students on a tight budget can apply for admission to the public universities in USA offering Engineering programs. Some top public universities in USA are as follows:

  • The University of Texas at Austin
  • UCLA
  • UC Berkeley
  • Georgia Tech

Ques. How much can I earn after BTech in USA?

Ans: The average salary after BTech in USA is 95,000 USD (79.35 lakhs INR) per year. Following are the average salaries by popular profession after BTech in USA:

Job Role Average Annual Salary (USD) Equivalent Annual Salary for Indians (INR)
Process Engineer 69,400 57.97 lakhs
Mechanical Engineer 74,500 62.23 lakhs
Manufacturing Engineer 74,990 62.64 lakhs
Structural Engineer 75,490 63.06 lakhs
Project Engineer 75,550 63.11 lakhs
Electrical Engineer 77,190 64.48 lakhs
Design Engineer 77,400 64.65 lakhs
Civil Engineer 84,400 70.50 lakhs
Software Engineer 93,000 77.68 lakhs
Senior Mechanical Engineer 107,245 89.58 lakhs
Senior Electrical Engineer 115,550 96.52 lakhs
Sr. Software Engineer 126,660 1.05 crore

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