Masters in Accounting in USA
Table of Contents
- Top Universities for Masters in Accounting in USA
- Masters in Accounting in USA Course Structure
- Eligibility Requirements for Masters in Accounting in USA
- Cost of Studying Masters in Accounting in USA
- Cost of Living for Masters in Accounting in USA
- Top Scholarships for Masters in Accounting in USA
- Masters in Accounting in USA Intakes and Admission Deadlines
- How to Apply for Masters in Accounting in USA
- Student Visa Requirements for Masters in Accounting in USA
- Top Cities for Masters in Accounting in USA
- Job Opportunities After Masters in Accounting in USA
- CPA Eligibility After Masters in Accounting in USA
- OPT and Career Opportunities
- Conclusion
Masters in Accounting in USA is a 1 to 2-year graduate degree offered as a Master of Science (MS), Master of Accountancy (MAcc) or MBA with Accounting specialization. These programs are designed to strengthen technical accounting knowledge, auditing, taxation, financial reporting, business analytics and corporate finance while helping students satisfy the 150-credit hour educational requirement needed to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in many U.S. states. The tuition fees ranges between USD 25,000 and USD 85,000 per year (₹21.5 lakh–₹73 lakh).
USA is the world's leading destinations for accounting education due to its globally recognized universities, Big Four accounting recruitment, CPA-focused curriculum and strong graduate placements. Institutions such as NYU Stern, Rutgers Business School, Michigan State University, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and Indiana University offer industry-oriented Masters programs combining accounting principles with analytics, AI, taxation, forensic accounting and financial technologies.
Masters in Accounting in USA Key Highlights
Particulars | Details |
Degree Types | MS Accounting, MAcc, MSA |
Duration | 1–2 Years |
Tuition Fees | USD 25,000–85,000/year (₹21.5 lakh–₹73 lakh) |
Popular Intakes | Fall, Spring |
Language of Instruction | English |
English Language Tests | IELTS, TOEFL, PTE |
GMAT/GRE | Required by selected universities; many offer test-optional admissions |
CPA Eligibility | Meets 150-credit requirement at many institutions |
OPT Eligibility | 12 Months (36 Months for STEM-designated Accounting Analytics programs) |
Average Graduate Salary | USD 70,000–120,000/year (₹60 lakh–₹1.03 crore) |
Top Recruiters | Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG, Grant Thornton |
This blog covers everything about pursuing a Masters in Accounting in USA, including top universities, eligibility requirements, tuition fees, scholarships, CPA pathways, student visas, job opportunities, and expected salaries.
Top Universities for Masters in Accounting in USA
USA hosts several globally recognized accounting schools that train you for technical accounting education with taxation, auditing, financial reporting, analytics and emerging technologies. Many programs also prepare graduates for CPA licensure and leadership positions within multinational organizations.
The universities below are among the leading choices for international students pursuing accounting.
University | QS World University Rankings 2027 | Popular Program |
New York University (Stern School of Business) | 58 | MS in Accounting |
University of Texas at Austin | 72 | MPA Accounting |
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | 74 | Master of Science in Accountancy |
Michigan State University | 182 | MS Accounting / MSADA |
University of Southern California | 153 | Master of Accounting |
Rutgers University | 314 | Master of Accountancy in Accounting & Analytics (STEM) |
Indiana University Bloomington | 360 | MS Accounting |
University of Iowa | 597 | Master of Accountancy |
Approximate Tuition Fees at Top Universities
University | Approximate Annual Tuition |
NYU Stern | USD 80,000–85,000 (₹69–73 lakh) |
Rutgers Business School | USD 38,000–48,000 (₹33–41 lakh) |
Michigan State University | USD 35,000–45,000 (₹30–39 lakh) |
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | USD 42,000–50,000 (₹36–43 lakh) |
Indiana University | USD 36,000–46,000 (₹31–39 lakh) |
University of Texas at Austin | USD 45,000–55,000 (₹39–47 lakh) |
USC | USD 60,000–70,000 (₹52–60 lakh) |
University of Iowa | USD 32,000–42,000 (₹27–36 lakh) |
Masters in Accounting in USA Course Structure
Accounting Masters programs in USA emphasize technical expertise while integrating taxation, financial reporting, business analytics, auditing, accounting information systems and ethics. Several universities now include AI, automation and data analytics within the curriculum to prepare graduates for evolving accounting careers.
The following table presents Masters in Accounting in USA curriculum:
Semester | Curriculum Highlights |
Semester 1 | Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting, Accounting Information Systems |
Semester 2 | Auditing, Taxation, Financial Reporting, Corporate Finance |
Semester 3 | Accounting Analytics, AI Applications, Business Law, Electives |
Semester 4 | Capstone Project, CPA Preparation, Internship or Research Project |
Degree Types Available for Masters in Accounting in USA
American universities offer multiple accounting Masters degrees depending on academic background and career goals.
The following table outlines degree types available to pursue Masters in Accounting in USA:
Degree | Best For |
Master of Science (MS) in Accounting | Students seeking technical accounting expertise and research-oriented careers |
Master of Accountancy (MAcc) | Students planning careers in public accounting and CPA licensure |
Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) | Suitable for both accounting and selected non-accounting graduates through bridge coursework |
MBA with Accounting Concentration | Professionals targeting management and leadership roles alongside accounting specialization |
Eligibility Requirements for Masters in Accounting in USA
Universities assess applicants based on academic performance, quantitative ability, English proficiency, and overall professional potential. Admission criteria vary, but most institutions evaluate a combination of academic achievements, supporting documents, and standardized test performance where applicable.
These tables present some common requirements:
Academic Requirements for Masters in Accounting in USA
Requirement | Details |
Bachelor's Degree | A recognized bachelor's degree in Accounting, Commerce, Finance, Business, Economics, or another related discipline. Some universities admit non-accounting graduates after completing prerequisite accounting foundation courses. |
Minimum Academic Performance | Most universities prefer an undergraduate GPA equivalent to 3.0/4.0 (approx.60–70% or above). Highly competitive institutions may expect stronger academic records. |
Quantitative Background | Coursework in accounting, economics, mathematics, statistics, or finance strengthens the application for accounting-focused programs. |
Statement of Purpose | A detailed essay explaining academic background, career objectives, CPA aspirations, and reasons for choosing the program. |
Resume/CV | Academic achievements, internships, accounting projects, leadership experience, certifications, and relevant work experience should be highlighted. |
Letters of Recommendation | Usually two or three academic or professional references evaluating analytical ability, ethics, leadership, and academic readiness. |
GMAT/GRE Requirements
University Category | Typical Requirement |
Top-ranked universities | Competitive GMAT or GRE scores are commonly preferred, especially for highly selective programs. |
Mid-ranked universities | Many institutions have adopted test-optional admissions for applicants with strong academic records or professional experience. |
Test Waivers | Several universities provide GMAT/GRE waivers based on GPA, prior quantitative coursework, professional certifications, or relevant work experience. |
English Language Requirements
Examination | Competitive Score |
IELTS Academic | 6.5–7.5 |
TOEFL iBT | 90–100+ |
PTE Academic | 60–70+ |
Duolingo English Test | Accepted by selected universities |
Cost of Studying Masters in Accounting in USA
Masters in Accounting in USA involves tuition fees along with accommodation, food, insurance, transportation, and personal expenses. Although the overall investment is substantial, graduates often benefit from strong salary potential, CPA career pathways, and opportunities with leading accounting firms.
Tuition Fees for Masters in Accounting in USA
University Tier | Approximate Annual Tuition Fee |
Elite Private Universities | USD 70,000–85,000 (₹60 lakh–₹73 lakh) |
Top Public Universities | USD 40,000–55,000 (₹34 lakh–₹47 lakh) |
Mid-Tier Public Universities | USD 30,000–40,000 (₹26 lakh–₹34 lakh) |
Affordable Universities | USD 25,000–30,000 (₹21.5 lakh–₹26 lakh) |
Cost of Living for Masters in Accounting in USA
Apart from tuition fees, students should budget for accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance, study materials, and personal expenses. Living costs vary depending on whether you study in cities like New York, Boston, Los Angeles, or more affordable locations such as Iowa, Indiana, or Michigan.
Approximate Annual Living Expenses
Expense Category | Approximate Annual Cost |
Accommodation | USD 10,000–18,000 (₹8.6 lakh–₹15.5 lakh) |
Food & Groceries | USD 3,500–6,000 (₹3 lakh–₹5.2 lakh) |
Health Insurance | USD 1,500–3,000 (₹1.3 lakh–₹2.6 lakh) |
Transportation | USD 1,000–2,000 (₹86,000–₹1.7 lakh) |
Utilities & Internet | USD 1,200–2,000 (₹1 lakh–₹1.7 lakh) |
Personal Expenses | USD 2,000–4,000 (₹1.7 lakh–₹3.4 lakh) |
Total Estimated Living Cost | USD 18,000–35,000/year (₹15.5 lakh–₹30 lakh) |
Top Scholarships for Masters in Accounting in USA
US scholarships provide merit-based waivers, graduate assistantships, tuition waivers, and fellowships for international students. Assistantships are particularly valuable as they may include tuition reductions along with monthly stipends for teaching or research responsibilities.
Scholarships for Masters in Accounting in USA
Scholarship | Eligibility | Coverage |
Fulbright-Nehru Masters Fellowship | Outstanding Indian students | Tuition, living expenses, airfare, insurance |
AAUW International Fellowship | Female international students | Partial funding |
NYU Stern Merit Scholarships | High academic achievers | Partial tuition waiver |
Rutgers Business School Scholarships | Merit-based admission | Partial tuition support |
Michigan State Graduate Scholarships | Academic excellence | Tuition reduction |
Graduate Assistantships | Available at several universities | Tuition waiver + monthly stipend |
University Fellowships | Program-specific merit awards | Partial or full tuition support |
Graduate Assistantships generally require students to work 10–20 hours per week assisting faculty with research, teaching, grading, or administrative responsibilities while receiving financial support.
Masters in Accounting in USA Intakes and Admission Deadlines
American universities generally offer multiple admission cycles throughout the year, although Fall remains the preferred intake due to greater scholarship availability and internship opportunities.
The following are the intake months for enrollment:
Intake | Application Period | Classes Begin |
Fall Intake | December – March (priority deadlines) | August – September |
Spring Intake | July – October | January |
Summer Intake | Available at selected universities | May |
Applying before priority deadlines significantly improves scholarship and assistantship opportunities.
How to Apply for Masters in Accounting in USA
Applying for a Masters in Accounting involves careful preparation of academic credentials, standardized tests, financial documents, and university applications. Follow these steps for a smooth application journey:
Step | Process | Details |
Step 1 | Research Universities | Compare curriculum, CPA eligibility, rankings, tuition, scholarships, internships, and graduate outcomes before shortlisting universities. |
Step 2 | Verify Eligibility | Review academic prerequisites, GPA expectations, accounting foundation courses, English proficiency requirements, and GMAT/GRE policies. |
Step 3 | Complete Standardized Tests | Take IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE, along with GMAT/GRE if required or beneficial for strengthening your application. |
Step 4 | Prepare Documents | Compile transcripts, degree certificates, resume, SOP, recommendation letters, passport, and financial documents. |
Step 5 | Submit Applications | Complete university applications before scholarship deadlines and upload all supporting documentation. |
Step 6 | Receive Admission Offers | Compare tuition fees, scholarship awards, assistantship opportunities, and internship options before accepting an offer. |
Step 7 | Apply for F-1 Student Visa | Complete the visa process after receiving the I-20 form and paying the SEVIS fee. |
Student Visa Requirements for Masters in Accounting in USA
International students pursuing Masters degree must obtain an F-1 Student Visa before beginning their studies in USA. Students are required to be prepared with the following documents to obtain visa:
Requirement | Details |
Valid Passport | Should remain valid for the intended study period. |
Form I-20 | Official admission document issued by the university confirming enrollment eligibility. |
Admission Letter | Formal acceptance into an accredited U.S. university. |
Financial Evidence | Bank statements, education loans, scholarships, or sponsor documents demonstrating the ability to cover tuition and living expenses. |
SEVIS Fee Receipt | Confirmation of payment of the mandatory SEVIS fee before the visa interview. |
DS-160 Confirmation | Completed online non-immigrant visa application form. |
Passport-size Photograph | Meeting U.S. visa specifications. |
Academic Documents | Educational transcripts, degree certificates, standardized test scores, and admission documents. |
Top Cities for Masters in Accounting in USA
Location is a major factor that influences internship opportunities, networking, CPA preparation, and future employment prospects. Find out what different cities has to offer in the table below:
City | Advantages |
New York City | Global financial capital with abundant opportunities in investment banking, auditing, taxation, consulting, and Big Four firms. |
Chicago | Strong accounting, consulting, financial services, and corporate headquarters. |
Boston | Home to leading universities, accounting firms, and financial institutions. |
Dallas | Growing corporate finance and consulting sector with comparatively affordable living costs. |
San Francisco | Technology, venture capital, fintech, and startup ecosystem. |
Seattle | Opportunities in technology companies, financial management, and corporate accounting. |
Job Opportunities After Masters in Accounting in USA
Masters in Accounting opens career opportunities across public accounting, corporate finance, taxation, consulting, auditing, forensic accounting, compliance, investment banking, and analytics. The following are some popular job opportunities available to Masters in Accounting graduates from USA:
Job Role | Approximate Annual Salary | Top Recruiters |
Certified Public Accountant (CPA) | USD 80,000–130,000 (₹69 lakh–₹1.12 crore) | Deloitte, EY, PwC, KPMG |
Financial Analyst | USD 75,000–120,000 (₹64 lakh–₹1.03 crore) | Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan |
Auditor | USD 75,000–110,000 (₹64 lakh–₹95 lakh) | Deloitte, EY, KPMG |
Tax Consultant | USD 80,000–125,000 (₹69 lakh–₹1.07 crore) | PwC, BDO |
Corporate Accountant | USD 75,000–120,000 (₹64 lakh–₹1.03 crore) | Amazon, Microsoft |
Forensic Accountant | USD 85,000–130,000 (₹73 lakh–₹1.12 crore) | Federal Agencies, Consulting Firms |
Accounting Analyst | USD 70,000–110,000 (₹60 lakh–₹95 lakh) | Fortune 500 Companies |
Finance Manager | USD 100,000–160,000 (₹86 lakh–₹1.37 crore) | Multinational Corporations |
CPA Eligibility After Masters in Accounting in USA
The primary reason students pursue Masters in Accounting in USA is to satisfy the 150-credit hour educational requirement for CPA licensure adopted by most U.S. states. While education requirements may differ slightly by state, many Masters programs are specifically structured to help students meet CPA eligibility.
Note that CPA licensure also involves passing the Uniform CPA Examination and fulfilling state-specific work experience and ethics requirements before receiving a professional license.
OPT and Career Opportunities
Graduates holding an F-1 student visa are generally eligible for 12 months of Optional Practical Training (OPT) after completing their degree. Some STEM-designated Accounting Analytics programs, such as Rutgers' Master of Accountancy in Accounting and Analytics, may qualify for an additional 24-month STEM OPT Extension, allowing eligible graduates to work in USA for up to 36 months.
Conclusion
Masters in Accounting in USA offers an excellent combination of globally recognized education, CPA preparation, strong graduate salaries, and extensive employment opportunities across accounting, taxation, consulting, financial analysis, and corporate finance. Whether you choose a traditional MAcc, MS Accounting, or a STEM-designated Accounting Analytics program, you'll gain technical expertise, practical experience, and valuable industry connections.
With world-class universities, generous scholarship opportunities, assistantships, and access to Big Four firms and Fortune 500 companies, USA remains one of the best destinations to build a successful international accounting career. If you're planning to pursue a Masters in Accounting abroad, connect with our study abroad experts to identify the right university, explore funding opportunities, and receive personalized guidance throughout your application journey.
